Coronavirus Update - 13th July 2021
Welcome to July - we are now in the heart of summer, although the weather seems to be as confused as many people at the moment.
After a momentous sporting weekend we all seem to be out the other side with mixed feelings. And now we also have the news of what is part of the next steps in England regarding covid restrictions and caution from Monday 19th July.
I'm not going to lie to you, as a self employed person running a business these past 18 months have been the most difficult in so many ways, and for our industry we are all still working hard to just keep going despite the continuing challenges. There have been multiple changes to how we work, what we can offer and even where we can work - combine that with rising infections, lockdowns, quarantines, self isolation - it doesn't make it straight forward.
I've always been honest with you all and will continue to do so.
I do veer on the side of caution when it comes to health and community and will always stick to the rules when it's business related. I've been doing a lot of reading and taking professional advice about how to proceed going forward in light of the increased infection rates in London. The full layout is listed below.
My clinics are still running every week in Covent Garden and Monument/Bank (details below), with all the strict covid protocols in place as before to ensure fully safety for everyone.
For anyone who would like to book a treatment the clinic dates and times are now live on the website to book. More details below as there are some changes to the clinics.
Below is also a link to a survey being done by the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) as they want to gain an idea of how complementary therapies have helped people. If you have 5 minutes please complete this (link below), it's totally anonymous.
I wish you all a very safe, healthy month and I look forward to seeing some of you soon.
With warm regards
Rima
What's next for clinics?
As you probably heard on the news yesterday, we have been advised by the UK Government that from next week, 19th July, all covid restrictions are to be eased and that many things like masks and distancing will no longer be mandatory.
However, we don't actually have any detailed information as to whether people doing work like reflexology will have detailed changes. So far, it seems that it's the same advice - which is do what you feel is best.
In light of this news, and with the fact that the infection rates are escalating so fast in England, especially after the football - and is expected to climb even more with the easing of these restrictions - I've made choices for myself in personal situations as to how I will continue to interact in public areas when in relation to wearing masks and distancing etc. This I know is a decision everyone has to make themselves on a personal level.
However, on a professional level I have to consider many other things. For me safety for all comes first and foremost - not just my safety, but that of everyone I will come across. The clinic spaces I use are multi-functional and there are many users of these buildings including staff, other practitioners and all of their clients too. This is an important thing for me to think about as there are people who come into the clinics who may have specific health issues or haven't yet received their second vaccine or they have someone at home who is more at risk.
And so I have decided, mostly from the professional advice, scientific data currently available in relation to the rising infections, variants, effects from vaccinations etc, that I will continue to work as I have done in the past year.
One of the scientific models I've used is the "Swiss cheese model", which says that no one thing is 100% effective at preventing spreading/catching the infection (the holes in the cheese are the bits that don't work). But having several layers in place means that more will be caught. The BBC Health page has a good demo of what this means and how it works.
My clinics
Nothing will change in my clinics going forward with regards to the PPE, cleaning, masks, covid screening and so on.
So far, these things have held well and the passing of covid infections in close contact businesses has been low mostly because of these processes being in place.
I feel a responsibility to all other people who use the rooms and who will be in the clinic space. I appreciate that not everyone will agree with what I'm saying, but I do hope you can understand my reasoning.
So going forward:
- I will keep wearing PPE
- I will keep deep cleaning the rooms before and after each client
- I will continue to ventilate the rooms between each client
- I will continue to do the covid screening before each treatment
- I will ask clients to keep wearing face coverings in the clinics and sanitising.
In addition:
- I am double vaccinated
- I do the rapid lateral flow tests at least twice a week
- I will keep wearing face coverings on all public transport (it's to remain mandatory on London transport), in shops and in crowded public areas
The full list of all that is being done to keep clinics covid secure and the procedures for clients can be found clicking the below.
Please do let me know if you have any questions about any of this.
Clinic news
Appointments
I have resumed face to face treatments, but the appointment times will vary slightly from week to week.
Clinics are available in both Covent Garden and in Bank/Monument during the weekday afternoon and evenings.
- Covent Garden available every Monday afternoon/evening.
- Monument/Bank available every Wednesday or Thursday afternoon/evening.
Treatments can be booked on the website.
All available slots can be seen, and if there's nothing showing then please complete the Waiting list form on the same page and I'll be in touch should there be any cancellations.
Treatments available
For the time being only the following treatments are available for face to face sessions:
Reflexology
Fertility reflexology
Maternity reflexology
Reflexology lymph drainage
Facial rejuvenation
MLD for the face
The list of treatments is reviewed every month, and I hope to add back a few more treatments from August onwards.
Training, testing and vaccination
I've undergone several certified courses in being Covid secure with the WHO and Barbicide. Where I've been shown about how to correctly wear and remove PPE and also sterlising the workplace.
I have also received both of my covid vaccines, so I'm fully vaccinated
I will also be doing the covid lateral flow test at home twice a week.
New Covid Secure Procedures
There are a lot of changes to keeping the clinics and treatments Covid Secure, and I've developed a new and updated procedure list/terms for you to read about how these changes will affect you and your treatment.
Consultations for first appointments and follow-up sessions are now done on the phone prior to the face to face session to limit direct contact. There is also a risk assessment done on the phone the day before your treatment.
Survey - How Complementary Therapy has helped me.
I'm a member of a few different Professional Associations, which includes the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT). They have launched a new survey where we are asking people who are not practitioners about how they use complementary therapies and how they feel about it. The survey is going to run for approx. 1 year, but will have reviews throughout this time.
It's fully anonymous and I would not be informed if anyone I know completes this.
What is the purpose of this survey?
The aim is to gather some 'grassroots' data - direct from clients/patients themselves - about the positive impact that complementary therapy is having on their health and wellbeing. This will then be presented to the media, government and health and care agencies, to demonstrate (among other things) how complementary therapies can be used, alongside conventional medicine, to not only help address the needs of the individual, but to also take pressure off the health and care system.
We do not anticipate that this data alone will have the power to change hearts and minds overnight, but we are confident that it will enable us to have fruitful conversations with relevant government departments and Ministers about the next steps needed to ensure patients can access the best of both conventional and complementary healthcare.
How is this survey different to others?
Unlike some other surveys, this one is completed by the client/patient themselves. While professional bodies and individual therapists working in the therapy industry all continue to work tirelessly to promote the many benefits offered by complementary therapies, arguably, this can be seen to come from a position of bias and self-interest. We think it's time to let the public have their say about what helps to improve their physical, mental and emotional health.
What about data protection?
The information provided in the survey is completely anonymous and doesn't require you to share any personal information that would make you identifiable.
Is there a closing date?
We are aiming to keep the survey live for a year and will be analysing the data on a regular basis. Our first analysis will be in early July 2021.
Please complete this short 'Complementary therapy helped me' survey
Complete Survey
Online appointments
I'm still offering online appointments for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website.
This can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
Social Media
Thank you to those of you who have reached out to me over the various social media platforms because recently I have not been posting as much.
I'm ok and well, but I have made a decision to not be on social media as much as I feel it's not always the best and I try to have full days away from it.
I've also stopped using Twitter for my work account, although it is still there to view. I am finding that Twitter has changed so much since it first was used, and now it seems to be a platform for hate, trolls and keyboard warriors and less about spreading and sharing news. There are a lot of businesses that seem to have moved their customer services off telephone and email and only use Twitter or Facebook, but I'm definitely not one of those.
I primarily use Instagram as that I find is more friendly and positive.
The links for my social media platforms are below and on the bottom of my website pages.
How are you all finding social media, do you like it or hate it? Do you think you are using it more or less since the pandemic hit?
Coronavirus Update - 12th April 2021
Hello and welcome to the Calm and Clear April newsletter.
We've reached phase 2 of the Government's roadmap to lift some of the covid-19 restrictions - hurray!
This does mean that all non-essential shops can re-open - and also my clinics can restart.
I've been quite busy behind the scenes here trying to work through all the paperwork that goes with doing close contact work in a post covid-19 world. I wanted to make sure that I'm fully compliant in every way with training, PPE and risk assessments running in line with the Government guidelines, my insurance and my professional associations. I'm pleased to say that I'm getting through this and will be ready to start face to face treatments.
For anyone who would like to book a treatment the clinic dates and times are now live on the website to book. More details below.
I'm looking forward to getting back to a degree of normality (along with some natural caution too). I know for many people this returning to more of the old normal is a long time coming, but equally for others the return back brings with it some anxiety too and we each have to do what feels right for us.
I wish you all a very safe, healthy month and I look forward to seeing some of you soon.
With warm regards
Rima
Clinic news
Appointments
I have resumed face to face treatments, but the appointment times will vary slightly from week to week.
- Moorgate clinic is now open for bookings up until early May, after which this location will unfortunately no longer be available.
- Covent Garden is also open for bookings on Monday from now.
- Monument/Bank will be available for bookings from 25th May onwards.
Treatments can be booked on the website.
All available slots can be seen, and if there's nothing showing then please complete the Waiting list form on the same page and I'll be in touch should there be any cancellations.
Treatments available
For the time being only the following treatments are available for face to face sessions:
- Reflexology
- Fertility reflexology
- Maternity reflexology
- Reflexology lymph drainage
- Facial rejuvenation
- MLD for the face
Training
I've undergone several certified courses in being Covid secure with the WHO and Barbicide. Where I've been shown about how to correctly wear and remove PPE and also sterlising the workplace.
I have also received the first of my covid vaccines, and I'm due my second one around early June.
I will also be doing the covid lateral flow test at home twice a week.
New Covid Secure Procedures
There are a lot of changes to keeping the clinics and treatments Covid Secure, and I've developed a new and updated procedure list/terms for you to read about how these changes will affect you and your treatment.
Consultations for first appointments and follow-up sessions are now done on the phone prior to the face to face session to limit direct contact. There is also a risk assessment done on the phone the day before your treatment.
This information and new procedures can be found on my website.
Monitoring Infection Rates
I'll also be watching the official government data on infection rates – especially the magic ‘R’ number.
I'm also looking at the Track and trace service as this is crucial to see patterns of where there are more or less infections.
If levels increase too high then I may need to postpone treatments.
Track and Trace
One of the rules for businesses is that taking and keeping personal information for the Track and Trace system will be compulsory rather than voluntary for businesses like mine and that details are to be kept for 21 days.
As such your contact information is recorded by me and kept in a safe place for 21 days in a specific track and trace file.
The information we are asked to record is:
- Your name
- Contact phone number
- Date of visit
- Arrival time
- Departure time
- My name linked to your appointment
- No other information is required for this purpose.
The Government is also asking us to generate a QR code for customers and clients to scan on arrival once the Track and Trace app is in full circulation. I have done this and once the app is out for general use you will be able to scan the QR codes at all the clinics. These codes will be displayed by the clinics throughout the building.
Online appointments
I'm still offering online appointments for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website.
This can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
Gift voucher and package expiry dates
Any gift vouchers and packages purchased have been extended, taking into account all the lockdowns and closures.
Please contact me if you have a voucher or package and you are unsure about the expiry on this.
Coronavirus Update - 4th February 2021
I'm sorry that you haven't heard from me in some time. It's been a complicated and not an easy time (the same for so many).
Here we find ourselves back in a full lockdown in England for the foreseeable future. Although not totally unexpected it somehow feels even more intense than the first lockdown in March. Could it be the winter/weather that's changed it, or the fact we've been living with this anxiety over us for 10 months? Either way we each have our own set of issues and problems that comes with whatever decision is made, and it's that current thinking that will see us through - Be Kind.
Of course, in terms of my business and work it's a strong impact in that I have had to close all of the clinics since we went into tier 4 in December. And at the moment judging by the news, it's looking likely that I will be keeping my clinics closed until at least end of March - although so much depends on these new covid variants so it could be even longer.
We do have glimmers of hope ahead of us with the current Covid-19 vaccine programme out running in full force. As more of the vulnerable and older population get vaccinated it may allow everyone to be less restricted. We're some what far away from our normal socialising and mingling, but we can hope for later in the year for a bit more flexibility.
I am still available for virtual/online appointments if anyone feels that this could help them.
Booking online appointments
I'm still offering online appointment bookings.
You can book both on my online appointment system on the website or click the button below.
Online virtual appointments can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
I want to also say a great big thank you to you all for your constant ongoing support, and especially during this past year - it really is appreciated.
I won't fill your inbox with much more than this - I just wanted to say hello and check you are all ok.
I hope you all keep well and we will ride this through together.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I’ll be in touch again soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus Update - 4th December 2020
I hope that you are well and keeping safe.
I'm delighted to say that my clinics at Covent Garden and Moorgate are resuming again from Monday 7th December up until just before Christmas.
Many of the appointment times have already been booked up, but there are a few left in case you wanted to book.
The same covid secure procedures will continue as before to keep everyone safe. The cleaning of the rooms will be the same and I will still be wearing the PPE. The full Covid-19 procedures/protocols and what you need to bring/wear can be found on my website too.
Trace and track information will also still be recorded as previously mentioned.
Booking face to face and online appointments
I'm still offering both online appointment bookings as well as face to face treatments.
You can book both on my online appointment system on the website or click the button below.
At present the dates are showing up until Christmas, the January dates will go up later this month.
Online virtual appointments can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
Other Clinic updates
Gift voucher and package expiry dates
Due to this second lockdown this year any gift vouchers and packages purchased will have an extension of another 1 month added to the expiry date.
If there are any further government closures then this will also be taken into account on all expiry dates.
Please contact me if you have a voucher or package and you are unsure about the expiry on this.
I want to also say a great big thank you to you all for your constant ongoing support, and especially during this year - it really is appreciated.
If you are registered to receive my newsletter then you will already have received this earlier today, which has additional information in there.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your weekend. I’ll be in touch again soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus update - 5th November 2020
I hope that you are keeping safe and well in these ever changing times.
As you'll be aware on Saturday the Prime Minister announced that there will be a national lockdown starting from today, Thursday 5th November until at least Wednesday 2nd December.
As such, I will no longer be able to run my clinics during this lockdown and so all my clinics will be cancelled during this period.
I have already been in touch with everyone who had appointments booked at this time, but if you haven't heard from me then please contact me.
I'm not rebooking or reopening the clinic bookings from 2nd December until we are closer to the end of this lockdown, as there is a small chance it could be extended. However, once I know for certain that things can resume I'll send out another newsletter and update social media and my website.
Booking online appointments
In the meantime....
I'm still offering online appointment bookings for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website.
Online virtual appointments can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
Other Clinic updates
Gift voucher and package expiry dates
Due to this second lockdown this year any gift vouchers and packages purchased will have an extension of another 1 month added to the expiry date.
If there are any further government closures then this will also be taken into account on all expiry dates.
Please contact me if you have a voucher or package and you are unsure about the expiry on this.
I want to also say a great big thank you to you all for your constant ongoing support, and especially during this year - it really is appreciated.
This rollercoaster of a year is without a doubt one of the most difficult and anxiety ridden ones for almost everyone, but hopefully we will all get through this safely.
I was anticipating another lockdown, it felt more a matter of when rather than if, so I'm mentally more prepared for it this time. I also understand fully the reasons why it's needed and if it does help reduce the R number and protect the NHS then I'm fully on board. However, like many of you the anxiety and stress levels go up and down all of the time. I'm here to support you should you need it.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your weekend. I’ll be in touch again soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus update - 20th October 2020
I hope that you are keeping safe and well in these ever changing times.
As you'll be aware we are in a situation at the moment where we're all waiting in anticipation for daily briefings from the Government regarding the changes to keep everyone covid safe. In London at the moment we have been put into the "High" tier, which means some added restrictions between households. At present my clinics are still permitted to continue, although this could change if things do not improve.
I am not cancelling my clinics just yet and hopefully there will be a way for me to keep working throughout, but I'll be keeping a very close eye on infection numbers and what the Government restrictions will be over the next few days/weeks which may force this decision for me, we'll have to wait and see.
If you have an appointment booked with me over the next few weeks then this still stands unless you hear otherwise from me due to any new restrictions or lockdowns. If you are concerned and you wish to cancel then please let me know and I can do this for you or you can use the cancellation link on the email confirming your appointment.
The full Covid-19 procedures and protocols that I am doing to keep everyone safe can be found on my website.
Track and Trace
One of the new rules for businesses that Boris Johnson announced on 9th September was that taking and keeping personal information for the Track and Trace will be compulsory rather than voluntary for businesses like mine from 18th September and that details are to be kept for 21 days.
As such your contact information is recorded by me and kept in a safe place for 21 days in a specific track and trace file.
The information we are asked to record is:
- Your name
- contact phone number
- date of visit
- arrival time
- departure time
- my name linked to your appointment
No other information is required for this purpose.
The Government is also asking us to generate a QR code for customers and clients to scan on arrival once the Track and Trace app is in full circulation. I have done this and once the app is out for general use you will be able to scan the QR codes at all the clinics. These codes will be displayed by the clinics throughout the building.
Booking face to face and online appointments
I'm still offering online appointment bookings for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website. At present due to the ongoing increase in infections I've taken the decision to only book 2 weeks in advance for direct face to face appointments for the time being.
Online virtual appointments can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
My online booking system is taking bookings up to 2 weeks in advance at the moment for Covent Garden and Moorgate. I've also listed on the booking page all the dates I'll be at each clinic.
Other Clinic updates
Monument
I'm sorry to say that after this week I won't be having any more clinics at Light Centre Monument until 2021.
All appointments for now will be either at Moorgate or Covent Garden for the remainder of 2020.
Covent Garden
I was advised yesterday by the management at Neal's Yard Remedies that due to a new payment system they have in place they can no longer accept any of my clients who have pre-paid for their treatments in advance as their own financial system can't manage this.
As such anyone who buys a package, group of treatments or a Calm and Clear gift voucher will unfortunately no longer be able to use these at my Covent Garden clinic against any treatments taken there.
If you have received a gift voucher or you have purchased a package of prepaid treatments before today then these can still be used (I'll advise you of this at the time), but Neal's Yard Remedies have said that going forward they cannot accept any new ones from today onwards.
I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this causes any of you, but unfortunately this decision has not come from me but has come from Neal's Yard Remedies who I rent the treatment room from. You can still use the packages and gift vouchers at Moorgate and Monument (once I'm back there) and any other clinic that I may use in the future. I hope to also bring you news soon of another new central London clinic starting from 2021 where you will be able to use all of these payment methods.
Gift voucher and package expiry dates
Due to the lockdown this year any gift vouchers and packages purchase prior to 21st March 2020 will have an extension of 6 months added to the expiry date.
If there are any further government closures then this will also be taken into account on all expiry dates.
Please contact me if you have a voucher or package and you are unsure about the expiry on this.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your week. I’ll be in touch again if there are any changes to the clinics.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus Update - 22nd September 2020
I didn't think that I'd be needing to contact you again so soon, but as with all things related to this Covid-19 pandemic information changes very quickly.
You will no doubt have heard the news about the current effects in London and the UK as a whole, with the increasing numbers of infections leading to a rising R number and now the increase to the alert system to level 4.
You may have seen previous emails I wrote to you during the lockdown where I mentioned about safe working for me at clinics, and some of the factors that decide this includes the R number and the alert level and also taking into account that I live in a house with someone over age 70.
The briefing from the Government scientific advisors yesterday, 21st September, painted a potentially worrying scenario about what could be if the infection numbers are to continue as they are at present. This forecast is if things are to remain as they are, and so today Boris Johnson has outlined new guidelines and changes to help try to curb these infections. I believe that we may see even stricter limits coming in over the next few weeks. We're all back to a position of needing to be fully flexible with many last minute changes to how we live and work.
As such I'm in an unfortunate position now having to think about possibly pausing my clinics again some time soon, having only recently restarted them. I think if everyone is able to step back a little bit again we could reduce the severity of the infection through the winter and hopefully come out the other side in not such a bad state and maybe even have a good working vaccine.
I am not cancelling my clinics just yet and hopefully there will be a way for me to keep working throughout, but I'll be keeping a very close eye on how things are overall and make a balanced decision accordingly. There is also a chance that the Government restrictions over the next few weeks may make/force this decision for me, we'll have to wait and see.
If you have an appointment booked with me over the next few weeks then this still stands as it is unless you hear otherwise from me. If you are concerned and you wish to cancel then please let me know and I can do this for you or you can use the cancellation link on the email confirming your appointment.
Track and Trace
One of the new rules for businesses that Boris Johnson announced on 9th September was that taking and keeping personal information for the Track and Trace will be compulsory rather than voluntary for businesses like mine from 18th September and that details are to be kept for 21 days.
As such your contact information is recorded by me and kept in a safe place for 21 days in a specific track and trace file.
The information we are asked to record is:
- Your name
- contact phone number
- date of visit
- arrival time
- departure time
- my name linked to your appointment
- No other information is required for this purpose
The Government is also asking us to generate a QR code for customers and clients to scan on arrival once the Track and Trace app is in full circulation. I have done this and once the app is out for general use you will be able to scan the QR codes at all the clinics. These codes will be displayed by the clinics throughout the building.
Booking face to face and online appointments
I'm still offering online appointment bookings for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website. At present due to the ongoing increase in infections I've taken the decision to only book 2 weeks in advance for direct face to face appointments for the time being.
Online virtual appointments can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
World Reflexology Week
It's World Reflexology Week this week - 21st to 27th September.
It's a week where we get to promote this wonderful treatment, and each year there's a focus on a particular theme.
The theme for this year is Reflexology for Wellness - focusing on helping manage stress and anxiety - which we all felt was appropriate for all that is happening in 2020.
I've been qualified as a reflexologist for 20 years, and have also been teaching advanced reflexology CPD courses to other practitioners for over 12 years as well as running maternity reflexology workshops for midwives. This treatment is definitely a client favourite and if anyone who hasn't tried it before wants to then please let me know.
Read more
Gifts
I'm now also going to say that dreaded word that no-one wants to hear on 22nd September .............. Christmas.
I'm not sure if it's due to the lockdown but so many people have told me that they've already started to order their Christmas gifts online. I've got a few options for you if you were looking to have something either treatment related or aromatherapy based.
Gift Vouchers and Signature package treatments
These are available to buy on my website and I can either send out an e-voucher or post a voucher to you or the recipient. These are varied in price and a mix of treatments too.
Buy here
Neal's Yard Remedies
As a Neal's Yard Remedies affiliate consultant I can offer you a peak into their new Christmas gift range which is available to buy online too.
Buy here
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your week. I’ll be in touch again very soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus Update - 28th August 2020
Happy Friday! I hope that you are doing well.
We've somehow already arrived at the August bank holiday, and it's quite comforting to see that our wonderful British weather is at least being consistently unsettled for this weekend.
I've been quite busy behind the scenes here trying to work through the reams of paperwork that goes with doing close contact work in a post covid-19 world. I wanted to make sure that I'm fully compliant in every way with training, PPE and risk assessments running in line with the Government guidelines, my insurance and my professional associations.
It's all done and I'm delighted to say that I resumed my clinic at Moorgate on 20th August, and how wonderful it was to be back even with all this extra stuff to wear and the constant sterilising (see photo below taken in clinic).
I have now got a few hours once a week at Moorgate, and hopefully if all goes well with Neal's Yard Remedies, I should be ready to start at Covent Garden from Monday 7th September. I'm just waiting to hear back from them with the new times that I'll be able to be there.
Further details and more information can be found below with regards to the treatments on offer, how to book and new procedures.
For those unable to attend clinic in person for face to face treatments I do still offer virtual appointments should you wish to have these.
Clinic news
Appointments
I have resumed face to face treatments, but the appointment times are different to before and will vary from week to week.
- Moorgate clinic is now open for bookings.
- Covent Garden hopefully will resume from 7th September
I hope to be able to offer online bookings for these clinics in the next week or two. In the meantime please email or call me to book a session.
Treatments available
For the time being only the following treatments are available for face to face sessions:
- Reflexology - including fertility, maternity and lymph drainage
- Facial rejuvenation
- MLD for the face
Training
I've undergone several certified courses in being Covid secure with the WHO and Barbicide. Where I've been shown about how to correctly wear and remove PPE and also sterlising the workplace.
New Covid Secure Procedures
There are a lot of changes to keeping the treatments Covid Secure, and I've developed a new procedure list/terms for you to read about how these changes will affect you and your treatment.
Consultations for first appointments and follow-up sessions are now done on the phone prior to the face to face session to limit direct contact. There is also a necessary risk assessment done on the phone the day before your treatment.
This information and new procedures can be found on my website.
Monitoring Infection Rates
As I've also mentioned in my previous emails, I’m carefully watching the official figures – especially the magic ‘R’ number. The data is published every Friday and at present for London it's around the 1 mark (highest being 1.1). However, this isn't broken down by boroughs and some are well below this level.
I'm also looking at the Track and trace service as this is crucial to see patterns of where there are more or less infections.
If levels increase too high then I may need to postpone treatments.
Online appointments
I'm still offering online appointments for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website.
This can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
The Light Centre yoga and Pilates classes offer
I'm delighted to say that the Light Centre are offering my clients a special offer on their classes at the centre available to those who book an appointment with me. Details for this offer with the discount code can be passed to you upon booking your appointment.
The Light Centre would like to offer you 50% off our Intro Offer for in-centre classes in partnership with your treatment from Rima Shah.
Unlimited classes for 14 days usually £30 ––> Now £15
Neal's Yard Remedies - free delivery
If you shop via my Neal's Yard Remedies affiliate link* you will receive free standard delivery for the bank holiday from today until 9am on Tuesday.
* As an affiliate I do earn a small amount when this link is used.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your bank holiday weekend, we may possibly get a break from the rain. I’ll be in touch again very soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus Update - 10th July 2020
Today I should have been at an all day music festival in Hyde Park, sadly like all other similar events this one has been postponed until who knows when. I’m comforting myself with the thought that the weather wasn’t on our side today and listening to the bands who would have been playing.
A great big thank you to all of you who responded to my previous email with the different ways to support me and my business during the closure – I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
There has been an online campaign with the hashtag #whycantiwork run mainly by the Telegraph beauty team. This was in response to the government moving complementary therapies and beauty into a new category and not allowing the industry to open again despite allowing pubs and restaurants to open. Anyone who follows me on social media will have seen the following image where I put on my full PPE that I plan to wear during treatments to show that I am prepared and will be taking on all hygiene protocols.
Clinic news
You may have heard in the government announcement yesterday, Thursday 9th July, about the much awaited announcement that they are officially allowing spas, gyms and beauty salons to re-open from Monday 13th July in England. This also includes some complementary therapies treatments, which is excellent news.
However, there are a few restrictions which includes no work on the face – I’m still reviewing the other restrictions and guidelines but don’t believe they apply for me.
There is quite a lot to prepare in readiness for re-opening and we’re waiting for the confirmed guidelines from the government to ensure we are fully in line with the regulations.
To add to that I also have to make sure that both Neal’s Yard Remedies and The Light Centre are both prepared too, as they will also have been unable to finalise getting the buildings ready without these final guidelines.
As you will be aware all 3 of the centres I work from can become very busy and social distancing etc could be difficult so we need to work to minimise any problems.
Hair salons and barbers were given 2 weeks notice to prepare fully, we’ve had 3 days notice so it’s quite likely that this may delay things a bit.
I’m in discussions with both Neal’s Yard Remedies and The Light Centre to see how things are progressing and I’ll keep you posted about this, but it’s possible that I may not be able to re-start my clinics until early August.
This morning Neal’s Yard Remedies told me that they don’t have a start date yet for when I can start to hire and use their rooms again, but I’d think this would be August. The Light Centre is also looking at the start of August to give them time to finalise all the sanitation stations and get the centres covid secure.
As I also mentioned in my messages from a few months ago, I’m watching the official figures – especially the magic ‘R’ number. This really needs to be well below 1 for it to be safe. The data is published every Friday and between 2 weeks ago and last Friday the numbers for London had increased up to it being over an R number of 1. So for me that isn’t quite safe enough yet.
I've just looked at the figures published today and for London it has dropped by 0.1 so is at at figure of 1 rather than 1.1. The growth rate has also dropped from 2.2 to 1. This is definitely positive news and I'll keep an eye on this going forward.
I'm also looking at the Track and trace service as this is crucial to see patterns of where there are more or less infections.
When my clinics do recommence I’ll also only be starting with reflexology and no other treatments.
I cannot do the facial rejuvenation or MLD face treatments yet due to the government restrictions but think that will be lifted in time.
With all the new procedures and restrictions I won’t be able to see as many people in the week as I did previously, so I apologise from now if this means a longer wait.
Once I have a firm start date planned I will be in touch with you directly to rebook those whose appointments were cancelled between March and now, then those who are on courses and on the waiting list.
Things will need to work quite differently unfortunately for all therapists and clinics and I’ll send out a more detailed version of this once I have a restart date.
If you were booked for something other than reflexology then you can either swap your treatment or I’ll add you to the waiting list for when I’m able to restart the other treatments.
Online appointments
I'm still offering online appointments for anyone who wishes to book these - you can book via my online appointment system on the website.
This can include appointments for help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises, diy facials etc.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope you enjoy your weekend, we may possibly get a break from the rain. I’ll be in touch again very soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus Update - 29th June 2020
We're going into July this week after a wonderful mini heatwave last week. I'm coming very close to 4 months of shielding/isolation already, and I won't lie in some ways it feels like forever and in other ways it feels extremely fast.
Below I’m outlining a few things related to the clinics as so much is changing every day with the lockdown regulations. Last time I outlined so many of the things that I need to consider about re-opening and I'm not going to put this all on here again, I'm just summarising where I am with it all currently.
Secondly, I wanted to say a big thank you to all of you who used the information on the last newsletter to support me and my business. Some of you asked if I could resend this so it's at the bottom of this message.
Life is slowly getting back to some sort of normal for most people, with majority of shops and venues re-opening.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I'll be in touch again soon.
Stay well, stay safe.
With warm regards
Rima
Clinic update
Last week the covid-19 government briefing laid out the plans to re-open most things, and included how shielding would stop from early August. The daily briefings have stopped, but there is still news every day.
We were expecting to hear more last week about what would happen with clinics like mine, and the news was that there is no news - we are not permitted to re-open just yet.
It was only hair salons which are starting again from 4th July. As time has gone on the original document that outlined the different phase of easing lockdown has altered as things have opened at different times to what was first stated.
The alert system is now reduced to level 3, which is good news - let's hope it doesn't rise again.
I do understand why they are holding off allowing us to resume business (even if does feel like everything else is starting again) and safety does come first. It would be a greater comfort to have an actual date, but that will come soon I'm sure. With work like mine there are many things the government need to consider when putting together the guidelines and I do think that is what is taking longer.
I continue to be led by the Government guidance, my professional associations and insurance company. It is quite possible that we're now looking at August for a restart.
And then there are other things that also apply to how and when my clinics can re-start, some of this will be down to the clinic space that I hire the rooms from (Neal’s Yard Remedies and The Light Centre) as they will need to organise things for safe working – and I’m in discussions with them about how this will work going forward.
My associations have sent safe working practice guidance too, which I'm working on.
I’ll email you again once I have a better idea of start times/dates and what changes this may require for your treatments. This could be as long as mid/late August.
Appointments
Online appointments are still available to book on my website if you would like some one to one advice. I can do this either via zoom or phone and will include specific follow up advice for you depending on your needs.
This can include help with anxiety/stress, sleep issues, hormonal support, aromatherapy at home, skincare advice, guided visualisations, facial exercises etc.
Business Support
This information below is a repeat of what I sent out a few weeks ago, I'm resending this as some of you asked me to.
Thank you so much for your support and wanting to help me during this period where I’ve been unable to work. The Government grant does apply to me and has helped ease some of the worry which is great.
A few of you asked what else you could do and these are some things that came to mind, but please only do this if you wish too – there is absolutely no pressure.
Here are a few ideas:
Reviews
I know we all get so bombarded with requests to review purchases and businesses almost immediately after we’ve bought anything online. I’ve never done this to clients and have left it to you to do. But it’s a fact that in this day and age all businesses need online reviews and it does sway customers one way or the other. So this may be a great (free) way to support my business if you are able to.
Reviews can be left on my Google page, Facebook page, with details of how to do this below.
log into Facebook and go to my page Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies. Click on the "Review" section in the menu on my page. Once in this page it will ask you "Would you recommend Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies - Yes or No". Click on whichever applies to you.
I have different listings for each of my clinic locations, so one for Covent Garden, Moorgate and Monument. Below is a link to each one to leave a review, please select whichever is best for you (especially as some of you come to all locations). You will need to sign in with a Google account to review.
- Covent Garden: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CRjkkbFBE4DwEAg/review
- Monument: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CYE0C30BhRpZEAg/review
- Moorgate: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CSfMefbAXXLCEAg/review
Gift Vouchers/advance payment on treatments
Gift voucher purchases towards your future treatments or as a gift is another way – these are normally valid for 1 year from purchase but start date wouldn’t commence until my clinics re-open. Purchase them online and I will send you an e-voucher by email. Payment can be done by PayPal (you don't need a PayPal account).
Neal's Yard Remedies products
If you use Neal’s Yard Remedies products and order online then if you use this link I will get a small commission for each purchase (the company refers to us as Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic independent consultants).
Social Media
Links are below (at the footer of the website) to follow on various social media. Reading, liking, commenting and sharing is all greatly appreciated too and adds to the engagement and influences the algorithm which helps promote my business.
Coronavirus Update - 5th June 2020
Hello and welcome to a slightly blustery and damp June – quite how we’ve got here I’m unsure. But if you are anything like me you’ve probably totally lost track of which day of the week it is let alone the date.
I wanted to say a great big thank you to you all, after my last email I was so touched by the support and kindness shown by so many of you. It means so much at this time and I’m deeply grateful.
Below I’m outlining a few things related to the clinics as so much is changing every day with the lockdown regulations. First bit of information is clinic related and how this may affect your appointments and treatments.
Secondly, a few of you were kindly asking how you can support me during this time so I’ve put a few things on there that could support my business currently.
I truly hope you are all managing ok and I hope that it won’t be too long before we meet again.
Thank you for taking the time to read this longer than intended message and I'll be in touch again soon about the clinics.
Stay well, stay safe, stay home.
With warm regards
Rima
Clinic update
With the lockdown easing now the government published guidance on 10th May about how they are doing a phased release. Some of these phases have been adhered to, some have been jumped forward – but as it stands for my industry, and other colleagues in a similar situation who work directly in contact with people, we’re looking at 4th July at the very earliest that we would be allowed to resume seeing clients in person.
This, of course, is not a confirmed date and is bound by many things and we’re led by the Government guidance. Currently all of my professional associations and insurance have advised we are not to see any clients in person.
Over the past few weeks the government has slowly eased the lockdown restrictions here in England, and more and more people seem to be out and about. Families can visit each other in their gardens or parks (with social distancing) and even those in the highest risk group have been told they may leave their homes now. Some children are also back to school. But, just because people are allowed to do these things they are not still necessarily doing them.
There are so many factors in place which decides how our Government decides which restrictions are lifted, but also in my case I’m looking at this alert system that the Government has put in place. There is a good explanation of it here on the BBC website.
We are apparently still in level 4 and some restrictions which were not supposed to be lifted until at least lower end of 3 have already been done. For me personally to be seeing clients for your safety and mine I’d be looking for this alert system to be around low 3 into 2.
This alert system includes this all import reproduction number (the R number). In London this number was very good during lockdown and had dropped to 0.4. Since restrictions were lifted it has risen as expected, but is still under 1. As of yesterday this was at 0.9 from the data I have read. I will keep an eye on this for the next 2 weeks to see what’s happening with more people travelling and congregating in Central London as the numbers are generally expected to rise again in the next few weeks.
And then there are other things that also apply to how and when my clinics can re-start, some of this will be down to the clinic space that I hire the rooms from (Neal’s Yard Remedies and The Light Centre) as they will need to organise things for safe working – and I’m in discussions with them about how this will work going forward.
My associations have sent safe working practice guidance and it looks like this may include the following.
- Clinic days and times will change at the start.
- Seeing less clients daily as I won’t be able to do back-to-back clients to allow for cleaning the rooms between clients and also to allow more social distancing between clients.
- Wearing of face covering/masks by me and clients (for me there is a question about how much PPE I would need to wear and this will be clarified fully before I start clinics).
- Changes to treatments on offer – at present the associations are advising that I do not do any face treatments and limit body massages. So it may be that it’s only reflexology on offer for the starting times.
- Public transport – we would all need to use this to get to the clinics, so I’d need to review safe travel and times too and now we all must wear face covers on public transport too.
- Booking appointments in advance online – this remains the same as this is what you have been doing.
- Payments – this would need to change and I’d ask for payments to be made remotely – so PayPal at the time of booking online or BACs payments.
- Drinking water – this will not be supplied in jugs and glasses and you’re advised to bring your own water with you.
- Toilets/bathrooms – this is being reviewed by the clinics as to how these facilities can be safely and hygienically used.
- Trace and track system by the Government – unfortunately this isn’t working yet and the app is almost ready from the sounds of it. Once ready it’s advisable for everyone to download this.
- Symptoms – I’ll be asking everyone to complete a questionnaire/risk assessment in the day or 2 before their appointment re symptoms and if you may have been in contact with someone contaminated.
- Risk groups – the associations are advising that I do not treat anyone in the highest risk groups at present and possibly do not treat those in moderate groups too. I’ll update exactly who this will be once I know when I’m restarting clinics.
- My own health – I’ll be noting my own symptoms and exposure too and would change clinics and appointments if it turns out that I need to then isolate again.
I’ll email you again once I have a better idea of start times/dates and what changes this may require for your treatments. This could be as long as mid/late July, even possibly into August depending on circumstances.
Business Support
Thank you so much for your support and wanting to help me during this period where I’ve been unable to work. The Government grant does apply to me and has helped ease some of the worry which is great.
A few of you asked what else you could do and these are some things that came to mind, but please only do this if you wish too – there is absolutely no pressure.
Here are a few ideas:
Reviews
I know we all get so bombarded with requests to review purchases and businesses almost immediately after we’ve bought anything online. I’ve never done this to clients and have left it to you to do. But it’s a fact that in this day and age all businesses need online reviews and it does sway customers one way or the other. So this may be a great (free) way to support my business if you are able to. Reviews can be left on my Google page, Facebook page, with details of how to do this below.
Facebook - log into Facebook and go to my page Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies. Click on the "Review" section in the menu on my page. Once in this page it will ask you "Would you recommend Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies - Yes or No". Click on whichever applies to you.
Google - I have different listings for each of my clinic locations, so one for Covent Garden, Moorgate and Monument. Below is a link to each one to leave a review, please select whichever is best for you (especially as some of you come to all locations). You will need to sign in with a Google account to review.
- Covent Garden: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CRjkkbFBE4DwEAg/review
- Monument: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CYE0C30BhRpZEAg/review
- Moorgate: Calm and Clear Complementary Therapies would love your feedback. Post a review to our profile. https://g.page/r/CSfMefbAXXLCEAg/review
Gift Vouchers/advance payment on treatments
Gift voucher purchases towards your future treatments or as a gift is another way – these are normally valid for 1 year from purchase but start date wouldn’t commence until my clinics re-open. Purchase them online and I will send you an e-voucher by email. Payment can be done by PayPal (you don't need a PayPal account).
Buy now
Neal's Yard Remedies products
If you use Neal’s Yard Remedies products and order online then if you use this link I will get a small commission for each purchase (the company refers to us as Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic independent consultants).
Social Media
Links are below and on my website to follow on various social media. Reading, liking, commenting and sharing is all greatly appreciated too and adds to the engagement and influences the algorithm which helps promote my business.
Coronavirus update - 28th April 2020
I hope that you are all safe and at home, I'm just checking in to see how you are all doing as it's been 4 weeks since my last update to you.
I hope that if any of you or your loved ones did get Covid-19 that it was quick, short and everyone is now recovered or recovering well. I know several of my family and friends who have had the virus, with varying symptoms and recovery - even those in their 40s have been hit quite hard. I also have immediate family working in the frontline of the NHS and hear just how difficult life is at times and I'm so proud of them for putting others before themselves at all times.
I know that for many of you life over the past few weeks has not been easy. Rethinking day to day life and how we manage with everything isn't easy whether you are living alone or with a lot of people. For some trying to juggle working from home, young children (home schooling, meals, play etc) as well as normal cleaning, washing etc is really complicated and can raise anxiety and stress through the roof. For others the loneliness and lack of personal contact or open space is the major stressor. I think that the lockdown has brought challenges for every person that I know unique to their own circumstances.
For me, I went into self imposed lockdown prior to the government notice as I have my mother living with me. This week will mark us going into our 7th week of lockdown and no work for me. Due to mum it does mean that I am also limited to how much I'm able to get out of the house as carrying the virus home isn't ideal. I'm fortunate enough to have a good sized garden and I really enjoy gardening so these few weeks of sunshine have been a blessing. Normally I'd be squeezing in the gardening into 1 day of the weekend and now I can spread the load out without worry. My home to-do list is quite long as well and slowly I'm going through things.
Like everyone I am having roller-coasters of emotions. Initially I was quite enjoying the sitting around and chilling, then got productive, then was anxious (about everything including work and the world!), then relaxed and felt appreciative, last week apathy kicked in big time. This has now passed and I'm back to slight anxiety and being irritable and quite sad at times. I miss people, particularly my niece and nephew (who I've spoken about to many of you over the years) and it was my niece's birthday last week so I think that kicked in some of the apathy as I've never missed her birthday and always make her cake. We also lost a beloved family member to Covid-19, and that loss at such a distance is enormous. At the start of the lockdown we were desperately sad about my brother and his other half having to cancel their wedding in Scotland as we were all really excited about it. The celebrations have been postponed but we convinced them to go and get a civil ceremony without us and they video patched us in - and thankfully they did it! It was all done with correct social distancing and was beautiful. That then changed our sadness to utter love and joy.
And of course a big worry for me is that I'm self employed and my income comes from doing treatments, which has not happened since mid March and there's currently no restart date (see below). We do have some relief from the government, which would pay bills etc but it's not the same as what would have been earned. This is not really the sort of thing I can do fully remotely.
I do feel guilt when I think of my own circumstances and sadness when I know others are going through so much worse, and I do appreciate my own situation for the benefits I have. However, as I mentioned earlier, we are all in our own personal situations at our own homes and we are allowed to feel sad, happy, lazy, productive, scared, anxious, exhilarated, energetic, apathetic, grief, lonely etc - there are no rules in this.
Now for my clinic news.....
As you are aware, all of my clinics are closed for the foreseeable future, as both The Light Centre and Neal's Yard Remedies remain closed. If you have any booked appointments coming up, please note these will not go ahead.
I do miss seeing my clients and doing the treatments, but I’m also aware that being careful and cautious will mean that we all remain healthy and well.
Some people have been asking me about booking appointments in June and onwards and should they do that now. My answer is no, sorry.
Listening to government and medical advice it seems that currently we have no way of knowing when the restrictions will be lifted, and when they do there will still be complications related to continued social distancing and hygiene that the centres need to work through. For example, if we have 9 practitioners working at the same time we cannot have 9 clients in the waiting areas at the same time as the space is too small and correct social distancing cannot work in this case. Also each clinic room/therapy couch would need to be disinfected between clients and that would mean treatments cannot be back to back as usual so perhaps less people seen per shift. And no-one yet knows if we should wear some level of PPE, and if we do need it then would that be morally correct if the NHS needs it more. And then there's the bathrooms.... I've also been looking at what I'd do when I do restart and my thinking at the moment are that I'd probably only offer reflexology to begin with and no other face treatments or massages, just to protect you and me. My insurance company and professional associations are also not advising us to start clinics any time soon either.
Also, on a personal level, I have to consider my mum in this. Using the underground and doing the work that I do means exposing myself to the virus and possibly taking it home even if I'm extremely careful. So bearing in mind everything about the social distancing, risk, hygiene, health centre closures I think it's quite possible that my clinics may not be able to re-open before the end of July. Obviously I'll be constantly reviewing this and all the information and advice coming through and will update you as and when I can. This isn't ideal as I really wanted to be able to offer treatments sooner, but in many ways this is out of my hands - but I'm really sorry if this disappoints anyone.
A few of you have been in touch with me recently, and it's so nice to hear from you. I know that you miss your treatments and I miss seeing you. I want to be able to offer you some support and guidance in some way so I'm thinking to offer 15 minutes and 30 minutes video or phone consultations, after which I can offer personalised information to help you with your situation. This would be chargeable (at minimum cost) so would help me gain a small income too, I've got PayPal on the appointment system to pay at time of booking. I'll update my online appointment system with these new slots by the end of this week and you can book in if you would like them. I'll do relaxation techniques, self treatments, aromatherapy help, guided visualisations etc. Let me know if you would be interested in these.
I mentioned previously about the online videos and education. I was working on it (apart from last week when I had my apathy!) but I hit technical glitches. The one thing about everyone working from home and homeschooling is that the broadband speed is stretched quite a bit and this makes for difficult live video feeds or uploads. I'm still working to find the best solution and will let you know once it's done.
I’ve got a page on my website where I’ll be posting all Coronavirus updates like this one. The link to that page is also on my homepage.
Thank you for taking the time to read this longer than intended message and I'll be in touch again soon if I hear any more about the clinics and online videos.
Stay well, stay safe, stay home.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus update - 30th March 2020
Hello to everyone
I hope that you are all safe and at home.
This lockdown brings with it many emotions, and I know that for some the anxieties and stress of the current situation is extremely difficult. Plus then the home situation adds to this, some are living alone, others are trying to juggle working from home around children/home schooling and everyday home life. None of this is easy and we’re all having to learn to adapt as we can.
I’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of community spirit though, and the support from everywhere is quite amazing and a lovely contrast to some of the horrors we’re hearing about regarding the behaviour of some in supermarkets and pharmacies. Also there is a great deal of online support from a number of celebrities who are running activities for adults and children. I will post some of these on my social media pages and website where I can.
As you are aware, all of my clinics are closed for the foreseeable future, and definitely throughout April and most likely all of May too. If you have an appointment during these months please note that the appointments will not proceed, sorry. I do miss seeing my clients and doing the treatments, but I’m also aware that a few months of being careful and cautious will mean that we all remain healthy and well.
I’m still working on doing some online material for you all. Do you have any preferences? contact me
There’s aromatherapy blending, aromatherapy basics, make your own cream/balm (I need to check I can get my ingredients to do this), how to do facial exercises, face massage, coconut oil hair mask. Anything else? I can also do a quick 10 minute how to massage someone’s head/shoulders (if I can get a decent recording on my tablet).
I’ve been keeping myself very busy in isolation, my to-do list for home chores was already quite long and now I have time to tackle it. The garden will also need my attention, although the weather these last few days hasn’t been ideal for this. I’ve also got a lot of things I enjoy that don’t always have enough time to do, like baking, cooking, jigsaws, sewing/making clothes. I do miss being able to just pop out whenever, seeing people in person or just being able to touch someone – be it a handshake, a hug or just a hand on their arm. But, this will pass and we will all be able to slowly get back to normal – even if that does take time and it’s a slightly altered normal.
Stay well, stay safe, stay home.
With warm regards
Rima
Coronavirus - Clinic update 21 March 2020
This is an update on how things are with me and my clinics in relation the coronavirus issues.
After the Government briefing yesterday (20th March) all healthcare centres, like the ones I run my clinics from, are to close indefinitely.
As such both Neal’s Yard Remedies and The Light Centre where I have my clinics have closed their doors from today or will do tomorrow. And as is the case with this, there isn’t a fixed time scale that I can give you about this.
I had in fact stopped all my clinics last Tuesday 17th March, as I wanted to conform to the Government social distancing recommendations and because I have people in my house who fall into the higher risk group. And on 19th March the CNHC, one of my regulatory boards, informed all hands-on practitioners that they recommend we cease work to fall within these recommendations – so I’d done the correct thing just before the professional boards advised.
For all of you who have treatments booked in April (and possibly May) – I’ll be in touch with you personally closer to the time to advise you about what’s happening. As you all know, this whole situation is moving constantly, and as such so will be my actions.
I do hope that a safe resolution comes sooner rather than later, but it does look like we may be in this for the long haul.
I’m going to be stopping my online appointment bookings for the time being (you’ll still be able to cancel existing sessions if you need to by using the cancel link on your original appointment email).
And also, I was due to have a price increase from 6th April, but I’ve chosen to delay this for the time being and prices will remain as they are now.
I’ve got a page on my website where I’ll be posting all Coronavirus updates like this one. The link to that page is also on my homepage.
I'm looking to do some online workshops, talks or courses on aromatherapy, reflexology and relaxation. If you are interested in something like this then please let me know and I'll put something together and send you details. Please mark on there what topics you'd be interested in.
Thank you for taking the time to read this message and I hope you stay well.
With warm regards
Rima
Special resources while in isolation
For adults
- Free hypnosis relaxation recording - from Laurie Harvey
- Online yoga/pilates classes - at Light Centre - this is chargeable but free to NHS staff
- Home Festival - Free dance classes plus much more on Instagram live - check out some of the Strictly come dancing instructors who are all doing live dance classes or exercise classes plus many very special guests doing other creative classes such as cooking/baking, sewing etc.
- Joe Wicks - see below for children's PE classes, which are good for adults too. His YouTube channel also has excellent instructions for more advanced workouts too.
- Thrifty Stitcher - Run and owned by Claire-Louise Hardie who is the top of the sewing game and someone I've known for a number of years. Claire-Louise is also the original mastermind and Sewing Producer on the BBC Great British Sewing Bee. She has lots of online sewing courses for everyone from beginners to the more advanced.
- Gardening - if you're new to gardening then the Gardener's World website is a good starting point for general advice.
For children
Someone sent me this as a timetable that they have worked out themselves (sorry if some of these are no longer in action as things change frequently):
For those of you who like a bit of structure in your lives; here's what various celebrities are offering you and your kids for free daily to help with their education while schools are closed:
9.00am - PE with Joe Wicks - https://youtu.be/6v-a_dpwhro
10.00am - Maths with Carol Vorderman - www.themathsfactor.com
11.00am - English with David Walliams - https://www.worldofdavidwalliams.com/elevenses/
12.00pm - Lunch (cooking with Jamie Oliver)- https://www.jamieoliver.com/features/category/get-kids-cooking/
1.00pm - Music with Myleene Klass - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQh2wgJ5tOrixYBn6jFXsXQ
1.30pm - Dance with Darcey Bussel - https://twitter.com/diversedancemix/status/1241098264373592065
2.00pm - History with Dan Snow (free for 30-days) - https://tv.historyhit.com/signup/package
4.00pm - Home Economics with Theo Michaels (Mon/Wed/Fri) - https://www.instagram.com/theocooks
Non-daily events include:
Science with Professor Brian Cox, Robin Ince & Guests https://cosmicshambles.com/stayathome/upcoming-schedule
9.30am Wednesday 25 March - Geography with Steve Backshall https://twitter.com/SteveBackshall/status/1242058846941712385
For your older kids, here are 50 free revision resources for 11+, GCSEs and A-Levels:
Calm and Clear - Covid-19 update - 17th March 2020
Yesterday evening the Prime Minister laid out some new recommendations, which I have been looking into that are a number of social distance measures to reduce the risk of infection from the spread of the Covid-19 virus. These include the following (taken from the Gov.uk website):
The main points are for those who are well and under 70 with no underlying health conditions:
- limit social contact where possible
- Use less public transport
- Work at home where possible
- Consider not going to pubs, restaurants, theatres and bars
Main points for those over 70, and/or have underlying health conditions or are pregnant:
- Strongly advised against all of the activities above
- Significantly limit face-to-fact interaction with friends and family if possible
Most importantly is to continue to follow the advice of washing your hands properly more often with soap and water. If you cough either do this into a tissue which you bin immediately and then wash your hands - or if you don't have a tissue cough into the crook of your elbow not your hand.
I am reviewing clinics accordingly due to the reduction of use of public transport and the necessity of many of my clients to work from home. Also, taking into account that I have in my home someone over the age of 70 who I need to consider too.
Calm and Clear Covid-19 update email sent 14th March 2020
I’m sure you’ve all received several similar emails to this over the past few days. I started this email many days ago, but every time I was ready to send it the advice and information changed. However, as many others are sending the emails I’ve decided that the time has come to send this out. I’m sorry to clog your inbox further if this isn’t wanted.
These are anxious and unknown times with the outbreak of COVID-19 globally – and now listed as a pandemic by the WHO. I know that many of you are concerned about the unknown and also more for those in the higher risk group.
The UK Government is monitoring the situation daily and their website has the most up to date advice and precautions.
I wanted to let you know about some information about how I’m dealing with the situation at my clinics, in line with all the information out there and to put your minds at rest as best as I can.
I always try to maintain the highest hygiene standards in clinic, but have put more time into extra cleaning of the rooms before I start (each treatment room is rented out so other practitioners and their clients will have been in there before me).
I only use my own equipment, which I ensure is properly cleaned at all times. I also disinfect all surfaces in the treatment rooms, including door handles, chairs, light switches, taps, couches etc and as always I wash my hands thoroughly and the start and end of the treatment.
And no hand to hand contact – so apologies if I don’t shake hands with you on arrival and leaving.
I am of course working directly on your skin – either feet, face or abdomen. As such most of the recommended hygiene methods are already in place.
I also ask if each of you could please wash your hands on arrival to the clinic (each clinic has soap and sinks with paper towels or hand driers). Some of the clinics have anti bacterial gel too where they’ve been able to get any.
Also, if you think you may be coming down with an illness, however mild, or if anyone at your home is in self isolation then please let me know in advance of your booked treatment.
If you have a new continuous cough and/or a fever of 37.8 degrees or higher then please stay at home and follow the self-isolation guidelines for 7 days. Same if you think you have been around someone with the coronavirus or if you have recently travelled abroad – please let me know in advance.
This will help reduce the spreading of the virus, and will benefit all of the clinics, clients and me too.
If you are booked in for a treatment and have a question or if you wish to reschedule for another time then please contact me at info@calmandclear.co.uk.
I will be reviewing this advice constantly as the expert knowledge and advice coming through is fluid, and this may mean having to change or even cancel certain appointments or clinics. I will do everything possible to not do this, but safety comes first and will do everything to protect all of you as well as me and my family.
I will post this plus some other information on my website and will try to update this as and when things change.
Thank you for taking the time to read this message and I hope you stay well.
With warm regards
Rima
Pregnancy and Covid-19
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has published guidance on it's website - here
You can find updates from my clinic The Light Centre (for Monument and Moorgate) here.