Interview - Simon Goodfellow from October 2013

Re-posting this interview with Simon Goodfellow.  He will be one of the speakers at Newark this month.

To start with could you tell us a bit about yourself (a quick intro, most people know you!)

Simon has been working professionally now for coming up to 14 years.
The Spiritual journey stated when Simon lived in Spain, at the time he was the owner of a very busy and successful bar.
But Simon felt very drawn to crystal healing.
Simon flew back to the UK and went on crystal healing course he sole intention was to work in hospitals and clinics.
However when Simon was healing people he would start to pick up messages for people.
After a while Simon stated to ask the people he was healing about the information he was picking up.
To his surprise the information was spot on.
This then lead Simon to have a reading, Simon was told he needed to develop is abilities.
This Simon did by attending the Arthur Finley college of Mediumship.
Soon after his return to Spain Simon started hosting small Mediumship evenings in his bar, these became very popular and Simon increased these to once a week.
Simon also started one to one readings for customers in the bar.

"The Spiritual work did take over the bar in Spain and because I was flying back to the UK 3 and 4 times a month it was time to leave Spain behind and return to the UK.
I still travel back to Spain to work as I have many clients over there."

You do a lot of different type of work, which do you find most rewarding - readings or developing other peoples skills?

Simon gets great satisfaction from all the aspects of his work but if he had to just pick one it would be developing other people's skills.
Simon does run three levels of Development workshops which are very popular.


What advice would you give to someone who has had some psychic experiences but is a bit scared of it?

The advise would be there is nothing to be scared of, Spirit want to work with you and to develop your abilities, but please don't confuse your self stick to one way of teaching.
There are many mediums and clairvoyants and we all work very differently.
When you want to start developing always go to the person you are drawn too, much like when you want to book a reading.


Do you have any plans to write a book? 

Yes, a book is very much in the horizon but sadly this as not been done as yet.
Dave my partner set the wheels in motion and we will be getting the book done soon.


Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most.

 I love many different books about a very diverse subject range, but I must admit I do love books by Doris Stokes she was an amazing lady.


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.

To develop my Mediumistic abilities. The satisfaction I get from bring closure to people is truly rewarding.


Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)

Again my Cd collection combined with Dave's is truly diverse and sometimes a little camp and cheesy but I'm a very big follower of the Eurovision Song Contest.
When I first met Dave he made me a compilation CD for every Eurovision winner since the contest first started.
So the Cd's would be that one plus a little of Susan Boyle, Jane McDonald, Michael Buble.

Interview - Sue Hickman

Today we've got an interview with Sue Hickman from Forever Living products.  Sue is at many BSSK shows throughout the year.  We've asked her a little bit about herself and the products and would like to say thanks to her for taking the time to answer our questions.  Personally I'd heard of Forever Living but didn't know a huge amount about it, so it's been fascinating to learn about more.

1 - To start with could you tell us a little bit about yourself.

For 30 years I was a Police Officer and if you had told me 6 years ago I was going to become an advocate of Natural Health products I would have looked behind you for the men in white coats.
However I had a health challenge in that I had arthritis and was taking pain killers on a daily basis. I bought a new puppy and this changed my life. I played with the puppies on the floor and had to use a chair to lever myself back to my feet and the women suggested I tried drinking aloe vera and it would help me. She told me it came with a 60 day money back guarantee and I thought what have I got to loose. I tried it and within 6 weeks I was off my painkillers and back doing the things which had become so difficult like climbing flights of stairs and playing golf. I would never be without it!

2 - Could you explain the benefits of Aloe Vera

I'd never heard of Aloe Vera but when I researched it I found that we have been using it for healing for thousands of years. Records of it being used for medicinal purposes go back to 2100 bc in Southern Iraq but the most famous is 1550 bc in the Papyrus Ebers  which details the ancient Egyptians use of it. There are many other references to it throughout history Christopher Columbus and Mhatma Ghandi both refer to it and it forms part of the Veterinary Coat of Arms.
So why is it so good. We have established that Aloe contains over 75 nutritional compounds including vitamins, minerals and amino acids but the synergy of them working together make it naturally anti inflammatory, it balances the immune system, its a natural antibiotic and is naturally both fungicidal and bactericidal. Most people know it is excellent with all kinds of burns (anti pyretic) but it is also anti itching (antipuretic). This means that it is excellent in helping the body to cope with a number of challenges like mine.

3 - How do you sell, is it just online and show or do you do parties as well?

I attend the BSSK Shows as a way of letting as many people as possible learn about the benefits Aloe has. I do have an online shop which repeat customers use but in the first instance I prefer to talk to people  and discuss the benefits which can be achieved. Once you actually feel the benefits of taking Aloe Vera you do find it difficult to stop talking about it. I occasionally will arrange a party at someones house if they want their friends to find out about the aloe they are using or will speak to Womens Institute or Church Groups but primarily I just talk to people wherever I go.
Forever Living are the Worlds biggest growers of Aloe Vera. It is all organically grown and has been since the beginning. We do not grow our Aloe for anyone else and only use the inner leaf gel in our products. The outer leaf is put back onto the fields for fertilisation. Aloe is like an apple once you cut into it it starts to oxidise so you have to stabilise it. We have a patented stabilisation process using fruit and vegetable juices not heat treating or carbon filtering it like the commercial process.

3 - Forever Living have a lot a bee products - is that a sustainable source, can more bee farming help to increase their numbers?

What is often unknown is that we are also the worlds largest bee keepers. Our bees are kept in the Sonoran Desert away from all pollutants. This keeps our bee colonies strong in a time when the world is becoming more and more worried about loosing bees. We have specially designed hives which allow the bee's to keep all the Royal Jelly, Pollen and Propolis they need and skim a little surplus off for our use.

4- which writer/thinker has influenced you the most.

I have been most influenced by the American Motivational Speaker Jim Rohn. He shows us that we can all lead inspirational lives starting today and if we want something badly enough anything is possible. One of my favourite Jim Rohn quotes is:
Its not what happens which determines your lives future. Its what you do about what happens.
All of us are in like a little sailboat and its not the blowing of the wind which determines your destination its the set of the sail. The same wind blows on us all. The wind of disaster, the wind of opportunity, the wind of change….. the wind when its favourable and unfavourable.. The same wind blows on us all…….. the difference in arrival is not the blowing of the wind but the set of the sail.


5 -What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.

The best advice I ever got was "if its to be its up to me". We waste time and energy looking for someone to blame if our life isn't exactly what we want it to be but we all have it in our gift to live the life of our dreams. We have to just stop wasting that energy, decide what we want and actively pursue what we want.


Forever Living Products is a Network Marketing Company and I use my experience with the Company over the last 6 years to show others not only what remarkable products the Company has but also how they can use the Company as a vehicle to get whatever they want in life.

Interview ~ Matt Hall from Paracon UK

As you may know we are really excited about the upcoming Paracon UK event in Derby later this year. So today we're bringing you a great interview with Matt Hall from Paracon UK, to tell us a bit more about the event.  See you there!

To start with can you tell us a little bit about the people behind Paracon?

Well, our team consist of volunteers from all walks in the paranormal community.  My core team consist of US service members along with local British professionals whom for "Serious Paranormal Investigations".  Then we have some wonderful people that stepped in with different skills to help carry the load.

How did the idea for this event come about? 

Being American, I am am a fan of the Paracon circuit.  I wanted my team to have that experience as well.  However, I found that  the UK has yet to have an actual Paracon event!  In amazement we decided to put one on ourselves. Bring the UK it's 1st annual Paracon UK to be!

This will be the first event of it's kind in the UK, do you think interest in the Paranormal is growing or has it always been big but we've been slow to embrace it?

There is a large following in the UK for the paranormal.  The new shows that are coming from America are adding to the reality once again.  There has been the saying that the UK rolls up about 10 years behind the States, but I want to disprove that!  Paracon UK will be sure to have all the US celebrities and paranormal elite clawing to be a part of the UK's community!

Is this going to be an annual event and if so will it travel around or stay in Derby?

Yes, this will be an annual event and only grow from year to year.  Paracon UK is set to be the largest international paranormal event in the UK.  All of our wonderful guests are already asking to take part in net year's event as well. We are not against giving Paracon UK a home. However, we need to be able to facilitate everyone comfortably and try to remain central so that all have an equal opportunity to experience this event.

Can you tell us a bit more about the charity you're supporting? 

The two charities we are supporting are "Wounded Warrior Project" and "Troop AID".  Both charities are set up to offer assistance to wounded heroes and their families.  The efforts have been certainly as we are coming out of two horrific wars and have so many that gave their all for us.  With SPI having a majority make of of military members, we knew it was our duty to give back as we can.

What kind of work does the "Serious Paranormal Investigations" do?

 SPI is a dedicated research team and we are seeking the causes as well as the stories behind the paranormal phenomena people experience.  We utilize are talents and military disciplines to create a professional approach to solving the mystery.  SPI also offers a bootcamp to train investigators from the amateur to the seasoned, and endorse an array of techniques that should be used.  The goal is to get better informed investigators out there and helping in our goal.

You have a really impressive line-up for this event, who are you personally most excited about?

I am sure that everyone on the team is excited to see their individual favourites.  I personally have a special want to see all of them.  There is a reason that our guest list was put together this way and honestly we still have several celebrities from America wanting to come, but without sponsors I can afford the airfare..lol  We will have to wait until next year!

Interview - Alix Davies

Originally published on 16th August 2013.

Today we have an interview with Alix Davies of Chalice College. Chalice College is a recognised Penny Price satellite school.

We've loved reading this interview and want to thank Alix for taking the time to answer our questions.

To start with could you tell us a little bit about yourself? 

I qualified as a teacher in 1971 and worked many years for Rotherham Borough Council in several local schools, I have also taught piano and adult literacy as well as teaching therapies. As a little girl I loved plants, scents, discovered crystals, yoga and various other fascinating subjects and this interest has continued all my life. I have always had an interest in Complementary Therapies, particularly Aromatherapy and have qualifications in many areas including Clinical Aromatherapy, Infant Massage, Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Daoyin Tao, Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Crystal Therapy, Beauty therapy, Hot stone massage and others I still work as a practising therapist so have an understanding of the every-day needs of a successful practitioner. My teaching is based on practical skills as well as theoretical knowledge.

When was Chalice College established and how did it originate? 

 Loving teaching and having a passion for holistic therapies it was logical to combine them, so Chalice College developed. I love sharing the knowledge and skills I have and encourage my students to do the same; many bring here their expertise in a wide variety of areas and we share what we know so that we have more skills and information to draw from when treating people. Working as a therapist I had tried oils from several sources and found that Penny’s worked best for me, so when I was organising my school I wanted the best for my students. I had done several courses at the Penny Price Academy so Penny knew me and when I approached her to discuss this she suggested that I might like to become a satellite school… I gave her my C V and so Chalice College was born in 2009.

You don't do distance learning, do you have plans for that or do you prefer to be "hands on"?

We have always had aspects of learning that can be done at home, for example part of the IFPA upgrade includes a tailor-made course to cover any aspects needed so students can then join the later modules without having to cover everything again (saving money too). The Penny Price Academy has put in place some distance learning courses; please ask me for further information. Obviously there are courses that have practical elements such as massage where it is necessary to be present to ensure the techniques are correct. My own view is that people learn in different ways so some methods suit better than others and it is a personal choice. If someone is confident in learning situations and happy to extrapolate their own information, plan their own study times and is self- motivated distance learning is good for them. It can be fitted into times to suit them and their other commitments. However as with any solitary learning, distance learning has drawbacks – the lack of discussion and exchange of views and information from colleagues being one, another being the opportunity to ask a question at the time it is at the forefront of your mind. I am always here to ask, but waiting for an email reply when you want to know there and then can be frustrating, also sometimes those questions then just do not get asked. In class we get to know each other, it is friendly and informal; students are encouraged to ask those questions: information can be explained in a variety of ways and we can go over a point again if needed, also as a teacher with many years’ experience I have tips and techniques I can offer my students to make the learning easier.

Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most? 

 I thought a long time about this –being not so young I have had a lot of influences in my life: but came to the conclusion that the person with most influence was my mum. I know it sounds obvious but I didn’t realise it until much later in my life: previously I would have said this person influenced that aspect of my thinking – another that and so on. With a greater overview I realise I was lucky because mum was very open- minded and encouraged me to read whatever I wanted to and encouraged discussion. I remember she would let me have her library tickets (no internet then and children were not allowed to get books from the adult section and anyway the children’s section only allowed three books – not nearly enough), also she took me everywhere she could so I was able to see and experience whatever was possible. All this meant that I came across a lot of information and viewpoints, learned to be open to thoughts and ideas and to evaluate them and so my own philosophies have developed gradually. It is an on-going process.

What's the best piece of advice you've been given? 

Again the best advice came from Mum; it was what her father said to her: “Lass, what you know would fill a book – what you don’t know fills a library” Never close your mind and think you know it all – always listen to other people and respect their views, you might think you are right but you can never be sure.

Would you name six "desert island" films or books? 

Only six books / films. This was difficult – I am a bookaholic!! No six books would be enough, however thinking it through much of the enjoyment of a book is in sharing it with others, so the ones I have chosen are ones I have particularly enjoyed sharing with people who mean a lot to me and re-reading those books brings back that happiness.

I have ‘cheated’ a bit; instead of films I have plays The Wind in the Willows Mum read this to me when I was very young (along with many others). I liked this because I liked the character of Ratty, he was so generous and went out of his way to give pleasure to others and always considered their feeling, putting their well-being ahead of his own. I experienced so many feelings in this book – awe on finding Otters lost son and meeting Pan; fear in the Wild Wood; the feelings and emotions that were brought by the different seasons, and not least the humour surrounding Toads adventures and character.

The Water Babies Another one read to me when little. I have re-read this many times and have had increasingly better understanding of it as I got older. As a little girl I couldn’t understand how Tom could cry because Mr. Grimes being hurt and punished – I thought he deserved it. This book was probably the earliest lesson in karma that I remember.

Tom Sawyer It was so funny and the people so true to people everywhere. I love Mark Twain’s humour. I particularly liked Tom having to paint the fence and getting others to do it for him, it was so clever; also his comment that he was only called Thomas when he was in trouble – this came back to me when at times I gave my own children their full titles, and when they call me ‘mother’ instead of ‘mum’. These three books particularly take me back to evenings cuddled up and sharing the emotions of all the adventures, to a time of being loved, secure and taken care of; love and happiness. I have read these to my children and grandchildren because these are things that should be shared.

The Crucible. I am really thinking about an RSC performance here that was ‘in the round’. We were in a large hall, the actors moved in and through the audience and in that way we became part of the action, particularly the courtroom scene, became equally responsible for the decisions made, and so it was particularly powerful. At the end the audience was too stunned to react and it took ages before we could move to give applause (which was overwhelming too). I had taken my elder daughter and was a wonderful experience to have shared. The book brings back the memory.

The Canterbury Tales. This again is a theatre performance, I had taken my younger daughter and we actually did laugh until it hurt. I have heard that term but this is the only time I experienced it – we held our sides because they ached. Before the performance officially began, the late Brian Glover came out and walked round the audience in a chicken costume (The Nun’s Priest’s Tale). He was the Miller he told us and the powers that be wouldn’t allow him to tell his tale as it was too bawdy; he was drumming up support in the audience to get them to let him tell it, the audience joined in and of course we got all the tales including the rude ones. The humour was not just in the stories themselves but in the portrayal of the characters, the visual humour of the costumes and the altercations between the ‘stuffed shirt’ attitude of the ‘directors’ and the down to earth character that Brian Glover played so well. I would choose this not only because it reminds me of a great evening sharing this with my daughter, but takes me back to doing ‘A’ level English Lit. We were only going to study the moral and uplifting ones but like in the play we all read the rude ones as well, which I am sure the teachers expected. A happy time I am glad to return to.

The White Goddess. I admire Robert Graves, his poetry, his prose, his plays. I have added this book because each time I read it, it gives me more to think about. It reminds me of Graves himself, his other works and what a brilliant mind he had. This book and others like it have helped to form my thinking taking me to where I am now and to the so very lovely people I meet in the course of this work. Like Ratty they are generous, unselfish put the welfare of others as a main concern; they are loving and lovely people.

Interview - Sidney Vincent

Revisiting some older interviews as part of our new "line up" so to speak!  This is the first interview we published when we started up the blog again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To start off our interviews we've got an interview with Sidney Vincent.  His business The Neem People will be exhibiting at Elsecar on 24th and 25th August after a long absence.

To start off, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

 The hospitality industry provided my background.  My hotel management training and qualifications provided me with the springboard to venture into the world, catapulting me to a number of countries worldwide where my real education began. Insularity went out of the window as I voraciously absorbed the cultures of the countries  I was fortunate to work and live in. Old heads will tell you that the best way to learn a business is by starting at the bottom, and by keeping an open mind as you climbed each rung of the ladder. In doing this I learned how to communicate with people at all levels and to appreciate the efforts needed to keep the wheels of the business turning successfully.
Domestic requirements put paid to globetrotting and I had to scale > down to a different level. It was a calculated descent, rather than a fall, and it took the steadfast support of my wife to help me through the initial difficult period. The inherent spirit kicked in and we went on to gain national recognition as Innkeepers. Physical problems put paid to this chapter.
In a chance encounter, a clinical aromatherapist friend happen to mention her using Neem effectively in treating a major head lice problem. I found a seed and lodged it in my fertile mind: I remembered Neem from my childhood ( did  I mention that I am from India?) and cogitated on the fact that no one seemed to know about Neem in the UK – nay, in the western world- so I decided to  spread the word.

Can you tell us the benefits of your products?

 Not for nothing is the Neem Tree called The Village Pharmacy, as the benefits are numerous. Taken internally Neem helps stimulate the immune system, liver detoxification, regulate body functions. It’s anti- fungal properties make it helpful in treating internal fungal problems. It is also antibacterial and antiseptic . All these properties come to the fore in Neem body products such as face creams, lotions, soaps, toothpaste and other oral hygiene products. The proven benefits of The Neem People’s Neem products are now fairly well known worldwide.

You've stayed true to your vision ie not been tempted by MLM, is this a vocation rather than "just a job"?

We like to paddle our own and have had to paddle upstream sometimes, but we have the satisfaction of knowing that our achievements to date are off our own bat, mixed metaphors et al. Like most starters we have had approaches from others to sell their products, but we will not be swayed from our path of promoting the benefits of the Neem Tree. We are passionate about this and set ourselves as examples of what the Neem Tree has done for us, and what it can do for others.

Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most?

 Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela and other icons have inspired many to rise above themselves. My inspiration comes from nearer home; my father.

What's the best piece of advice you've been given?

Do whatever you are doing to the best of your ability, with dignity, and your reward must follow, though it may not be in the way you were hoping.
Every action has an equal and opposite reaction. You reap what you sow.


Many thanks to Sidney for taking the time to answer our questions. You can find him on the web at theneempeople.com

Interview with Michael James

This evening we have an interview with Michael James, author and speaker and the country's leading voice in applying the Law of Attraction.  In October last year we did an interview with him and we wanted to hear more about his work and his upcoming workshop with Nikki Slade at the Monastery this coming weekend.  We'd like to say thanks to Michael for answering our questions and keep an eye out on the blog for an interview with Nikki Slade later in the week!



You've hosted workshops in prisons, how does the Law of Attraction go down with the inmates?


It goes down well-  because it is an empowering and freeing philosophy that doesn’t judge. I have found people in prison, in general, to be freedom-seekers who have felt confined by society and don’t know how to deal with their minds- so act out in a disconnected way and then, unsurprisingly, create a situation where they are confined physically. However there is a blessing in this- the restricted surroundings can sometimes lead to people ‘awaken’- and I met a lot of people like that who were actually very loving and caring people who were finding their way back into connection and love. It was an uplifting experience and very different to what you’d expect (if you’ve read about prisons in the newspapers or seen prison dramas on TV)


How do you deal with people who are disappointed that the Law of Attraction isn't a quick fix? 


In my experience, quick fixes never work- which can be initially disappointing to the side of all of us which dislikes practice and ‘doing the work’. In a way people are relieved when I explain that it isn’t a quick fix- as this explains why this approach hasn’t been working for them up to this point and how, with right application and regular practice, it can and does work. My Success Stories are proof of this- hundreds of examples of mine (and The Law of Attraction Centre’s - which I co-founded) approach working.  You can read about these on the website  http://www.lawofattractioncentre.com/law-of-attraction-success-stories/ 


It says on your website you "evoke elements of Humanistic Counselling" how do you take the spirituality out of your work?


I don’t take the spirituality out really- although I might change my choice of wording depending on the audience, though I find I need to do that less and less as more people are becoming open to a sense of spirituality we all share. Humanistic Counselling is part of my approach as far as Carl Rogers’ (one of the more well-known contributors to Humanistic Psychology ) Unconditional Positive Regard in his Person-centred approach;  the idea of allowing someone to be exactly as they are, which leads to change- and trusting that everyone has access to the answers within themselves. It’s a very spiritual approach too, if you think about it. In my opinion everything is spiritual- and you can’t take that out of life. Though sometimes I acknowledge the label ‘spiritual’ can be off-putting to some.


Do you ever find people that get "hooked" on the victim mentality and compulsively attend self-help workshops. if so how do you help them?


Yes- many people. I’m sure I was in this mindset once- in fact I definitely was; Self-help became just another way to promote my helplesssness, constantly looking outside for the answers. In this way, this question leads in well from the last one- as my work is all about inspiring people to connect to their own power which is the true purpose of all genuine "self-help" . I guess I can sometimes be quite direct with people when needs be. My confidence comes from doing over 500 events and seeing many people change their lives for the better. So I challenge the victim attitude- which isn’t really them at all but rather a false-self imposter, popularly known as the Ego.


Do you have a "go to" exercise for bringing us back to living in the moment that you could share with us?


Meditation and physical exercise (for example, a workout at the gym). My book Instant feeling Good is a concise book full of things you can do in the moment to shift your mood quickly. You can see more about it at www.michaeljames.be


Can you tell us how you and Nikki work together in "Sound and Focus to Align with the Law of Attraction?


Nikki’s work is amazing and she respects mine, too. We have both attended one another’s groups; myself and Nikki know each other very well- which helps- and I trust her approach. She brings in sound and gentle movement and I bring in meditation and written exercises. I find this approach works very well together. Our aims are the same; for people to get into touch with their empowerment and find their own inner voice (Nikki’s company is actually called Free the Inner Voice which explains this). The workshop will be spontaneous in many ways, sharing insights in the moment around some pre-arranged practices. I find this fluidity works well. I’m really looking forward to it.

Interview with Brigitte Rix

This evening we have a fantastic interview with author and medium Brigitte Rix. Brigitte will next be at the Monastery in Manchester on 5th and 6th of April.  We are very blessed to have her with us at our shows.

Her talk "Banish Your Fear of Death!" proves to be a cheerful, uplifting and non-religious event. You can find her online at I Talk with Spirits  Many thanks to Brigitte for answering our questions and giving an amazing insight into her life and work.

To start, could you tell us a little bit about yourself please

Hello & ‘Bonjour’. I am Brigitte Rix- I live in York UK- I am a Clairaudient Medium, Author of several ‘channelled’ books, Teacher of Spiritual Matters and Psychic & Mediumship development.

My decades of research in the ‘paranormal’ and the Afterlife led me to developing my own mediumship. I have been communicating with those in the ‘Spirit’ World for over 30 years.

Nowadays I focus on touring UK, signing my channelled books at BSSK Events and other MBS Shows- or wherever I am invited. I offer lively eye-opening talks, giving my public the chance to ask their questions on the Afterlife. I do NOT promote any religion.        

 I enjoy giving people hope and a greater understanding of why we are born and what goes on in the Afterlife-- BEFORE we chose to be born and AFTER we ‘pass over’—Those fascinating and detailed insights revealed by ‘departed’ loved ones as well as my ‘Spirit Guide’, are recorded in my authentic diaries of years of conversations with them, using clairaudience and automatic/ inspired writing. (Those are published as ‘I’m Not Dead: I ‘m Alive without a Body- Vol. 1 & 2).

My spiritual knowledgeable Masters also dictate from the ‘Spirit’ World books of ground-breaking revelations, (Such as ‘Truths, Lies & Distortions’),which merge the boundaries of Science and Spirituality, divulging hidden truths masked by centuries of disinformation and myths.                    
They provide answers to profound questions such as: Why are we here/ How & Why the Earth was created as an experiment /What happens before we are born & after we ‘die’/ Why illnesses & accidents come into our lives/ What happens during coma/ What reincarnation is/ The consciousness & sentience of Animals & Plants/ Why crop circles and other worlds exist/ Why disasters will hit the Earth/ How we can improve our lives/... and much more!

ALL knowledge provided in all my books comes DIRECTLY from those in the Spirit World. This led to my being kindly dubbed ‘The Afterlife French Lady’ by thousands of my readers and my audiences.  (Please see my website www.italkwithspirits.com)

         
If you want to know more about me:

I was born in a French family, brought up on meat (including horse meat...but never frogs’ legs or snails!) Yet, because I am a great Animal & Nature lover, I have been a true vegetarian now for 40 years (True veggie = No fish, no shellfish etc). This shows one CAN change habits! I am nearly Vegan--but only use genuine RSPCA approved free range eggs.

Grammar school in Algiers (Algeria North Africa when it was still a French country), then University of Nice (French Riviera) – Next, I made the leap from sunny climes to settle in crazy weather Britain, where I eventually married an English language Lecturer, Dave Rix. We have 2 children: James Christopher (Jim) and Anne-France. I became a Teacher and Lecturer in the French language.  (Sadly Dave succumbed to cancer a few years ago, but he lives on & now talks to me from the Spirit World!)  

Over the years I also trained as a Dance & Fitness instructress as well as studied several Complementary Therapies: I am a qualified therapist in Remedial Swedish Massage, Touch for Health/Kinesiology and Electro-Crystal Therapy (Founded by physicist Harry Oldfield). I also qualified as a Spiritual Healer.

         
You've been communicating with spirit since 1983, was it a sudden thing or had you been able to do it previously but hidden it.  Like so many people have said?

                                                                                                                                          Looking back at decisions I had to make over years, I am now sure I have been mysteriously guided and inspired throughout my life without realising it, until I eventually discovered in the 1980’s that we can all learn to communicate safely with the Other World!  I only recall one incident when I was only 15 yrs old. My French Grammar School was run by Catholic nuns, so of course I’d never heard of mediums and ‘spirit communications’ (apart from Joan of Arc!). During a Religious Education lesson, the teaching nun facing us was ranting about ‘hell’ as a place of burning flames and gnashing of teeth...I was used to that topic so took it for granted, when suddenly a different voice spoke clearly in my left ear: “Hell is not a place: it is a state of mind, a state of remorse!” This startled me! I stared around me. NO schoolmate or other person was next to me or behind. The classroom was several stories up. That was definitely a mysterious voice ‘out of the blue’! Since then, I have grasped it was my Guide rectifying the nun’s dreadful distortions of facts! But it was the only time I noticed such guidance in the early days.                                                                                                                                                                                                 As explained in my Introduction of “I’m Not Dead: I ‘m Alive without a Body”, from my teenage years I started to question the validity of Catholicism rules and dogmas: Why would a baby who was not christened not go to heaven? Why did Popes lead murderous wars to impose their religion (or more likely to steal gold and precious stones from other countries)? Was it what their Jesus taught?                                                                                                                                    

Then I heard of trustworthy people (both people I knew and reliable professionals) to whom departed acquaintances suddenly ‘appeared’ (obviously clairvoyantly). I then suspected there was more to Life and Death than we were told- I sensed that special aspects of energy were hidden from the public- So I started my quest for ‘the Truth’ whatever that was. It took me decades, as in those days I did not have Internet and easy access to books by genuine mediums.                                                                                                                                                                           It was only in the early 1980’s once settled in York, that I found Spiritualist churches existed and mediums demonstrated. I befriended a lady who told me she did automatic writing. That’s how one day, as she was showing me what she received from the ‘Spirit’ World, she suddenly passed on a message telling me to learn to ‘tune in’ and receive communications myself.                   Though I doubted I’d ever be able to do it, I practised daily and was astonished to very soon receive automatic writing to which my ‘Spirit’ Guide soon added strong clairaudience. It was January 1983. I really ‘tested’ thoroughly those early communications, being ever so careful to ensure it was all genuinely from the ‘Spirit’ World! I am now glad to say it was indeed and still is, constantly more and more astounding and enlightening. My ‘Spirit’ Team evidently had plans to dictate books so they would not let go!

 Your talks include some very intense subjects, including murderers, suicide and early death, how willing are the general public to talk about these subjects?

Those topics are often brought up by members of my audiences, that’s why I cover them. People do wonder about them! Too often there is a very mistaken notion that when we pass over, we ‘land’ in one single ‘place’ where all departed humans mill about for centuries…so it could imply that we could find ourselves amongst or bump into dictators & murderers- or people you hated!  WRONG!  The link is love, affection, friendship, admiration. So you meet people who are ‘on the same wavelength’ as you; that’s why you’ll usually be greeted by loving family members, friends, acquaintances you liked, pets– and of course those like your ‘Spirit Guide’ who have been looking after you from the Other Side.                                                                                                  

On the other hand, as long as departed criminals & nasty people’s mind sets remain filled with hatred, resentment and dark thoughts of revenge, they’ll actually create such an environment around themselves- and that’s what they’ll see, like recurrent nightmares-- because in the ‘Spirit’ World what you think creates itself, appears in front of you--because Thought is a creative Power! The ‘baddies’ will struggle with that until they change their attitude and yearn for kinder and more peaceful activities… and at last recognise the harm they’ve done when on Earth; then remorse hopefully  will step in.                                                                                                        

There is no harsher judge than oneself when grasping the horrors one has inflicted onto others. Remorse gnaws at you and ‘burns’ your mind and soul: THAT is what ‘hell’ is- a state of mind, a state of remorse. No deity judges us, we judge ourselves. One cannot escape from one’s own mind- No religious leaders (vicars, priests, popes, mullahs etc.) and no deity, can make you forgive yourself for own wilful evil actions against others, whether people or animals.

SUICIDE of course is not advisable- but NOT because some angry deity would send you to some non-existent hellish ‘place’- but because, once one has passed over (each case is different according to the circumstances) one may regret the action of shortening one’s life and therefore not achieving the life plan one had chosen when coming to Earth. One could also regret bitterly to have caused great grief to those left behind. Also a sudden passing may confuse the soul projecting itself to that new world. Fortunately there are always loving people and caring helpers ready to do help such new arrivals.  

My eldest brother Pierre killed himself because of atrocious pain he could no longer endure, as paralysis spread fast because of tetanus. His passing and arrival in the ‘Spirit’ World and his state of mind  are very clearly documented in Volume 2 of my diaries of 15 years of conversations with loved ones: ‘I’m NOT DEAD: I’m ALIVE Without a Body’, as our (departed) mum and grandparents were on the Other Side to receive Pierre. The enlightening chapters relating to this event give the reader great insights in what may go on in a departed suicide’s mind and how he can be-- and will be-- helped.                                                                

EARLY DEATH: whether a young child or anyone in their prime, many people in my audiences wonder ‘why?’- It is always a sensitive topic. Overall, each case will be different! This is better grasped when one has understood the fundamental fact that each one of us has indeed chosen to come to Earth, to experience life here in whatever gender, country, status we needed for that life plan. Since ALL of us are fundamentally thinking, creative Beings of Energy ’(‘Spirit Beings’), we all resided in the ‘Spirit’ World, BEFORE we decided to go to the Earth disguised in a flesh body as ‘humans’ for our own reasons. So before their births, both parents and future children worked out the aims of their own respective trips, and which events or emotions they wished to experience and learn to cope with – and perhaps use that knowledge to help other humans suffering too? –       Therefore a ‘baby’ is in fact a grown up ‘Spirit’ Being who had to ‘shrink’ to be born as a new human baby (just like an oak within an acorn), then develop to deal with his life plan- For example: Some may choose to only experience a short life (this time round…) and not bother with adulthood and its demands and duties?                                                                                                      

In some cases the ‘Spirit’ Being may spot a hiccup in the formation of the embryo; so he may withdraw his Will and life giving Force from it, as his future ‘vehicle’ would have been faulty. Others may bravely come, as a victim, to help notorious criminals be caught if the latter persisted with their crimes? (Yes, hard to grasp… but bad times are also part of a Soul increasing its knowledge-and are short lived compare to eternity!)                                                                    

To understand better the ins and outs of the reasons why we use our Free Will and choose to be born and experience various Earthly conditions, over many lives, please read detailed explanations dictated by my ‘Spirit’ Teachers in ‘Truths, Lies & Distortions’-



A personally fascinating thing to me - you include in your list of subject matter, cryonics - could you briefly explain where the soul is when a body is deep-frozen and is it dangerous for your spiritual growth?!

I mentioned cryonics (Deep freezing of a corpse in the hope that decades or centuries later a cure may be found to whatever killed the person and thus supposedly ‘revive’ the corpse!) because one day an American member of my audience asked about this. Fortunately in UK that crazy, extortionate and totally wrong idea is not fashionable! The only people who benefit from cryonics are the money grabbing firms making money out of an ignorant and gullible public!                         In brief: Cryonics will NEVER ever work! No corpse of somebody whose Soul has completely left the flesh, can be ‘revived’ to live a life again!  The Soul of the departed is where it should be in the ‘Spirit’ World and no ‘physical happening’ will affect its spiritual growth.                                   Why? Because each physical body is a vehicle very cleverly designed and driven by the future human (who is a ‘Being of Energy’--and was so before he was born- see Q3).                              

The body is tailored to what the human needs for the particular Earth life he wants to experience. We all are Beings of Energy within the disguise of human bodies!                                               Any flesh body comes to life when that Being of Energy and future ‘human’ sends his Will into the flesh vehicle/embryo. But the moment his Soul removes its Will from the ‘driving seat’ of the flesh vehicle (at ‘death’), the personality is liberated. The flesh overcoat was never meant to last forever so it dies. But the person is not dead and still exists as he returns to his original home: the world of Mind and Light i.e. the ‘Spirit’ World.

The flesh brain is not the mind – nowadays all enlightened scientists and psychologists recognise this, at last! As the flesh body is NOT the personality, therefore the body is not the Soul /’Spirit’!  When a car is no longer suitable to be driven, the driver walks away, gets rid of it. If his old banger is thrown in a crusher, a freezer or a fire, it does NOT harm that ex-car owner, does it?! So, burial, cremation or deep-freezing has absolutely NO effect on the Soul and Spirit of a person!                                                                                                                                              
The split second the ‘Spirit’ Being’s energy has left the flesh, the life current to keep the flesh alive is extinguished and the personality, the Being  is where he should be i.e. at the vibration level that fits his mind and emotion level. He is helped and guided to understand his new situation and to settle down. What happens to the old flesh carcass has no effect on him. And no doctor’s injections or treatments will revive the frozen corpse either!                                                                  
If ever one day, decades or centuries later that Being decides to come back to Earth, eventually (Not compulsion but choice: one needs a valid purpose!) it would have to be at a suitable time for his new aim, as a different human-. He will then be helped to design a brand new flesh vehicle (body) fitting the new goals of his trip!                                                                                              
More detailed info is provided by my ‘Spirit’ Masters in ‘Truths, Lies & Distortions’.                                                                                                                                                      

 What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.

Several from my own mum! So it’s a ‘multi-points’ answer as she applied them throughout her life:

* Never say anything in anger that you do not really mean, as you may regret it later.

* Do not waste your time with trivia: read a book or find something useful to do.

* Think of others and respect nature, love animals and plants.

* Always try to do your best.


Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)

 (Apart from all the self-help dvds and books on how to survive on a desert island-- and lively instrumental music?)

Films I’d  never get bored watching, so good on an island:

 - GHOST (with Patrick Swaize and Whoopie Goldberg)

 -All DAVID ATTENBOROUGH’s Natural History & Planet Earth documentaries.

 - Michael FLATLEY:  Lord of the Dance - & - Feet of Flames. (Brilliant. Sheer perfection).

 - FANTASIA (Walt Disney):  (Great ‘visual music’. Varied & full of delights)

 - HUBBLE TELESCOPE: Images of deep Space

 Books:

-  All my own ‘Spirit’ Teachers’ dictated books! (The current ones and the future ones due

   out soon)

-  The whole series of ‘Seth Teachings’ (channelled by trance medium Jane Roberts)

-  Biographies of ABRAHAM  LINCOLN, MARTIN LUTHER KING  and anyone else fighting

   for justice and against cruelty to people and animals.

- ‘Complete Nutrition Therapy’ books.

-  The wonders of Human & Animal Anatomy books.

Interview with Ros Coleman

Today we have a great interview with the wonderful Ros Coleman.  Ros is a psychic and intuitive artist, who paints spirit guides and angels.  She can also paint and tell you about your own past lives.  On top of that she has started an online course to show you how to do the same.  She can be found online at www.spiritguideartist.com

Many thanks to Ros for taking the time to answer our questions, we've loved reading them.


To start with could you tell us a little bit about yourself?


Having been “sensitive” from birth I found my early years confusing. I am clairvoyant and a natural physical channel for Spirit but did not understand this until much later in life. Some of my childhood experiences include seeing, hearing and sensing “ghosts”; having clear “memories” of incidents in peoples’ lives that I could never have known; feeling I was “someone else” and speaking in voices that were not mine. An angel appeared in my bedroom once. It looked like a very soft, bright light and I felt safe and comforted. I found great peace in daydreaming, art, nature and in the company of animals, birds and insects and still do. Alongside my family and close friends these are my greatest loves.

I was an IT trainer for 20 years, which I loved because it helped people on my courses feel confident and empowered. Plus we had fun and I feel this is so important in a learning environment. In my 40’s I retrained as a life coach and stress management consultant, working with individuals and high profile companies. Becoming atuned to reiki in 2000 was pivotal spiritually as it reawakened the skills I had allowed to grow dormant over the years.

By 2004 I had met others in my spiritual “family” on Earth and with them, was trained by teachers in Spirit, during meditations, to use my intuitive skills through art. It was a magical time, full of love, kindness and laughter. I never forgot the beautiful angel from my childhood and I wanted to paint spirit guardians for other people. So this is what Spirit taught me, and what I came to do for others. Eventually I came to understand that I am a medium and not just “over imaginative”. It was reassuring finding other people who’d had similar experiences discovering the spiritual community felt like coming home.

After several years working in Mind Body and Spirit shows as a psychic artist, I accumulated a wealth of magical experience, knowledge and understanding. I now share this with others through workshops and my online course, The Art of Creative Consciousness. Combining my loves of art, nature and Spirit with my experience in developing and running training courses is so fulfilling and I feel truly blessed.

I see the training courses quite literally as spreading Light. The Art of Creative Consciousness attracts students who are spiritually aware and whose hearts beat with love for art, nature and Spirit. My wish, my intention for them is that their confidence unfolds and amplifies as they discover the creativity and beauty that naturally lies within. As our own light grows brighter, it illuminates and warms others around.



What can you tell us about your online course?


‘The Art of Creative Consciousness” is a comprehensive art course for people who wish to awaken or develop their creativity, and discover a deeper connection and understanding with Spirit through their art. The course is based online and has a wealth of multi-media material plus insights and guidance from experienced psychic artists to draw upon.

The course has 6 parts in sequence. Students may self-pace and take as much time as they need, or, for those who prefer to take the entire course in a set time, I run it over a period of 2 months with live weekly teleconferences in which all can attend and take part. The next course runs March through April 2014.

The first set course ran in July/August 2013. The course itself, the students and their results were phenomenal.  They created beautiful paintings, full of energy and symbology; connected with angels, spirit people and nature spirits. Some had never painted before and others were more experienced. We all learned masses and had such fun. To read more about the course and see students’ painting and feedback, please visit my website http://spiritguideartist.com/e-course.html



Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most?


Without question, the writer/thinker I admire most and whose writings I pay most attention to is the Dalai Lama.  I love books and my walls as lined with books on a variety of topics – channeled spiritual works, therapies, arts and crafts, pets and wildlife to more scientific material like anatomy, NLP and psychoneuroimmunology.

I like to pick out a spiritual book from time to time and as it falls open, something on the page seems to answer a question or deliver some understanding I’ve been seeking. Some I dip into and others, like the extraordinarily talented Psychic Artist Coral Polge’s “Living Images” I’ve read time and again.

Books I have recommended to others are Louise Hay’s “You Can Heal your Life” and “A Guide for the Advanced Soul” by Susan Hayward. The content of each is both enlightening and practical. They are easy to read and when the principles are applied, they work. When I think about it, this is the ethos on which my courses and books are based.



What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?


Laughing now. It’s more a comment really, made by my Dad after some scrape I got into as a small child. He said to me (in his own inimitable and down-to-Earth way) “If Rosalind fell into a cesspit she’d come out smelling of roses”. My life has been full of adventures, with my fair share of twists and turns and ups and downs and I’ve always emerged safely and wiser after the event. The belief his words instilled have seen me through the tough times and I remember them, and him, with love and gratitude.



Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)



Films – Billy Elliot – a heartwarming story with a feelgood ending. I can’t count the number of times I’ve watched the ending on Youtube. Love it! And Jungle Book, which I’ve still not seen and children would love.

Books – something practical for surviving on a desert island, like the SAS Survival Handbook by John Lofty Williams. For a fascinating esoteric read - The Secret Life of Plants by Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird. And for sheer inspiration Nelson Mandela’s Autobiography, The Road to Freedom.

Finally, a song. It’s totally in keeping with the desert island “Somewhere over the Rainbow” sung by Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole. Enjoy the song here on Youtube.

Interview with Sally Harding

We are all starting to get into the swing of 2014 now!  We're really excited about our first show in Grimsby on 1st and 2nd of February - can't wait to get this years shows underway.

In the meantime, we have an interview with Sally Harding who is healer and counsellor and an Emotion Code practitioner.  Many thanks to Sally for answering our questions and we look forward to seeing her again at some of the shows this year.


Can you tell us a little bit about yourself please?


After the initial young girls dream of working in the equestrian industry I then spent the early part of my career working with UK health charities whilst also competing my beautiful Hanoverian regularly in Dressage competitions in my spare time. Healthy living and natural products has always been an interest of mine (I come from a very sensitive skinned family) and in my mid 30’s I began to work with energy healing at the same time as I was completing a degree in Person Centred Counselling. Thus began my gradual shift into the holistic field with further training as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, an Advanced PSYCH-K practitioner and more recently I have achieved my Certification as an Emotion Code Practitioner. I am currently working towards my Body Code Practitioner qualification. Whilst building my own practice I was also lucky enough to be involved in delivering obesity workshops for the NHS providing information to allow people to make informed lifestyle choices to enable them to achieve improved health. My personal passion lies in working with people to assist them to move forward with health and emotional issues and so my practice, Happiness and Health Solutions, was born. I always refer to my work as working with my clients as I consider it is my role to help each individual to access their own personal wisdom, with myself being the facilitator who is privileged enough to be able to assist with this process. I believe that we all have the innate ability to heal ourselves when guided towards what is needed in the moment. I consider myself to have been very fortunate to have been guided towards some of the most up to date and effective approaches in energy medicine.
What can you expect from me at the show:
Well we are all carrying some level of emotional baggage from the past due to our many experiences in our lives such as relationship breakups, death of a loved one, personal traumas to name but a few and the strong emotions we feel during these emotionally charged life events are unseen energies which can get trapped in our bodies. I have personally experienced the many dramatic shifts that can come about through the release of these energies, which can then release long held pain, physical symptoms and emotional issues and I am very excited at this opportunity to share this wonderful healing modality. I will also be offering some interesting additional items linked to the work I do.


Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most?


This has to be the great Dr Bruce Lipton and particularly his book The Biology of Belief. It can really open our eyes and change the way we think about the connection between mind and matter. Many of my clients find me after reading this book. And of course The Emotion Code book written by Dr Bradley Nelson, which is a self healing classic.


What is the best piece of advice you've been given?


This is not necessarily advice that I have received but comes more from my learning from my life experience and this is the understanding and recognition of how vitally important it is to be 100% responsible for my own physical and emotional health.


Could you name your Desert Island Discs/books?


A book called The Key to Self Liberation is one of my bible books alongside the Bruce Lipton books. I also love The Ringing Cedars of Russia series. As for films well Breakfast at Tiffany’s is an all time favourite classic and Good Will Hunting comes high on my list. I love music and have been known to sing a bit with a local band. The late great Kirstie McColl is a favourite along with anything by Eva Cassidy and too many others to mention.

Interview with Elizabeth and David Lomax

With the festive season almost upon us, this will be our last interview for a couple of weeks.

We will continue with a few blog posts and pick up the interviews again after christmas.

This interview is with Elizabeth and David Lomax creators/producers of a new set of cards called the Vision cards.  You can find them at the shows selling the cards and talking/demonstrating them. We are going to do a feature on the cards themselves next year in the meantime we'd like to thank them for taking the time to answer our questions.

To start with could you tell us a little bit about yourself.

We're David and Elizabeth and we live with our daughter here in Manchester. We love being out in nature and the turn of the seasons. We both have a strong sense of the way in which Spirit or God underpins our lives.


Can you tell us the inspiration behind your cards?

Over the years I've been fortunate to meet and work with many people who have Vision. Sometimes it's a 'big' vision involving many people even a whole community e.g. setting up a local food co-op and sometimes a personal vision e.g. establishing a regular meditation practice. Bringing a vision to fruition can involve many different stages and challenges. The Vision Cards highlight some of the inner work that can help the process of translating vision into action to unfold.

Can you tell us about David's talks?

In this short workshop there will be a chance to think about what Vision means for each of us and to share this with others. David will also talk about ways to use the Vision Cards during this time.

Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most.

David - Emanuel Swedenborg
Elizabeth - Peaceful Living by Mary Mackenzie


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.

From our best man at our Wedding on bringing up children - don't get too stressed or relieved about anything specific because in 6 months it will be different!

Can you tell us your desert island films/books?

David
Films - The Sound of Music, Wings of Desire, Three Colours: Blue
Books - Heavenly Secrets - Emanuel Swedenborg, What we talk about when we talk about God - Rob Bell, The Shack - William Paul Young


Elizabeth
Films - Truly Madly Deeply, Fly Away Home and My Fair Lady,
Books - The Invitation - Oriah Mountain Dreamer, Kitchen Pharmacy - Rose Elliot & Carlo de Paoli and The Arrivals - Naomi Gladish Smith

Interview with Teresa Sequeira

We have an interview this evening with Teresa Sequira, who along with Wayne Morgan, has designed and produces Dreamlits.  Dreamlits are crystal bracelets designed to wear while you sleep and during stressful times.

It works with your unconscious mind to take you to a higher level during REM sleep, helping you to work through your days problems via your dreams.

If you look at their website at Dreamlits you can see some of the amazing effects and testimonials that they have had.  Many thanks to Teresa for answering our questions and we are really looking forward to seeing her again soon.

To start could you tell us a little about yourself please.


My name is Teresa Sequeira. Born in Yorkshire to an Italian mother and Indian father, but now live in Grantham. I joined the RAF in 1990 as an aircraft engineer. After 22 years of service, voluntary redundancy was offered 2 years ago so I took it and left in Feb 12. Before leaving I did a Swedish Massage, Diet and Nutrition, Anatomy and Physiology, and Colonic Course and Master NLP Practitioner Course.


Can you explain a little bit about the benefits of the bracelets?


I met Wayne Morgan who came up with the combination of 8 crystals to make up the Dreamlit and is now my NZ business partner in 2012. Dreamlits are bracelets you wear when you sleep, it works best when your conscious mind has been left out(this happens when sleeping). They are put through a special process to set them to 21Mhz so once your mind switches off, the unconscious mind will try to get to 21Mhz, allowing for a deeper quality of sleep or helping to eliminate nightmares.


What is the difference between the bracelets for men and the ones for women and children?


The Dreamlits come in different sizes but the bigger sizes have darker crystals to make them manlier, they have the same properties as the other sizes though.


Do they ever need re-charging or cleansing?


The Dreamlit does not need cleansing or re-charging because it has been put through the special process. Sometimes crystals don’t always work together but the process also makes them work together. You might want to wash them to clean them but they do not need cleansing.


Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most.


Eckhart Tolle is an inspirational thinker and writer.


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.


The best advice is: always keep an open mind, no matter how life experience has affected you.


Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)


My first spiritual book was The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield but there have been many authors who have helped me on my spiritual journey. The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach, Eastern Body, and Western Mind by Anodea Judith, Conversations with God by Donald Walsh, ask and it is given by Abraham/Hicks and A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle.

Interview with Judith Watson

Judith Watson is a complementary therapist and our interviewee for this evening.  Judith is a Reflexologist and practitioner of the Bowen Technique as well as developing and providing Naturally Smart Skincare.  Judith can be found online at Smart Therapies

Many thanks to Judith for answering our questions and we look forward to seeing her at the shows next year.


To start could you tell us a little bit about yourself.


I was a primary school teacher for over 25 years until i was involved in a serious car accident in 1999. I've always been interested in Complementary therapies, and whilst convalescing I signed up for a reflexology course, thinking I could aim to going part time teaching and part time therapist. I didn't actually get back to work, as I was awarded medical retirement due to a brain injury. Not the most auspicious start to the new millennium but it turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me!

I decided to do a 'proper' reflexology training, followed by Daoyin Tao face, neck and shoulder massage. A couple of years later I was drawn to Bowen, and that soon became the therapy I did most of the time. A close friend of many years, Norman, also decided to retrain at the same time, and we completed the Bowen training together in 2004.

I then went off on a bit of a tangent and started making natural Skincare products! This came about when I decided to learn how to do facials as an extension to face massage, and wanted a natural range of products I was happy to use, on myself as well. When I started to research ingredients I was horrified at what was in many so-called natural products! I read a little bit about making my own and had a dabble, then I discovered that my raw ingredient suppliers in Scotland ran courses on product-making - I signed up to the first available dates, and haven't stopped inventing recipes for new products ever since! Norman decided to help in this venture, and we now both make our products, I make up new recipes and Norman does the boring but necessary paperwork and legalities.


Can you explain to us a bit more about the Bowen Technique?


Bowen Technique is amazing! I never tire of seeing people come into the clinic in pain, and either walk out feeling a lot easier, or phone me a couple of days later to tell me the pain has almost miraculously gone. Even better is when I feel that they are expecting no improvement at all, as in their eyes I have done practically nothing, yet they notice a huge improvement very quickly.

It is a gentle technique that originated in Australia in the 1950s, and has been slowly spreading around the world since its originator Tom Bowen's death. It reached the UK in the early 1990s. It works on soft tissue - muscles, tendons and fascia; most people come for things like a bad back, or a bad knee, but it is also very effective for emotional and organic problems. Many people just tell me how good they feel in general, and have often had improvements in conditions they haven't told me about as well as the condition they came to have treated.


What can we expect from you at the shows?


This year we are concentrating on our Skincare range, rather than therapies. We have spent a lot of time (and money!) developing our recipes and ensuring that they comply with new European legislation that came into effect in July 2013. They are now fully compliant, and we have the possibility of creating an almost infinite selection of products from a wide range of ingredients - I can't wait to get started, just need a bit of time between shows and treating clients! So any products that you have been looking for, just ask ..... We will be developing our range of shampoos and face washes to include shower gels, scrubs and hand washes, and I've been working on sun protection and after sun oils that I'm currently testing on holidays. Norman keeps threatening a men's range, so watch this space!
We are also in the midst of repackaging with a new label, which is very exciting.


Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most?


There are two people, one of whom is not really a writer, both related to my current passions - Tom Bowen, the originator of the Bowen Technique (although he didn't realise it at the time, it was just the successful work that he used!) and Kolbjorn Borseth, who was passionate in pioneering the concept of being able to make excellent quality plant based Skincare products in your own home.
Actually, there are three - Zoe Harcombe has completely changed the way I think about food, and has led me to read many books about food, health and dieting that I now tell everyone I meet to read!


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?


Be confident in yourself - and just Follow the Moon! (private joke that will be understood by Happy Cats fans!)


Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)


Books - A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving; the Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pulman, One Day by David Nichols and How to Stop Counting Calories and Start Losing Weight by Zoe Harcombe.

Films are more difficult as I don't watch many - Love Actually and Tin Tin are a couple of recent ones I've enjoyed.

Interview with Kristy Hodges

Welcome to Monday!  Today we have a wonderful interview with Kristy Hodges of Serendipity Crystals

Kristy runs her own business selling crystals, jewellery and her own artwork.  Her website is an amazing source of inspiration, information and all things spiritual.

Many thanks to Kristy for being interviewed and make sure you check out her website before the shows start again next year.




To start could you tell us a little about yourself.


My name is Kristy Hodges. I was born in California in 1972, but spent a lifetime growing up in overseas countries and travelling the world. I first ‘felt’ the energetic impact of a crystal in 1990. It was Moldavite and the flush sent me out of my mind! It took a further 20 extensive years to learn how to work with crystals & energy.
Since then, my spiritual journey has spanned many countries & cultures from the Middle East to Asia and Europe to America. I have studied in depth: indigenous cultures, animal medicine, astrology, tarot, mediumship, psychic skills, shamanism, paganism, counselling, psychology, archetypes, relationships & parenting to name but a few subjects and have been blessed enough to experience many wonderful adults, children, angels and spirits along the way.
I now live in Yorkshire, UK, with my beautiful teenage son. I’m in a wonderful, adventurous, healthy relationship with the love of my life and supported by the most amazing family & friends. To top it off, I have the joy of running Serendipity Crystals, travelling the country as a crystal retailer, therapist, counsellor, spiritual development guide and empowerment coach. In my spare time I volunteer as a Childline School Services Volunteer for the NSPCC and co-own a Harley Davidson motorcycle.


Sounds as though you have a very busy business, which aspect of it is your favourite - coaching, retailing or art?


I absolutely love helping people to spiritually develop their gifts. Each of us is so different - someone may be a healer or psychic, but their gift could be very specific and its fascinating to spend that in depth, one on one time with someone. To witness a person realise how unique they are and how they can develop and utilise their particular gift in different areas of life, or even turn it into a career gives me an amazing boost! Its so exciting! I believe in helping others to help themselves rather than my doing it for them. Am honoured to have the ability to show people the beauty and amazing light within themselves and to guide them on the next part of their journey. Crystals are an easy way for me to access a person's past experiences and energy - they are a fantastic tool to use so crystals are always part of the spiritual development process for me.


Been all over the world and studied many cultures, do you have a favourite part of the world from a spiritual point of view?


I think Sri Lanka is a stunning part of the world - the people have so little in comparison to the Western world. Considering many of the families I met live in small wooden shacks in the jungle, they touched me with their generosity and positive, easy approach to life. It wasn't just the people, it was the energy of the country with its ruins, temples and unspoilt beauty that wove itself through the fabric of my being and captured my heart. It is a very under developed country, so the energy of the place is raw and vibrant, full of exotic places where the connection to Earth was unreal and, of course, absolutely stunning beaches! The desert where I grew up will always hold a special place in my heart too. There is something indescribable about lying on the sand dunes at night, with no light pollution for miles and starting up at the stars - to feel the heat of the Earth underneath you and be staring at an entire sky full of galaxies and stars - its simply amazing and I've never been able to find that particular sense of peacefulness, quiet and connection anywhere else in the world. I still miss it now.


How do feel you've evolved creatively?


Until I was pushed and jostled by Spirit aged 35, I hadn't picked up a paintbrush since attending at school. Painting made me feel wonderful, but I've always felt very amateur and self conscious about my artwork as I have no formal training and no idea how to use half of the tools and materials am drawn to. Its definitely an ongoing personal journey for me as I create in fits and starts - when its flowing, its wonderful and I love what is created and working with energies that seem to come from some place outside of myself. When I hit a wall and stop for awhile, the old insecurities come back and I feel very vulnerable and unsure about putting myself out there on an artistic level. Then the next creative burst hits and even though I feel scared and unsure, its not possible to ignore it. Something either inside or outside of myself won't allow me to put the paint brush down - the images and colours come in dreams or someone will turn up out've the blue and ask for a commission (usually one I'll have no idea how to accomplish) and I'll be off on the next part of my creative journey.


Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most.


Arrgghhh - this one is SO difficult as there have been three authors that have changed my life completely. Eckhart Tolle is one. I'd read some of his more 'zen' like books and thought they were OK, but nothing ground breaking until I read A New Earth. Mr Tolle starts that book off with the lofty claim of 'this book will change your life' and at the time I thought 'wow, thats a bit arrogant'. Within 100 pages, I realised he was right, that book takes your mind and energy system into a new stage of development completely, but only when you're ready for it. Whats rather strange about that particular book, is I've gone back to read it again and its done it again - even though I know whats coming. Its quite extraordinary. Anthony Robbins is also amazing - so motivational, positive and simple - I adore his books and positive ways of developing ourselves. The third author is Caroline Myss - an amazing energy healer and woman whom I have followed for years, as well as seeing in person in London. I love her down to earth, no holds barred approach to life and the information she provides as a healer and energy intuitive is absolutely spot on. As someone who is fascinated by the human brain, Caroline's work on Sacred Contracts and Archetypes is a must read! As a healer, her books Anatomy of Spirit and Invisible Acts of Power WILL change your life.


What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given.


Several pieces that have woven into one over the years. We create our own reality, everything happens for a reason and to always, always be yourself.


Would you name 6 “Desert Island” books or films (ones you would like if you were stranded on a desert island - for young ones who don’t know about Desert Island discs!)


It would have to be music for me all the way - I can live without books or films, but to be stranded on an island with no music would drive me insane! I'd mix a load of CDs as am an avid listener of all kinds of music - or even better, just take a radio!

If I had to choose books it would be anything by Laurell K Hamilton. Having had to read so many non-fiction books as part of my career path, it completely rests my brain to get lost in fantastic, naughty, exciting urban fantasy fiction books - I love em!

Interview with Debbie & Peter Thorpe - Aurora Crystals

Today we have an interview with Debbie and Peter Thorpe of Aurora Crystals.  Debbie and Peter attend the BSSK shows with their wonderful selection of crystals, jewellery and examples of Debbies' artwork.  Many thanks to them for taking the time to do this for us and we look forward to seeing them at the shows next year.



To start with, could you tell us a bit more about yourselves?



Peter is a semi-retired Chartered Accountant, formerly Finance Head of Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust, now consultant on a further Wildlife project "The Coastal Grazing Marshes in Lincolnshire".  Having worked for conservation for the last 20 years of his life, his main passions are watching wildlife, especially in the wild places of Scotland, walking and working with crystals on our stall.



Debbie has been an artist since she was old enough to hold a pencil, has always drawn from imagination from being very young, was destined for art school but had to choose a "sensible" career of becoming a secretary and working in a well-known High Street bank, but then raising a family of 3 amongst a menagerie of animals, from domestic dogs and cats, to goats, chickens, sheep and horses and then moving on to her true spiritual path of being a healer and spiritual artist.  For many years painted as a professional Wildlife artist whilst still working with horses, but then hung up her grooms boots to become a Crystal Healer and work at the MBS shows.  Trained in the Crystal Diploma by the SVA, she is also a Reiki practitioner, has studied Aura Soma,  Master  Colour Healing and Quantum Touch.  In the 45 years we have spent together, Peter has been the one who has enabled all these passions to come to fruition.



What treasures can we find on your stalls?



Everything, from natural specimens and clusters to beautiful Hekimer Diamonds, Master Crystals, working crystals for healers, beautiful carvings of animals and crystal skulls, polished specimen peices, spheres and a wide range of tumblestones to suit all tastes and purposes with written explanations prepared by Debbie from her long experience of working with them.  Crystal jewellery from pendants to bracelets and original artwork as examples of what Debbie produces on a commission basis.



How do you source your crystals?



Crystals are sourced from a very wide range of suppliers in the UK, many specialists in their own fields and are all personally chosen by ourselves.  We aim to carry a wide range of different crystals so that customers can choose something that is very personally pleasing , whether to work with or to place in their environment, to wear or just carry if they feel it will help empower their well being.  If advise is sought then Debbie has prepared many explanations customers may take free of charge so that they may make a choice based on their own intuition.



What inspires your artwork and how do you feel you have evolved creatively?



My artwork is inspired intuitively on a spiritual level for each individual client and is drawn from my love of portraiture and animals.  It has evolved from working as a professional Wildlife artist for many years to a deep intuitive/spiritual level.  I owe much to my early training in "A" level art to my wonderful teacher Miss Oyler, who insisted on many hours spent life drawing and sitting outside drawing scenes around Lincoln Cathedral  (the school being very close by)  I feel honoured and privileged to work on commissions for customers and hope that what I bring forward both makes them happy and empowered in their own spirituality.



Which writer/thinker has influenced you the most?


Debbie:  As an avid reader from childhood, the list would be too long, but it ranges from Tolkiens' Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit read many, many years ago, Tolstoy, Shakespeare, Keats, Tennyson, W.B. Yeats, R.D.  Blackmores Lorna Doone, Bomber by Len Deighton, to Kenneth Grahames  Wind in the Willows.

 Later on my spiritual path it would be Lao Tzu (Chinese mystic) Sue and Simon Lilley on the Crystals, the life of Frank Fools Crow by Thomas E Mails, Caroline Myss, Harry Edwards and Melody - Love is in the Earth.



What is the best advice you've been given?



First crystal teacher,  Cassie  "Many answer, few are called."  From that I tried to learn to listen so that I may perhaps help someone find, through their own intuition, the path their inner teacher is trying to tell them to follow.



Lao Tzu "When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."



W B Yeats from Cloths of Heaven  "...tread softly because you tread on my dreams."



Can you name your Desert Island books/films?



Debbie:

Moulin Rouge
Dark Crystal
Anya Seton Katherine
Standing with Stones DVD - a Journey Through Megalithic Britain Rupert Soskin
Lord of the Rings Trilogy Tolkien
Portrait of  the Master (St Francis of Assisi)  James Twyman.

2014 Updates and News

2013 has been an excellent year with the shows and with moving our work forward.  I think there is plenty to be optimistic about for next year.

In fact we are very excited about our shows next year.  All our usual fantastic venues plus a few new ones.  Scunthorpe Psychic Fair was a wonderful day and we're looking forward to the next one.

Grimsby is our next show on the 1st and 2nd of February 2014 at the Humber Royal Hotel.  It does seem a long way off but we still have plenty to keep us (very!) busy.  In the meantime check out our website for some great articles, information on other events and links to our exhibitors.

Until the next show we will be keeping the blog active with news, articles and more interviews.

If you want to become an exhibitor at one of our shows, take a look at our exhibitor area.  There you will find all the information you need and you can always give us a call on 01724 849886 with any other queries.

Just a little "housekeeping" now!  We are in the process of moving our Facebook page back to it's original home.   The address is  www.facebook.com/EventsBSSK    We have decided to do this because of a few issues we had with new supporters being unable to find us and also we were not able to show our support to our friends through "likes" and by commenting and sharing.  We will run both Facebook pages until the New Year which should give us plenty of time to get everyone on the new page.  It's very important to us that we get Facebook right as it remains, alongside the website, our best way of keeping everyone up to date.

As you know the website is www.bssk.co.uk and is updated regularly.  Because we do pass a lot of information  through the internet and e-mail it is important for us to have current e-mail addresses.  If you do change your e-mail address please let us know.  If you don't have regular access to e-mail we do have alternative ways of getting you the information you need so give us a call.

Interview - Bronze Age Nutrition

With Lincoln fast approaching with have an interview with one of the exhibitors who will be at the show.  Simon and Gill are the forces behind Bronze Nutrition.  We have asked them a couple of questions to introduce themselves and their products.  I've loved this interview and would like to say thank you to Simon and Gill for taking the time to indulge us! They are going to be at Lincoln this weekend and you can find them online at www.bronzeagenutrition.com


To start with could you tell us a little bit about yourselves.


Bronze Nutrition grew out of the ashes of a dying business we ran in the late 80’s and 90’s called Bronze Age Sunbed Hire. In 1982 home hire of sunbeds was unheard of and we began in uncharted waters with a novelty business. When I say we, that is myself Simon and my wife and long-term partner Gill. We date back to before Rod Stewart’s first album in the early 70’s.

In those days it was home television hire that was in vogue. By the mid-90’s, home sunbed hire had come into and gone out of fashion, seen the cowboys come and go, and the loss of all of our parents to major illnesses, which sadly today, are more common than ever. Gill’s chronic asthma had worsened over 10 years or more despite the best medication available to the point that she was admitted to a Spanish hospital during our holiday there in 1996, with a life threatening acute attack which she survived but it was a close call.

As we arrived home, synchronicity stepped in , in the form of a Sunday newspaper article from a friend about a supplement called ‘MSM’(A.K.A organic sulphur ) derived from wood-pulp in the paper-making process which was supposed to reduce inflammation throughout the body and had been found to reduce lung inflammation in some cases of asthma. Of course we had to try it and so predictably called into Holland & Barrett for some tablets.

Five weeks later and Gill was no better, or so she thought until she ran out of tablets and it suddenly flared up again. The contrast was so obvious that within a couple of years we were sourcing the purest MSM we could find from America for several friends and family members with arthritis and other joint problems. Lame old dogs were taking their owners for a fast walk and creating mayhem with their antics dashing up and down stairs!! It was the convincer for me . . . and I went madly into researching other supplements. Increasing warnings in the media about sun causing skin cancer put paid to the dying remnants of the old sunbed business and we seemed forced to let go and move on into the unknown once again.

We have arrived at a place today, some 15 years later, with a self-sustaining business in ‘natural health’, two online shops and a phone that rings at all times of the day or night. The name Bronze Age Nutrition confuses many people but we have stuck with it. In 2007 we moved on from standing at village halls and one-day mind/body/ spirit events to the two-day weekend-format exhibitions with BSSK and some other show organisers.

This was the start of a very steep learning curve and they have transformed our life and views in a very big way. Regrettably, I have been a less-than-perfect advertisement for our products and our credibility, suffering chronically with a heart problem (atrial fibrillation (AF)and more recently with a stroke. It took me about 4 years of endless trouble with the AF and little in the way of a remedy from traditional medicine, before I finally bumped into the real cause of this problem and where lay the likely road to recovery. It was only when I had finally beaten this problem into the past and regained my previous fitness that I was struck down with quite a bad stroke at the same time that BBC journalist Andrew Mar also fell victim to one. He was also very fit at the time, but has come back to work in recent weeks and is looking better than I am although the doctors say I have recovered well from what could well have proved fatal for someone else. And as for ‘maybe never walking again’ well red rags and bulls*** to that!

We are very careful to point out to customers that we are merely self-taught and do not have qualifications as such. I myself failed to gain the necessary 3 A’s at A- level in chemistry, physics and biology which I needed back in the 70’s to study medicine at St. Andrews and several other Universities. This was a big disappointment to my parents and to my school after getting 9 good O-level grades without (apparent) effort. Gill trained as a teacher (infant-junior) and from my perspective is qualified with honours in the University of life, having dealt with serious illness and personal trauma in heroic fashion for the last 40-odd years. Her asthma has now gone and she is out running every morning.

We make no claims of being able to cure, treat or diagnose illness; indeed, it is illegal for anyone other than a trained doctor to treat any illness of a medical nature. What we do is to research the very latest naturopathic and clinical work of the worlds most innovative natural doctors, mostly Americans. We try to bring this knowledge into perspective for other people. We encourage people to be pro-active with their health and do their own research with some scepticism. It is very often that individual lifestyle choices can impinge significantly on our health, something we don’t appreciate until later in life.

We find that most people are very hungry for information that they can relate to easily and in an instinctive way. For me there is nothing more fulfilling than seeing that spark of recognition in someone’s eyes as they make an intuitive connection between their life and something I have said.


From the point of view of being a complete novice about your products, what products would you recommend as a good place to start.


Our two most popular products are indeed the MSM organic sulphur, a simple twice-daily fruit drink, great for arthritis. And a very mild oral iodine supplement which is much loved by women who are no longer teenagers and know it – great for improved mental acuity, energy and digestion. We have a magnesium product for the feet which helps with sleep quality and/or night cramps.

The first port of call with any health problem should always be your doctor, although many people are reluctant to do this nowadays, citing long appointment waits or negative past experiences as reasons.
The best place to start as always is at home and this applies to any illness as well as those without specific health issues. Your body evolved through nature and is programmed to use natural foods rather than our modern-day nutritionally hollow processed foods. You probably know that an apple is better for you than an apple pie and that to much sugar or sweet stuff is not good. Similarly, too much carbohydrate can cause problems, and also alcohol, and smoking. Stress takes its toll, too but many people adapt to stress to the extent that they become unaware of it. The best natural health practitioners are now focusing on the digestive tract as a place to begin healing because, as Hippocrates said nearly two and a half millenia back “...all disease begins in the gut....” Most likely he did not understand why this was, but recent scientific work has uncovered a myriad of important health functions pereformed by our individual ‘microbiome’ in the gut. Microbiome refers to the incredibly complex and diverse community of good and bad bacteria which live in the digestive tract and perform an astoundingly diverse range of functions which keep us feeling great and protecting us from all kinds of baddies in the environment. Generations of cumulative damage to this community, which is passed on at birth, most likely accounts for the ever increasing incidence of chronic physical illness and mental problems too. Thankfully, this trend is reversible and this is the leading edge of naturopathic efforts today – a quiet revolution is under way and it is a very long game, looking forward to maybe 3 or 4 generations away when our bodies can follow the blueprint of health that we were all born with and live into old age in vibrant health. “Dream on”, I hear you mutter, but it’s good to be sceptical – how else do we get out of this mess of ill-health, certainly not by being conservative. The tide has to change.

The best place for a novice to start is by going to an MBS fair and asking as many stand-holders as possible if they can tell you anything about ‘such-and-such an ailment’. This will get you a range of opinion all the way from traditional to Chinese and then you must learn to separate the wheat from chaff. Try to be aware of any commercial motive in the reply, instead, feel for the person’s connection with you and their energy pattern. Do you feel comfortable?


On your website there is a lot of information on the benefits for certain ailments, are they beneficial for general health, (without having any health problems).


If you are not getting what your body wants in food, then supplements may not be the answer. Talking to as many people as possible will allow you to develop your own philosophy to follow rather than adhering to another person’s dogma; it must feel right for you. It is interesting that the USA is seeing big sales of specialist therapeutic UVB sunbeds as news spreads that Vitamin D your body makes while using them is now seen as being good for you, especially for your bones and immune system. Or just get enough sun to redden the skin!!It feels like a huge U-turn on the subject. . . . .

Supplements are not meant to be substitutes for food. As the saying goes – let your food be your medicine and vice-versa.

Drink enough water to make you go to the bathroom regularly and get your beauty sleep. surround your self with good friends and young and be the bearer of good news.

Everthing in moderation except fun!