Wave: Train with purpose
Zara Baker finds personal development goes hand in hand with emotional wellbeing
Do something you love. It’s what we’re taught from an early age. Unfortunately, it can be easier said than done. Then you hear the inspiring stories like that of Simon Goddard of Brighton’s Bikram In The Lanes who changed paths to train as a Bikram yoga teacher. After graduating in 2007 and receiving the seal of approval from yoga master Bikram Choudhury himself, Simon, alongside Bridgett Ane, opened Bikram?In The Lanes in the heart of Brighton. It’s a story we hear often: people reach a point in their lives where they stop to consider what’s really important to them. With maintaining optimum health a top priority, many of us turn to training in different fields of holistic health. Nutrition and massage training are popular career choices. City College Brighton & Hove offers courses in these areas, including Indian head massage. Courses are not just for those of school-leaving age, and once qualified, you can combine your work with your new-found skill.
Empower yourself
Once you’re motivated you can really start to achieve your goals. Things that may have hindered you in the past can be overcome. Life coach and hypnotherapist Jonathan Conway (www.jonathanconway.co.uk) is a specialist in helping people overcome blocks that may be holding them back.?He can help with self esteem and public speaking, which can help you move forward in life.
Alternatives (www.alternatives.org.uk) is a London-based organisation who host authors and presenters on subjects including contemporary spirituality, personal awakening and coaching. In 2011 their line-up of speakers include medical intuitive and mystic Caroline Myss and well-being expert Deepak Chopra. Their talks aim to inspire the heart, body and soul. Podcasts with guest speakers can also be found on the Alternatives website.
Personal development
Training in a holistic career may be a step in the right direction. For others, personal development can be obtained through trying new classes and holistic therapies. If you haven’t experienced Bikram yoga (which is carried out in temperatures of 42°C) drop in for a class and see if it’s for you. At Bikram In The Lanes, some people have taken on a big challenge: seeing how many consecutive days of Bikram yoga they can accomplish. It’s good to make goals, but make sure they’re realistic to suit your lifestyle and schedule. Weight-loss bootcamps – either a fortnight or a month long – are fantastic in helping you to get in shape and also in changing your attitude toward food. Training is intensive but it pays off, and you get to make some new friends along the way.
Places for Brighton Marathon 2011 (www.brightonmarathon.co.uk) may be full (charity places are still available), but a charity run can be on your ‘to do list’ this year. Choose to support a charity and it means you help others as you train your way to a healthier lifestyle. It’s a win-win situation.
Happy training!
