How do herbs work? Plants are all sophisticated chemists. They rely on chemistry to protect themselves from threats and communicate with their allies. These molecules can have diverse pharmacological effects. For example, the resins that trees produce to fight infection will generally be antimicrobial against human infections too. But herbs also have more subtle and complex qualities that our herbalists use to match the right herb to the patient.

What to expect. In the first consultation, the herbalist will fully discuss your health problems with you. This takes up to 90 minutes. Together we will try to understand the underlying patterns that have caused your ill health. The herbalist will then usually prescribe and make up an individualised prescription of herbal medicines for you to take away.

Subsequent consultations are shorter, usually around 45 minutes, including dispensing. The herbalist will discuss progress, suggest the next steps, and adjust the herbal prescription accordingly.

Our herbalists have over 50 years experience in herbal medicine between us and all are trained to degree level in herbal medicine. We are members of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, which is a highly respected professional body of fully qualified practitioners. We have a wealth of practical clinical experience, from simple first aid to long term chronic conditions.

We also offer a low cost clinic on two Wednesdays per month where consultations are taken by trainee herbalists under the supervision of one of our experienced professional practitioners. Consultations in this clinic are subsidised.

Do you feel that you need to take steps to improve your health?

Our practitioners will take the time to talk through your diet, lifestyle, personal stresses and medical history. We will take a thorough case history, and if necessary carry out physical examinations such as taking blood pressure. If indicated, we may refer you for blood tests, urine tests or other assessments. We will then work with you to analyse your current state of health in order to put together a plan for the future.

Our suggestions may include:

• Herbal and other natural remedies

• Nutritional supplementation

• Lifestyle changes

• Dietary changes

We are all qualified health practitioners with at least degree-level training in herbal medicine, including training in nutritional advice, clinical examination skills and analysis of blood and urine tests. We use both modern and traditional methods of diagnosis and treatment that encompass physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health.

What to expect. The initial consultation takes up to 90 minutes. Subsequent consultations, if needed, are around 45 minutes.

Megan is currently on maternity leave

Biodynamic craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands on holistic treatment for aches and pains, acute and chronic illnesses, and emotional and psychological disturbances. Or simply to help develop wellbeing, health and vitality. Performed on a massage table, the client is fully clothed and the practitioner touch is light and still.

This therapy supports the body to transition between different states within the nervous system. From a state of higher activation and stress to that of lower activation and relaxation. This transition from fight-flight mode to rest-digest mode is imperative for healing.

For example, when the body has had to cope with shock, long-term stress or illness, the natural state that promotes healing can become compromised. It is precisely this natural tendency which this holistic therapy helps restore: not only physically but emotionally and spiritually.

Your session will begin with a discussion about your health needs in order to tailor the treatment to suit you. Each hour's session will include approximately 40 minutes hands on treatment along with consultation and post treatment feedback. You will remain fully clothed for the session so please wear something comfortable. It is a good idea to drink plenty of water and take it easy after a session as the effect of craniosacral therapy can be felt up to 48 hours after treatment. An hour's session costs £45, or 3 sessions booked together are £120.

“Craniosacral Therapy is one of the gentlest modalities that I have experienced, and Megan has a wonderful way of sensing tensions in the client. She brings deep relaxation and peace to enable the body/mind to correct itself to its proper alignment and function. The feeling of relaxation has stayed with me for some time after the treatment. Highly recommended!” Pete

"I found Megan to be a sensitive and intuitive practitioner. She held the space well making me feel safe, secure and very relaxed. I trust her innate skill as a therapist and highly recommend her." Victoria

Photos by Simon Dumpleton

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle and non - invasive technique which makes it a great way to work with expectant mothers, babies and young children.

I offer sessions to pregnant women and mothers and babies after birth. The body goes through huge changes during pregnancy which can be experienced in many ways, and birth, whilst beautiful and profound, can be a very stressful and traumatic experience for both mother and baby. Craniosacral therapy supports your body's natural healing abilities.

Treating mother and baby together helps support the unique bond between parent and child, nurturing the emotional and physical connection between them. We create a safe and relaxed environment and babies are often treated in their mothers lap or whilst feeding

Common reasons for bringing a baby to a session are; difficult births, sleep and feeding issues, colic, constipation, irritability, and difficulty settling.

A session is an hour long, We start by talking through why you’ve come and identifying your needs. Then often treat the baby first and finish the session with a treatment for mum.

Testimonials

”After the birth of my daughter I was concerned that my lack of acceptance of our birth process would negatively affect our relationship and my ability to be the best mother I could. Even after just a couple of sessions with Megan I feel more accepting of what happened whilst giving birth even though it didn't go 'to plan' and this acceptance has really helped improve my bond with my daughter who was present during the sessions, although I was being treated. I would thoroughly recommend craniosacral therapy with Megan to any new mothers.” Naomi

“Megan gave me some cranio when I was having a difficult third trimester and me and the baby relaxed instantly. It helps us both calm down and left me feeling much more ready for labour.” Amy

Photos by Simon Dumpleton

At the heart of my philosophy is the believe that we all need space, freedom and a safe place where we can openly express our uniqueness, recount our stories and experiences that have shaped us. Our sessions will create the opportunity to experience this essential space, where I can listen to you in a non-judgemental way.

If you are thinking about counselling but are feeling nervous or unsure, please do contact me. I will be happy to talk through with you how the process works.

Soft Tissue Therapy is a person centred approach to the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of minor and chronic musculoskeletal injuries and pain, using massage and other soft tissue techniques to relax tissues and improve movement. This means that when you come for a treatment with me I treat you as a whole person rather than just looking at the painful area in isolation; I want to know as much about you as possible.

As part of the massage consultation I look at posture and movement and take a history. This helps me to place your muscular aches within a context, for instance an old injury whose residual effects may be causing muscular tension in another area; long periods of stress; a chronic illness; a job with repetitive movements. Often the underlying issue that requires treatment is in another area to where the symptoms are manifesting.

Massage therapy helps to relieve muscular aches, pain and tension whether caused by sporting activity, repetitive or stressful daily activities, injury, or illness and prolonged inactivity. It benefits both acute and long standing conditions. Massage is also helpful where there is mental and emotional tension as it promotes relaxation and a sense of well being; it can also help us be more aware of our bodies and how we are feeling. It is suitable for everyone of all ages and occupations. It can help with postural, accident and work related muscular problems such as whiplash, headaches, sciatica, RSI and back and neck stiffness or pain. It is beneficial alongside other treatments to ensure good recovery from surgery and injury.

Appointments last 45 minutes (£35) or an hour (£45). For most of the treatment you will be lying down but I may also ask you to stand and move around as part of the assessment and treatment and to explore with you different ways of moving so it is advisable to wear suitable underwear. Exercises and stretches may be recommended alongside massage to achieve lasting benefit. More information can be found on my website https://katesheridan.org/

Reiki is an ancient and simple system of ‘laying on of hands’ that uses gentle touch to reduce the effects of stress, balance the nervous system and promote a deep sense of relaxation. This practice, originally from Japan, can relieve pain and promote natural, self-healing, which also encourages mental wellbeing. Reiki is performed on the massage table with the client fully clothed.

Reflexology is a treatment whereby pressure is applied to certain points on the feet to prevent and treat ailments throughout the whole body. Reflexology has become a popular complimentary therapy that can bring relief from the stresses of modern lifestyle.

Out of all the five senses, smell I directly connected to our emotions. Specific scents can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and alleviate depression. When essential oils are used with massage, the treatment can have deeply therapeutic and profound effects, bringing comfort and reassurance.

This holistic massage uses oils and massage techniques that are stimulating, invigorating, and relaxing for all the muscles in the body, and aims to bring the body and mind back into balance. Along with lifestyle and aftercare advice, Swedish Body Massage is a great way to help you keep in control of your health.

This ancient form of massage from Thailand uses stretching and pressure points to release blocked energy and relieve tension in the muscles. The participant remains fully clothed throughout the sessions. The massage is performed on a futon on the floor.

Each session last 60 minutes and can be adapted to suit the needs of the individual.