It led me down a rabbit hole about the toxins in our environment from personal care products to cleaning products. I became heavily interested in their potential impact on our health, especially female hormones and fertility. This came from my own personal struggles with endometriosis and neurological challenges – not to mention the stories I heard from clients and students on a regular basis.

LIVE zoom workshop Unleash the Wisdom of the Wombspace

On the 16th November, I’m running a LIVE zoom workshop entitled
Unleash the Wisdom of the Wombspace – this is for all women, not just therapists and environmental toxins is just one area I will cover.

Book before the 31st October and get £50 off! Click Here

I’ve heard about alarming studies which have found a teaspoons worth of plastic in the brain post mortem or a credit card sized quantity in the body!

After years of research, teaching, reading books and listening to podcasts by experts, I’ve compiled a list of the SEVEN environmental toxins to look out for. I’ve included how they may impact our health and where they’re found.

Introduction

We live in a world saturated with chemicals and pollutants. From what we eat to the air we breathe, several toxins have become ubiquitous. While exposure levels vary, evidence links certain substances to chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cognitive disorders, and fertility issues.

1) Forever Chemicals (PFAS)

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances used in nonstick cookware, waterproof fabrics, firefighting foams, and many consumer products including food packaging. Even low level chronic exposure is concerning.

Associated with increased cholesterol, insulin resistance, thyroid disruption, and certain cancers (e.g., kidney and testicular cancer) noted in population studies.

2) Microplastics and Plastic Additives

Tiny plastic particles from degraded products, packaging, tupperware, plus additives like phthalates and BPA (bisphenol A) used to soften plastics. Food packaging, bottled water, seafood (bioaccumulation), dust in homes.

Associated with endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental effects, and potential links to metabolic disorders and inflammatory conditions. Emerging work suggests possible associations with neurodevelopmental issues and certain hormonal cancers.

3) Pesticide Residues (Organophosphates and Others)

Chemicals used to protect crops, including organophosphates (e.g., chlorpyrifos) and pyrethroids, among others. Conventionally grown produce; residues on fruit and vegetables; contaminated water runoff.

Associated with acute poisoning and longer-term neurodevelopmental effects in children; associations with metabolic syndrome and some cancers in adults.

4) Air Pollution (Particulate Matter, PM2.5 and PM10)

Tiny particles from combustion processes – vehicle exhaust, industrial activities, urban environments, near motorways, indoor air from cooking without ventilation.

Associated with cardiovascular disease, stroke, lung cancer; associations with diabetes and cognitive decline.

5) Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, Mercury)

Naturally occurring elements released via mining, industrial processes, and certain consumer products. Lead in old paint and pipes; cadmium in cigarette smoke and certain foods; mercury in fish.

Associated with neurodevelopmental delays in children (lead), kidney damage and bone effects (cadmium), neuromuscular and cardiovascular concerns (mercury). Even low-level exposure matters, particularly in pregnancy and early childhood.

6) Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) in Everyday Goods

A broad category including BPA alternatives (BPS, BPF), certain parabens, and triclosan used in plastics, cosmetics, personal care and consumer products, cleaning products.

Associated with hormone disruption linked to fertility issues, thyroid imbalance, metabolic changes, and potential cancer risk.

7) Perchlorates and Nitrates in Water and Food

Perchlorate from explosives and industrial processes; nitrates from fertilizers and processed foods. Contaminated drinking water, certain leafy greens, processed meats, and water supplies near industrial activity.

Associated with thyroid hormone production, which is critical for metabolism, growth, and development; potential links to neurodevelopmental outcomes, metabolic issues, menstrual changes.

Conclusion

Our environment delivers a mix of chemicals that can accumulate in our bodies over time. While no single exposure guarantees ill health, cumulative and chronic exposure – especially during critical life stages – can raise risk for cancer, metabolic disorders, neurological effects, and fertility challenges.

Practical steps

Pick just one area and work on that. I find most of my clients start with eliminating plastic from plastic water bottles, plastic food storage and food wrapping.

The next logical step is always personal care products with skincare being the easiest to substitute with natural and organic products.

I always offer a free chat to answer questions, as well as understand your priorities in this moment.

If you want to book a FREE chat to discover how you could be maximising your time, gain clarity on your business, eliminate overwhelm and find true work/life balance – send me an email or whatsapp

sughra@thebodytemple.co.uk or 07942 477601

Next in person training course

Reflexology (Derby and London)

Book 2 two-day courses and get 15% off with FRIENDS15

Next online course

Unleash the WISDOM of the WOMBSPACE
Early bird discount – book by 31st October and receive £50 off

Thank you for reading this months blog, Seven Environmental Toxins in Our Everyday World — and How They Affect Health. If you would like more information please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Seven Environmental Toxins in Our Everyday World — and How They Affect Health appeared first on The Body Temple.

The PROBLEM was that I never seemed to get through it! I’d rush around, multi-task, fight the clock all day and still feel inadequate and unfulfilled at the end of the day. I decided I was really bad at time management.

That’s until I experimented with a new way to organise my life – scheduling! Who would have thought.

Here’s how it works:-

1. Have an on-going to do list for each area of your life. You can add  to it or cross things off anytime.  In fact, it’s a wish list which can include short, medium and long term goals such as qualifications, DIY projects, decluttering and even writing a will or sorting out a pension!
2. Make sure to include things that are non-negotiables which MUST be done every week. This includes the food shop, cooking, cleaning, school runs etc.  These items go on their own list and don’t change but they must be done, they take time so they have to be allocated somewhere on the schedule.
3. Then you need a weekly schedule where everything is allocated a time slot. This is trial and error in the beginning.  More often than not I found I wasn’t allocating enough time for tasks – especially ones involving travel.

A true do list – Time Management for Busy Individuals

I had to embrace the idea of a true do list. Many people mistake a long list of tasks for productivity. In reality, a do list should be more than a collection of to-dos, it should be a complete inventory of what must be done across work, life and home, updated weekly. Think of it as a master catalogue. Chores, meetings, errands, personal care, and family responsibilities all included. This weekly do list helps you see the full scope of your obligations, so nothing important slips through the cracks.

Don’t fall into the trap of making the to-do list too long and without boundaries. Focus on one large task a day and possibly 2 smaller ones. An oversized to do list can create chronic underestimation of time and invites constant, unproductive multitasking. If you constantly tell yourself “I’ll do it all,” you’ll spread yourself thin and end up achieving little.

The antidote is to assign time to every item on the list. Once you commit to scheduling, you gain clarity about feasibility. Start by allocating dedicated blocks for work tasks, errands, family duties, and personal care. Scheduling only works if you allocate a time window for every task/activity. This practice forces you to confront how long things actually take and reveals gaps in your day that can be restructured or trimmed.

Scheduling – Time Management for Busy Individuals

Scheduling also requires honesty about your pace. Some activities genuinely take longer than you expect, while others finish quickly. By placing tasks into a diary, you’ll see patterns – recurring meetings, travel time, or energy dips. You’ll likely discover that you’ve overcommitted when you rely on memory alone. The diary acts as a reality check, helping you reallocate or drop tasks that aren’t essential.

Another important theme is the negative impact of multitasking. Multitasking often feels efficient, but it fragments attention and increases cognitive load. When you try to juggle multiple tasks at once, you’re less productive, make more mistakes, and take longer to complete each item. Focus on individual tasks. The time you’ve assigned to tasks becomes a commitment, not a vague intention, and you’ll find that your brain settles into a rhythm, making progress more reliably.

To maximise effectiveness, build in buffers and review points. Allow small buffers between tasks to account for interruptions or overruns. Schedule a weekly review session to adjust the do list, reflect on what went well, and re-prioritize for the next week. By doing this you’ll remain proactive rather than reactive, ensuring that the schedule serves your real needs rather than the other way around.

Here’s how to get started – Time Management for Busy Individuals

Create a weekly do list that includes work, life, and home tasks.
Prioritise items by importance and deadlines; consider the impact on your goals.
Time-block each item in a diary, publishing specific start and end times.
Tackle high-impact tasks during your peak energy periods, reserving lighter work for later.
Single-task: commit to one task per block and minimise interruptions.
Build in buffers between blocks to absorb surprises.
Conduct a weekly review to prune, adjust, and plan ahead.

As you practice, you’ll learn how long tasks genuinely take. You’ll become better at estimating, which reduces wasted time and helps you protect time for what matters most. With disciplined scheduling, you’ll finish more, stress less, and feel in control of your week rather than overwhelmed by it.

In summary, the journey from a sprawling wish list to a realistic, scheduled plan is a habit worth cultivating. A weekly do list that covers work, life, and home, paired with deliberate time-blocking in a diary, reveals the true pace of your days. It exposes the lengths of tasks, curbs the temptation to multitask, and builds the consistency necessary for lasting productivity. Stick with it, and you’ll transform your time from a constant source of pressure into a predictable, manageable resource.

I always offer a free chat to answer questions, as well as understand your priorities in this moment.

If you want to book a FREE chat to discover how you could be maximising your time, gain clarity on your business, eliminate overwhelm and find true work/life balance – send me an email or whatsapp

sughra@thebodytemple.co.uk or 07942 477601

Next in person training course

Reflexology (Derby and London)

Book 2 two-day courses and get 15% off with FRIENDS15

Next online course

Unleash the WISDOM of the WOMBSPACE
Early bird discount – book by 31st October and receive £50 off

Thank you for reading this months blog, Time Management for Busy Individuals: From Wish List to Real Schedule. If you would like more information please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Time Management for Busy Individuals: From Wish List to Real Schedule appeared first on The Body Temple.

In recent years, reflexology has surged in popularity in wellness circles, clinics, and even some hospital settings. This renewed interest is driven by a growing demand for non-pharmacological therapies that can complement conventional medical care, offer relaxation, and empower individuals to take an active role in their well-being.

How does reflexology work?

Stress relief and relaxation

One of the most consistent findings across studies is that reflexology can reduce stress and promote relaxation. When the body relaxes, blood circulation and lymphatic flow can improve, which may help the body function more efficiently.  In today’s fast world we are generally bad at relaxing.  If you’re struggling to ‘simply be’, slow down or sit still then holistic therapies offer the opportunity to do exactly that whilst experiencing the benefits.

Nerve stimulation and balance

The feet contain thousands of nerve endings. Gentle, targeted pressure may stimulate the nervous system in a way that fosters homeostasis, potentially influencing mood, sleep, and energy levels.

Reflexology is not designed to diagnose or cure specific diseases, but it is thought to support the body’s natural healing processes by reducing tension and improving circulation.

I believe that the holistic therapies are just one part of the puzzle when exploring ways to ignite the body’s natural healing capabilities.

Reflexology can play a part in alleviating certain conditions and providing comfort

Stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbance

What people report: Deep relaxation, improved sleep, and a sense of calm after sessions.

Evidence: Several small studies and reviews suggest reflexology can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.  I’m confident in sharing that my clients and students report these results too.

Chronic pains (back pain, headaches, plantar fasciitis)

What people report: Pain reduction and improved mobility after regular sessions.

Evidence: Some randomised controlled trials indicate modest pain relief for certain chronic conditions. In my experience, I’ve found that the client’s receptiveness to the treatment can often affect the outcome.  For this reason, I encourage an open mind with a focus on pure relaxation during the session.

Menstrual pain and menopause symptoms

What people report: Less menstrual cramping, improved mood, and better overall well-being.

Evidence: Small studies have explored reflexology for menstrual pain and menopausal symptoms with mixed results. I have also added Temple Therapy to my services which specifically deals with and helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, working towards a pain free experience.

Cancer care and palliative contexts

What people report: Reduced fatigue, anxiety and nausea in some patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Evidence: Reflexology has shown potential for symptom relief in cancer care in several studies.  Holistic practitioners often exercise caution when treating cancer patients.  In my experience, as long as the client and their medical professional are happy for you to proceed, then it can bring about much needed relief from stress and anxiety.

Pregnancy-related discomfort

What people report: Relief from swelling, lower back pain, and general relaxation.

Evidence: Some studies suggest safety and symptom relief when performed by trained reflexologists, but it’s important to consult healthcare providers, especially during high-risk pregnancies.

Why reflexology has gained popularity recently

A holistic mindset

People increasingly seeking an holistic approach to their health – one that addresses mind, body and spirit rather than focusing solely on symptoms.

Non-pharmacological options

In an era of prescription concerns and side effects, reflexology offers a drug-free option for symptom management and stress reduction.

Self-care and accessibility

Short sessions, portable clinics, spa environments, and at-home guides have made reflexology more accessible to the general public.

Integrative medicine movement

Many hospitals and clinics are adopting integrative medicine programs that combine standard care with complementary therapies, including reflexology, to support patient comfort and quality of life.

The bottom line

Reflexology is an ancient practice that remains relevant today because it aligns with a holistic view of health: the idea that the body’s systems are interconnected and that touch can influence well-being. While it is not a cure-all, many people find genuine relief from stress, experience improved sleep, and modest improvements in certain chronic symptoms when reflexology is used thoughtfully and safely as part of a broader health plan.

I’m fortunate enough to be able to treat clients at home as well as teaching this wonderful therapy.

I always offer a free chat to answer questions, as well as understand your priorities in this moment.

If you want to book a FREE chat to discover how you could be maximising your time, gain clarity  on your business, eliminate overwhelm and find true work/life balance – send me an email or whatsapp

sughra@thebodytemple.co.uk or 07942 477601

Next in person training course

Reflexology (Derby and London)

Book 2 two-day courses and get 15% off with FRIENDS15

Next online course

Unleash the WISDOM of the WOMBSPACE
Early bird discount – book by 31st October and receive £50 off

Thank you for reading this months blog, Reflexology – An ancient therapy reimagined. If you would like more information please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Reflexology – An ancient therapy reimagined appeared first on The Body Temple.

Since the launch of my 121 coaching service, I’ve been reminded of the power of these tiny habits, which take up almost no time, and that have a big impact on daily life.

As I recommend to my clients, you don’t have to pick all of them and you certainly don’t need to implement them all at once. Some of my clients are very resistant to the idea of meditation for example. Meditation happens in many different ways:

.. taking a moment to sit quietly and reflect
.. listening to a guided meditation or a track
.. walking on a treadmill

In fact, anything that has a gentle rhythm can be classed as meditation

Here are the five habits I present to my clients

MOVEMENT

When you move, you remove stagnation, unlock energy, creativity and clarity – not to mention creating a steadier mood
TRY 5 – 15 MINS every morning. It’s not the type of exercise that matters, it’s the power in building the habit

MEDITATION

It’s a bit like a software update for the nervous system
A quiet mind leads to sharper focus

5 minutes bring you back to your centre
10 minutes can re-write your entire story

BREATHING

Inhale opportunity and exhale doubt
It’s the fastest way to slow down and re-gain control when life feels like it’s on fast forward

Start by taking TEN, slow, deep, conscious breaths

WRITING

Writing requires honesty, curiosity and courage – however, start by using it as a way to organise scattered thoughts or set clear intentions

Start by writing a paragraph or a page with no set agenda and no planning

READING

Whether it’s for pleasure, learning or escapism, it expands your inner world

Don’t read to finish the book
Read with intention and savour each moment
Start with a page day
Small steps lead to big goals

Changing your life doesn’t happen in a day. It takes small, incremental steps.
Adopting positive daily habits rewires your brain and makes the impossible seem possible.

It unlocks hidden potential, clears the path and can transform your life.

I work with you 121 to create transformation in as little as 16 weeks.

I always offer a free chat to understand your priorities in this moment.

If you want to book a FREE chat to discover how you could be maximising your time, gain clarity on your business, eliminate overwhelm and find true work/life balance – send me an email or whatsapp.

sughra@thebodytemple.co.uk or 07942 477601

Next in person training course

Reflexology (Derby and London)
Book 2 two-day courses and get 15% off with FRIENDS15

Next online course

Unleash the WISDOM of the WOMBSPACE
Early bird discount – book by 31st October and receive £50 off

Thank you for reading this months blog, The POWER of FIVE daily habits. If you would like more information please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post The POWER of FIVE daily habits appeared first on The Body Temple.

I’ve asked myself and my students why – we came up with SIX Reasons why it’s so popular and why it seems to be the logical next step for experienced massage therapists

SIX Reasons Why

• It’s easier on your body – Indonesian Massage technically allows you to deliver a deep and powerful treatment without exhausting yourself. Let’s face it – when you’ve been massaging for a long time, this has to be a consideration
• It combines many techniques – Even if you’ve been massage forever, you’re guaranteed to learn something brand new. The massage combines techniques from lymphatic drainage, aromatherapy, Shiatsu and Swedish.
• Your clients will LOVE it – Clients LOVE something new. We find that once your clients try Indonesian Massage, they’ll never go back to a standard one. It’s TOO GOOD!
• It’s POWERFUL – It starts a process of detoxification so although it’s a relaxing treatment to deliver, your clients will FEEL the effects and experience DETOX, REJUVENATION and an emotional UPLIFT.
• It’s though and adaptable – It includes all the ELEMENTS that clients want – full body, hands and feet, neck & shoulders, face & scalp. You can promote it as a 75 minute treatment and up to 100 minutes.
• It’s a FAIR & SENSIBLE investment – It’s a 2 day course with a fair investment. There are no case studies as you will already be an experienced massage therapist. There’s always plenty of ongoing support from me though

If you want to know more before you make a decision, then as usual, drop me a “>contact form.

Time for Something NEW!!!

You can study and qualify in Indonesian Massage and Reflexology by Christmas – and Temple Therapy by Easter 2026 at the latest.

Here’s a link to all training dates!

Pain and Irregularity is your body talking to you

In this blog, I wanted to briefly introduce a new service I’m offering. I’ve been doing it officially for years, so I thought it’s high time I formalised it. This way, I can reach and help so many more of you.

To begin with, I want you to ponder over something …

Sometimes, life gets busy, and we forget to pause and ask ourselves: Where am I right now? When did I last take stock of where my life is going, assess my priorities and set some realistic but exciting goals?

It’s ok to take a moment, to breathe, to reflect and acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Think about a small step you could take TODAY towards a goal that truly matters to you. There’s no rush, no pressure – just gentle progress. You’ve got this!

Coaching

I was finding that so many of my clients, students and connections were pondering these questions. When did life become so full that we barely take time to breathe properly, let alone think about our goals.

This is why I’ve introduced a coaching programme which is tailored to you. You see coaching is different to therapy. Sports people have coaches not because they’re broken or hopeless. It’s so that they can improve, be better and experience growth and positive change. Without coaching, they can plateau, become stagnant and repeat old patterns.

Coaching is about working with someone because your goals are too important. You can’t leave them to chance or just hope that you might get around to them.

Coaching identifies and breaks old habits. It builds new habits, ones that actually create fast and lasting change in your life.

If this is speaking to you, I invite you to book a FREE CALL so we can explore a bit further, together. A call never means buying or being obliged to work together. Breakthroughs can happen in a 45 minute call and you might decide that’s all you need.

So, don’t wait until tomorrow. Maybe that small, positive step is simply reaching out and deciding that something has to change.

I genuinely look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for reading this months blog, Indonesian Massage – the LOGICAL next step for experienced massage therapists. If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Indonesian Massage – the LOGICAL next step for experienced massage therapists appeared first on The Body Temple.

Last year, I wrote a blog about why I created this therapy, my personal story and what led me down the road to create a new treatment and a new training course.

Firstly, I should say that this has by far been the most life-changing experience for me, many of my clients and lots of my students – and of course their clients. It’s a kind of ‘pay it forward’ therapy for generations of women and girls to come.

So this is a bit of a long-winded way to explain how and why I created Temple Therapy. You see the problem is, if you’re like me and you’re investing in a course, you need the full history!

The History

Some of you know that in 2021 I qualified as a Mizan Practitioner. My story. I was told at 25 that I had severe endometriosis, and the only suggested remedy was the pill.

Little did I know that the pill would mask all of my symptoms, cut off my natural hormone cycle and prevent any form of healing. In fact, that long healing process was waiting the minute I came off the pill.

25 years later …. yes, I’ll say that again … 25 years later I discovered Mizan Therapy, and my life changed. Mizan I should say is inspired by Arvigo Technique and you may also have heard of Mayan Abdominal Massage – all linked.

I was going through a phase of painful, heavy and debilitating periods, as well as spotting, when I discovered a Mizan practitioner in Birmingham. Three treatments in, I decided to add Mizan to my capsule collection of therapies. Five treatments in, I’d signed up for the course and my menstrual life had changed beyond recognition.

Since I trained and qualified

Since I trained and qualified, I’ve treated hundreds of clients, all with their own unique concerns. However, I felt a need to enhance the treatment I’d learnt by making it a more complete experience. I added reflexology, extended the back massage, lymphatic drainage, pelvic realignment and included some spa elements.

In 2022, I created my own version and had it accredited by The Complimentary Medical Association and have been teaching it ever since. Of course, I still treat clients.

My mission is to help and educate young girls and women that there is another way. A way that is natural, effective, nurturing, healing and in sync with your body’s rhythms 

Our body is complex, and it has the ability to heal from within. We often either forget this or we’re so busy fulfilling our roles in life that it’s easy to put our health at the bottom of the list 

Pain and Irregularity is your body talking to you

Through Temple Therapy, I’m helping so many women to change their outlook about their womb health.  The therapy is a commitment that you make to yourself that you can and will heal, that you can feel good, that you can be full of energy and vitality, and you can look forward to life 

It’s a hands-on therapy which combines homecare and helps with all of the following 

..painful periods
..missed periods
..perimenopause & menopause symptoms 
..fertility challenges 
..endometriosis 
..PCOS
..digestive issues
..wombspace healing post hysterectomy & post  menopause 

Embrace the Seasons of your Cycle

The education around Temple Therapy allows women to embrace living in a cyclical body and not see it as a hindrance. We are created to move with the ebb and flow of our natural rhythms.

It’s ok to feel different week to week

It’s ok to observe and honour the energy of our cycle

It’s ok to adapt your work, exercise, rest and life to honour the current season

The Treatments

I recommend an initial session which includes a detailed consultation, followed by a minimum of three treatments for you to see the benefits. I help and guide you through the transformational homecare practises, although you’ll see huge benefits from the treatment alone.

The Training

If you’re an existing body therapist, you can apply to take the 2-day course which comes with 5, in-depth case studies. click here

I’m also running an online workshop to equip you with advanced knowledge around womb and hormonal health. Early bird discount before 31st July click here

If you feel I can help you in any way, maybe just a chat or some lifestyle tips, I offer a complimentary phone consultation where you can pick my brain as much as you like. It always turns out to be a great conversation! click here to get in touch

Remember, every woman deserves a natural, pain free and predictable monthly cycle. It’s her right.

Thank you for reading this months blog, Temple Therapy (for womb and reproductive health) – THE FINAL REBRAND!. If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Temple Therapy (for womb and reproductive health) – THE FINAL REBRAND! appeared first on The Body Temple.

… my recent health and business struggles
… how I’ve kept moving forward with excitement and optimism
… how it’s led to me helping others

especially those who are struggling to eliminate overwhelm, stay focussed,
find balance and keep moving forward

My physical condition right now

On the 2nd of April 2025, I shared a blog about my recent diagnosis. (Link at the end if you want to read that one) I didn’t share the NAME of the diagnosis specifically and there’s a reason for this. I’m not tied to it. I’m not defined by it and it’s not who I am. Believe me – it took a while to get to this stage!

If you know me, you know I’m a therapist and trainer. I use my hands. I use my physical strength. Let me be transparent about what’s happening with me. My physical condition right now means that all of the following are challenging for me: –

• Massaging (not all movements but I’ve had to adapt A LOT)
• Household chores which require strength and precision

I should add that I’m right-handed and my right side is affected

• Writing (very difficult and I LOVE writing)
• Typing/texting/making videos (all of which I do daily for work)
• Crazy ones like putting my makeup on
• Getting coins out of my purse!!

A day at a time

The above present the tip of the iceberg. It goes way beyond this, and I have no idea what’s to come. I’m taking it a day at a time and utilising all the tools in the kit I’ve built up over the years.

This blog is not about sympathy, pity or self-indulgence. It’s as much about YOU as it is about me. It’s about what you do when life deals you an unexpected blow or a curve ball.

How do you pick yourself up, plan for the future and continue to live a life of meaning and purpose? How do you move forward and still feel excited, creative and optimistic.

My life and business

I’ve spent the best part of last year figuring this out for my own life and business. What I completely under-estimated was the years I’ve spent building up strength, resilience and a strong mindset. I would say all of the following helped

• A close-knit family and community
• Strong sibling relationships
• Close and supportive friends
• Decades working in health & wellbeing both in the UK and abroad
• Training and mentoring like-minded therapists and business owners

I know not everyone is blessed with this kind of support. Even when we are, we’re all unique and the way forward is not always clear.

MY TRIBE

I’m not one to give up, to lose hope or become pessimistic. Of course, I’m human and I’ve had my moments. I will continue to have moment. MOSTLY, I’ve focussed on how I’m going to continue to help people, MY TRIBE. What’s the best possible way I can continue to be of service, to work to my full potential, to offer the most value without always relying on hands-on skills. It has been gut-wrenching at times to contemplate this.

After months of journalling, prayer and meditation (& of course some business brainstorming), the answer presented itself loud and clear.

When life stopped me in my tracks – Share you challenges

I realised that like me, many of you are facing overwhelm, health issues and business challenges. I want to invite you to share them with me specifically. Email or Whatsapp me with details of the biggest challenge you’re facing right now.

Maybe I can help. Maybe the new direction I’m taking means that your solution won’t take a year to present itself and together we can ensure your journey is smoother, more focussed and peaceful. Together we can make sure you’re making great progress, at the same time as finding the answers.

If my experience is teaching me anything, it’s this …

When life presents challenges, it moves on too. You don’t have to wait for the answers, stop moving or stop progressing while you wait for that epiphany. You can keep living and growing at the same time.

So the conclusion, let’s start with a message from you to me …

… what’s your biggest challenge in life right now?
… what’s keeping you awake?
… what’s the recurring theme keeping your stress levels high?

I’ll be waiting to hear from you because I know what it’s like to live through not only the unexpected but the day-to-day challenges of life and business.

I should end by saying that I’m a tough cookie. I don’t give up on what I love. I’m still treating. I’m still teaching and will continue to do so.

Always here for a quick chat, a little brainstorm and as the voice of reason.

Thank you for reading this months blog, When life stopped me in my tracks, My Selfcare Revolution Part 2 . If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

Next Training Course – The Body Temple Method – for womb and reproductive health

The post When life stopped me in my tracks, My Selfcare Revolution Part 2 appeared first on The Body Temple.

Healing From a Disease

We’ve all read the stories. How I cured my cancer or arthritis or Parkinsons and the list goes on.
I will caveat this with the fact that actually, I’m not an expert in anything. I have a deep interest in all things health and over the decades, working as a therapist and trainer I’ve studied and/or taken an interest in all of the following

• Diet & nutrition
• Counselling
• Ayurveda
• A multitude of holistic therapies
• Womb and hormonal health
• German New Medicine

Specialist Holistic Practitioner

I’m a specialist holistic practitioner and I was always told to say that I’m not ‘medically trained’. Whilst I have the greatest respect for many professions, I don’t believe that ‘medically trained’ supersedes other health professionals such as naturopaths, homeopaths, acupuncturists, holistic therapists, hypnotherapists and certainly not Ayurvedic doctors.

I’m firm in the belief that the medical system is just that, one SYSTEM and one way of looking at health. It treats symptoms and cures many people of ailments and disease. We can’t live without it when it comes to accidents, emergencies and surgeries. Often, it doesn’t address the root cause or look at the person holistically.

Ayurveda

I grew ever more keen to learn about Ayurveda following my diagnosis and a chance meeting with an Ayurvedic doctor set me on a path.

In November 2025 I had 15 days of Panchakarma therapy. Again, the full story is for another day but my biggest takeaway and what I’ve implemented is the nutritional advice. My family originates from the Pakistan side of Kashmir, so this way of eating is actually ingrained and part of my heritage.
Right now, I’m creating a small booklet with all my learnings and if you want a copy as soon as it’s complete, please join our mailing list – sign up at the bottom of the page!

Good Health

Diet plays an important role in the maintenance of good health and in the prevention and cure of the disease; the proper balanced food is the most important factor in the promotion of positive health. The foundation of Ayurvedic nutrition is based on the idea that the human being is the result of what, when, where, how and why they eat. Ayurveda explains that food should be eaten mindfully and with gratitude, and that it must be fresh, of the highest quality, digestible, delicious, lovingly prepared and satisfying to the senses. Ayurveda offers a balanced approach for preparing, eating and digesting food based on unique body-mind type or Dosha, as well as the time of day, the season and the period of life cycle and the living place of the person.

Basic Principles

Of course, as the text suggests, eating habits should vary based on your dosha but I’m going to share some basic principles which can apply to everyone. These are all principles which I’ve adopted.

• Breakfast is not the most important meal of the day (that was a Kellog’s marketing campaign)
• Eat 2 meals a day, the first around 11am to 1pm and the second by 7pm at the latest.
• Don’t snack and leave at least 4 hours between your meals
• Keep fruit for the morning and eat as much as you like. Just don’t worry about the calories!
• Stop eating junk food – try to eat food that was alive at some point. No, that doesn’t mean just meat, it means plants so vegetables and whole food such as rice, grains and pulses
• Have a green juice daily which includes leafy greens
• Always bathe/shower before a meal. Never immediately after. This will slow down or stop digestion.
• Use millets instead of flour
• Always eat plenty of salad before your meal
• Don’t eat bananas, yoghurt or peanuts at night. They will close the ‘channels’. Yoghurt at night blocks the channels like ‘mud’ and could cause weight gain. It’s a superfood during the day
• Don’t eat and then go straight to sleep or even lie down. Yes, this one got me!
• Make lunch your main meal. Digestion is strongest during the day
• Keep dinner light
• The stomach should be empty at night to aid detox
• Eat freshly cooked food as much as possible. Avoid too much refrigeration and especially freezing
• Ditch the microwave and non-stick pans
• Each meal should consist of 1/3 food, 1/3 liquid (warm), 1/3 space – my dad, God rest his soul was a big advocate of this

Final Thoughts

I realised that most of these principles were taught to us by our dad. He followed them himself and he lived a healthy life until the age of 95. At the age of 82, he was diagnosed with lymphoma, made a full recovery and lived another 13 years.
I love the Ayurvedic approach, and it’s become my new way of life.

Over the coming months, I’ll share more about my selfcare revolution, my diagnosis and my mindset around it. I encourage anyone, even if you are healthy and disease free to research Ayurveda and its role in the prevention of disease.

In the meantime, if you or someone you love is facing a health challenge, please reach out and I’ll be happy to introduce you to my Ayurvedic doctor. He doesn’t live or promote on social media but is happy to help anyone.

Thank you for reading this months blog, My Selfcare Revolution, Part 1. If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post My Selfcare Revolution, Part 1 appeared first on The Body Temple.

My belief has always been that when something is part of your natural hormone cycle, it shouldn’t be painful. Don’t accept anyone telling you otherwise.

Pain is our body’s way of telling us that something is out of balance. Modern medicine teaches us to treat the symptoms yet having followed many natural medicine practitioners, my belief is that ‘symptoms’ are the ‘healing.’ To treat the symptom is to deny the imbalance, the issue, the deeper reason, the cause and ultimately the message our body is trying to send.

German New Medicine

I’ve recently been studying German New Medicine, 5 Elements Acupuncture and Ayurvedic Medicine. All of these treat the body as an holistic organism, a whole with all systems interconnected. They identify the imbalance or the cause which can be a combination of emotional and physical. There may be a genetic or ancestral disposition, environmental factors or traumatic life events which have contributed to or created the imbalance.

Through The Body Temple Method, my understanding of the causes of period pain has deepened. This therapy combines hands-on therapy, selfcare and herbal remedies. I have learnt that pelvic misalignment, injury, scar tissue and deep-seated emotional trauma can all lead to period pain.

Contraceptive Pill

I find it so sad that in this day and age, young girls are put straight onto the contraceptive pill to manage their period pain, until they want to have a baby. They’re told it will ease their period pain, and they can have more control’. The truth of the matter is that the pill simply shuts down our natural hormone cycle. The period is no longer a natural period. It’s a breakthrough bleed.

Nearly all of the body’s functions rely on good hormonal balance so imagine the damage which can be done when our hormones are switched off.

My Experiance

At the age of 25, this is exactly what happened to me. Bleeding between periods, spotting, heavy and painful periods led to me being put on the pill to ‘control’ my symptoms. I was told that I should try to have a baby by the age of 30 if the medical profession was to help me. Little did I know that I was applying a band-aid to the problem, and I was delaying the healing.

Twenty seven years later, I wish I’d known then what I know now. Having said that, the journey (however painful, stressful and turbulent) has given me the knowledge and the wisdom to help so many others like me.

Ayurvedic immersion

In November 2024, I experienced an Ayurvedic immersion. I’ll share more about this in another blog, but it taught me some important lessons. Well before we reach for the supplement, the therapy, the device or the practitioner, we should start thinking of our life as the medicine. This truly game-changing idea is shared by Dr Cassie Huckaby https://gritnaturalmedicine.com/ who is a huge advocate of using your life as medicine.
Before we start to address symptoms, we should look at all of these factors:

• Sleep
• Nutrition
• Light exposure
• Breathing
• Beliefs/Mindset

In 2021, I qualified in Mizan Therapy which I now call Temple Therapy as part of my Body Temple Method programme. Although it is yet another therapy and system of healing, the fundamentals are about lifestyle, nutrition and mindset. Once we begin to work on these, small miracles begin to happen.

If you’d like to book a FREE 20 minute chat to tell me more about your case, please contact me.

Next 2-day in person Diploma in The Body Temple Method

22nd & 23rd June London
13th & 14th July Derby

Thank you for reading this months blog, Every woman’s SUPERPOWER. If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

The post Every woman’s SUPERPOWER appeared first on The Body Temple.

Last year, I started listening to Rob Dial, The Mindset Mentor on Spotify. I love the short and sweet, motivational talks which often set me up for the day. I listen to him while I’m putting my make-up on, making my breakfast or ‘pottering’ (which I seem to do a LOT).

I thought about why the title got me. It triggered something in me because although I’m not lazy, I’m certainly not productive all the time. Before I even listened to it, I knew he was going to give me some guidance on how to get my GOALS in order.

GOALS

You see, I think one of the things which stops many of us being successful is exactly this – not getting our goals in order. I know – it’s a huge topic and how do you even know what to aim for? That’ll be a blog for another day but once you well and truly know where you’re heading in your business then getting your goals in order is crucial.

I decided to use this blog to share Rob’s main points but apply them to the self-employed therapist. Sound good? I’ve also included snippets of how I apply each of these to my own life

HAVE A VISION

What do you want? Where do you want to be in a few months, 5 years, 10 years?

If your full-time business is hand’s-on therapy, here are some areas you could consider:

• How many clients do you want to treat weekly in the months and years to come?
• Do you want to remain completely hands-on? We need to be in great health for this
• Which modalities do you want to explore? Research training courses, costs and timing
• Are you willing to explore the online landscape? How can you share your skills online? Courses, consultations, group sessions, webinars and podcasts

Even if you don’t have the technical know-how right now, still put it out there as a possibility.

I’m aiming to create my first online course this year. I’m also exploring Ayurvedic Nutrition consultations both in person and online.

DEVELOP A SCHEDULE

Go through your entire schedule on a Sunday and map out your days. Schedule a maximum of 3 tasks per day. This will reduce mental overload.

As a therapist, your priority is your schedule of existing appointments, and everything fits in around that. I find that too many therapists pack in the appointments and don’t schedule time for other essential tasks. Let’s face it, the washing doesn’t happen by magic and a fairy doesn’t visit to make your treatment room spotlessly clean and inviting. In most cases, WE do these jobs ourselves so acknowledge the time it takes to do them. It’s essential if we’re going to avoid burnout. Here’s a short list of activities every therapist should be scheduling as part of her week:

• Social media planning
• Marketing
• Client follow up and feedback
• Stock take/ordering
• Washing/cleaning/replenishing

Be gentle with yourself. This is what we tell our clients, so we have to practise what we preach.

Personally, I only treat clients 2.5 days per week. I also run a training business, so my plate is full. I allow long gaps between clients to keep my own nervous system regulated and manage my energy. I can’t GIVE when I’m in a hurry, running late or dealing with unexpected situations that clients face daily.

WHAT’S YOUR INTENTION?

How do you want to wake up everyday? Decide how you want to feel. Some of us are wired to feel negative.

I’m a huge fan of doing SOMETHING every morning and every evening to be intentional, check in with myself and just pause and breathe. Somebody once said to me, before you meet anyone else, meet yourself. This stayed with me because for many years, I’d jump out of bed and rush into the day. That would set the tone for the rest of the day. Rushing around, always being behind and never in control of anything.

These elements of our day are very personal to us. We might only need 5 minutes, or we may need a whole routine. Remember, as women we are cyclical beings so it’s ok if this routine varies from week to week.

Here are my daily non negotiables:

• Prayer and meditation
• Movement (walking or yoga)
• Breathwork
• A tidy and organised desk and treatment room at the end of each day

ACTION

We are not born consistent – it’s an environment we must create. Be strict with your time and remove distractions

I always found that the beauty of being a therapist is that you get to dedicate a set amount of time to each client. No distractions, phone calls, scrolling or interruptions. This is probably why it’s such a satisfying job because it offers the same for the client. I’ve always appreciated and acknowledged that.

It’s the time outside the treatment room where the environment is also important. Being strict about having a set amount of time and a place to plan and work on your business. If you have a busy family life, taking yourself out for a coffee and completely away can be the best option.

SET ROUTINES

Believe it or not, routine creates freedom. Set routines around mindset, exercise, meditation, prayer and include morning, afternoon and evening activities.

When I got back into therapies in 2016, I originally did it to fit around caring for my parents. I didn’t realise I would need to become a tech expert, marketing professional, social media savvy and everything else that comes with it. It’s important to acknowledge the time it takes to master these activities. We have to be willing to continue to learn.

We’re definitely not lazy but often we’re busy fools. Or our business is doing so well with client bookings that we forget to take time to actually take stock, ponder, reassess, prioritise and make sure we’re still heading in the direction we wanted.

Like Rob Dial said at the beginning – HAVE A VISION. Keep reviewing that vision. Make sure it’s yours and it’s what you want. Let it be fulfilling, exciting and purposeful and revisit it regularly. Click Here to see more from Rob Dial.

Thank you for reading this months blog, STOP being so LAZY! If you would like more information about How to create Holistic Fusion please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Have a lovely day,
Sughra

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