WHO I AM
'Nature is always an unfailing fountain of inspiration' Sogyal Rinpoche
Living as I do in the heart of Aberdeenshire, my work is profoundly connected to the earth, the landscape and all that grows on it. It's innate forms, movement and rhythm inform all that I do. Gardening and Care work are my daily bread, with Yoga and Massage being threads that run through. I am also an apprentice 'Doula for the Dying'.
YOGA
'...for the first time you'll be aware of gravity. Like a thorn in your heel and your shoulder blades will ache for want of wings...' Nina Cassian
As a yoga teacher, I am inspired by the work of Vanda Scaravelli, and guided by equally intuitive and innovative mentors, namely John Stirk, Louise Simmons and Diane Long. Vanda, Italian by birth, is quoted as saying that, 'a new life came into my body' as she discovered yoga with B.K.S. Iyengar just after the war. Her consequent exploration of 'the intelligent heart' has evolved over the years but retains the core principles of developing a childlike fascination and deep attention to the interconnectedness of the earth, the spine and the breath.
YOGA CLASSES
My own hitherto unyielding structure continues its ongoing process of transformation and change as I deepen my personal yoga practice. As creative beings living on this planet, I feel our connection to the land with it's trees, rivers and sculptural shapes is helpful in learning about our own bodies especially when given time and space. To this end, I aspire that those who work with me, whatever age or perceived ability are given a forum whereby together, we can explore and effect change. The freedom of movement that comes as we uncover the deep feeling response in our own body can be surprising and literally life changing. Strain and struggle are not on the agenda but commitment and childlike curiosity are. I hold classes at home and in the locality, along with one to one sessions which can be hugely helpful in initiating the unravelling of long held tension
SWEDISH MASSAGE
Receiving a good massage can be therapeutic, relaxing, healing and also supportive in times of change. Everyone benefits from taking time out for themselves. This often includes sleeping better and feeling more able to make positive changes in their lives. I work mostly from home and try to accommodate individual's often busy timetables for appointments.
DOULA FOR THE DYING
"It takes 35 seconds to die. The rest is life" Alan Kellehear
Over the last nine months I have undertaken a comprehensive Diploma course with Living Well Dying Well and I now feel fully equipped to embark on my apprenticeship as a Doula for the Dying. The word Doula comes from the Greek meaning 'woman servant or caregiver' and is usually associated with the birthing process. However this new initiative takes care of the other end of life in much the same way, helping people with the transition of dying.
As Doulas, we are non medical but informed companions that fulfill a fully empathetic & supportive role for the dying person. We help a person facing the end of life to retain their dignity, live fully and plan for their dying in practical and sometimes creative ways. We accompany them and their families during the final stages.
I am particularly passionate about how we can develop compassionate communities that support our more fragile and vulnerable members through their dying as well as being personally available for those who might otherwise die frightened or alone. As part of this process I initiate dialogue around dying, interconnect with hospices and care homes and alongside my work as a masseuse, carer and yoga teacher, aspire to be a catalyst for change in the way we view death. I value any opportunity to learn and use this craft for the benefit of others.
GARDENING
The Glam Gran Gardeners travel locally, tidying, pruning and clearing gardens for all and sundry. Nothing is too small or too large. Sheltered housing and castles are both on our books which makes for a fun, diverse and interesting life, albeit very hard work! We can give advice, re-design and also resurrect the neglected. We are adaptable, knowledgeable and give excellent value for money.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
EMAIL : me@lucyaykroyd.co.uk
PHONE : 01464831115 MOBILE : 07732749833
