I have really seen the benefits of the skills exchange this week.
I visited Mike Finn at his house and embarked on a pile of ironing, which I must admit was quite refreshing as I never normally iron.

Afterwards Mike talked to me a little about what areas I thought I needed help with. He decided to work on my back using essential oils.
At first it was quite painful as I do carry tension in my shoulders but after 20 minutes or so I began to fall under his spell and parts of me relaxed that I didn't know were tense.
I really did feel like I was floating afterwards and staggered slightly as if I were drunk when I finally pulled myself off the massage bed. It was a wonderful feeling and one which lasted for hours and hours afterwards, in fact all I wanted to do when I got home was sleep, but I resisted the urge and carried on as normal.

Mike has agreed to see me next week and I look forward to that enormously (I may book the rest of the day off for that!). I never really understood the benefits of essential oils but they really do have a lasting effect and the next day I still feel more balanced and lighter.

Then I made a curry for Karina and her family called Methi Aloo (potatoes and fenugreek with natural yoghurt), I was so impressed by Karina's home made yoghurt that she showed me how to make it. If I had realised how easy it was I would have been doing so for ages, I love yoghurt and having these skills makes me feel empowered. Nothing is wasted as the whey can go in bread making or baking.

I think the skills exchange is a brilliant and simple way of enhancing your life, creating a sense of community and learning about so many things.
I love it.
Kate