The professional governing associations of which I hold membership stipulate in their terms and conditions that members must provide annual evidence of Continued Professional Development CPD. The number of CPD “points” required varies with each association and how the points are accrued is the responsibility of the individual, however the range of activities worthy of CPD points are extensive. Training in related disciplines usually carry the greatest CPD point value, training completed the points are then logged in line with best practice. I continuously seek out interesting opportunities to gain CPD points and recently found The Royal Society for Public Health RSPH certificated 2 day course entitled Supporting Behaviour Change ( Health & Wellbeing) delivered by Active Dorset. Having completed the training I reflected on my learning experience, from a professional perspective I had been introduced to new Models of Behaviour, elements of which I will when appropriate incorporate into practice. Personally, I gained a deeper understanding of how I process new information and why I value learning experiences that are “classroom” based. Being physically present, sharing space, conversing and interacting whilst observing subtle prompts and responses creates for me a more meaningful learning experience. Moving from theory to practice, the following brief case study illustrates the positive effects of embracing change. Mrs A requested a Nutritional Therapy appointment after recently being diagnosed as borderline Type 2 diabetic and wanting to try to make changes to her diet and lifestyle to avoid medication in the future. Mrs A was a very good cook, loved baking and cooked meals from scratch. She had retired from a responsible job just 6 months before her husband died 2 yrs ago and her grown-up children (2) lived great distances away, led very busy lives and only visited with grandchildren in the summer holidays. With considerable weight gain, she was experiencing swollen legs and increasing pain in hips, knees and low back which affected her mobility, balance, confidence and mood. Having listened to Mrs A and noticing how uncomfortable she was sitting I suggested that we change the focus of the appointment to Clinical Reflexology to help her relax and ease her discomfort. Mrs A willingly agreed “to try anything that might help her aches and pains”. During treatment patients become relaxed and will often share personal information and release deeply seated emotions. For some, sadness and grief is not shared with close friends or family as not wishing to burden putting on a “brave face” is the coping mechanism adopted. Mrs A did relax during reflexology and revealed how she felt embarrassed at feeling angry, blaming her husband for leaving her, and how she felt abandoned and lonely with no purpose. Annoyed with herself for gaining weight and (through tears she continued) not accepting invitations from friends to join exercise classes and social events. After treatment Mrs A gathered herself and said she felt relaxed and a huge sense of relief, her aches and pains eased, and swellings reduced. The realisation of the symbiotic relationship between physical and emotional pain can be a “light bulb” moment for patients. I suggested some simple leg/foot exercises morning and evening and encouraged her to ask a friend to join her for a short walk maybe once a week? Mrs A contacted me the next day to say she had the best sleep in years, she felt different emotionally and physically, stronger in a way and wanted to make an appointment to discuss how to tackle her recent diagnosis by making changes to her diet, which I was happy to do and asked her to complete a food diary for up to 7 days prior to visit and bring along on the day. As a seasoned Complementary Practitioner with a varied skill set, I will always use a holistic approach to help patients identify where they might make changes to improve their health and general wellbeing. Some patients having been told by their GP or realising themselves that they need to make changes contact me for help and support which I provide with practical advice and goal setting strategies. Frequently encouraging patients to take small steps as one positive outcome can be a catalyst, a link in a chain reaction of change. Adopting a positive mental attitude and feeling “I can do this” boosts self-esteem, confidence and a sense of empowerment. If you are feeling stuck, unable or unsure how to make changes do get in touch. It’s often the first step………… making the smallest of changes that have the biggest impact.
