Well, I came back to glorious sunshine in the UK but I hear it only lasted a few days. Never mind, we have some great new treatments to cheer you up!

The Herbal Compress training I received in the hills outside Pai, in the far North of Thailand, was very interesting. Bundles of herbs are packed tightly into a muslin pouch (large for the back, small for the face), tied up with hemp. We then steam the compress so it becomes soft. As the heat releases the essences from the herbs, we  apply it to the body using rhythmic movements.

I found it a superb method of combining aromatherapy with soothing massage and the relaxing benefits of heat on muscle tension. After discussing suitable combinations with my teachers in Thailand, I am now developing my own range of compresses to treat specific conditions here in the UK.

After my course in Mae Hong Son Province, I travelled on to Lao, a fascinating country which I would like to revisit later. 3 days on the Mekong River - like the Slow Boat To China! - was an adventure in itself and I have met some truly wonderful people there.

Last edited by Sarah Lund (Tue, August 21, 2007 07:33:58)