Category: Other

Researchers from Aberystwyth and Bangor universities are looking at the DNA of grass pollen to find out which types cause the most allergic reactions. Looking at the DNA of these pollens is a new approach to research, it is hoped it will be more conclusive than the traditional method of using a microscope, which can…

Coronary angiography (CA) is a procedure used to diagnose coronary artery disease. It involves the insertion of a catheter into the femoral artery, via a puncture in the groin area, and injecting a dye to assess the extent and severity of the condition. CA requires the patient to have complete bed rest for several hours after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding and other complications. Anecdotal evidence suggests that this immobility can lead to low…

*Please note: this picture is of people closer than two meters apart. Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, it is important to stay two meters apart at all times. This week (15-19 June), is Loneliness Awareness Week. It couldn’t come at a more important time than now when more people are at risk of experiencing…

Exposure to blue light can disrupt the circadian rhythm and create damage in skin cells, according to a study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.   The coloured light has been found to trigger cells in the skin to ‘think’ its daytime, even at night.  Like other processes in the body, the skin is focused…

A reduction in LDL cholesterol in children was achieved through family-based physical activity and dietary intervention, according to a study by researchers at the University of Eastern Finland. The two-year study looked at the plasma lipids of over 500 children aged between six and eight years old. Researchers also examined which lifestyle intervention components had…

Sport England are looking for innovative solutions to help reduce inequalities and support those most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the next two weeks the charity is encouraging people to submit ideas that can help break down barriers to getting involved with activity, highlighting that these have long existed but have become more prominent…

As part of Aromatherapy Awareness Week (8 -14 June), we share a feature contributed by Ann Carter and Peter Mackereth about how the value of aromatic memories combined with the voice in touch therapy.  In this feature published in International Therapist, Issue 129, Summer 2019, Ann Carter and Peter Mackereth look at the relationship between…

Shirley O’Donoghue  Shirley, MFHT, is an NHS Senior Charge Nurse for psychological therapies in Lanarkshire. Shirley said, ‘During lockdown I thought, “what could I do that would help using the skills that I have?” I work predominantly with older people and am trained in mindfulness so decided to set up an eight-week mindfulness cognitive therapy…

As part of Aromatherapy Awareness Week (8 -14 June), we share a feature contributed by FHT member Kate Mulliss about how aromatherapy can be used to support people with arthritis and rheumatism.  Kate Mulliss looks at the pain relieving potential of essential oils in a feature published in International Therapist, Issue 128, Spring 2019. In…

The FHT is pleased to announce that it is a Core Member of the recently formed Integrated Healthcare Collaborative (IHC), which has already been busy lobbying the government to represent the interests of complementary therapy practitioners during COVID-19 (see www.fht.org.uk/coronavirus). The IHC is a collection of more than 20 leading professional associations and stakeholders within…

To celebrate Aromatherapy Awareness Week (8 -14 June), we share a feature contributed by FHT to the latest issue of Natural Health magazine.  FHT Board Member and qualified aromatherapist, Mary Dalgleish, writes about the relaxing, balancing and stimulating effects of essential oils in the June issue of Natural Health magazine. In this feature, Mary talks…

In the run up to Aromatherapy Awareness Week (8 -14 June), FHT member Kate Mulliss looks at how essential oils can support the mind and emotions Whether we need something to lift our spirits, support our meditation or mindfulness practice, help us sleep, or just instil a sense of peace and calm during the current…