For me, inclusive practice is an essential expression of the respectfulness, honouring, and heartfelt care that is foundational to my work. Here, I write of practice that welcomes and makes space – literally – for people with large bodies.

Watch here a videoed conversation between Grief Tending Facilitator Sarah Pletts and me about our work with people who are grieving, whether from bereavement or another form of loss. Together, we share and reflect upon the nature of living, losing, and the process of grieving (57 min).

Our skin is a sensory wonder, with thousands of nerve endings that sense information about us in our environment. But did you know that there is a nerve fibre that discerns and conveys the emotional aspects of touch?

Surrender in the context of bodywork can be a powerful act of volition and a profound choice for self-care. When both body and mind are given space-enough and feel safe-enough to relax their holding, what emerges can be profound.

Data analysis of feedback from receivers of Thai yoga massage suggests common factors in their described experiences, including ‘lightness’, ‘fluidity’ and a profound sense of wellbeing.

Given the inextricable connection between body and mind, sensitive and holistic bodywork can be an excellent support to the talk therapy process.

The more we are able to be present in the moment, the greater our potential for connection - with ourselves, with others, and with all that is.

Those of us who work with people therapeutically in any way, are working with the whole person - whether we recognise it or not.

Our minds can become clearer through noticing the body, enabling us to arrive in the present moment.

When we give more than (or different to) what is asked for, who is that really for?

Our hands could at once be seen as the most practical and the most revealing part of our body.