Bach Flower Remedies
Early in the 20th century, a London doctor and homeopath, Dr.Edward Bach made a study of his patients and concluded that harmful emotions, such as despair or fearfulness, could lead to physical disease. Convinced that flowers could affect one's state of mind, and familiar with homeopathic law of potentization (diluting doses repeatedly to limit their potential to cause side-effects or that the more some substances are diluted the more potent they can become), Dr.Bach developed his Flower Remedies.
He identified these by holding his hand over each flower in the belief that he could intuitively discern its healing properties. By 1936, Bach's remedies were being made commercially.
Bach Flower practitioner - Jennie Austin
Jennie Austin has been trained as a Bach Flower practitioner for over 18 years and currently lives and works in the Scottish Highlands. As well as treating patients she also runs training courses. Jennie's website can be viewed at - www.jennieaustin.com
The Interview
Name - Jennie Austin
Location - Now Highlands, but did live in Avon at the time of my training
Family - None at home now, had my step daughter at home when training
How did you become a Bach Flower practitioner? What is your background?
Personal experience and benefits - I was already a therapist and a dog groomer! I found it complemented both, so decided to train as a practitioner and then as a teacher.
What exactly does Bach Flower treatment involve?
Consultation with the patient - assessing which remedies would suit the state of mind, make up the treatment bottle with 2 drops of each selected remedy (4 if using the Rescue Remedy) in a bottle of pure water (30mls dropper bottle amber) Instructions are to take 4 drops at least 4 times a day - 1st thing, last thing and twice more during the day... and any more times as required. More is not necessarily better unless required... so drinking the whole bottle would not cause a problem or benefit! For emergencies 4 drops of the rescue remedy can be taken neat on the tongue. When taking the drops it is beneficial to hold them in the mouth and be aware of them being absorbed into the system.
Remedies can also be "broadcast" at a distance, though I do not think that this is recognised by the Bach Foundation! I like the patient to have the bottle as this involves them in their own treatment, rather than being totally passive.
What sort of problems/issues do clients normally have when they come to you for help/therapy?
Low self esteem, anger, worry, fears and phobias, panic attacks, stress, procrastination, jealousy, compulsivesness, nervousness, bossiness, lost their direction, possessivness, fear for others, shock, bereavement, set backs, adjusting to change, rigid ways, loss of focus and concentration, exhausted physically and/or mentally, resentment...any negative state of mind.
What/Where was your training? How long did it take overall?
Most of my training was studying at home, I then had to attend the Bach Centre in Oxon for 4 days for the practitioner training and then again for the teachers certification.
How did training fit round your children?
Luckily I had my mum nearby so she looked out for my daughter when I studied for the practitioner course and she was already on a YTS scheme when I attended the teacher training.
Roughly, how much did your training cost?
It was back in 1988 - so I can't remember! (M&W note - A course now can cost anywhere from £500 - £900.)
Where do you carry out your work?
I live in the Highlands of Scotland and work mostly from home - also by post, email or phone.
Do you need lots of specialist equipment?
A set of Bach Flower Remedies.... 38 plus the Rescue Remedy. Treatment bottles.
How many hours do you work a week?
It varies.
How does the job fit round your family life?
Very well, as many people like out of hours appointments. Also easy to do over the phone etc.
How do you find clients - do you advertise?
Yellow pages, personal recomendation, connections from a book I wrote on Reiki.
What is the earning potential?
£20-£30 an hour... I combine it with my other therapies. Would be more down south and way more in London!
Do you think it is a job that fits in well with being a Mum?
Yes it did - also helped with family situations... my husband was killed when my daughter was only 12 years old... helps at all stages of life, particularly when your children are teenagers!
Do you think you have to have any special qualities (in terms of personality) to become a Bach Flower practitioner?
A desire to help others, the basics of being a practitioner, able to keep a secret, to listen and encourage patients to talk about their feelings. Some knowledge on how to run a business ... so many therapists fail because they are not good business people.
Any advice for a Mum or Dad wanting to start training?
Go for it! There are many self-study courses availavble, and individual teachers like myself. I run courses throughout the year and can be contacted on 07071 226898 for further information.
Dr Bach created the remedies for "the man (woman!) in the street" he wanted to help everyone.. they are useful even if just for family use.
Useful Links
www.britinsthom.comwww.tessajordan.co.ukwww.concerningpeople.co.uk
Role of the Week
The Signing Company
Location: UK Wide
The Signing Company is a Deaf led company that has been created to provide sign language opportunities for all. With sign language now being a valuable and sought-after tool to enrich communication...
Find out More
