Pip Oxlade

Tell us about yourself.
Hi, my name is Pip. I am a Practitioner, Facilitator and Teacher of various stress relieving techniques that assist you to rejuvenate and feel like new. My base is Corrielea house Retreat in Cambridge, a wonderful historical villa with spa that lends itself perfectly to guest stays and my relaxation therapies and workshops.

My husband John and I were born in Surrey, England and moved here over 2 years ago following my dream really. We both felt that we should take a great opportunity and start a fresh. This actually looks so simple when I read back, but it has not been a straight forward ride at all- quite the opposite -mainly for those we have left behind and the emigration system here (did I mention the emigration system!)

Prior to this life, I had worked for 20 years as a Midwifery Sister and a Registered nurse in the public health system which gave me amazing life experience and personal insight- one that can only be taught by experiencing. In 1997 I started on my personal journey to find the answer to life- ‘WHY'- You know- why this? why that? why ME?

I was introduced to Reiki Healing. I then learnt Reiki and now teach it alongside my meditation and lots of other yummy techniques. Reiki is a wonderful life technique that is the basis to most techniques on offer today as it has been around for over 3000 years. It is a self healing system that integrates all aspects of the mind, body and inner spirit and is great when you feel stressed as it has an inner focus and works with the breath of life.

What's the most important thing people should know about your approach to your professional work?
I love interaction with people and am passionate about what I can do to assist people to de-stress, refocus and re-energize themselves. I have a very good ethical understanding as I have been a service provider all my working life (I am now 43- eeks) with a great record.

My main focal point is you the client, meeting your individual needs and providing you with an excellent experience that you can easily relate to.

Why are you involved in the "help me to heal" programme?
I am thrilled to be involved especially as Healing techniques are being more and more accepted by the medical establishment as an essential component by clients as part of their recovery program. For too long the connection between the mind, body and spirit has been segregated and we are at the forefront of it becoming the normal and the way to be. In the UK healing was implemented into the NHS a few years back and it has been found to be very successful when used with cancer clients as it brings a peace a deeper understanding and a wonderful connection with self.

What do you hope people will gain from your involvement in the programme?
My passion, my interest and great enthusiasm for life. I love to laugh and I love to live. I lost my mum at the age of 47 to Cancer (I was 12), she had fought cancer for 5 years. I have had dealings with other close family members with cancer too. But I choose to focus on the gifts that my life has given me, not the loses (too big ah) through all this and I have been fortunate to care for others in this situation which is such an honor in itself. You may feel lost or at rock bottom but I hope I can shine a little light in some way.

Is there anything you expect of people in the programme?
I have no expectations at all. If you would like to experience a blissful experience a Reiki session can help ease tension and stress, and can help support the body to facilitate healing on all levels- physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. A session is pleasant and relaxing and is often utilized for one's own personal wellness, not just illness.

Reiki is a spiritual healing art. It is not massage nor is it based on belief or suggestion. There is no need to get undressed, just wear comfy clothing as you will be able to relax better, and I will give you Reiki either lying or sitting - whichever is more comfortable for you.

Reiki is:
A subtle and effective form of energy healing using spiritually guided life force energy
Practiced in every country of the world
Being used in many settings including hospitals, hospices, private practices and in self-care
It is a wonderful complementary modality in a personal wellness or healing program

Please list your relevant qualifications and roles:
I am a Reiki Master Teacher and Meditation teacher, a Crystal therapist, Indian Head Masseuse. I run stress relieving workshops and use color and sound techniques. I also am a Qualified Midwife and Nurse (not practicing)

What do you do for fun?
We love Rock and Roll dancing each week and some weekends and have a great laugh as I love letting go and clowning around (drives John crazy). I have realized that I have always turned to music since I was young and expressed myself in this way to de-stress ‘Shaking the stuff off that just wants to cling on!'

I love to walk in the park, love my friends, love to have a good meal and a glass or two. I also love a thrill and love Roller coasters (hate heights), love challenges!

What's your funniest experience in your healing role?
I guess the funniest session was with a guy who had come along for the first time who was feeling down. Something tickled him (not me) and he laughed and laughed and laughed. He laughed so much that it continued for the whole time and continued even as he stood on the doorstep whilst doing up his shoes! I said to him that it was a great bit of advertising for me as I am sure word would get around if he continued!

What makes you laugh ?
People being care free and funny silly. I love to see a funny old slap stick film as they also bring back happy childhood memories, particularly Norman Wisdom.

I think I was born with a silly smile on my face - must have known what life had in store - ‘Here I come - may as well smile about it!'. I have no problem having fun.

Website: www.relaxwithpip.co.nz