A little about me and why I’m so passionate about what I do…
I’m Iris Rose (yes I need a better photo – it’s coming). Lover of cats, herbs and foraging, yarn and music. Mother and grandmother. Intersectional feminist and witch, with an interest in shamanic practice.
Diagnosed as autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) in my late 40s, the signs were certainly there when I was a child. I’ve had a deep interest in plants, mythology and the land around me for as long as I can remember. The inter-weaving of traditional practices and the stories that people tell from across the world have always fascinated me.
I’m a musician and have a very varied love of music that spans very many genres. My primary instrument is recorder (something I’m very proud of, as it’s a much maligned instrument!). I was studying for a Diploma at the age of 15 (having already completed grade 8). I can play various other instruments and “came to” playing percussion at school (due to the lack of percussionists and the recorder being a non-orchestral instrument).
I’ve been making and blending oils, balms, etc., for many years and create my own infused oils to use, eg. calendula and mugwort. I then use these as bases for blending with essential oils.
However, I didn’t start my “official” training as a complementary therapist until my 30s. The birth of my youngest son led to me re-assessing what I wanted to do work-wise and, as my mother was a clinical reflexologist and aromatherapist (now retired), it was a path that I already had an interest in.
My experience of navigating life as an autistic woman with ADHD colours my approach to supporting others through the particular challenges that we may face.
In addition, I’m diagnosed with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (a chronic pain condition that means that at times my mobility is impaired). My training in anatomy, physiology and various therapies has done much to support me in understanding my body and what I can do to better manage the condition. Occasionally I need to take a sabbatical to rest and recharge.
So, it is from personal (as well as professional) experience that I know the importance of taking time for yourself, but also how crucial it is to access good support. This is why I have embarked on various professional development to ensure that I continue to improve upon the services that I offer to you!
The ongoing evolution of my practice is further developing my passion for supporting women and people who identify otherwise than female, who may need support because they have (or may have had) a uterus (and/or ovaries) through the ebb and flow of the cycles that we may experience throughout our lives.
Certifications
- VTCT Level 4 Complementary Therapies (ADipCT VTCT) – Advanced massage techniques (including pregnancy), Reflexology (including pregnancy and facial) and Aromatherapy
- VTCT Level 3 Complementary Therapies (HDipCT VTCT) – Swedish Massage, Reflexology (Feet & Hands) and Aromatherapy
- Maternity Reflexology (Suzanne Enzer Maternity Consortium): Pre-Conception; Pregnancy (including First Trimester), Postnatal; Infant Reflexology; Endocrine (hormone) balancing; Reflexology Lymphatic Technique.
- Advanced Facial Reflexology: Bergman Method/London School of Reflexology
- Pregnancy Massage: Mama Baby Bliss – covering pregnancy, labour and postnatal massage
- Facial Cupping: Ziggie Bergman/London School of Reflexology
- Zone Face Lift: Ziggie Bergman/London School of Reflexology
- Weleda Signature Massage: plus various in-house training with Weleda (eg over the counter natural medicines)
- SAC Diploma (Foot Health Practitioner – Advanced)
- VTCT Level 2 Beauty Therapy (DipBT VTCT)
Additional Training & CPD
- Mizan Therapy: Traditional reproductive healing techinques
- Closing The Bones (sacred wrapping) with Sophie Messager
- Various aromatherapy: Penny Price Academy – covering menopause; pregnancy, labour and postnatal; etc
- Indian Head Massage
- Professional Diploma in Sound Therapy: BAST – theory & practice; gongs; Himalayan Bowls; Therapeutic Percussion; Drum Massage; Drum Journeys; Himalayan Bowl (on body) and more.
Continual – too much to list! Usually centred around reproductive health, including menstruation, peri-menopause and menopause, pregnancy and postpartum.
I look forward to working with you!
