So, it turns out I'm not so great at blogging!!!
Although it's been quite a year:
I was due to complete my Clinical Hypnotherapy Diploma in July this year but, unfortunately Covid-19 had other ideas.
No one could have imagined just how much our lives would be affected by this previously unknown virus. Obviously, face-to-face teaching stopped completely, to keep us all safe and reduce the risk of spreading the horrific disease.
Our tutor, Angela, liaised with the General Hypnotherapy Standards Council (GHSC/GHR) and the governing body of the Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council) (CNHC) to have the course ratified to enable her to deliver the training over the internet (who had even heard of Zoom before?) However, as a group, we decided that we all worked (and learned) best in person, so we waiting until lockdown was eased.
Going back into the classroom was so different, but so is life, at the moment: No more welcoming hugs, hands on treatments, sitting close to each other etc. However we managed - it was just lovely to see each other after so many months.
Luckily, for me, I haven't been affected as much as others, I haven't been furloughed or "stuck at home", as most people have.
I think most of us underestimated just how much we need human contact. It has shown us just what we mean to each other, and how precious life is.
The fragility of our mental health has been highlighted and accepted more than ever before. Anxiety and depression have been exacerbated or even experienced for the first time. I'm glad that we have been able to share and talk about it, rather than the usual British "stiff upper lip".
We definitely have recognised that we need to take care of each other!
As a nurse in the NHS I was needed more that ever. I work within the community so, in addition to my usual role, I have become somewhat of a social contact for many patients who haven't been able to see anyone else, including their families. This has been such a consolation to all.
On the flip side to that, though, it also meant that I couldn't see my own family or friends. No more going out for lunch, popping 'round for coffee and a catch up etc.
Trying to keep up communication my elderly parents, who are both deaf, through the dining room window each week, has been challenging to say the least. Particularly for my Mum, who has dementia so could not understand/remember why I was sat outside, in the garden, shouting at her through the window. Thank goodness for support bubbles!
So, back to me becoming a Clinical Hypnotherapist - the end is near: Next weekend will be the final weekend, only 4 months late. But, as they say, better late than never!