A FORMER chapel has been transformed into a hub providing services for the community.

Based in the Libanus Chapel, in Blackwood, Libanus Lifestyle is using the space for many activities, including “complementary” therapies such as mindfulness, yoga or reflexology.

Andrew Lewis, who offers sessions on mindfulness, guided relaxation and meditation, said the therapy room has only been in their existing shape for the past four to five months.

He said: “Libanus Lifestyle bought the chapel about two years and got grants to carry out works. It was a dark and dingy place and we are slowly bringing light into it.

“When we became aware of the plans for this building, it was clear how this could benefit the community.

“We have seen the benefits from these therapies, but there is not that much on offer anywhere else in the Blackwood area.”

He added: “I think it would be wonderful if people would realise how many things they can do for their own health and wellbeing that doesn’t involve GPs. We provide alternatives that can provide benefits to their lives. We can help people reduce their stress level and improve the quality of their lives, for example.

“We are always made aware of the dangers of smoking and drinking. Stress can damage the body in so many ways as well.”

Mr Lewis said what they do is “far more than a job” and that they are all committed to what they do to make a difference to people’s lives. He said people often come to relaxation or meditation thinking they will have an “out of body experience” – but that relaxation is about listening to what your body has to say.

He said relaxation is a “chill out session”, while mindfulness involves working out the mind.

“I often described the mind as restless puppy – your mind is very busy all the time,” he continued. “Mindfulness is practicing the techniques that allow you to train that restless puppy. In mindfulness, we are doing a job.

“The moment you feel anxious, if you can focus on slowing your breath down, your thoughts will be clearer.”

Mr Lewis said that, when practicing relaxation is important to “let go this business of being good at something” because “it is only when you allow yourself to be that the body can start to get together with the mind”.

Sarah Winstone, of Brynmawr, is one of the people who has benefited from complementary therapies.

The 33-year-old, who has a general anxiety disorder and an obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), said she has been offered medication by her GP a few times, but that she preferred to try alternatives.

“I have been coming for a few years and now I don’t feel I need any medication,” she said. “I use the strategies Andrew has taught me to cope. I used to have panic attacks and felt I could never relax.

“My mind was racing all the time and I would not go on holidays because I was afraid something bad would happen, for example.”

The mum of one said that having reflexology really helps her as well.

“It is the first time in a very long time I sit still and my mind is also still,” she said. “I am in a better place now thanks to these therapies. It helps me keep my anxiety under control.”

Petrena Talbott offers reflexology, aromatherapy and Indian head massage at the centre, among others.

“Having reflexology de-stresses people,” said Ms Talbott. “They go into a state of relaxation.”

Yoga teacher Anna Campbell, who does two lessons a week in the former chapel, said yoga can also help people as it links the body with the mind.

Ms Campbell said: “People disregard their bodies, they walk around as if they don’t belong to them.

“Your body is always speaking with you. Yoga is a fantastic system for your wellbeing.”

Former mayor of Caerphilly County Borough Leon Gardiner has seen the benefits of these therapies as well, saying relaxation has helped him change his attitude towards life.

“I think what they provide here is marvellous,” he said. “We take many things for granted, but you should look after your body.

“We can’t let go of an opportunity like this.”

The centre also has plans for a museum reflecting the history of the borough.

Anyone who has any memorabilia about the area, can get in touch with Mr Lewis on 01495 221400, 0790 8705982 or email andrew@libanuslifestyle.co.uk

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