SAVING the planet and improving bodies is at the forefront of an alternative store in Risca. ELIZABETH BIRT went to The Raven’s Nest to find out more about the holistic therapies and planet-saving products on offer.

LOCATED at the heart of Tredegar Street, the main shopping street in Risca, The Raven’s Nest is a unique shop that caters to those who want to save the planet, improve their own health and wellbeing – or even practice the occult and witchcraft.

When it first opened the the shop offered upcycling old furniture, but owner Rae decided this was not the best venture for her.

“I have had the shop for a number of years now and I did use it for upcycling but that was not for me," she said. "So, I went back and refreshed my therapy training.”

At the back of the shop is a therapy room which is in the process of being finished, where Rae will be able to practice her therapy techniques on clients.

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Some of the silver jewelry on offer. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk

She will have spaces for Reiki sessions, Shamanic session, angel healing, Indian head massage, tarot reading and shakra sessions.

“The basis of the shop is wellbeing and empowerment," she said. "I want to raise awareness of being kind to the environment and promoting the wellbeing of the whole individual – the mind, body and spirit.”

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Rae at The Raven's Nest. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk

A practicing Shamanic witch, Rae sells a wide range of products from herbal teas, incense sticks, loose herbs to fair trade clothing.

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“I don’t just sell the items, I know and personally use the items and by coming to me, people will be able to get guidance and be able to find their own path," she said.

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Plastic free bath bombs. Picture: www.christinsleyphotography.co.uk

“It’s about embracing the wellbeing of the spirit, including cleansing the body of evil and finding a path that allows you to be who you are most comfortable being.

“We stock products that have holistic properties, that are used in Pagan rituals, witchcraft and are plastic free, vegan and good for the planet and our bodies. It is all natural.”

Despite only opening in December last year, the shop has attracted a strong client base in the town, from further afield in the Valleys and from places including Bristol and Bath.

“We’ve had a fantastic response and the fact people are travelling from places like Bristol shows the need for shops like mine," said Rae.

“There have been some emotional moments when people have come in and have been in tears with how relieved they are that I have opened up. One lady came in in tears and thanked me for opening as she thought she was the only practicing witch around.

“Others have come in just to find out some information about the different paths they can follow and how to find the one that is right for them.”

You can find out more from https://www.facebook.com/The-Ravens-Nest-576315522806488/