Sharon Gelber's World

Just moved to Melbourne

2011-08-21T13:18:00.003+02:00

We have recently (with in the last 3 weeks) moved to Melbourne. On a personal note, this is very exciting seeing as we now have a house with a garden (and fruit trees), so there is plenty of space for all of us to spread out and run around! It is so different from Sydney and I am taking some time to acclimatize to the cold as well as the flat-ness of the city. Living in suburbia is quite a new sensation and I miss the beach and the nature reserve desperately. I am planning to be working soon as an OT and as a BodyTalk therapist, so will keep every one posted as things get under way!

Melbourne Workshops

2010-10-12T08:15:00.005+02:00

I am putting on my other hat, as 'creative workshop facilitator' as we head down to Melbourne for the next few days.

Gary Friedman, Master puppeteer and myself are teaming up once more, to conduct 2 workshops. Click here for a video experience at primary schools, here for high schools and here for university workshops. The first will be a 2 hour workshop on Thursday, 14 October at the InSEA conference providing visual arts educators with a taste of our work.

The second is a full day 'World of Paper' Creativity Workshop on Saturday, 16 October from 9am to 5pm. The workshop will take movement and story telling to the most elaborate ends. Our work using paper puppetry is designed to activate the brain, tantalize the senses to enable creative thought and performance at participants' peak ability. This workshop is ideal for teachers, university students, professionals, therapists, creatives and lion tamers. Places are $150 (all inclusive) and limited so if you are keen to join us, call The Book Affair now to reserve your place: 03-9347.3542 Look forward to having you join us for a wildly creative day!

BODYTALK MODULE 1 & 2 SUCCESS!

2010-03-10T02:35:00.002+02:00

We have just had a fabulous 4 day workshop here in Sydney, with Rosilyn Kinnersley (Victoria BT Instructor). The best part of having run this course in our home turf is that I now have BodyTalk trainees that can work on me!!!! How good is that...

It is fantastic that the BodyTalk population is increasing and that we will be able to spread our good work through this lovely city.

Contact me if you would like to experience a session or are interested in training.

BRAIN GYM Workshop: 14 March

2010-02-18T13:31:00.003+02:00

I am running the next Brain Gym workshop on 14 March 2010. I am being hosted by the Australian College of Kinesiology Mastery. This one day workshop is aimed at Kinesiology students, teachers, parents and all those interested in achieving optimal learning and body-brain activaton. Click here for workshop details. Enrol using this registration form.

MODULE 1 & 2: BODYTALK in Sydney

2010-02-18T13:04:00.004+02:00

5-8 March 2010: Fantastically, I have the opportunity to bring BODYTALK MODULE 1 & 2 to Sydney. Rosilyn Kinnersley a Victorian BodyTalk practitioner and Instructor is coming up to run the course. We are being hosted by Australian College of Kinesiology Mastery in Crows Nest. Click here for registration details. Learn more about the Bodytalk sessions, here. Have a look at some BodyTalk videos, here.

Next Access Course

2009-10-12T13:51:00.004+02:00

The next Access course will be held on the 22 of November, 2009.
The venue will be at my offices in Randwick:
Level 4 Wales Medical Centre
66 High st
Randwick
Sydney.
Cost of the 1-day course is $180, including manual, certificate, teas and snacks.
Time: 9:30-5 pm
I am excited to be running the course in the Eastern Suburbs. For the first time it will be really easy to have consistent practice sessions close by to where I live. I believe that will make a world of difference to every one practicing and incorporating this work into their lives.

BodyTalk at the Mind Body Spirit Festival

2009-10-12T00:52:00.009+02:00

Once again, November is around the corner, and so is the Mind Body Spirit Festival (5-8 Nov). BodyTalk will once again have a stand to promote this fascinating and profound work. The public will have the opportunity to experience first hand Access treatments, have all their questions answered and book into our next 1 day BodyTalk Access workshop (22 Nov). This year, we have an exciting new tool to show-case the effectiveness of the BodyTalk treatments. We have bought a state of the art Prognos machine which will be used to scientifically plot pre- and post- treatment energy levels. The machine will be available at the expo as well as at future workshops. Once you have seen the difference in your energy, you will be hooked on BodyTalk forever!

BodyTalk interview answers questions

2009-10-12T00:42:00.005+02:00

Please consult the PureCalma Website, and find a comprehensive BodyTalk interview here. Many basic questions about the BodyTalk system, treatments and outcomes will be answered.

Bodytalk at the Natural Health Conference and Expo

2009-08-26T12:39:00.004+02:00

Please come visit the BodyTalk stand at the Natural Health Conference and Expo, taking place at the AJC Convention Centre, Randwick, Sydney, 2-4 September.

The Natural Health Conference and Expo is Australia’s foremost trade event for complementary healthcare professionals, naturopaths, beauty therapists, pharmacists and health food retailers.

An integral part of the event this year is the two-day conference with four different topics covered extensively:

Fertility – Gabriela Rosa, Zac Bobrov, Cassandra Woolett
Allergies/Colds - speakers include Christine Houghton, Daniel Baden, Shazar Robinson, Nadine Ferlan
Cancer – Jennie Burke, Dr Karen Bridgman. Annie Wiseman
Menopause – Brad McEwen, Dr Ghosh, Dr Wachasundar

Baby Bliss

2009-08-26T11:41:00.004+02:00

Well this year has certainly been the most exhilarating experience! Having a baby has definitely challenged me in so very many ways, and this is just the beginning! Idan was born on the 12th of April, and is healthy, strong and full of laughs and smiles... we are truly blessed! I have started working again, so if you are interested in continuing your sessions, or starting up on a journey, working with one of the most exciting healthcare systems around... please contact me, here or call me 0405 026 183.

BABY TIME..ANY DAY NOW!!

2009-03-25T10:36:00.002+02:00

How exciting!!! It is almost palpable.. The time is coming near for us to bring my baby into the world... Can't wait! I have been blessed with the most gorgeous pregnancy: Health and good spirits throughout!! VIVA pregnancy VIVA!!
Look forward to bringing you all some pics once he has joined us.
For any of those 'facebook' junkies, Gary has been putting up pictures on my profile so have a look at my belly... I guess that is not terribly professional, but what the hell... might as well spread the love and blessings
...Till we meet in cyberspace again...
love sharon

Happy New Year and De-stressing for the year ahead!

2009-01-04T06:34:00.006+02:00

Happy, Happy New Year and may this year bring everyone great happiness, health and wealth!

On Thursday 29 January, I will be presenting at the Wholistic Business Network: Demystifying the physiology behind stress in our brain and body; as well as teaching one of the most powerful tools to de-stress the brain and reset the survival-fight-flight mechanism.

The evening plans to be both informative as well as a super way to meet like-minded, enthusiastic entrepreneurs, all working together for a healthier and more creative community here in Sydney.

There will be other speakers as well on the night, so come along and join in the fun!
Click here for details about the night... See you there!

International BodyTalk Conference held at Gold Coast, Australia

2008-12-18T10:53:00.010+02:00

Well I have recently come back from a fabulous few days at the first Australasian Members and Instructors BodyTalk Conference! Thank goodness John and Esther Veltheim (Founders of the BT System) saved us the trip to the States earlier this year and offered 'Down Under', our very own grand experience!

I was once again thrilled to be meeting up with John and Esther, a dynamic duo- filled with great insight into the latest developments in Energy Medicine and Philosophy.

We also had some fabulous speakers giving us new ideas into working with breaking down belief systems and emotions that tend to rule our reactions to the outside world; Body Talk with animals; BT in drug rehab as well as marketing advise. John gave us the latest research into epi-genetics and our ability to shift genetic tendencies. 2009 presents with opportunities to implement a great many research projects around the world, highlighting the effectiveness of the BT System. Esther worked with us on highlighting and breaking down our own preconceived judgements and survival-based reactivities.

The instructors meeting was very beneficial in gaining greater consistency with in our courses and highlighting changes to enhance our course work and presentations.

All in all it was fabulous to meet up with my colleagues from national Australia and NZ and continue networking to make BodyTalk in Australasia a significant force to be reckoned with in the health care and personal development industry.

Here John and Esther are enjoying my growing babe!

Teacher Training

2008-11-18T09:26:00.015+02:00

With the new year's preparations taking place as I type, I am being asked to be part of numerous teacher training days throughout the greater Sydney region. This is a fantastic opportunity for teachers to start the year with some great practical ideas to motivate their students and provide themselves and their students with fun and powerful ways to make their studying easier and less stressful. I am putting together some exciting programs, including techniques from my favourite therapies: Occupational Therapy, Brain Gym and BodyTalk to provide some punch, pizazz, yahoo and wow to teaching and learning! This is definitely one of my loves and passions: running trainings packed with fun and easy tools to make school a place where teachers and students want to be!

Contact me here if you would like my training to be part of your schools' 2009 program.

Please note: I have specialized workshops geared for Pre-primary, Primary and High Schools.
Click here to see some of my international Brain Gym workshops, here for BodyTalk workshops and unfortunately I don't have any footage of my Occupational Therapy workshops which were so popular in Cape Town, South Africa. I am so thrilled to be bringing all my ideas to my new home, Sydney Australia.

Together For Humanity

2008-11-18T08:35:00.009+02:00

This past Monday I had the great pleasure to work with a wonderfully dynamic non governmental organisation, Together for Humanity. This organisation works on inter-faith issues with in the Australian school system. When ever I have the chance, I act as a presenter together with members of other faith groups to challenge our Aussie students on issues of race, stereotypes, tolerance, judgement and cultural acceptance. We play games and tell stories which make them reflect on their belief systems and embark on a journey of being part of a million good deeds happening throughout the country. We run 'Australians Together in Values' and 'Goodness and Kindness' workshops to inspire students to work Together for Humanity. It is wonderfully fun and fulfilling work and I have met some fantastically inspirational colleagues. Donna Jacobs Sife, my dear friend and story teller is one of the wonderful presenters with whom I work. Please go onto the home page of The Together for Humanity's website to see some footage of the kind of work that this great organisation is involved in. Unfortunately due to privacy reasons, I am unable to show you footage or photos from the workshops that I am personally involved in.

BodyTalk Access Workshop in Orange

2008-11-16T01:21:00.038+02:00

This weekend I conducted a BodyTalk Access Workshop in a little town, Orange, about four-hours drive west of Sydney in country New South Wales. This is the first time that the Access Workshop has been offered west of Sydney and was met with a great positive reaction by the participants. My thanks go to Carolyn Foxall who organised the workshop and hosted us in her home. Welcome to Anne Mitchell, a BodyTalk therapist who has recently moved from New Zealand, who joined in the activities. Above is a short film of the fun workshop. Enjoy!
We also have a brand new You Tube Channel dedicated to BodyTalk Access Workshops here!

While in Orange, I was invited to work with one of the largest pre-schools in the district combining a workshop teaching parents and teachers a combination of techniques including BodyTalk, Brain Gym and Occupational Therapy. This is something I hope to expand on next year.

My next BodyTalk Access Workshop will take place on Sunday 23 November in Crows Nest, Sydney. There are still a few places open to those interested in participating. If you are interested, then contact me here!

BodyTalk at Mind Body Spirit 2008

2008-11-13T14:20:00.009+02:00

This past weekend, Sydney BodyTalk had a stand at the Mind Body Spirit Festival 2008 in Darling Harbour. The public were exposed to our state of the art healing modality and had the chance to experience first-hand the calming and balancing effects of these techniques. Following the success of this weekend, two new Australian workshops have been organised, the first being this Saturday 15 November in Orange, NSW and another on Sunday 23 November in Crows Nest (Sydney).

On 4 December at 7.30pm I will also be holding a public Body Talk introductory lecture at The Southern Cross Academy of Light, Centre for Spiritual Growth, at Camperdown Branch, First floor, 176 Parramatta Road, Camperdown.

For further information on any of the workshops or my lecture, you can contact me here!

Private sessions in Randwick at PPFC

2008-06-02T02:25:00.003+02:00

As you may have noticed, my clinic address has changed. When I am not working at Learning Links Preschool, I have the pleasure and honour of joining a passionate and fabulous team of Physio Therapists in Randwick, under one of Sydney's most prominent and well established Physio Therapists: Francine St George. Together with state of the art Physio techniques, they offer a holistic approach to health, healing and fitness. Check out their website here! I will be working at the practice on Monday and Fridays.

As well as seeing children for Occupational Therapy, I am offering my 'BodyTalk' and Kinesiology services for their Physio clients... Read all about it below...

Stress: As you well know, a lot of our physical symptoms, pain and injuries have an emotional/mental/ psychological component. This is where my skills really complement the Physios. If you have a sense that you are under stress (work, sport, relationship), or have emotional issues (eg: fear, worry, anxiety) or belief systems ("I cant break through my.... limitation"; "there's no way i can...") that are hampering your improvement; my work really assists in reducing stress and dealing with general or specific issues that are preventing optimal performance, functioning and/or healing.

In sports injury: My work facilitates healing, increased blood flow, lymphatic drainage, re-establishing musculo-skeletal balance, reduction in swelling etc...

Before sports events: I often work with assisting clients achieve their peak mental and physical alertness, focus, balance and coordination. If each of the body's systems is activated and balanced optimally, performance is enhanced exponentially.

During sports events: I also have a technique where we can do time-release sessions: For instance, we can set up your system that at a certain time during a sports event, a set of techniques can kick into effect, re-boosting energy, relieving muscle fatigue, re-balancing the brain, re-balancing hormonal system etc.. what ever is needed for your specific body.

Pre & post operative: I have done quite a lot of work with clients pre & post operatively. Surgeons and doctors are amazed at the speed of recovery, healing and rehabilitation when we have worked before and after the operation to prepare the body for surgery.

Daily techniques: I also have some fantastic self help tricks to teach you to do on a daily basis for maintaining your peak performance and health.

Address:
Physiotherapy, Posture & fitness Clinic
Wales Medical Centre
Level 4
66 High Street
Randwick NSW 2031

BODYTALK ACCESS ONE-DAY WORKSHOP IN SYDNEY on 18 May

2008-05-06T06:35:00.008+02:00

There are only a few places left for our exciting one-day BodyTalk Access Workshop in Sydney on 18 May 2008!
Five simple energy-based techniques to stimulate the body’s own ability to regain and maintain a healthy body/mind balance, given by Sharon Gelber, OT, BodyTalk Access Trainer and practitioner, Brain Gym Instructor and Kinesiologist.

On completion of the course you will have:
* A thorough understanding of 5 energy based techniques.
* Knowledge of how to use these techniques for Fast Aid, restore
mental focus, boost the immune system, reduce stress & balance the body.
* A comprehensive manual of these techniques
* A simple & natural method of augmenting the body’s own ability to heal itself - addressing many common ailments.

To see a sample video clip of this exciting workshop, check it out here!
For more information and bookings, contact me here!

Working at Learning Links Pre-School

2008-04-23T08:03:00.007+02:00

I have the wonderful good fortune to be working three days a week at Learning Links Pre-School. My private therapy sessions will continue on Monday and Fridays (and possibly some Saturdays if I still have the energy) in the Eastern suburbs.

Learning Links is an Australian charity and non-profit organisation formed to help children who have learning disabilities, difficulties and developmental delays. Family support has a huge role to play as well.

They have numerous therapy projects with in the Sydney community. I will be working as part of the Early Childhood Services, which helps children from birth to six years, including children who have a disability or are at risk of a developmental delay. This includes children who have difficulty learning because of a diagnosed disability such as Down Syndrome, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, ADD or Dyspraxia. Children whose development is delayed due to prematurity, birth trauma, hearing loss or other risk factors are also included. I will be working at their preschool facility which has at least 30% special needs kids. I will be working in the classrooms alongside the teachers to ensure the children consistently learn in their play environment. In this way, I am able to make adjustments to the structure of the class or the activity or game to allow for optimal learning and socialising. A large part of my job will also involve teacher, parent and community training. I hope to bring all my knowledge and techniques from my various therapy disciplines into the work. The school is a model for inclusive education, so there are continuously volunteers and students spending time there, providing a great forum for me to share my knowledge. What a blessing to be part of this team!... This organisation is well known for its high quality of work and community enrichment.. It will be a privilege to work with them!

Change of date: Access Workshop

2008-04-21T01:37:00.005+02:00

To all those who are interested in the Access Workshop, Please note that I have changed the date to SUNDAY 18 May. This will allow all those working on Saturday or involved in their childrens' sports to attend. Looking forward to another fabulous workshop!! Please contact me for registration and for more info: 0405 026 183. info@sharongelber.com. For a taste of the workshop, click here.
Registering on line can be done here!
Venue: Montessori Works Pre-School, 469 Malabar Rd, Maroubra
Time: 9:30-5 pm
Cost: Aus $ 150 (incl manual and certificate)

Bruce Lipton in Sydney

2008-03-24T12:30:00.002+02:00

Bruce Lipton is coming to Sydney on 03 Apr 08.
I have been trying to get to see him for years now, and just when I am living in a city that he is visiting, I am going to be in Perth! (and missing his Perth lecture by a day too!!).. Aghh...
Please go to this lecture.. I would be there if I could!!!
The Biology of Belief: The Science of How We Create Our Lives
Sydney, Australia, Crowne Plaza Parramatta, 30 Phillip St., Parramatta.
8-9:30 pm join Dr. Bruce Lipton as he guides us on an entertaining and insightful romp through the quantum field where mind and matter meet, revealing a kaleidoscope of insights and answers into life and health. Discover what science is revealing about the connection between mind and body and it's relationship and influence on our health, vitality and success. $15. For enquiries call 045.229.588, or visit www.nzchiro.co.nz.
For more info, visit This Link

My next Bodytalk Access Workshop in Sydney

2008-03-24T03:29:00.010+02:00

Achieve optimal health in a 10 minute daily regime!!!
I am running my next Access workshop on the 18th May. It will be held in Sydney' s Eastern Suburbs. The last workshop was a huge success. You can view a snippet of the fun, here.
For registration details, please click here.
For more info about the workshop, click here.
Cost: $150 (including manual and certificate). Bring friends and family for discounts!

General Health and well-being

2008-02-18T03:18:00.013+02:00

There is no need to live with pain and distress!
Are you feeling Scattered?
Overwhelmed?
Disorganised?
Is it tough to keep up with the hectic pace of life?
Do you feel like you are not reaching your potential?
Are you anxious, unproductive or procrastinating?
Does your brain feel fogged up and congested?

Do you have headaches, back and neck pain?
Do you have allergies?
Do you have digestive complaints? (IBS, constipation, bloating, heart burn...)
Are you recovering from illness, injury or trauma?

Are you struggling with your colleagues or personal relationships?
Are there old traumatic events and emotional issues that are still blocking your way forward?

I have had 13 years of working with clients of all ages, assisting them activate their health and bring balance to their system: on a mental, physical and emotional basis. Utilizing techniques from Kinesiology, BodyTalk Therapy, Brain Gym and Energy healing as well as having a background in Occupational Therapy, we work towards optimal health and wellbeing on every level.

Working with children with difficulties

2008-02-18T02:52:00.010+02:00

Are your children struggling at school?
Are they having a tough time concen-
trating?

Is homework time a struggle?
Do they seem to be listening at all?
Are they finding reading stressful?
Are they anxious or unhappy?
Are they having difficulty in socialising?
Is exam stress debilitating?
Are they un-coordinated in their sports?

I have been in private practice for the past 13 years working with parents, teachers and children. With a background in Occupational Therapy as well as numerous natural healing therapies, I provide my clients with the skills to assist with learning and de-stressing. We work together to activate the eyes, ears, brain and body for optimal learning and school/sport/home functioning.

I run teachers and parents workshops to use these tools on a daily basis to assist their children in being productive, successful and happy!

Working with moms, dads and babies

2008-02-18T01:05:00.005+02:00

Are you having difficulty falling pregnant?
Are you overwhelmed with your hormonal/ physical and emotional changes during pregnancy?
Do you have back and body pain?
Are you confused, anxious or depressed?
Is your baby distressed?
Are you exhausted and lacking energy?
Is your immune system taking strain?
Do you need assistance in preparing for childbirth?
Do you need assistance during childbirth?
Is 'dad to be' needing some support?

If the birth was traumatic....
Do you need assistance in de-stressing you and your baby?

Once your baby is born....
Is your baby collicy? Irritable? Unsettled? Sickly?
Are you in pain?
Are your other kids finding the transition with the new baby challenging?

Back in The Land of Oz

2008-02-05T07:45:00.000+02:00

Welcome to 2008!
Hope that you have all had a fabulous break and good rest.
My trip back to South Africa was amazingly productive: Sorting out my life and possessions in that far off land, as well as spending beautiful time with my family and friends... it all seems so distant already. 2008 promises to hold fabulous jewels of opportunity. I have been visiting some local schools in Sydney, promoting both Access, Brain Gym as well as our creativity work. At present I am seeing clients at home in Maroubra. I am looking for therapy premises in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs and meeting up with supportive colleagues and creative people at large. At the same time, we are investing a lot of time into a new corporate venture... bringing puppetry and creativity into the workplace. Also on the cards is re-shooting the puppetry part of the "Looking for a Monster" documentary. With all this, as well as coming to grips with Auzy legislature, taxes, insurance etcc.... it is quite a mouth and handful.
VIVA 2008.... VIVA.. Let it bring us all the success and joy that we wish for ourselves and those we love.

Off to South Africa...

2007-12-02T11:48:00.000+02:00

Well it certainly has been a busy month!
With in 4 weeks, I have moved apartment, traveled to Melbourne, New Zealand, run my first BodyTalk workshop and now heading off to Cape Town tomorrow morning. Whilst in my ex-home, I hope to catch up with friends and sort out all my earthly possessions (still in our flat), decide on the fate of our flat (sell, rent?!?) and my car (sell?)... as well as spend a few weeks with my family on the coast. I hope to return to Sydney, with great inspiration and energy to start the new year with a blast!
Merry Xmas and Happy New Year to all....

Successful BodyTalk Access Workshop!

2007-12-02T11:42:00.000+02:00

On the 25th Nov, Sydney had its first ACCESS workshop, run by your's truly and with the assistance of my dear colleague Lilo Kunz. There were 10 participants as well as Lilo's 2 kids who participated like champions as well! Participants included therapists (working in other therapy modalities), nurses, a gardener, a couple of students and a solicitor:What a great mix! We had an absolute blast and learned tones! It was very successful and I cant wait to spread my wings and really take on Sydney next year!

Body Talk, Aukland, New Zealand

2007-11-27T12:56:00.000+02:00

I went to Aukland, New Zealand for a BodyTalk Seminar, on Traditional Chinese Medicine. Had a super lecturer Kaimi, who originally comes from a TCM background. We stayed a bit outside the heart of Aukland, but managed to get a few evenings and an extra day in the city before returning to Sydney. I have returned with some amazing new insights and lots more to study and put into practice... Fabulous and inspirational!

Airport on the sea, Aukland, NZ

2007-11-26T13:17:00.001+02:00

The airport in Aukland is right nexto the sea: Very gorgeous sight!

Aukland Harbour, from the ferry

2007-11-26T13:14:00.000+02:00

The view of the city from the ferry to Devonport is very impressive. The yachts added a very Mediterranean flavour to the whole experience.

Devonport, North Shore, Aukland, NZ

2007-11-26T13:07:00.000+02:00

I spent my free day across the bridge, on the North Shore, in the picturesque sea-side village of Devonport. With Victorian houses, art galleries, sweet smelling gardens, beautiful views of the city, interesting historical navel sites, fabulous vistas of the other islands in the surrounding sea and volcanoes: The closest being Rangitoto, it was wonderful just to meander through the streets, along the beach and climb the hills to see the views.

The Domain gardens, Aukland, NZ

2007-11-26T13:01:00.000+02:00

I spent an evening walking through the gardens with in the "Domain" and Aukland Museum.So serene and calm. Fabulous views to the North shore. Huge grounds with sport fields, flowers and tones of space to breathe... a pleasure after 3 days intensive workshop with far too much brain activation!

Night views, Aukland, NZ

2007-11-26T13:00:00.000+02:00

I spent a few hours walking around K-Road (Karangahape) had some fabulous food at Satya South Indian Restaurant. The buildings here are really beautiful, and it was a joy wondering around and snapping these photos.

Aukland Yacht Club, NZ

2007-11-26T12:58:00.001+02:00

We wondered around the yacht club by Aukland harbour: What gorgeous boats and stunning sun-set setting!!

Melbourne

2007-11-26T12:40:00.001+02:00

We spent a couple of days in Melbourne, having meetings with numerous organisations for possible work next year. Between meetings, we caught up on friends (some of whom I haven't seen since school... FACE BOOK is great for finding long lost friends!), wondered around the bustling streets, cafe districts, funky shopping galleries, China Town, alley ways bursting with restaurants and boutiques, caught a concert at the famous traveling 'Spiegeltent', walked along the river running through the city, with all the art museums and theaters on the South bank. We were there during the Spring horse racing festival, so a lot of marketing was around for those festivities. Had the most delicious Greek cakes in one of the Greek districts. Wondered around the beach area, with colourful cafes and wacky store fronts/roof tops.

'Monster' continues...in Melbourne

2007-11-26T12:29:00.001+02:00

We met up with another one of Gary's 'boys' from the documentary: Emil and his partner. He is an absolute sweet heart! We spent a few hours with them; catching up with their lives and getting them up to base with the project.

Puppeteers turned a bit rattish!!

2007-11-26T11:30:00.001+02:00

In Melbourne, we stayed with some puppeteer friends: Julia and Richard. Julia's Macbeth witches seemed to have been up to tricks in the night because both Gary and I awoke, rather rattish! ....Double, double, boil and bubble, .... eye of Newt and toe of frog... they obviously needed rat's tail I guess.

Images of Melbourne

2007-11-26T10:44:00.000+02:00

Melbourne's Arcades

2007-11-26T10:39:00.000+02:00

Melbourne's streets

2007-11-26T10:31:00.000+02:00

My first BodyTalk Workshop 'Down-Under'.

2007-11-05T07:03:00.000+02:00

Well well, it was only a matter of time before starting to set up workshops... and it has happened! On the 25th of November I am running my first BodyTalk Access course in Sydney. So sign up, and enjoy the premiere... The first Access course run in Sydney! Click here to see more about the BodyTalk System, Access and registering on line.

You Tube Fever!

2007-10-24T15:32:00.001+02:00

Yesterday we went to the launch of You Tube Australia: The latest craze in media to/for and by the masses.Well it is all a lot of fun, and we got some pretty handy cameras to play with and make more videos.. so I guess their marketing works well... with new toys around the house, I guess you will be seeing a lot more of Gary and I on You Tube.

Brain Gym in Australia

2007-10-20T08:26:00.000+02:00

I met one of the local, Sydney Brain Gym lecturers and therapists yesterday, Lucette Boyd. We seem to have tones in common, and I hope to be able to connect and work with her and her colleagues with in the next few months. It will be good to set up a work-support system here. Check out my new Brain Gym workshop film in the monitor on the right. We filmed this footage while doing workshops in South Africa, Slovenia, UK and Canada this year. The participants were middle, high school and university students and teachers, preschool teachers as well as artists and performers. I hope to be running workshops like this here in Australia.

Getting rather industrious

2007-10-18T09:02:00.000+02:00

Both Gary and I were showing off our sewing talents: mending and hemming and fixing... well I was pretty impressed... Most of these skills seem to have died out when the tech age came along.

Getting into the Aussie drinking spirit

2007-10-18T08:56:00.000+02:00

Here we are doing the pub thing! There are some fabulous micro breweries around. Drink up, mate!

Centennial Parklands

2007-10-18T08:44:00.001+02:00

There is a huge set of parks in the middle of the Eastern Suburbs: Centennial Parklands. Spending a sunny Sunday afternoon strolling through the parks, feeding birds and chilling is such a treat!

Sunset Ferry to Parramatta

2007-10-18T08:38:00.000+02:00

Balmoral Beach

2007-10-15T11:08:00.000+02:00

We spent a gorgeous afternoon taking the ferry out to Balmoral beach, a gorgeous bay.

Apartment Hunting

2007-10-09T15:02:00.000+02:00

I must admit that trying to find a home in Sydney is one of the most traumatic experiences... I have never been involved in such a ludicrous process. I can talk about it now with a smile rather than with anxiety and desperation, seeing as we were just approved for 2 lovely apartments. The one that we chose is a 5 minute walk from the beach in Maroubra, slightly south of the way too busy beaches of Bondi and Coogee. Our new suburb promises to be a warm and friendly hub of chilled out living. So thrilled that we don't have to go through another grueling week of hunting! Good luck to all other home seekers... we feel your pain!

Darling Harbour, Botanical Gardens and Mrs MacQuaries Seat

2007-10-09T14:57:00.000+02:00

The walk from Darling Harbour, to Circular Quay, the Opera House, Botanical Gardens and Mrs MacQuaries Seat to Wooloomooloo is just fabulous.

Northern Beaches

2007-10-09T14:46:00.000+02:00

We thought, seeing as we are living "up north", we might as well utilize our closeness to the Northern Beaches of Sydney. We were not disappointed. There is a range of little bays, coves and beaches which are just gorgeous. Yacht clubs, fishermen and surfers dot the landscape all the way up the coast. We made a great picnic, hopped along the rock outcrops and enjoyed the sunshine at Palm beach.

Summer and samba are here!

2007-10-09T14:36:00.000+02:00

Over two weekends, there have been latin festivals at Darling Harbour. We have supported our samba -police- queen friend, Terry, shaking her little 'tush' off, out in the sunshine, together with marimba bands, Capuera and scrumptious South American food. It is fabulous to have summer back.

Body Talk in Sydney

2007-10-09T14:25:00.000+02:00

Coming from South Africa where there is a huge Body Talk community, it is quite a challenge to come to a city where there are less than a handful of BT practitioners!! What is good, is that Sydney is certainly a hub for alternative therapies of every sort. It is just going to take some serious marketing to get Body Talk known here. I have already contacted those therapists who are here, and plan to be running Access training courses in the next couple of months... so keep an eye out and tell all your Sydney friends that I am here for sessions and training. Contact me here for more info/bookings.

FACE BOOK...Just another toy!

2007-10-09T14:14:00.000+02:00

The last 2 months I have been caught up by my latest distraction: FACE BOOK. As if I didn't have enough ways to commmunicate with the world- I now have access to old school friends, work colleagues and a range of international groups. So if you are a computer junky... and you need to touch base on yet another level, you can find me there too.

New Workshop Videos

2007-10-09T14:02:00.000+02:00

We just launched our 2007 World of Paper Workshop tour videos. These short pieces encompassing workshops for both Corporate and High Schools took place throughout Europe and Canada. Our workshops combine storytelling, performance with paper and creativity skills. Using my therapy techniques, we brought a whole new dimension to the performance side of the workshop- adding sustainable science into the mix - leaving participants with specific tools and techniques to be used in both the classroom and corporate environment, keeping them focussed, organised, de-stressed and in a most creative space.

You can watch these short films now (Corporate Promo and film and High School Promo and film) in the new video player on the right of this website. Enjoy!

We are now available for Australian bookings - both Corporate, as well as High School and Universities and international bookings for 2008. If you are interested in organising one of these workshops, or for more information, you can contact us here!

Lunar eclypse, Sydney

2007-08-28T13:58:00.000+02:00

We have had a full lunar eclipse tonight, 28 August. The whole moon went gorgeous and red. Watching it from the street in front of our new Wahroonga apartment is the first major excitement on the second day in our new spot. Surely it is a good omen for great things to come! We are now set up for the next 2 months, with plenty of space to work and live like normal people are supposed to?!? This area of Sydney, North of the city itself is lush and spacious. We live walking distance to the train station, park, shops and post office. I feel we are in a village in Europe somewhere... very cute! We went by train into the center of Sydney today. It took 45 minutes... isn't that amazing. It would be great to live permanently in such a fabulous environment: Away from the rat race, but close enough to get there for any meeting or social/cultural occasion.

Coast line of Sydney

2007-08-28T13:44:00.000+02:00

We had a gorgeous walk along a tiny piece of East coast, along the rocks from Clovelly to Gordon's Bay. Clovelly has a sheltered tidal pool, which provides safe and easy swimming to bathers: Cant wait for summer. It is just so pretty along this coast line! Luckily after having some lousy weather (rain and cold), we seem to be in for a treat for the next few days.

Friends from 'Down Under'

2007-08-28T13:41:00.001+02:00

I made my first Auzi meal for our dear friends Tom and Terry... delicious feast! Monika and her gorgeous daughter Luca joined us too. Great to be in one place to entertain again, even if for a couple of good ol' mates!

Aloha Australia

2007-08-22T08:04:00.000+02:00

Well, after an intense round the world extravaganza, we have finally docked in at Sydney, Australia mate. For a couple of days we have been setting up the normalities of life. Thank goodness we are staying with Tom, one of Gary's best friends ever! He is a darling and we love him tonnes. In a couple of days we are heading out North, to Wahroonga, where we have a flat available to us for 2 months. During that time we plan to look for our own place and start intensely collating our findings from our trip and following up on all our leads, as well as setting up further proposals and funding documents for 'Looking for a Monster'. Will keep you all updated as we go long.

Hawaii: Oahu: Byodo-in Temple

2007-08-15T07:16:00.000+02:00

The Byodo-in Temple is situated in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park, established to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. It was built entirely without the use of nails. It is a scale replica of a temple in Uji, Japan, that was constructed over 900 years ago. This temple houses a golden Buddha, that is thought to be the largest figure carved since ancient times. The gardens have ponds filled with Koi, swans and water features: Certainly tranquil away from the throngs of the tourist hype!

Hawaii: Oahu: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens

2007-08-15T06:58:00.000+02:00

We spent a few hours in the most gorgeous gardens: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens.
These are one of 5 Honolulu Botanical Gardens, stupendously situated at the base of the majestic Ko'olau mountains. Never before have I been able to compare the setting of any other botanical garden to that of Kirstenbosch in Cape Town, until now: They are both breathtakingly beautiful. This 400 acre garden includes rainforest trees and shrubs from the tropics of the world, including Hawaii and Polynesia. There is a 32-acre lake at its center, around which we meandered and picnicked.

Hawaii: Oahu: Travelling along the coast

2007-08-14T11:58:00.000+02:00

We spent a couple of hours traveling around part of the island. Most of the time we were driving right on the edge of the sea. This was mildly disconcerting, seeing as although the sea was pretty flat here, Hurricane Flossy was battering up a storm on the Big Island of Hawaii across the sea. In fact where were staying in Kailua, the winds, rain and swell was much rougher than normal. Last time this hurricane made it's mark was in 1956

Kailua Beach

2007-08-14T11:50:00.000+02:00

We stayed for a few nights in Kailua, further east on the island from Waikiki. Although it is not nearly as built up as Waikiki, with no high-rise buildings permitted, it still isn't the intimate beach experience which I would have preferred. (No that is not the house at which we stayed... pitty!)

Waikiki Beach

2007-08-14T11:48:00.005+02:00

Waikiki is generally a 'rampaging- tourist- mob' kind of beach metropolis. You wouldn't know it from these pics (though you can see the huge hotels and apartment blocks in the distance.)

Waikiki: Sunset

2007-08-14T11:48:00.001+02:00

Waikiki: Old time Hawaiin sing along

2007-08-14T11:47:00.003+02:00

We came across a group of expats, singing, strumming and dancing to the hula-beat. They enticed me to join in, for my debut hoola experience.

Waikiki: Fishing on the pier

2007-08-14T11:47:00.002+02:00

Here are Kevin and Joy sitting on the pier on Waikiki beach catching ahuli-huli to fry for supper. I tried to catch some, but I obviously need a certain knack which I don't possess.

Hawaii: Waikiki Na Hula Festival

2007-08-14T11:47:00.001+02:00

On our way back to Auz, we broke up our trip in Hawaii. We were fortunate to arrive on the Island Oahu, Hawaii in time for the annual Na Hula Festival. Numerous dace schools annually come together to perform and celebrate the Hula. From 2 year olds to adults... the dancing was so gorgeous... calm and meditative and so beautiful.

LA: Santa Monica and Venice Beach

2007-08-14T11:45:00.000+02:00

LA: Gary has taken on the American way

2007-08-14T11:44:00.002+02:00

I guess it all comes down to $ money $$... Isn't that the American way?

LA: The Neon Lights of Hollywood

2007-08-14T11:44:00.001+02:00

LA: Hollywood, Old Time Theaters

2007-08-14T11:43:00.001+02:00

The theaters are in various states of glamour to disrepair.

LA: Hollywood, Magazines Forever

2007-08-14T11:42:00.002+02:00

We came across a Newsagent magazine store which has been around for at least 30 years. It was one of the rare features of LA that Gary could recognize from the early 80's when he lived there. Everything else seems to have either crumbled to a non-recognizable carcass or has been renovated by the shopping mall magnates of the world. In fact he shlepped me up and down streets, trying to find the places in which he lived, worked and frequented... mostly with little success in finding them.

LA: Hollywood Film and TV world

2007-08-14T11:42:00.001+02:00

In downtown Hollywood, the original Capital Records building towers over it's world. More modern giants in entertainment, including e and CNN have their place too. Further out the district, there are the huge film studios of the industry: Universal, Warner Bros, Paramount, Walt Disney and even Charlie Chaplin Studios.

LA: Hollywood Walk of Fame

2007-08-14T11:41:00.000+02:00

Isn't it a bit freaky when an American president has his name amongst the great stars in entertainment ?!? (Not that John Travolta is so fabulous either.... the photo just came out better then others!) Along Hollywood Boulevard, all the greatest names in film, TV, music, theater and dance have a star with their name lining the street. In front of the Chinese Theater, only certain of them have been given the 'honour' of signing their name and their foot and hand prints in a plaque on the floor. Old time greats such as Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Shirley Temple, Betty Davis, Judy Garland etc have their place there forever (or until the flocking tourists have worn their names away under their own shoes)

LA: Hollywood... Shoes!

2007-08-14T11:40:00.000+02:00

I was knocked out... not literally but certainly figuratively by the heels in this place! Judging by the shops in Hollywood, I think every porn show ever made in the area has shopped at the shoe and clothes stores in this district.

LA: Hollywood, Among the stars

2007-08-12T09:12:00.000+02:00

Hollywood itself is probably one of the biggest disappointments: I thought it was going to be glitzy and glamorous. Rather, it is one of the dumpiest areas that I have ever seen. Other than the strip by the Chinese Theater, the rest of the district, is 100% crummy. Anyway, having our photo taken with the greats in cinema and film, made up for it.... a bit.

LA: The Getty Center

2007-08-12T07:40:00.000+02:00

The Getty Center was one of the highlights in our LA stay. The architecture and gardens are as famous as the art itself. We went on an architectural tour and wondered through the gardens and buildings for so long, we hardly had any time to even see the art exhibits. Two exhibits however, really stood out as exceptional, both photographic, in the J Paul Getty Museum: Luc Delahaye is a photojournalist born in France, distinguishing himself for his coverage of the wars in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Rwanda, Chechnya and Bosnia. Edward Weston is quoted as being "The most influential American photographer of the twentieth century".

San Fran: China Town

2007-08-11T12:57:00.000+02:00

San Fran has a great China Town. We meandered down the streets, filled with lanterns and nick-nack stores, went tea tasting (click here also) and ate some great tofu and veg at one of its very many restaurant.

San Fran: The Castro

2007-08-11T12:56:00.000+02:00

The Castro District is one of the world's most famous Gay Districts. It is vibey, colourful and funky and brimmig with the most fun and amusing shops of every description. We snuck into the Castro Theater: An old theater with heavy drapes, golden ceiling and art deco fawyer. They were having a screening of two classics from the silent era: The original Phantom of the Opera, (with Lon Chaney Sr. in his most famous role) and Laurel and Hardy's Big Business. This screening was privately running for the international organist, Warren Lubich who would be accompanying the two movies on the Mighty Wurlitzer organ at the 85th Celebration of this theater on August the 12... Couldn't believe we would be missing this momentous experience by one day!!! The Onion, is the local paper, so check it out on the web, if you are interested to know what the Castro San Franciscoans are thinking/doing.

San Fran: Eye View

2007-08-11T12:30:00.000+02:00

As you can see, the wondrous weather of San Fran struck us with all it's summer glory: Packed under layers of sweaters and jackets, we could see the sprawling city from this great vantage point.

The bizarre thing, is that we were actually staying with some dear friends, Nick and Shirley 45 minutes outside the city, in Walnut Creek- at least 10 degrees warmer than the city and with no wind- chill factor! The first day that we got onto the BART train to go into the city, someone asked us where our jackets were... we were wearing t-shirts and laughed thinking they were crazy.... needless to say we had to buy a sweater in town that day!

San Fran: Bush Going Down?

2007-08-11T11:30:00.003+02:00

I must admit that we didn't meet one pro-Bush person on our entire 5 moth trip! I guess we just didn't spend enough time in the middle of the country! In numerous shops we found memorabilia of the Bush-regime, non of them flattering.

San Fran: Good Things Going Down

2007-08-11T11:30:00.002+02:00

We have seen fabulous street side performance on our trip. One in particular stands out: A school drum squad, who were playing on the streets of San Fran. While we were waiting for a cable car, we were lucky enough to encounter this talented band of vibrant youngsters: Cougar Drum Squad. What an inspiration!!

San Fran: Sausalito

2007-08-11T11:30:00.001+02:00

Unfortunately I don't have more photos to show you Sausalito - my camera battery died! This picturesque waterfront community over the bridge from San Fran, despite being a tourist's paradise, is also a super place to chill out overlooking the yacht club; drink a coffee or eat at one of the numerous European type street- side cafes; wander through antique stores and art galleries; munch on an ice cream; or meander along the windey roads bulging with multi- million dollar mansions.

San Fran: Army Bases

2007-08-11T11:30:00.000+02:00

During much of the history of the USA, The Marin Headlands was controlled by the United States military, and you can still see historic fortifiications that span the years between the Civil War and the Cold War. In fact until recently, they had an active missile here too.

San Fran: Marin Headlands

2007-08-11T07:31:00.005+02:00

There is the most stunning scenic drive on the opposite side of the Golden Gate Bridge. It is along the Marin Headlands. At the tip, you can visit Point Bonita Light House (we just missed opening times). Here I am with Mitch, our new- found cousin, enjoying the scenery. A few miles further up the coast, there are the stunning Redwood, Muir Woods. Unfortunately we didn't have enough time to visit.

San Fran: Golden Gate Bridge

2007-08-11T07:30:00.007+02:00

The stunning Golden Gate Bridge is the ultimate symbol of San Francisco. Normally it is shrouded in fog and freezing (in fact we had to wear sweaters and jackets during our whole trip in San Fran, due to its bizarre 'summer' climate) . But we had one splendid day of perfect weather, when our cousin Mitch took us sight-seeing on the other side of the bridge. Further photos are here

San Fran: Lombard Street, The most crooked street around

2007-08-11T07:30:00.006+02:00

Lombard Street is known as the 'most crooked' street in San Fran, and America. The steep street was created with sharp curves to switchback down the hill, past some of the most expensive real estate and beautiful Victorian mansions. The street is paved with bricks and lined with hydrangeas in full bloom.

San Fran: Cable Cars

2007-08-11T07:30:00.005+02:00

We had great fun on the Cable Cars of San Francisco. They are both quirky, as well as a fantastic form of transport to get around the city. Seeing as San Fran is built in/on and around hills, the cable cars provide fabulous views of the city and bay. Some great old posters of the city and cable cars can be seen here.

San Fran: Alcatraz

2007-08-11T07:30:00.003+02:00

Alcatraz is one of the icons of San Francisco. In the center of the bay, the island looms out of the fog (which 90% of the time envelopes the bay) and eerily reminds us of times when the island was still a prison for Al Capone and the like.

San Fran: Palace of Fine Arts

2007-08-11T07:30:00.001+02:00

The Palace of Fine Arts was built for the Panama and Pacific exposition in 1915 as well as being part of a celebration on the completion of the restructuring of the city of San Francisco after the earthquake of 1905. At the time, it housed a total of 11,000 works of arts. At present, it has been reconstructed and converted into a science museum. Due to its gorgeous architecture, a lot of people get married there. In fact, our new-found San Francisco cousins got married there earlier this year.

San Fran: Haight and Ashbury

2007-08-11T07:29:00.001+02:00

This area of San Francisco is great fun. There are tonnes of second-hand clothes/ music shops, tattoo/ piercing parlors, funky cafes and quirky boutiques

San Fran: Golden Gate Park

2007-08-11T07:29:00.000+02:00

The Golden Gate Park is famous as one of San Francisco's most beautiful sites. Here I am outside the Conservatory of Flowers. There are museums as well as a huge assortment of different gardens in this huge park.

San Fran: Stern Grove Festival

2007-08-11T07:28:00.000+02:00

Stern Grove is the most fabulous venue for music concerts. Most of the presenting artists are World Music performers. The stage is set in a valley, with meadows in front and crude forest seating amongst the pine needles on the tree-lined slopes. We watched a dynamic show of Hugh Masekela and Goapele. We all jammed and jived away to the jazz and blues of these two artists.

UCON and the Ballard Institute and museum of puppetry, Connecticut

2007-08-03T10:02:00.000+02:00

We visited the University of Connecticut's Puppetry department, headed by Bart Roccoberton and Ballard Institute and the Museum of Puppetry directed by John Bell. Both men are delightful and highly talented. The photos are some of Frank Ballard's puppets featured in the museum.

Taking a step back in history, New Jersey

2007-08-03T09:54:00.000+02:00

The first photo here is Ruth Adelman. She is a new found cousin of our documentary protagonist: Hanus Hachenburg. It was quite extraordinary when we met her in her New Jersey home and told her about her distant cousin, who died in WW2. She helped us out with their family tree and we gave her insight into the life and talents of Hanus. What I found fascinating, was that she could draw so many similarities between her father and our young hero!
Polda Lowy is one of Hanus's contemporaries. We met him and his wife, Evelyn, and spent some beautiful time interviewing him and reading all the gorgeous messages that school children have written following his inspirational school visits/lectures.

Avenue Q: Broadway, NYC

2007-08-03T09:46:00.002+02:00

I have been listening to the Sound track of Avenue Q for the last 2 years, ever since meeting Gary: Seeing as he is totally obsessed by this puppet-based Broadway musical. You don't get more sensational, controversial or raunchy than this: and of course that is what puppets are the best at: Totally overstepping the boundaries of what is normally said in society. With great catchy tunes and hysterical lyrics, I have been snapping and tapping to the music for the last few weeks. To experience a crazy 'Fiddler on the Roof' meets 'Avenue Q' production, click here!

Museum of Jewish Heritage, NYC

2007-08-03T09:46:00.001+02:00

On the banks of the Hudson, amongst all the human statues and mime artists of the Statue of Liberty, is a fascinating museum: The Museum of Jewish Heritage. What I really appreciated about this museum, was that it did not only re-hash the typical Holocaust History which is included in every Holocaust museum throughout the world, but rather highlight the richness, wonders and magic of Jewish culture, community, ideology, history, geniology and ritual. The views overlooking the Hudson certainly added to its splendour, as did its beautiful theater space, Safra Hall, in which they feature lectures, theatrical performances, readings, films and concerts to complement their exhibitions.