MY PERSONAL STORY
At eighteen, I was diagnosed with a hereditary long-term health condition characterized by progressive sight loss (Choroideremia).
I've gradually realized that my life and career have been positively shaped by my sight-loss related difficulties, in the sense that my life and career are both underpinned by proactive self-management of health problems, diversity and inclusion principles, and the promotion of resilience, strength, active aging and movement health personally and the people I meet in my work.
Between 1993-2005, I practiced martial arts in Japan for four years (Karate and Aikido), which led to an interest in East Asian Medicine, including Japanese manual therapies (Shiatsu and Seitai) and acupuncture.
I also undertook doctoral research in the field of cultural anthropology. My focus was on embodied aspects of health and well-being experience, with my fieldwork undertaken in Hiroshima, Japan (1999-2001).
More recently, after re-training as a physiotherapist 2005-2008, as part of my commitment to maintaining my own health, I've looked for activities that I can perform independently and safely as my sight deteriorates further.
I train with kettlebells and Indian clubs, which are both great tools for improving breathing, posture, movement and strength.
I also strength train with a barbell, and practice fundamental movement patterns in the form bodyweight exercises also. I've been practicing mindfulness in various forms since the early 1990s.