Truly Essential Val Preston

Inspiration can come in many forms having a life long interest in the countryside, health, well- being, with-out cruelty, affordability and using natural products where possible. Ensuring I bring the best to my client by doing the best for the environment in the process.

I grew up on a hill top farm in Yorkshire amongst the heather, brambles and bracken. One of my favourite pastimes as a child was pressing and collecting wild flowers making flower waters, which I referred to as perfume, others opinions differed.

I studied rural science at school which I enjoyed as it covered life cycle of native animals, plants and trees, natural habitat, conservation and land management at a basic level. However in my late twenty's I decided to return to college to pursue a career in hairdressing and soon to be followed, by a two year course in beauty therapy. My passion for natural source of healing combined with plant extracts and massage therapy was realized. Now working full time in a local beauty salon in Skipton, I also returned to Craven College to study aromatherapy part time for a further year.

Gaining valuable experience in the salon and after having my family I started my own business as a beauty and holistic therapist treating my clients in their own homes. Always interested in building and growing my business I have further trained in several holistic therapies, which I include aromatherapy blends if requested. Indian head massage, Lymphatic Drainage massage, hot stone massage, Hopi ear candles, Thai massage and Reiki although does not include contact, burning essential oil enhances the treatment considerably.

My family, friends and clients have always helped and encourage me with my career choice offering to be guinea pigs when I have required models for new treatments and accepting my flexible working hours. One of my greatest achievements is being able to offer my expertise as a volunteer massage therapist, aromatherapy practitioner at the local well being cancer support centre in Skipton.

What makes my heart sing, my family who have been with me every step of the way, my cocker spaniels, gardening for pollinators and bee keeping nature and conservation still playing their part.