Coffee break
Name: Helen Craven
Age: 44
Lives: Clifton
Married? Yes for 14 years. I recognised a soul mate when we got together and I feel very fortunate. In that time I’ve learnt more about life and love than I thought were possible and I’m only just starting to understand the true breadth of marriage. All those old people were right.
Kids? Yes, a further source of boundless learning! We’ve got two and love them dearly.
About you: I am deeply philosophical and I love contemplating life’s mysteries. I enjoy being by myself with peace and quiet as much as having a laugh with friends. I have a wild, cheeky, determined streak that leads me through all kinds of adventures.
Three things you like: Really old things like buildings, pubs and trees – They’ve seen it all and remind me of my insignificance! Wild swimming and camping away from it all – it’s really liberating. Family and friends get-togethers – sharing the love.
Three things you dislike: I don’t pay heed to things I dislike.
Are you an Up’ard or a Down’ard? Technically a Down’ard but my friends ordained me an Up’ard after many ceremonial challenges.
Born and bred: I was born on Dartmoor. Tavistock, is much like Ashbourne. It’s like home from home except with oatcakes and scones.
Family matters: We just love our adventures together.
Work-wise: I’ve got a company, “Best You”, and provide coaching with Reiki and Positive Psychology. I practice at Henmore Health, based at The Surgery, Clifton Road.
What are you best at? I’ve been told I always see the best in things and people, so I’m nurturing that pearl. I also love understanding the ‘why’ in every situation – a skill which ties in with my big plans for world peace!
Your ideal holiday: Living outdoors with nature, ideally somewhere warm, definitely with my family.
Your favourite food: I enjoy variety and new things. Although I don’t eat meat any more.
Who inspires you? Most people I meet in some way or another; everyone has a strength. I am particularly inspired by people who live their values. I find the Greek economist ‘Yanis Varoufakis’ authentic – his values are his work and he sticks to them.
If you ruled the world, what would you change? I believe the world is already ruled by each and every one of us, we each have choices every day of what we bring to the world and that determines how the world is. My ideal is that everyone should rule themselves, each according to their highest and best selves. To help, I’d give everyone access to Reiki as it breaks down barriers and grows positivity, happiness and contentment.
What would it say on your epitaph? Something deep and meaningful but maybe someone will have the last laugh!