"I first went to see Brenda when my sleep problems were really taking their toll on me and were making me absolutely miserable.

I had become dependent on sleeping tablets and suffered severe anxiety when I didn't take them and had an extreme fear of the effects that not sleeping would have on my day to day life, having suffered sleeping problems for a number of years.

I know that I am a work in progress and need to continue to work on the techniques that I have learnt but I am happier and more confident regarding my sleep than I have ever been, so I can now concentrate my thoughts on other things!" Kim Walsh, Travel Reservations, Sydney

1. "I came to the SleepEasy program hoping to find the secret to how to sleep well, and ended up with so much more. I feel I have been given a new lease on life and it's a precious gift that I will carry through my life, hopefully enthusing my nearest and dearest as well as others I may meet. Thank you so, so much." Teresa Cayzer, Legal Secretary, Sydney

2. "Thank you for letting me know about your forthcoming SleepEasy Workshop. My previous visits to your clinic have made the most enormous difference to my life. You taught me how to take the stress out of sleeping – how to accept that I may not sleep the whole way through the night, and that it's OK. When I do wake, I'm not lying there fretting anymore, and that makes so much difference to my mental well-being in those dark small hours! And I very rarely do lie there awake any more – I usually just drift back to sleep within minutes. It's amazing! Just listening to your Relaxation CD has me nodding off during the day, even if I don't realise I need the rest! So thank you Brenda. You've been an important person in my life." Teresa Cayzer, Legal Secretary, Sydney

“Your wonderful presentation on Sleep at the Reflexology Association of Australia’s recent Annual Branch Meeting and Speaker Day was a remarkable sea-change for many people.  I thank you sincerely for your presentation on the Saturday and also the informative and great SleepEasy workshop on the Sunday.  The commonsense approach to the subject wiped out any media hype and the many articles we are bombarded with that suggest certain items are necessary to get a “good night’s sleep”.  I imagine there are quite a few people who have had a good week because of attending the workshop.  Also the CDs are a good follow-on tool to the workshop and this is from my personal experience, they are assisting me greatly, thank you.  Again, on behalf of the Association many thanks and I hope we can have you back again to share your knowledge and experiences with us.” M. Parsons, Education Officer, Reflexology Assoc of Aust Ltd

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"Brenda Doherty from Sleep Easy & StressHelp Education visited our workplace recently and her informative sessions were of enormous benefit to me.  I can't believe I didn't know how to breathe properly!!!  Brenda taught us all about the importance of maintaining a balance within and taught us how easily this can be done!  We learnt how important 'pausing' is to our general health - when to pause and for how long.  All the little things that are so often neglected are the very things that can help us feel so much better each day.

Brenda's second session was fantastic – we got to go to sleep!  We learnt that the cycles of our day and night tie in so intricately with our body clocks.  I loved this session, as I could easily see ways of improving my energy levels and alertness!  I also learnt so much that I didn't already know about my own body.

Amy Smith, Stella Maris College, Northern Beaches, Sydney

Comments from students Feedback forms:

Question. 

What was the most beneficial aspect(s) for you

Answers. 

'Balancing my inner world with my outer world. Just excellent.'  Sonya Erskine, Entertainer, Newcastle

'Being able to identify with others the problems I've experienced and being encouraged to change to make life better.'  Kerry Blayden, Legal Secretary, Maryland

'It made a lot of sense and gave me some tools to help with my problem.'  David Hancock, Dental Surgeon, New Lambton Heights

'Fantastic.  Scientific, simple, practical, excellent.'  Kiruthiga Muthukrizhnan, Lighting Designer, Sydney

Question.

Any other comments?

Answers.

'I will highly recommend this workshop to my friends!' Orla Lavin Contractor Management, Paddington

'Should promote for corporate people.  Please let me know when you are visiting Perth.'  Kiruthiga Muthukrizhnan, Lighting Designer, Sydney

'Gave me more knowledge.' Dianne Luschwitz, Pensioner, Newcastle

'Thank you for the insights, much appreciated.' Sonya Erskine, Entertainer, Newcastle

'I look forward putting into practice what I've learnt today and beginning a life of better sleep.' Kerry Blayden, Legal Secretary, Maryland

"I had been sleeping badly for several months and it was getting to the point where I found it difficult to cope with any stress or negative situations in both my professional and personal life. I had even gone to the extent of getting sleeping tablets from the doctor which would help me get to sleep but I would find myself wide awake a few hours later.

During this period my partner came across a SleepEasy flier which she brought home for me. I read up about the SleepEasy program and was initially very cynical about what I saw. However, after a few more weeks of bad sleep I got to the point where I would try anything in order to get a good night's sleep, so I made my first appointment.

The first session was in itself a revelation and Brenda carefully spent the time to make sure she understood as much as she could about my current situation. Due to the fact that I was not working in a particularly stressful job at the time, I had not even considered the fact that it may be stress that was the major cause of my sleep problem. However it soon became clear that certain issues in my personal life were affecting me far more than I ever thought possible.

Towards the end of this first session we went through the first set of breathing exercises which again I started off being very cynical of. I have to say that I had little faith that what I was being instructed to do would make much difference how wrong I was!! Immediately after the session I felt more relaxed and at ease than I had done in quite some time; I felt like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Over the next few months I had 5 or 6 further appointments with Brenda and since being introduced to the relaxation techniques I have never looked back.

I would thoroughly recommend anyone who is suffering from sleep or stress related issues to allow Brenda into their life. There is an honesty and soothing calmness about her which I personally found to be so refreshing in our hectic and non-stop society. If like me you suffer from lack of sleep but find yourself being cynical of her methods, I urge you to let go of that for at least one appointment. After all what have you got to lose?! Thank you." Julian Swain, Music Technology, Sydney

“The SleepEasy program is a popular workshop in our Health & Lifestyle programs.  Course evaluations have been regularly carried out into the workshop and they have produced outstandingly positive responses.  The following comments have been directly taken from recent students’ evaulations: “EXCELLENT! A truly life changing day!” “Very simple, practical and easy and common sense guide and ideas to sleeping better.” “I would highly recommend this workshop and feel I now have better tools to help me deal with stress levels and sleeping problems.” “Very informative – most impressed.  A great tutor, with a great deal of knowledge in this field.  Many thanks Brenda.” 

M. Newton, Senior Education Officer, WEA, Sydney

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“I wanted to let you know that I have been using your relaxation and sleep easy CDs regularly and my sleeping has improved, also stress levels.  I don’t know if you remember me, but I attended your Sleep Easy workshop in Wollongong.  I have been amazed at the wonderful feeling of joy I have in living – just because I have had sufficient sleep!!!!  Thank you for running your workshop in Wollongong – I feel so grateful. Regards," Jasmina Pascoe, Teacher, Wollongong

"As a small group of passionate people moving at the cutting edge of an outdated industry we have lived the highs and lows of innovation.......for us it means that a few people carry more than their share of the load and because you believe in what you're doing you carry on way past when your body is saying stop. There's always a crunch point health-wise from so much stress, and I believe that to stay well, focused and energetic we need skills – skills to release stress and to bring the mind and body back into balance. Just as we are change merchants in our industry so is Brenda in hers – as a professional in stress management and a natural healer she does make a difference. Her time spent with members of our team has helped them understand how all this high pressure is impacting on themselves and for my part, I am enjoying the fruits of her work – a calmer, more focused team who by taking care of themselves & using what they have learnt in their own ways, are feeling less frustrated and stressed because they are actually more productive and achieving to their high standards."  Judy Philpott, Director Polkinghornes – Beef at its Best, Melbourne

“Brenda Doherty has been facilitating Sleep Easy classes in Stage 1 and 2 of the Charles O’Neill House life skills education program for approximately two years.  Charles O’Neill House is a residential program for homeless men.  The men participate in a variety of classes focusing on personal development, education and the arts.  The program aims to support and assist the men in addressing the issues (addictions, mental health issues, grief and loss, recent incarceration, unemployment, abuse, family/relationship breakdown etc.) that contributed to their homelessness.  Brenda’s SleepEasy classes were incorporated into the program when it was recognized that many of the men were experiencing difficulties with sleeping and relaxation.  Anxiety is often the result of the homeless lifestyle combined with their personal issues.  This naturally impacts on their ability to focus in the classroom.  Feedback from the participants is always positive and many of the men use  Brenda’s CD’s when the classes have been completed.” Howard Hillam, Program Coordinator/Asst Manager, St Vincent de Paul Society

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“What I have learnt from the SleepEasy education has bought about subtle yet very significant changes to the way I manage my life.  I attended the clinic when I was going through a very stressful period and within just a few sessions my confidence came back and I found I was able to cope much, much better than I could’ve dreamt of – even the way I have handled job interviews.” Frances Leys, Training and Development Manager, Sydney

“Brilliant! Thanx Brenda!”  Premysl Botek, Senior software developer, Sydney

”As part of our Staff Development for 13 staff we decided to have a two hour presentation given by Brenda Doherty.  This proved valuable to all of us here.  Brenda has a remarkable ability in teaching simply and clearly.  Everyone of us without exception felt totally refreshed.  The session was not only beneficial at the time, but since then all of us have commented on how good it was and how the techniques used had an ongoing effect.  We would highly recommend Brenda’s teaching.”  Helen Thornton, Director, ABC

"I just love the CDs. With enormous pressures at work over years, my sleep was literally going down the gurgler.  Emotions up and down also.  Coming back for holidays to Australia I was determined to visit Brenda’s SleepEasy clinic again (I had been over 4 years ago for other problems before I moved to England).  In just a couple of appointments I was back on track with my sleeping.  It’s just been great to learn more about my sleep pattern and also have the SleepEasy CD at my fingertips.  My girlfriend also often uses it and says the sound of your voice is great and puts her to sleep straight away.  It’s also refreshing to know that there is no hypnosis involved." Tim Davidson, IT Manager, England

“I just had to tell you that I have slept better in the last month than I have in any period I can think of in my life before and if I have woken up at all I have been able to go off to sleep almost immediately.  Yesterday would have to have been the most stressful day of my working life and last night I woke at 2.30 and took about 45 mins to clear my head to go back to sleep.  I feel like a new woman.  I’ll never know how to thank you.” 

Margaret Lee, Housewife, Sydney

"Thanks very much for the counselling through this year.  As you know, I was referred to you by my GP, following my high stress and anxiety levels, affecting not just my sleep, but all aspects of my daily life.  The techniques I learned on breath control as the foundation of physical stress management will stay with me through my life as a means of assessing and managing stressful situations.  I have been able to share these with other members of my family as they face stressful times in their lives---with very good results.

The Relaxation Techniques CD I purchased has helped me stay on track during the later phases of our consultations, when we reduced the frequency of my visits. I know so well that returning to the absolute fundamentals is always a key step in remaining on track and minimising the bad habits and short-cuts that will always creep in.

I wish you and your other students and clients well for the future."  J. Case, International Project Manager, Sydney

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"Prozhet would like to extend a very big thank you for your attendance at our annual workshop in November.  The SleepEasy workshop rated very well and many participants stated how much they enjoyed it and there have been many requests to have you back to do it all again!  We look forward to working with you in the future."  Nandini Ray, Heterosexuals HIV/AIDS Service, Sydney

“I have been visiting Brenda Doherty’s clinic regularly over the last 4-5 years for massage and polarity sessions.  I consider these sessions as priority maintenance for my overall health. Brenda has a sympathetic, professional and compassionate approach to her work. These unique sessions have given me a great deal of help in assisting me to attain marvellous relaxation and balance of body and mind.  I would highly recommend these sessions.  And if you are lucky enough to be able to arrange a session such as this for yourself, considering Brenda’s busy schedule these days, you could easily find your experience wonderfully life-changing.” Trixie Carruthers, Retired Teacher, Sydney

"I really wanted to improve my sleep as I was frustrated with my busy mind and waking through the night.  From my first visit to the clinic in Manly I received positive results.  Brenda’s calmness and clarity was a huge help in itself and I loved all the ‘little’ suggestions that I could integrate into my everyday life without feeling pressured to add more things to my already full working and personal schedule.  I really appreciated learning more about the process of sleep and the SleepEasy techniques …and having plenty of time during my clinic sessions to practice thoroughly what I was being taught.  Thanks very much."  Name withheld, Lawyer, Sydney 

"I had just become ill and it appeared that it was going to be a long time before I recovered from this illness.  I was also working in a sometimes stressful job and was unsure on how to deal with it.  As a result of this, I was having trouble sleeping and suffering from tiredness as well. I had approximately 5 appointments at the SleepEasy clinic.  By the end of these visits I was sleeping soundly, knew how to deal with stress as it arose and had a relaxation practice tape that I enjoyed doing as often as I could.  As a result of this, I was feeling much more settled within myself and definitely better able to deal with these negative issues affecting me at present.

After I had a couple of sessions and felt they were beneficial, I then sent my husband along (who is not as open minded as myself).  He too was suffering from work related stress, stress/anxiety related to my illness, was sleeping poorly and was unaware of techniques to help him deal with these issues.  He was apprehensive at first, but at my insistence, he attended approximately 5 sessions and experienced a marked improvement.

We would both thoroughly recommend Brenda and her techniques to help anyone in similar situations, as we both found her to be honest, genuinely interested in helping those that want to help themselves and very eager to pass on her knowledge and training as a means to achieving this." Sharon Harrison, Executive Assistant, Sydney

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“Thank you for the SleepEasy course last weekend.  I am delighted to report that my sleeping pattern has dramatically improved for the better.  Every night since the course I have enjoyed continuous and satisfying sleep.  It feels like it might be a while before I overcome the sleep debt, but it is so wonderful to know that there is a solution.  The bonus from the course is that it made me think about my lifestyle and I am moving on making some changes to get some more balance.  Pleasure to meet you and hope our paths cross again so I can thank you personally.”  

Ken Ryan, Corporate, Sydney

"Overall what I liked least about Brenda's presentation was that it was too short!  I would definitely recommend the StressHelp and SleepEasy sessions to everyone."  Juli Greenberry, Preschool Director, Sydney 

"Not getting good sleep was literally destroying my life. I wasn’t coping with stress.  I was feeling tired and irritable all the time.  It took me a year from when a friend recommended Brenda Doherty and the SleepEasy program to me to actually make the time to visit her clinic.  I was now at a desperate stage!  From my very first visit Brenda’s calm confidence and expertise in explaining the SleepEasy program was marvelous.  It feels like a miracle how my sleep has turned around, I am doing more positive things and feel that I am not taking any steps backward any more.  I’ve not only regained my sleep, I really feel I have regained my sanity and am in touch with life in a way that I had long forgotten.  My whole family are benefiting also.  I’m just sorry that it took me a year to actually get around to having my first consultation."

Shelly Antanasio, Shop owner, Sydney 

1.“Overall what I liked most about the SleepEasy program was the simple, practical techniques and instructions – outlined and delivered ‘one step at a time’. This is clearly the first time I have understood the issues at hand and, more importantly, how they can begin to be resolved effectively for the long term – so I have been very satisfied with the outcome of doing the SleepEasy program.   This is definitely a journey with a stepped approach working very well in my case. I have really enjoyed the experience.  I would thoroughly recommend the program to others.  Many thanks Brenda.”  Melanie Lang, Director, Sydney
2."I am sleeping beautifully now.   After having had several sessions at your clinic I am continuing to make excellent progress and am feeling just wonderful. Thanks Brenda.  Breathing is better too.  The ‘stitch’ I was experiencing during jogging has also gone altogether.  What a bonus!  I look forward to continued great sleep into the future." Melanie Lang, Director, Sydney

“It's working!  Although I have woken 3 or 4 times, each time I just practice what I learnt at the workshop and go back to sleep a short time later.  I am finding the CD invaluable as it reinforces what was presented in the workshop.  It's really amazing how simple it is.  After all the years of trying to find a solution - pity I didn't try this years ago!!  How great it is to be able to get through the night without the hours of lying awake and then getting up to face the day.  Hope your workshop at Wollongong went off well and that the folk there get as good results as I am having.  Thanks again for all your help at the workshop and the great CD's.  I know now that there are great days (and nights) ahead.“  Myrna Oaklands, Housewife, Newcastle

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“I will never forget the SleepEasy workshop I did with you over 4 years ago now Brenda.  It had a huge impact on me and the whole workshop was so helpful.  I am so glad to know that your important work is continuing!”  Annette Gardiner-Wynn, Occupational Therapist, Sydney

“The SleepEasy workshop was a most amazing and rewarding experience for me.  It felt very comfortable and was informative.  It was so interesting also to hear of others stories – I realized I wasn’t alone with my sleep problems.  My head goes a million miles per hour and I’ve not got a real handle on quietening the mind and I’m sleeping very well.  In the past I’ve had to use a CPAP machine.  I decided to try sleeping without it, and I’ve had the best sleep.  My sleep has changed enormously.” Dean Foote, Business Manager, Adelaide

"Knowing how to breathe correctly was a revelation for me. Obtaining information about the nervous system was very strengthening for me. I feel I can really begin to turn things around for the better. Brenda's day workshop was excellent."   Winnie Lam, Accountant, Sydney 2005

“Very many thanks for your lecture to the Prostate Cancer Carers Support Group last Tuesday.  I felt the meeting was most successful and that the Group was highly appreciative.  When you are such a busy person, we are very grateful for all the preparation you had put into your presentation.”  J. Conroy, Facilitator, Prostate Cancer Carers Support Group, Sydney

“Paul and I both wanted to thank you for your very informed and professional workshop on Saturday. You gave explanation to some key areas of interest, and indeed I shall be seeking out the books you recommend for reading – I have a desire to learn more!! We shall also keep in mind your CD selection for some future time if we need further backup. Paul said to apologise for our late response to your workshop – but this is the first time we’ve woken up since we left you on Saturday!! I have already recommended you to one of my close Sydney friends and shall continue to be an advocate. I hope our paths may cross some time in the future – it’s such a pleasure to meet special people. Every best wish and good fortune to you. With kind regards and appreciation.” Chris Randall and Paul Burns, Tourism, Newcastle

No. 1: “I wanted to give you some feedback and thank you again for the effective workshop last Saturday.  I have had 4 of the most complete nights’ sleep in years – and all drug free.  I decided to go ‘cold turkey’ on sleeping pills and apart from a slight rousing at around 2am, I slept right the way through, waking up with the sound of birds.  I am now relaxing, resting and sleeping far better – and working far more calmly.  With these great results to date, I am very excited about the long term."  Tracey James, Business Development Manager, Sydney
No. 2: “Sleeping at last! 12 nights’ blissful sleep in a row, infinity to go.  Thanks again.”  Tracey James, Business Development Manager, Sydney

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"Not only was I suffering poor sleep but my busy mind was driving me crazy. "The most beneficial aspect for me was learning how to get a handle on controlling my busy mind.   I look forward very much to practising what I have learnt.  I am so glad I attended." Wayne Meldrum, Customer Service, Sydney 

“The SleepEasy techniques have really made a difference. I’m feeling more clearheaded and calmer and tend to ignore ‘the stuff’ in the head. My sleep improved almost immediately over the first week. It seems deeper and if I wake up I can generally get back to sleep. This is very unusual from past experiences. I really felt great after the workshop. Thanks Brenda.”  Peter Manass, Information Manager, East Roseville

“Many thanks for the SleepEasy seminar on 12 August.  I found it most useful and practical.  In fact one of the best seminars I have attended.  Workwise I have, myself, been involved in training and education for 15 years so I definitely know a good seminar when I see one!  I have already recommended you to several friends of mine.  I would be interested in making an appointment with you for an individual consultation sometime in the next few weeks.  I would also like to purchase the audio tapes when I see you.”  Gerry O’Sullivan, Manager, Leichhardt

"There was no part of the two hour presentation that wasn't informative. I thought Brenda's teaching was excellent."  

Renata Blanco, Childcare supervisor, Sydney 

"Not only poor sleep was I suffering but my busy mind was driving me crazy. The most beneficial aspect of the SleepEasy workshop was learning how to get a handle on controlling my mind. I look forward very much to practising what I have learnt. I am so glad I attended." Wayne Meldrum, Customer Service, Sydney 

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"Brenda's teaching was great. I had been looking for ways to relieve my daily stress and I came away from Brenda's two hour presentation with clearer guidelines to help me with this. Brenda is a great presenter." Donna Thornton, Director, Gumnut Cottage, Macquarie University, Sydney

“Just wanted to let you know that since learning the SleepEasy program I have not read a book or had a cup of tea during the night.  I have been sleeping until about 5am, and feel much more refreshed when I wake instead of feeling tired.  Thanks for sharing the program.  I have found it to be fantastic.”  Sandra Beatty, Teacher, Newcastle

“Thanks so much for Sleep Easy workshop on Saturday.  I got my first decent night’s sleep (about 7 hours) on a Sunday night in so long that I think it may be years.  Its made a wonderful difference to my day and even though committing to a lifestyle change is a challenge this just may be the thing that finally works for me.” Lyndell Painter, IT, Sydney

"The SleepEasy Workshop was far better than I expected. As sleeping has been a problem for me, I can't wait to go home and try the steps. Thank you very much! Will arrange for my brother to see you for help regarding the panic attacks he has been experiencing."

Catherine Ehlers, Teacher, Sydney 2006

"I just loved learning techniques such as the breathing and focusing."  Maryann Buhse, Project Manager, Sydney

"I really wanted to improve my sleep as I was frustrated with my busy mind and waking through the night. From my first visit to Brenda Doherty’s SleepEasy clinic in Manly I received positive results.  Brenda’s calmness and clarity was a huge help in itself and I loved all the ‘little’ suggestions that I could integrate into my everyday life without feeling pressured to add more things to my already full working and personal schedule.  I really appreciated learning more about the process of sleep and the SleepEasy techniques …and having plenty of time during my clinic sessions to practice thoroughly what I was being taught.  Thanks very much."  Name withheld, Lawyer, Sydney 

“It's usually well overdue when I book in with Brenda as my poor weary body and mind is in need of maintenance.   After my session I love the feeling of floating home much more relaxed, balanced and spacious in the head.   I find the following morning I'm energised and thinking more clearly.   Brenda has an incredibly soothing voice, healing hands and persona.   I always enjoy visiting the clinic.” Belinda Moore, Manager, Sydney

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