THRASHING a Mini in rally stages across the Midlands seems a world away from Sue Keeping's latest venture.

As well as a varied background in theatre, horse-riding and 30 years in the wood-burning stove industry, she has decided to take the step from heating homes to "warming people's hearts."

After seven years' experience in the art of muscle-testing and promoting physical and emotional well-being, she has been able to open the new Natural Care Centre in Cullompton.

The centre, which offers Touch for Health Kinesiology, opened in Fore Street around three weeks ago and Mrs Keeping has been encouraged by the local response since her arrival.

Mrs Keeping, a former cross-country dressage rider and show-jumper, said: "In the old days, I had a rally-prepared Mini, which was great fun.

"I mostly did 12-car trials in Warwickshire but I also did production car trials and all sorts of other things.

"To be able to drive a car fully protected with a roll-cage and racing seats is just great, adventurous fun.

"I have been doing kinesiology for eight years now, but I didn't have an explosive open day here, I just crept in gently.

"I have been in theatre, rallying and I have done all sorts of other things which has enabled me to approach all different types of people."

The rally driver turned therapist after learning the skills at the Dartmoor School of Creative Kinesiology.

The aim of the therapy is to help physical, emotional and biochemical parts of the body to work more efficiently by increasing communication between the different systems.

This is hoped the result in the body makes the most of natural resources needed to stay healthy.

Mrs Keeping has also been working with the St Loye's Foundation in Exeter, which helps adults with disability, or those recovering from long- term illness, overcome a range of physical and mental barriers about returning to employment.

"What I offer is the art of muscle-testing, which is used to get biological feedback from the body.

"Our bodies are able to tell us what strengthens and weakens them," she said.

"It is not about promoting products. It is about promoting that what we already have inside us can do its job, if we give it the chance.

"I am doing this because I have enough confidence from working with a range of people and teaching at St Loye's and I think it is time for people to open up to the fact they have the ability within them to help themselves stay well."

The Natural Care Centre will hold open days at Fore Street, Cullompton, on Saturdays between 10am and 2pm.

Mrs Keeping also hopes to start a johrei spiritual healing group from the Culm Valley Integrated Centre for Health from Wednesday, March 11, at 7pm.

Those interested should call 01884 35695 for more information.