Blog Posts

The Gut Microbiome and Massage

9/13/2018

     The human body is a complex organism and one of its major components is the microbiome. A microbiome is a community of organisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses that inhabit a particular environment. 90% of the cells in the body are microbial cells and most of these are found in the gut. The microbiome in the gut plays an important role in the body because it is where the body interacts the most with the outside word. The gut microbiome plays a large role in regulating the immune system and is your immune system's first line of defense.

     The gut microbiome is a direct line of communication for the central nervous system and messages are constantly being sent between your brain and gut. This is called the gut brain axis. The gut is the site of mood regulating hormones such as serotonin and dopamine. A healthy gut plays a huge role in your mental health.

     Stress affects your gut microbiome because of the role it plays in the bodies immune response. Your immune system is unable to distinguish between mental and physical stress, therefore the inflammatory response is activated, flooding your system with inflammatory cytokines which act as messengers. Chronic stress constantly activates this inflammatory response leading to chronic inflammation and disease. Having an imbalance of bad bacteria in the gut can contribute to the release of inflammatory cytokines, leading to more inflammation. Good bacteria in the gut can have the opposite effect, interacting with the immune system in a way that can reduce the stress response.

     Massage therapy can play a role in your gut health by allowing your body to enter the parasympathetic nervous system. This is your bodies rest and digest mode and allows for the reactivation of the digestive system, which slows down during the stress response. This allows for restoration to occur in your gut microbiome and reduce the body's inflammatory immune response to stress. Massage can also help manage pain caused by chronic inflammation. Abdominal massage can assist digestion through the relaxation of sphincter muscles in the intestinal tract, increasing intestinal activity which in turn improves gut health.

Sources:https://www.bewell.com/blog/17-ways-to-protect-your-microbiome/
https://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/what-is-the-microbiome/
https://medium.com/thrive-global/the-link-between-gut-health-and-stress-682aafa355c7
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evolutionary-psychiatry/201404/the-gut-brain-connection-mental-illness-and-disease

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Super Laundry Sauce

7/12/2018

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You may be wondering what laundry detergent has to do with massage or wellness. As a massage therapist I do a LOT of laundry. Two years ago my friend gave me a jar of homemade laundry detergent called “super laundry sauce” and I have been making and using it for all my laundry ever since. Not only does it work great and remove oil, dirt and stains, but it is non-toxic and environmentally friendly.

Most commercial laundry detergents are filled with toxic ingredients that are harmful to your health and the environment.Your skin is the largest organ in your body and laundry detergent residues that remain on your clothes are absorbed through your skin.

Super laundry sauce uses only four simple ingredients: washing soda, borax, castile soap and essential oils. It is non toxic and is not harmful to the environment. It is made in reusable glass mason jars so there is no wasted plastic.
If you would like to learn how to make laundry sauce see the recipe below. If you would like to use laundry sauce but are way too busy to make it, I've got you covered. I will be selling laundry sauce at my office for $10 for 1 quart jar. Every time you return an empty mason jar you will get $1.50 towards your next jar.

Super Laundry Sauce Recipe

Ingredients
4 cups water
1 bar castile soap
1 cup Borax
1 cup washing soda
10 drops of essential oils
2 quart mason jars

Directions
1. Add water to a saucepan and turn on medium heat.
2. Cut up bar soap into chunks and grind in food processor, or use a knife to thinly slice, or grate with a cheese grater.
3. When water is heated but not boiling add grated soap and stir continuously until dissolved about 5 minutes. Reduce heat if boiling begins.
4. Once soap is dissolved remove from heat and add borax and washing soda. Stir for several minutes until dissolved.
5. Add essential oils. (lemon is great because of its antimicrobial properties)

6. Divide liquid into 2 mason jars. Add water to fill to the shoulder of the jar leaving about 1.5 inches of space at the top.
Tightly secure lids and turn the jars upside down.
7. Allow to sit for 4-5 hours. Any longer and you could end up with a grainy texture.
8. Now blend the contents by using an immersion blender, mason jar blender attachment or in a blender or food processor. (this last method makes more of a mess)
9. The mixture will be a whipped consistency and will be slightly wet at first but will thicken in a few days.
10. Use 1 tablespoon per load (really that it!). For tough stains soak overnight in warm water with washing soda.

This recipe makes 2 jars which is up to 100 loads each. So make one for yourself and give one to a friend and share the recipe!

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CBD Oil Benefits and Uses in Massage Therapy

6/15/2018

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CBD oil has been getting a lot of attention lately and you may be wondering what it is and how it works. Firstly CBD is not marijuana and does not have any psychoactive effects. It stands for cannabidiol which is one of over 85 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants, which include hemp and marijuana plants. Hemp has a higher concentration of CBD thus most CBD products are derived from the hemp plant. CBD is extracted from the plant and added to carriers and called CBD oil.

What is a cannabinoid?
Cannabinoids are the primary compounds that make up the cannabis plants. Cannabinoids can also be found in other plants and the human body. The main ones you have probably heard of are THC and CBD. THC is higher in marijuana which gives it psychoactive properties, whereas hemp plants contain less than .3% of THC.

How does CBD work in your body?
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that receives and translates messages from cannabinoids in the body. Some of these cannabinoids are made in the body and called endocannabinoids. Others are consumed as phytocannabinoids in plants such as flax, chocolate and carrots. The ECS helps to regulate processes such as pain, sleep and immune response. This system has two receptors, CB1 and CB2 and they are found in every organ including the skin. THC attaches to CB1 receptors which control, appetite, cognition, mood, coordination and movement. CBD effects CB2 receptors which regulate pain and inflammation throughout the immune system. It was thought that CBD was able to bind to the receptors in the ECS, but new research is showing that it actually triggers the body to make its own endocannabinoids which then bind to the receptors helping to regulate pain and other responses.

What are the benefits of CBD oil?
1.Relieves pain and inflammation
Research suggests that CBD can work to reduce pain by inhibiting neuronal transmission in pain pathways. It has proven especially effective in treating pain from multiple sclerosis and inflammation and pain from arthritis.
2. Reduces anxiety
Studies have shown that CBD can help reduce anxiety in patients with social anxiety, OCD, panic disorders and PTSD by creating a calming effect.
3. Helps fight cancer
Research shows CBD might work as an anti-cancer agent by reducing inflammation and blocking cancer cells from spreading throughout the body.
4. Relieves nausea
5. May treat seizures and other neurological disorders
6. Antipsychotic effects
7. Skin health
CBD can help to treat skin infections such as eczema and psoriasis which can benefit from the anti-inflammatory effects. It is also helpful in treating burns. It can also improve the overall health of your skin, reducing acne and improving elasticity.

Usage
CBD can be taken orally in a concentrate that can be mixed in a drink, or in capsules. It can also be used topically mixed in a carrier oil. Topical use is most effective for relieving pain. Research has shown that subjects do not build a tolerance to CBD therefore it is not necessary to continually raise dosage.

CBD Oil and Massage
    Using CBD oil in a massage is a great way to increase the pain and stress relieving benefits of massage therapy. Since the endocannabinoid receptors are found on the skin, by receiving a full body massage with CBD the receptors all over your body are being affected. If you are experiencing chronic pain or even just some muscle tension, CBD oil can help to relieve it.
    CBD oil can increase the absorption of anything it is mixed with so it is best to use a 100% organic carrier oil. CBD is fat soluble, so it is stored in fat cells rather than water. I use organic coconut oil as a carrier because its 80% saturated fat content makes it the perfect carrier for CBD. The fatty acids in the coconut oil make it a strong binding agent and when mixed with CBD, help it to be absorbed in the bloodstream and carried to the entire body.
    If you are curious about CBD but aren’t ready to commit to purchasing it, trying it in a massage is a great place to start. You can add CBD to any massage for $10.

Final Thoughts
To summarize, CBD is an effective treatment for a wide variety of ailments and can help to improve overall health. It does not get you high and will not show up on a regular drug test. CBD massage can benefit everyone especially those with chronic pain and inflammation. There are no significant side effects to CBD, the most commonly reported side effect is tiredness and in some diarrhea, and changes in weight and appetite. CBD has not yet been approved by the FDA for any treatment as research is still fairly new and ongoing.

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Massage Therapy for Headaches and Migraines

6/6/2018

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June is Migraine and Headache Awareness Month. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, nearly 36 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. There are many causes of headaches and migraines, and stress and tension can either cause or play a major role in their onset and severity. There have been several research studies to determine the effectiveness of massage therapy for headaches and migraines with findings indicating massage as an effective tool in their treatment.

Massage primarily works to relieve these symptoms by releasing tension in the neck and shoulder region and the suboccipitals (the muscles at the base of the skull). Muscle spasms can also be reduced through the release of this tension. Hormone chemical changes can also be a trigger for migraines. Cortisol which is commonly known as the stress hormone, can be controlled and reduced by massage, which also increases endorphin production through the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system. Massage increases overall blood flow and circulation which improves oxygen levels, helping to reduce pain.

Here are some tips to stop headaches before they start

Avoid triggers
If certain foods or scents have triggered headaches in the past, it could be time to make a note of them and avoid them at all costs. Things like caffeine, cigarette smoke, and bright lights can be a big culprit in spurring on pain, but it doesn’t have to be that obvious. Perfumes, loud noises, flowers, and even lunch meat have the power to make you miserable.

Workout often
Exercising on a regular basis reduces tension and can help prevent headaches. Choose something you enjoy doing - walking, biking, kayaking, hiking, etc. - and follow the proper guidelines for the exercise you’re engaging in. That means stretching and warming up slowly. And don’t forget proper hydration.

Eat and sleep regularly
Lack of sleep and skipping meals can aggravate symptoms for the migraine sufferer. Make sure you are getting enough fluids and are eating meals at regular times. Lack of sleep (or even getting too much sleep) will also aggravate symptoms, so implement routine and stick to it.

Control stress
Stress. Stress. Stress. It happens. Sometimes it’s hard to avoid. The only thing we can change is our response to it. Learn techniques to reduce stress levels like breathing, yoga and meditation. You can also combat stress with a massage, a long walk, a hot shower, or whatever you need to do to take the edge off.

Acknowledging the triggers and patterns surrounding your migraine episodes will help you figure out what’s causing them and minimize your chances of experiencing headache pain.

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4 Benefits of Massage Therapy for Teens

3/27/2018

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Adults are not the only ones that can benefit from massage. Teenagers are going through massive psychological and physiological changes and massage can be very beneficial in supporting their health and overall well being.
Athletic Injuries
Many teens are involved in sports which can be very demanding. Massage therapy can help with soreness from intense practices or help alleviate minor injuries related to sports such as repetitive motion injuries and muscle strains.
Stress
High school can be one of the most stressful times in life and levels of stress hormones can become chronically elevated even in teens. This can lead to depression, anxiety and a weakened immune system. Massage helps to decrease the levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increase the hormone dopamine, helping to reduce depression.
Poor Body Image and Eating Disorders
Many teens especially females suffer from poor body image which can lead to eating disorders. Massage can be a great way to create body awareness in a positive and healthy way and can help alleviate some of the stress, pressure and depression that can contribute to eating disorders.
PMS and Menstrual Pain
As a teenager menstrual pain and discomfort can be hard to deal with and often more intense. It can also help with other symptoms of PMS such as anxiety, depression and water retention. Massage therapy is one of the best ways to improve and sometimes eliminate pain completely. Girls can also benefit from learning self massage techniques to help with cramps.
What better way to show your teenager the importance of lifelong self care then to introduce them to massage at a young age. I work with teenagers age 12 and up and I truly believe that massage can be immensely beneficial to young people by giving them a way to cope with all the stresses they face on a daily basis. Teens age 12-18 receive $10 off and need a parent to come with them and sign for them.

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Benefits of Essential Oils

3/27/2018

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Essential oils are organic compounds that are extracted from plants These concentrated molecules have tremendous healing properties. They have been used for thousands of years to improve mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Essential oils have a wide array of healing properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, improving immunity, pain relief, digestive aid, decreasing anxiety and depression, balancing hormones, healing skin conditions and so much more.
Essential oils are extracted through a process of distillation from a plants leaves, bark, seeds, flowers, resins, roots or peels. They are composed of tiny molecules that have the ability to penetrate your cells. Some compounds in these oils even have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier making them more therapeutic and beneficial.

There are many different ways to use essential oils including topically, aromatically, and ingestion. These oils can also be made into powerful diy household cleaners or body care products. Some of my favorite simple ways to use oils:

Add a few drops to a rolled up paper towel attach to car vents with a paperclip.
A drop of lemon oil rubbed together on my palms as a natural hand sanitizer.
A few drops of peppermint oil rubbed on my stomach for nausea or to aid digestion.
Lemon and tea tree oil mixed in a spray bottle with vinegar for a natural daily shower spray.
Lavender, bergamot and cedarwood mixed with water in a spray bottle on my pillow before bed.
A drop of vetiver rubbed behind my ears to help with concentration or to decrease anxiety.

There are endless uses for essential oils and you can get creative and come up with many ways to easily incorporate them into your daily life. They are a safe, effective and enjoyable way to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
I diffuse essential oils in every massage and use them topically (optional). If you are interested in using oils that will benefit a specific need that you have please feel free to ask me and I will use the oils that best meet your needs.

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Types of Massage Therapy

3/26/2018

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Swedish - Swedish massage is the most well known type of bodywork. The main goal is to relieve muscle tension and relax the whole body using long gliding strokes and kneading. The outer layer of muscles are worked during a swedish massage.

Deep Tissue - Deep tissue massage uses slower, deeper pressure to loosen and relieve pain in trouble spots. The deepest layers of muscle and connective tissue are worked on to release areas of chronic tension.

Myofascial Release - Myofascial release works to stretch and release the fascia which is the connective tissue surrounding the muscles. This is a slow sustained pressure applied to the tissue without lotion. Releasing the fascia can eliminate pain and restore range of motion.

Lomi-Lomi - Hawaiian therapeutic massage also called the "dance of massage." This is a rhythmic, flowing and deeply relaxing modality of massage that eases tension in the muscles. It helps connect the body and the mind by grounding the person through movement and rocking and working on the whole body.

Acupressure - Acupressure is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and works on a specific points called acupoints that run along the meridians. Firm pressure is held down on these points to open up the channels and allow for an unblocked flow of energy. Acupressure works on the body and mind to restore balance.

Reflexology - Reflexology is based on the concept that areas on the hands, feet and ears correspond with areas on the body. Reflexology is typically done on the feet and uses pressure on specific points that correspond with different organs and body structures. The main goal is to promote relaxation and relieve stress.

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What to Expect From Your First Massage

3/20/2018

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     If you are new to massage therapy or are simply wondering how I operate, here is a rundown of how your first massage will go. I will ask for you to come 15 minutes early to your first appointment to fill out an intake form. We will then discuss what brings you in and what you hope to get out of the session. We will also determine the type of massage that works best for your individual needs.
     I will then show you the massage room and walk you through the massage process. I will explain that massage works best unclothed but that you should feel comfortable to leave as much clothing on as you like. Undergarments can be kept on or taken off it is entirely up to you, but know that you will be properly draped the entire time.
During the Massage
    I use a blend of unscented jojoba and coconut oil that absorb well and allow your muscles to be massaged without excess friction. I use scented essential oils only after first receiving your permission. There is a heating pad that can be adjusted to the temperature you prefer or turned off.
     Depending on your specific needs I will either begin working with you lying on your back or on your stomach with your face in the face cradle.
     Now it is time for you to completely relax your body and let me do the work. If I need to move your head or arm or leg I will do so. It may be difficult at first for you to let go and relax but it will get easier!
     I will check in with you about the pressure and the temperature. It is very important that you speak up at any time if you are uncomfortable with the pressure, temperature, the area being massaged, the volume of the music or anything else. I will not be at all offended if you ask me to adjust anything to make you more comfortable. Remember this is YOUR massage.

After the Massage
     After the massage you will be feeling calm and relaxed. You may have dozed off and that’s completely fine! I will leave the room so you can slowly get up. If you came in for pain you may have an immediate reduction in pain or it could take a few days. You shouldn’t feel very sore the next day, but if you do let me know so I can adjust your next massage accordingly.
   I will bring you some water and we will discuss the massage,possible things for you to try at home and your long term goals for massage. Then hopefully you will leave feeling refreshed, restored and happy!

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Lomi Lomi Massage

10/31/2017

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     Lomi Lomi is a Hawaiian therapeutic massage dating back 1500 years. Based on the Hawaiian philosophy of Huna which means life path, Lomi Lomi uses the principles of oneness and harmony to create healing for the whole person including the mind, body and spirit. Lomi-Lomi is also referred to as “loving hands massage” because the massage works gently yet deeply to ease into the muscles, while the therapist works with the intention of love and healing.
     Another name for Lomi Lomi is “the dance of massage” because of the synergy of movement, music and bodywork. Shamanic drumming and rhythmic music is played and the pace of the massage matches that of the music. This allows for deeper relaxation as the synchronicity of the music and movement allow the receiver to enter into a meditative state. The rocking motion helps to ground and center the receiver as well as encouraging the flow of energy and craniosacral fluid. Lomi Lomi has a non-confrontational ability to work deeply and loosen muscles and fascia.

What to expect during a Lomi Lomi Massage
     Normal draping is used during a session and the receiver begins lying face down. The session begins with a moment of stillness where the practitioner places their hands on the receivers and sets the intention for the massage. A rocking movement begins the massage. In a session the body is worked by sides. One side of the back will be worked using gliding, rocking, friction, knuckling and forearm strokes. Then the back of the leg on that same side will be worked followed by the other side of the back and leg. While face up one side will be worked from foot to arm and then the other side.
     At this point there is a great chance that the receiver has fallen asleep due to the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (think rest and digest).
    Another aspect of Lomi Lomi is the incorporation of the healing powers of essential oils. Different oils and blends are used throughout depending on the area being worked and the needs of the receiver.
    Due to its whole body concept, Lomi Lomi generally takes a minimum of 75 minutes, but ideally 90 minutes allows for the most effective treatment. However if an hour is all that you have much of the same benefits can be received from a shortened session.

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Self Care

9/21/2015

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Taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do. When you don’t take care of yourself everything else in life becomes more difficult and sooner or later you fall apart. Many people put the needs of others first and put their needs last. This can work out for some time, but eventually if you never care for yourself you won’t be able to care of anyone else. It can feel like you are being selfish when you do something for yourself but it is something you need! Loving yourself is the greatest gift you can give to the people you love. Self love means taking care of your needs. This can be anything from doing a hobby you love, to taking care of your health.

I recently realized I needed a massage and found I had difficulty getting around to scheduling an appointment. I couldn’t figure out what was holding me back. Then I came to the realization that I felt selfish spending money and time on myself. This is crazy because I personally need a regular massage in order to take care of my body and mind. I ask my clients to spend a little time and money on their wellness and I couldn’t even do it myself. So I made the appointment, and I am going to enjoy every minute of my massage knowing that I am taking care of myself so that I can be my best self in order to take care of others. So if you are like me and holding off on doing something good for yourself because of some ridiculous sense of guilt, then stop it! Go for it, take care of yourself because you are wonderful and amazing and you deserve it!

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