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Do Your Injuries Make You Feel Like It’s Groundhog’s Day?

They say, time heals all wounds. When it comes to injuries, our clocks seem to move at a snail’s pace. Have you noticed when everything is working properly in your body you have a tendency to ignore those areas? It isn’t until we twist an ankle, jam a finger, or bang a knee that we think about specific body parts during our busy day. Then, we can’t seem to think about anything else, if the pain is great enough.

There are two types of injuries: acute and overuse. Acute is generally easy to identify. Overuse, on the other hand, may be a bit harder to diagnose. It’s the one that makes us crazy wondering why we are not healing as quickly as we thought. Unfortunately, in these cases, people can injure themselves little by little every day and not realize it. Whether you are a weekend warrior who keeps aggravating that old basketball injury or you are a sedentary office employee with a poor ergonomic workstation, you may be in need of a solution to get your muscles, tendons, or ligaments back on a healthy track.  

Here are three benefits of a deep tissue massage, which will help you to stop feeling like you are Groundhog-Daying yourself with repeat injuries.

#1 It Alleviates Muscle Tension
A deep tissue massage is designed to push through several layers of muscle to remove scar tissue. Like other types of massage, deep tissue massage has a specific goal. When used as part of the therapeutic program, a therapist will target specific areas of the body, which have been injured or strained, to help calm the nervous system.

#2 It Quickens Recovery Time
Massage of any kind has wonderful benefits to the cardiovascular system. A skilled therapist will carefully work the muscles (without causing further damage) to not only heal sprains or strains, but to also aid the body’s natural ability to repair itself. The increase of blood flow will rid the body of toxins, reduce sore muscles, reduce muscle fatigue, and prevent further injury.

#3 It Expands Range of Motion
Deep tissue massages also have the benefit of helping to release the stiffness that builds up in joints. With the promotion of blood flow, muscles will elongate, increasing flexibility and strengthening endurance.

If you are not sure why your injuries are not healing, it is important to seek medical advice from your provider.

To learn more about how a deep tissue massage may be right for you, contact us!

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3 Sensual Essential Oils for Makin’ Whoopee this Valentine’s Day

Have you noticed that people either love Valentine’s Day or they hate it? There is an awful lot of hype, particularly in new relationships, about flowers, chocolates, dinner reservations, expensive gifts, and grand gestures. It can be a fun and magical day for lovebirds.

Maybe you aren’t into the big, extravagant celebration, but would like to do something a little more memorable than your average Wednesday night. Let’s face it, if you have been in a committed relationship for any length of time, your expectation of something as gloriously romantic as one of Ed Sheeran’s Perfect songs wanes. Notice, the word ‘wanes’. That doesn’t mean you can’t write your own magical night with the right ingredients.

Here are three sensual essential oils for Makin’ Whoopee this Valentine’s Day, along with suggestions on how to use them.

Ylang, Ylang Oil
Ylang, ylang has a light floral aroma that is calming and helps the body to relax. This essential oil is wonderful for helping to relieve feelings of nervousness and anxiety, which proves helpful when one worries about the endless chocolatey treats that have been consumed since Thanksgiving. Ylang, Ylang is known to be an aphrodisiac, as well as being associated with feelings of joy and playfulness. Also helpful for recreational activities.  

Neroli Oil
What is particularly interesting about Neroli Oil is that it helps promote feelings of arousal especially for those who have been experiencing a loss of sexual desire. It’s gentle aroma releases tension and is a mood enhancer.  

Rose Oil
Rose oil is the most feminine of our essential oils. It is said to release feelings of love, compassion, and devotion. When you think of valentine’s day, the image of red roses is sure to pop into your mind, along with Cupid. When he pulled back that arrow to hit his target, his aim was to release the body’s chemicals, boosting the libido. Take a cue from him.

Your Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be another boring Wednesday night. Spice it up by experimenting with the flirtatious influence of aromatherapy. Find an oil or a blend that is pleasing to your partner. Add it to a diffuser or drop it into a warm bath. Make your own spray bottles and spritz your sheets.

To create your own intimate massage session, use essential oils to trigger your limbic system through your sense of smell. Add your favorite essential oil or blend to a base oil and take turns gently massaging each other. peaceful ambiance by lighting candles and creating a playlist you both with enjoy.

For more suggestions on which essential oils to use for a romantic night, contact us.

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Massage Therapy vs. Massage Parlors: How to Stay Safe

When setting out to write this post, I didn’t find a lot of information on the topic I’d like to share. I saw several articles and videos suggesting ways for a therapist to stay protected from clients (particularly at out-call locations), but not many on how a client can protect themselves. I suspect that is largely due to fear. Fear that potential clients will no longer seek peace, serenity, and refuge in massage, but rather by exposing this topic, they will replace those feelings with doubt and fear of foul play.

Friends, when I took on this blog, I told you I was excited to share my thoughts and insights on massage, essential oils, and other healthful living tips to help you live out your best life. Staying safe during a massage is an area that needs a voice rather than silence.

Massage therapy is a practiced skill learned through formal education and a reputable therapist is instated by a licensing board. Massage parlors offer different services, often illegally, including sex acts by people who are not properly trained.

Whether you are looking for a local massage therapist or considering a massage while on vacation, when considering a massage it is important to know who it putting their hands on you before you accept a massage from them. Here are a couple of suggestions before you hop on the massage table.

1. Do Your Homework
When in doubt, do a little research on the establishment and person who will be performing your massage. Make sure it is a reputable place by looking at their website, reading reviews and testimonials, and asking others who they recommend. Also, look for a displayed license that acknowledges their credibility.

2. Know the Nudity Policy
Many reputable places will clearly define their guidelines on nudity. For example, this is mine:
The most effective massage is done on a completely naked subject so that all affected muscle areas can be worked on. Please do not worry; even if you are shy, you will be modestly covered by an oversized sheet at all times, with only the part of the body being massaged being exposed. If you still feel uncomfortable, you may leave your underwear on, but please be aware that will result in certain muscle areas remaining unmassaged.

At the end of the day, your massage therapist wants you to have the best experience possible. In order to do that, you must be comfortable and know that you are in a safe environment.

Finally, I leave you with one last thought and there is no exception here. If you are uncomfortable in any way, by their physical touch or something they said to you, speak up! If the person performing the massage is applying too much pressure or hurting you in any way tell them. There are clear lines for a therapist that should not be crossed.

Massage is a wonderful ingredient for maintaining a healthful, balanced life. Benefits are linked to controlling or fighting chronic health issues like anxiety, depression, cancer, and physical pain. It is the secret weapon your body needs whether it is meant to relax you through an aromatherapy massage, rid your body of toxins through a cupping massage, or work tense muscles through a deep tissue massage. Find someone you can trust and allow them to help you experience a healthy massage.

If you have more questions about how to identify a credible massage therapist or how to stay safe during a massage, please contact us for help.

 

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3 Reasons You Must Try Roman Chamomile

Roman Chamomile is an incredible essential oil with a variety of benefits. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, helping to improve one’s outlook, relieving digestive problems and treating skin conditions. If you haven’t tried it yet, here are three reasons you need to try Roman Chamomile ASAP.

1. Experience the Therapeutic Calming Effect
Roman Chamomile is known for its power to calm not only skin irritations but also the mind and the body. It helps to reduce the feelings of annoyance, discouragement, depression, and hopelessness for starters. Parents also love dropping a little in a diffuser as their babies rest for the night because it gently and safely promotes relaxation.

2. Raise Your Mental Clarity
It’s said that Roman Chamomile was used to help Roman soldiers mentally prepare for battle, giving them courage. Like the ancient Romans, people use this essential oil to propel them forward. It is widely used to help aid in your feelings of purpose while boosting your energy.

3. Overcome the Winter Blues
The winter months can bring with them a bit of gloom. We often can’t open our windows to smell the freshly cut grass or the glorious aroma of spring flowers. Frankly, in the mid-Atlantic, the winter blues can set in and make for a lousy day. If you find yourself feeling down, I encourage you to try Roman Chamomile because it’s uplifting properties are known to help you focus on what is meaningful in your life while replacing feelings of gloom with a sense of safety, happiness, and fulfillment.

To learn more about the uses of Roman Chamomile, contact us today!

 

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What’s Your Focus?

I’ve noticed many of my friends choosing an annual focus word which helps them manifest positive outcomes in their lives. I decided I would choose one this year, too.

So I pondered over individual words. Believe. Light. Hope. Joy. Love. They’re all powerful words, but none of the words felt quite right for me.

Then I saw a quote by Pema Chodron, which read, “Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions.” Inner peace, I thought. That feels ‘right.’

And so I choose the phrase Inner Peace for my 2018 focus. Here’s what inner peace means to me:

  • Avoiding the evening news
  • Being kind myself and other people
  • Choosing love over judgment
  • Focusing on peace of mind, serenity, and joy despite stressors
  • Speaking my truth
  • Surrendering to the present moment

Inner peace is something I can control and I believe my inner world will dramatically impact positively my outer one.

What’s your word for 2018 and how will you actively live it?

Namasté.

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5 Steps to a Mindful New Year

It’s a glorious new year filled with endless possibilities. We each have the opportunity to mindfully focus on the person we are at present and make a pact with ourselves to keep that present person focused and positively charged. Will it be easy? Yes, it can be with five easy steps to help keep you balanced.

Step 1: Choose Simplicity
The very first step to a mindful new you is to rid yourself of excess. You must thoughtfully choose to live more simply. While it sounds easy, you have to be sure you are ready for what that means.

Many of us carry unnecessary burdens around each day. We overextend ourselves. Our “downtime” is watching television while simultaneously responding to emails and checking social media accounts. We opt for packing our schedules full of social obligations or business meetings to get ahead, or worse, to ensure we are doing what everyone else is doing.

Choosing simplicity means thoughtfully giving these norms up and focusing only on what will bring you light and fulfillment. It means turning your attention to what your body craves. It means silencing the noise that surrounds you day after day.

Step 2: Establish Bodily Awareness
Your body is the hub of all communication. Listen to what it is telling you. Before your feet hit the floor in the morning, spend a few moments reflecting on what you can do for your body that day. It may be as simple as doing a few breathing exercises, or as great as seeking counsel on a tender spot, mark, or lump you have been ignoring. Spend a few moments focusing your mind on each part of your body. Let your thoughts linger. Begin with you toes, then your ankles, etc. work your way up to your head, feeling each point of your body and addressing any aches and pains that may arise.      

Step 3: Release Negative Energy
Negative energy can work a number on you mentally and physically. When we harbor stress, it can cause a number of problems. Find a way to release that stress. Choose a meaningful outlet for yourself like physical exercise, massage, yoga, soaking in a salt bath, whatever will help you rid yourself of the toxic energy that consumes you.

Step 4: Consult Mindfulness Tools
Often with each new year, we start strong on our intentions and slowly wane with each passing day. Find tools specific to your passions to help keep you on track. Use an app on your phone or listen to a podcast. Try journaling for a few minutes a day to remind yourself why you chose to be more mindful. Find something that works for you and keeps you focused on your inner goals.

Step 5: Accept Your Mindful or Mindless Self
While we all have great aspirations for change, slip ups will probably happen. That is okay! Give yourself the gift of acceptance. Know that you will backslide a few times throughout the course of the year, but it is never too late to try again. At any point in your journey you can refocus your thoughts and put in place reasonable actions that will get you back on track. Also keep in mind, you will likely need to reevaluate your original course throughout the year and make adjustments as you conquer some areas.

For more suggestions on how to have a mindful new year, contact us today!

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Why You Should Set Mindful Intentions This New Year

Cue your inner movie player and picture a scene when the ball drops and Auld Lang Syne plays softly in the background. We’re meant to cling to our loved ones, reminiscing about days gone by as we clink a little bubbly. Each shared kiss, although it may not begin with Kay, represents hope of what is to come in the year ahead. Hope of something the preceding year did not grant us.

  

The hope for the new year tends to bring resolutions that more often than not, don’t make it through January. We make resolutions because we know we want to make a change of some sort and we try to hold ourselves to it. This year, instead of making a resolution you are likely to scrap in a few weeks, we invite you to set mindful intentions.

What does that mean?
To set a mindful intention, you should first think about your desired outcome. What do you hope to achieve? Think it through to the finish. Use your senses as you reflect on it. What does the outcome look like, sound like, taste like, smell like, or feel like? Now develop it a little more. What steps do you need to take to achieve the outcome? Make sure to leave yourself some wiggle room as your desired outcome may take twists and turns you didn’t anticipate.

Say What?
Okay, let’s start with a typical New Year’s Resolution: exercise more. Have you ever noticed how the gym is packed in the first few weeks of January and then it levels off? People get tired of their resolution if it isn’t rooted in something deeper.

Making a Mindful Intention Instead of a Resolution
Another approach would be to think about why you want to exercise more. Do you want to lose weight? Lower your blood pressure? Look incredible in a bathing suit? Without a clear idea of why you make a random resolution, you are unlikely to achieve it.   

Big Picture Equals Big Success
Perhaps your intention begins with wanting to take better care of yourself. What does that look like for you? It may include going to the gym three times a week so you can lower your blood pressure. It may also include a more healthful diet and establishing a better self-care plan.

By looking at the whole picture you can mindfully make decisions and evaluate your intention day-by-day or week-by-week. Say, for instance, you twist your ankle and are unable to go to the gym three times a week as originally planned. You can still work on lowering your blood pressure by focusing on a healthy meal plan, managing your stress level, and finding an exercise program with a lot of floor work until your ankle heals. 

As you set your mindful intentions, remember to stay positive, allow yourself flexibility, and remember to focus on where you hope to end up in December 2018.

If you want to learn more about setting mindful intentions, contact us today!

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3 Ideas on How To Be Generous With Yourself

Busy people often put their self care last on their list of to-do items. It is something that can be viewed as a luxury, and only completed if all the other items are crossed off of their list. It comes as no surprise that entrepreneurs, business owners, and parents put in long hours, finding little time to care for themselves. Are you one of these people?

Remember, especially during the bustling holiday season, if you don’t take care of yourself properly, you are inviting illness, stress, and fatigue into your home. We’ve come up with three ideas on how to be generous with yourself to ensure you are operating at full capacity through the new year.

1. Soak in a Himalayan Salt Bath
Salt baths are excellent for helping to detox your body by reducing inflammation, stimulating oxygen and blood flow, and aiding in weight loss. Himalayan salt is known to help balance hormones, boost immunity, and regulate blood pressure.

Short on time? No problem, you don’t need to cram an appointment at the spa into your already packed schedule. You can experience all the benefits of a luxurious bath in the comforts of your own home. After you put the kids in bed, respond to emails, wrap presents, or prep for your morning meeting, draw yourself a bath and add Himalayan salt to it. Make sure to keep the water at body temperature to fully experience the work of the salts.

2. Mix it Up with Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses concentrated essential oils in a variety of ways to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit while promoting health and providing balance. By knowing which essential oils to use and how to properly blend them, you can experience their healing properties to the fullest.

When putting the oils in a diffuser, you take in the aromas that send messages to your nervous system and the part of your brain that controls emotions. When mixing the concentrated essential oils with a base oil, you can apply them topically, allowing your skin to absorb them.

3. Experience a Massage
Whether you go to Miracles Massage to experience one of our custom designed massages, or have your partner give you a gentle rub down at home, treat yourself to the benefits of massage.

Need a little reminder on some of those incredible benefits? Massage is known to:

  • relieve pain and stress,
  • aid depression and anxiety,
  • boost immunity,
  • soothe migraines,
  • ease menstrual cramping and PMS, and
  • improve sleep.

It is very common, especially around the holidays, for people to focus on everyone and everything around them except for themselves. We are in a perpetual giving mode, yet we forget to give a little generosity, warmth, and kindness to ourselves. Don’t forget to give yourself the gift of relaxation and tranquility.    

For more ways on how to be generous with yourself or suggestions for aromatherapy that might be right for you, contact us today!

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Myth Buster: Why Massage Isn’t a Luxury

Many people believe that massage is a luxury afforded only to those with a disposable income. It’s for people who want to give themselves a day of pampering, or it is a treat rather than a necessity. Spoiler alert: these people are wrong!

Massage is a tool, supported by research, that can aid the body in dealing with an assortment of medical conditions like:

  • muscle pain,
  • anxiety,
  • circulatory issues,
  • insomnia, and
  • emotional distress.

Massage therapy is also often used in conjunction with a medical treatment plan for people recovering from heart surgeries and cancer treatments. It is not simply a luxury, but rather a golden ticket to a comprehensive health regimen.

The magic of massage is known to provide incredible benefits, which is why it is important to debunk the illusion that massage is a luxury. Most people would agree that the key to a healthy lifestyle includes proper nutrition and a regular exercise program. It can also be argued that frequent massage should not be a once in awhile thing, but rather a regular part of your routine, same as a gym membership.

We are constantly peppered with messages on television, radio, and social media about healthy food options and new exercise crazes. Additionally, when we exercise we see and feel the effects of working our bodies. Massage is a little different because it is not talked about as much. Physical touch does a world of good inside our bodies. It releases feel-good endorphins, it helps the blood flow more easily through the body, and it helps with lymphatic drainage. It is an incredible resource.

Additionally, something you may not know is that your doctor can approve massage for insurance coverage if you have a medical need. Yes, it’s true. Some insurance programs recognize the critical value of a massage in a person’s wellness plan and are willing to pick up some of the tab.

Properly caring for yourself and effectively approaching your healthcare through massage should not be viewed as a luxury, but rather a necessity. Whether your medical concerns are great or small, you should not consider caring for yourself as an indulgence.

If you want to learn more about how to design a healthy lifestyle overhaul by incorporating massage, essential oils, and mindfulness into your regular routine, contact us for suggestions.    

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4 Essential Oils You Need to Control Holiday Weight Gain

This time of year it is hard to resist all the scrumptious happy hour appetizers, the bottomless cocktails, the carb and gluten-filled cookies, and all that comes with the holiday party extravaganzas that we love. Our normal conscientious approach to healthful eating gets pushed to the wayside as we indulge in all the seasonal treats offered to us.

The faster-than-normal pace we keep during the holiday season paired with the irregular eating habits can cause issues for your digestive tract, not to mention your waistline. As you slide through the holiday smorgasbord you need these four essential oils to help keep you on track and to control unwanted weight gain.    

1. Eucalyptus Oil
If you are an emotional eater, this is the oil for you. Eucalyptus Oil is a mood booster that will help to increase your energy level. For those of you whose holiday party schedule is making you tired and decreasing your desire for a workout, meet Eucalyptus Oil. You’re welcome.

2. Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon Oil is an antioxidant that helps your body from creating fat. This magical little gem keeps your sugar cravings in check by helping to control the release of blood sugar.

3. Fennel Oil
When you have overindulged and your gut needs a little relief, Fennel Oil is the way to go. It will help with bloating, gas, constipation, and all the fun stuff that goes along with an upset tummy. As an additional perk, it can boost your metabolism.

4. Peppermint Oil
If there is only one oil you try in hopes of controlling your weight, let this be the one. Peppermint Oil will help curb your appetite, improve digestion, reduce cravings, increase the feeling of fullness, and boost your energy level.

There is no easy way to lose weight without causing a bunch of health problems in the long run. However, incorporating essential oils into your daily routine can help your health overhaul. With the addition of essential oils, you can increase your mood, energy level, and metabolism this holiday season. You can also control cravings and improve your digestion.

If you have questions about which essential oils are right for you, contact us today and we will help guide you.