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What is Fascia? Fascia is a specialized system of the body that has an appearance similar to a spider's web or a sweater. Fascia is very densely woven, stringy tissue, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, bone, nerve, artery and vein. It also covers all of our internal organs including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. It is made mostly of collagen that provides strength and flexibility. A liquid called hyaluronan is between each layer. The hyaluronan helps your fascia stretch as you move. The coolest part about our fascial system is that it is actually one continuous structure that exists from head to toe without interruption. This is why we say that every part of the entire body is connected to each other-by the fascia! Additionally, it is also the first line of defense when storing emotional trauma. James Oschman, PhD, describes the fascial system as the extensive living network that allows energy to be communicated and transferred through the human body. What happens when our fascia is restricted? In the areas where there are fascial restrictions, collagen and water are no longer conducting energy.  Inflammation and trauma can dry up the hyaluronan and damage your fascia. When your fascia tightens, it can restrict the movement of your muscles and tissues, causing pain and other health conditions. The areas may harden and become sticky. The body operates with less efficiency, and healing becomes more difficult. The body also has difficulty shifting gears, making it not only harder for you to get started, but harder for you to shut down and rest.  Fight or flight mode is always turned on. Believe it or not, over 85% of our pain is due to fascial restrictions! What does a myofascial release session look like? This session is ideal for everyone, especially those that have been suffering from pain that has been present for an extended amount of time, reoccurring pain, or pain of an unknown cause. Myofascial release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the fascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. This slowly applied pressure will allow fascia to relax, release, and elongate which will eliminate pain and restore motion. Each session is performed directly on skin without oils, which enables the therapist to accurately detect fascial restrictions and apply the appropriate amount of pressure. Let's begin the work in order to discharge your emotional and physical blockages. Let's reset your nervous system and get your body back to a neutral state. Let's unlock, uncover, and release the stored trauma that has made a home in your cellular tissues for far too long. Let's RELEASE! Book our new service, THE RELEASE, today. The body remembers everything that has happened to it. Set your energy free. Release and let it go.

What is Reiki? Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words: Rei, which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki, which is "life force energy". So, Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy." Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery. IS REIKI A RELIGION? While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion. It has no dogma, and there is nothing you must believe in order to use and/or benefit from Reiki. In fact, Reiki is not dependent on belief at all and will work whether you believe in it or not. Because Reiki comes from God, many people find that using Reiki puts them more in touch with the experience of their religion rather than having only an intellectual concept of it. While Reiki is not a religion, it is still important to live and act in a way that promotes harmony with others. Mikao Usui, the founder of the Reiki system of natural healing, recommended that one practice certain simple ethical ideals to promote peace and harmony, which are nearly universal across all cultures. HOW IS REIKI GIVEN? In a standard treatment, Reiki energy flows from the practitioner's hands into the client. The client is usually laying on a massage table, fully clothed. The practitioner places their hands on or about an inch or so away from the body in a series of hand positions, including around the head and shoulders, the stomach, and feet. Other, more specific positions may be used based on the client's needs. Each position is held for three to ten minutes depending on how much Reiki the client needs at each position. The whole treatment usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. WHAT DOES A REIKI SESSION FEEL LIKE? What one experiences during a Reiki treatment varies somewhat from person to person. However, feelings of deep relaxation are usually felt by all. In addition, many feel a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and surrounds them. As the Reiki energy encourages one to let go of all tension, anxiety, fear or other negative feelings a state of peace and well-being is experienced. Some drift off to sleep or report floating outside their bodies or have visions and other mystical experiences. At the end of the treatment, one feels refreshed with a more positive, balanced outlook. ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS? Most of the time a person will feel relaxed and uplifted by a Reiki treatment. However, sometimes a person will have what is called a healing crisis. As a person’s vibration goes up, toxins that have been stored in the body will be released into the blood stream to be filtered by the liver and kidneys and removed from the system. When this happens, sometimes a person can get a headache or stomach ache or feel weak. If this happens, it is a good idea to drink more water, eat lighter meals and get more rest. The body is cleansing as part of the healing process, which is a positive sign. If you're curious if Reiki energy healing is for you, please reach out with any questions. Check out our new Reiki healing service, THE ELEVATION. See you soon!

Many of us decide to utilize massage therapy to alleviate the physical discomfort and stress that we frequently suffer from. While massage feels good and soothes our pain, frequently, that relief is only temporary. Massage, paired with regular and appropriate physical activity is imperative to achieving the more permanent results that we are all seeking. Keeping physically active through healthy movement will ensure that chronic pain isn't exacerbated by immobility. Benefits of regular physical exercise are toned muscles, regaining your range of motion within joints, and releasing tension within the body. Additionally, exercise also improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative moods and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function. Unfortunately, if we are experiencing pain, some physical movements may be difficult to perform. However, completely restricting movement can cause more harm to our bodies. Consult a health professional to design an appropriate exercise program geared towards strengthening, increasing range of motion, and improving mobility. Are you ready to take on an active role in your recovery? Commit to our 30 minutes/30 days Challenge! All that you have to do is set aside 30 minutes of your day to move your body for 30 consecutive days! That’s it! All participants will receive 25% off of their massage service after the conclusion of the challenge! Just make sure that you document your daily progress! If you're in, just shoot me a message!

📣📣NEW SERVICE ALERT!! Facial cupping increases blood circulation and stimulates the facial cells that are responsible for collagen production. In turn, this can brighten your skin, minimize the appearance of scars, fine lines and wrinkles, and tone your chin, jawline, and neck by decreasing puffiness and stimulating your lymphatic system. Check out this add on service with during your next appointment!

Try our new paraffin-alternative treatment, Eco-fin! This luxurious, 100% natural plant-based paraffin alternative, will provide your feet and hands with the care that they deserve. Aids with anti-aging, cell regeneration, deeply moisturizes and softens skin, relaxes muscles, and provides pain relief. No paraffin, petroleum, synthetic fragrances, or dyes. Made with a luscious fusion of plant oils, including jojoba, coconut, shea, and sustainable palm, Eco-fin offers 13 natural aromas plus unscented for customization. We now also have area-specific treatments specialized just for you! Check your our services on the website and book today! Contact us for more information!

Introducing 4 new herbal foot soaks to our menu of services! Be sure to add 1 of these 25-minute foot soaks to your next appointment, beginning August 1st! 1. THE CLEANSE If you're having any of the following symptoms, consider THE CLEANSE herbal foot soak: *Fatigue *Food cravings *Weight increase *Hazy thinking *Breakouts *Mood swings *Insomnia This soak includes 7 natural, organic ingredients, including Dandelion Root, Calendula, and Red Clover which all promote blood/liver/kidney detoxification, reduces inflammation, and stimulates the entire lymphatic system. ******************************************************************************************** 2. THE BOOST Our new herbal foot soak, THE BOOST, is ideal if you suffer from symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, or if you just need a general mood booster. Symptoms of these conditions include: *Sleep issues *Overactive mind *Constant worry/feelings of uneasiness/panic *Change in appetite Includes 5 organic herbs, such as St John's Wort and Passionflower that'll get you in a better mood and calm your nervous system. ******************************************************************************************** 3. THE RELIEF THE RELIEF herbal foot soak will be sure to soothe all of your aches and pain away! This choice will be wonderful to alleviate the day's stress and remove the physical pain that comes along with it! Best for those with: *General aches, pains, and inflammation *Elevated stress level *Tired, achy feel *The need to relax and unwind Includes Arnica, White Willow Bark, and 4 other natural herbs to alleviate overall pain, achiness, and stress in your body. ******************************************************************************************** 4. THE REFRESH THE REFRESH herbal foot soak is ideal for those suffering from: *Discolored toenails *Foot fungus *Hardened skin *Foul odor A special blend of Snake root extract, oregano and more will get your feet together and relax you at the same time!

The Science Behind Massage and Mental Health We hear everyone talking about mental health and different ways to maintain a healthy mind. Massage is a common go-to (and a great 1, might I add!), however, do we really understand WHY? Yes, there is a science behind it! Relaxation can come in both psychological and physiological forms. PSYCHOLOGICAL relaxation refers to the reduction of in stress hormones release (cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline). A reduction in theses hormones will allow the individual to feel a reduction in anxiety, stress and depression. PHYSIOLOGICAL relaxation refers to the increase in tissue flexibility, elasticity, and pliability. A reduction in musculoskeletal tension can allow the individual to feel a reduction in pain and increase their range of movement and flexibility. Endorphins are released during times of happiness and relaxation. Low levels of endorphins are linked to negative thoughts, anxiety, stress and depression. Massage can stimulate an increase in the release of endorphins through stimulating the autonomic nervous system. An increase in levels of endorphins such as serotonin and dopamine can leave the individual feeling positive, enthusiastic, and relaxed. Massage can decrease the release of cortisol. Cortisol is a stress related hormone released during times of threat. High levels of cortisol are linked to feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. Massage can reduce the production of cortisol by promoting relaxation. A reduction in the levels of cortisol can leave the individual feeling calm, relaxed, and happy. Massage can increase tissue temperature. An increase tissue temperature is achieved through stimulating an increase in blood circulation. An increase in blood circulation is gained through vasodilation which occurs when the smooth muscles surrounding blood vessels relax which widens the vessels. An increase in blood circulation can warm the tissues allowing them to become more relaxed. An increase in tissue temperature can lead to an increase in flexibility, tissue elasticity, and decreased pain. So, if you managed to read all of that, hopefully you now have a better understanding about why massage works and how it is SCIENTIFICALLY beneficial to our mental health. If you are still on the fence about making massage a regular priority in your life, just take the leap! Book 1 appointment and I promise that you won’t be disappointed!

Lymph? What is that? Lymph is a special fluid that circulates throughout our entire body using the lymphatic system. It’s like our body’s own built-in sewer system. The entire system is responsible for collecting and moving the waste from cells and tissues, maintaining proper fluid levels, transporting fats and proteins, and assisting in fighting off infections. When our lymph system is thrown off, it could cause: *Swelling/bloating throughout the body *Fatigue *Unexplained muscle/joint pain, especially upon waking *Increased sensitivity to allergens *Skin irritation, rashes, patchiness. breakouts *Brain fog *Headaches *Autoimmune disorders So, what’s manual lymphatic drainage? Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a light, rhythmic treatment that helps promote and stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid through the vessels and towards the corresponding lymph nodes. MLD should not be confused with a traditional massage, whereas this technique uses just enough pressure as it takes to stretch the skin. First, opening techniques are applied to the lymph nodes (drainage sites). Some of these sites include the neck, arm pits, and groin areas. Then, various drainage strokes are applied, starting close to the node and gradually moving outward, making it possible for the fluid to move in the appropriate direction. Who can receive MLD? Anyone experiencing swelling, injuries, chronic pain conditions, fatigue, skin concerns, unknown food sensitivities, allergy issues, a recent surgical procedure, or a condition that has caused your lymph system to be sluggish can receive this treatment. If you have unexplained swelling or pain, this treatment may be a good start to addressing your concerns. As long as you don’t have a heart condition, blood clots, current infection, or kidney issues, it’s safe! What ISN’T MLD? ❌MLD is NOT deep tissue massage or breaking up scar tissue/fibrosis. Our lymph vessels are right under the skin, so any pressure deeper than that closes them off and is counterproductive. ❌MLD should NOT be painful. Unless the area is EXTREMELY sensitive, the light touch of this treatment should not be uncomfortable at all. The strokes calm the nervous system, so by the end of the session, you should feel a heightened sense of relaxation. ❌MLD is NOT forcibly pushing fluid out of surgical incisions or opening incision wounds to fluid out of the body after a surgical procedure. This is an extremely unsafe, unnecessary, and painful procedure that highly increases the chance for infection. Not to mention, extracting fluid from the body is out of a Licensed Massage Therapist's scope of practice. Let your body do what it's supposed to do NATURALLY. It's a process...just be patient! Interested in giving your body the jump start that it needs? Contact Holistic Bodywork and Wellness today for more information!

Regular stretching can increase flexibility, improve range of motion, release tension from your body and relieve/prevent body pain, and enhance overall well-being. The following is the answers to some FAQ that may help you along your stretching journey! How often should I stretch? Daily is recommended, but as frequently as possible. When should I stretch? It is always best to stretch when your muscles are warm. If you would like to stretch in the morning, or before a workout, make sure you get your body moving before you begin. Arm circles, leg swings, walking, anything really that mobilizes the areas that you’re focusing on will work! Stretching after your workout is extremely important to reduce post-exercise soreness and increase mobility. Ouch it hurts! Am I doing something wrong? When stretching a tight muscle, will feel a little uncomfortable, but never PAINFUL. Make sure you’re breathing through the stretch – breathe deeply, in through your nose and blow out through your mouth. With each breath, you should feel the muscle being stretched relax. How long should I hold each stretch? Depending on the area, a stretch can be held anywhere between 20 seconds and 3 mins. Again, if you feel pain, or feel pain coming out of the stretch, you’ve held it for too long. In short, PLEASE take the time out to do your stretches! If you need assistance with choosing the right stretches for you, let me know! I also offer a service called, THE RELEASE – 45 mins of assisted, full-body stretching. Remember, you don’t have to live in pain! #stretch #holistichealth #yoga #massage #massagetherapy #injuryrehab #prevention

LOCATION: The center of the neck at the level of the throat ASSOCIATED COLOR: Turquoise/Aquamarine SYMBOL: Blue lotus with 16 petals ELEMENT: Ether/Space The Throat chakra is the 5th chakra of the body. It is all about the expression of yourself and your personal, highest truth. Another function of the throat chakra is to connect you to spirit. The biggest challenge affecting the throat chakra is expressing yourself in the most truthful manner. Opening the throat chakra can greatly help align your vision with reality and release pressure that may affect the heart chakra that is located just below. The throat chakra is associated with the etheric body, which is said to hold the blueprint or perfect template of the other dimensions of the body. A blocked throat chakra can contribute to feelings of insecurity, timidity, and introversion. On the other end of the spectrum, an overactive throat chakra may also lead to gossiping, nonstop talking, and being verbally aggressive or mean. An imbalance is the Throat is related to: Speaking too much or inappropriately Not being able to listen to others Excessive fear of speaking Small, imperceptible voice Not being able to keep secrets or to keep your word Telling lies Excessive secretiveness or shyness Anxiety Frequent sore throats/infections Dizziness and fatigue Thyroid problems Headaches Anemia Neck and shoulder pain Mouth ulcers Dental issues Asthma Tips to begin balancing your Throat Chakra: Drink more water Eat more fruit, such as blueberries, apples, peaches, lemons, and limes Be intentional about being honest and open when talking to friends and family Look in mirror when speaking affirmations and watch the movement in your lips Identifying what is preventing you from speaking openly Yoga-Fish pose #chakras #massage #throat #expression #confidence #truth #neckpain #shoulderpain #holistichealth #massagetherapist #blue

LOCATION: Center of chest ASSOCIATED COLOR: Green/Pink SYMBOL: Two intersecting triangles forming a 6-pointed star in a circle with 12 petals ELEMENT: Air The Heart Chakra is the fourth chakra of the body. It connects the lower and upper chakras and acts as a center of integration of earthly matters and higher aspirations. The Heart chakra is all about connecting and relating. Love, giving and receiving, and how open we are in relationships are key. Love is the energy that helps transfigure emotions and experiences. It’s an essential element in any relationship, whether it’s with others or oneself. Love experienced through the fourth chakra is not just about romance, but about going beyond the limitations of the ego and personal preoccupations to open up more fully to compassion and acceptance of all at face value. The heart chakra is also how we experience beauty in life. Seeing the world through a balanced fourth chakra is being in a state of openness and acceptance that brings us in touch with our world and ourselves in profound and fulfilling ways. An imbalance of the 4th chakra is related to: Love obsessions Neediness/clinginess Codependency Jealousy Mistrust Heart problems Isolation Relationship breakdowns Sadness Tiredness Heart/circulatory issues Respiratory ailments Tips to begin balancing your Heart Chakra: 1. Cultivate your appreciation for beauty, whether it’s in nature, people or in the arts 2. Practice self-care and love your body up 3. Cultivate self-compassion and acceptance, especially with regards to your emotions and body 4. Focus on receiving if you are naturally inclined to be a giver; and on giving if you’re more inclined to receive all the time 5. Reflect on old wounds inherited from family relationships and come to terms with them compassionately 6. Practice forgiveness deep within your heart 7. Express your gratitude for the presence of other people in your life or simply for good things that make your life easier and happier #heartchakra #green #pink #balance #selfcare #alignment #massage #holistichealth #massagetherapist #healing #love

LOCATION: Above the naval ASSOCIATED COLOR: Yellow SYMBOL: 10 Petalled bright yellow Lotus ELEMENT: Fire The Solar Plexus Chakra is the 3rd Chakra of the body is the center to our identity, personality, and ego. It allows us to make conscious choices, set goals, and move forward in life with confidence. An imbalance is the Solar Plexus is related to: Feeling powerless Arrogance Giving up quicky Difficulty accepting change Excessive feeling of insecurity, living on survival mode constantly Anxiety Trouble making decisions Feeling threatened/unsafe Low self-confidence General pain in the upper abdomen Sensitive stomach IBS, heartburn, ulcers, constipation/diarrhea Lower back pain Kidney stones Bladder/Colon issues Leg issues Cramps Fatigue/Sluggishness Tips to begin balancing your Solar Plexus Chakra: Exercise – especially core strengthening Honor and be present with your emotions Explore your personal interests, needs and wants – learn what you enjoy and desire in life Advocate for your needs and wants Try new things Listen to your gut level intuition Take on a leadership role Make choices based on your needs and desires Practice public speaking (even if it is just in the mirror to start) Engage in activities that you find enjoyable Release fear Receive regular body and/or energy work Actively practice stress management #Solar Plexus #chakras #massage #power #confidence #selfconfidence #stomachpain #backpain #holistichealth #massagetherapist #yellow #healing