"Things you force break"
My husband is working towards a goal at his work that will require our family to make some big changes. It is a big deal and in an attempt to control the situation I was just thinking that he should email his boss right this minute and get answers.. give me a time line so I can obsess and plan it all out and make it all happen NOW!!! Right as I was thinking about that the thought came to me that, "things you force, break" I was also trying to pull the lid off a pencil and as I pulled and forced it off.. it broke
How often do you receive a lesson as clear as that?!
This is not a new idea for me either, rather a repeating theme that I am deciding to honor and practice.
I wanted a boston terrier but, we were not ready for it. I pushed and searched and made it happen. We got a sweet girl who was completely nuts and ultimately a bad fit for us and we were a bad fit for her. We ended up re-homing her, and that is no fun. When we were ready, out of no where we were given the sweetest boston you will ever meet. I forced it and well, it broke.
I have many more examples but I won't bore you with the details. Think of your own moments of forcing things to happen or not happen or what have you. Then think about freeing yourself from the need to force things. If it needs to be forced there's a good chance it may break so think long and hard about allowing it to play out a natural course to the desired and natural outcome.
~M
Friday, December 2, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Wellness Wednesday
I just started reading a book called Oby's Wisdom by Dr. Mark William Cochran. I have to start by saying, the cover is not my favorite, but they say not to judge a book....
I really like this book so far.
This year alone my husband and I have spent nearly $1,000 on healthcare costs. ON TOP of paying for insurance AND we are both healthy individuals. Receiving bills repeatedly that are not covered by our insurance has been discouraging, getting close to nothing out of these office visits that we are paying for is down right depressing!
In comes Oby's Wisdom and an insane allergic reaction that appeared on my eye lids that has led me to evaluate my bodies toxicity levels. I am beginning to find that my body is feeling incredibly toxic lately and it is starting to let me know. Oby's wisdom is encouraging me and supporting my desire to listen to these signs and skip the doctors visit.
Dr. Cochran states in his book that our bodies have an innate intelligence. He revels in the idea of a fever and how wonderful it is that our bodies can heal without intervention. He also talks about our "sick" care system as opposed to a health care system. He brings up a story about a couple who could not afford insurance and felt happy and healthy and alive, they ensured their health by bringing forth life. They eventually acquired health insurance and have notice a decline in their health. They stopped working toward wellness and life because they thought they had a safety net.
Dr Cochran encourages us to enjoy a healthy lifestyle not because it will bring about lower blood pressure or weight loss or overcome fibromyalgia. He encourages us to enjoy healthy food, exercise and a spiritual practice just because they are good for you. "Wellness is a journey, not a destination".
I have been on this journey for some time, many of us have. From here on out, I am finding bliss, naturally.
I have been naturally migrating towards making my own skin care product, almost like a craving. From lotions to deoderant to shampoo and conditioner... to laundry detergent and cleaning supplies.
We have been improving our family diet a little each day, convincing my kids that vegetables are awesome has not been easy but we will get there! Convincing myself hasn't been easy either! Hummus helps.
I have been reincorporating meditation, breathwork and quiet peaceful times for me and working on these same ideas with my children.
I naturally tend to see problems and issues that arise in y body and my life as ways to improve or change my outlook on things. I am thankful for this outlook and happy to hear this idea echoed in the pages of the book. I am looking forward to embracing my body's innate healing ability and bring forth life!
Can you think of ways you can support your body by changing the way you think, feel, act and live? If you have some great ideas I would love to hear them!
~M
I really like this book so far.
This year alone my husband and I have spent nearly $1,000 on healthcare costs. ON TOP of paying for insurance AND we are both healthy individuals. Receiving bills repeatedly that are not covered by our insurance has been discouraging, getting close to nothing out of these office visits that we are paying for is down right depressing!
In comes Oby's Wisdom and an insane allergic reaction that appeared on my eye lids that has led me to evaluate my bodies toxicity levels. I am beginning to find that my body is feeling incredibly toxic lately and it is starting to let me know. Oby's wisdom is encouraging me and supporting my desire to listen to these signs and skip the doctors visit.
Dr. Cochran states in his book that our bodies have an innate intelligence. He revels in the idea of a fever and how wonderful it is that our bodies can heal without intervention. He also talks about our "sick" care system as opposed to a health care system. He brings up a story about a couple who could not afford insurance and felt happy and healthy and alive, they ensured their health by bringing forth life. They eventually acquired health insurance and have notice a decline in their health. They stopped working toward wellness and life because they thought they had a safety net.
Dr Cochran encourages us to enjoy a healthy lifestyle not because it will bring about lower blood pressure or weight loss or overcome fibromyalgia. He encourages us to enjoy healthy food, exercise and a spiritual practice just because they are good for you. "Wellness is a journey, not a destination".
I have been on this journey for some time, many of us have. From here on out, I am finding bliss, naturally.
I have been naturally migrating towards making my own skin care product, almost like a craving. From lotions to deoderant to shampoo and conditioner... to laundry detergent and cleaning supplies.
We have been improving our family diet a little each day, convincing my kids that vegetables are awesome has not been easy but we will get there! Convincing myself hasn't been easy either! Hummus helps.
I have been reincorporating meditation, breathwork and quiet peaceful times for me and working on these same ideas with my children.
I naturally tend to see problems and issues that arise in y body and my life as ways to improve or change my outlook on things. I am thankful for this outlook and happy to hear this idea echoed in the pages of the book. I am looking forward to embracing my body's innate healing ability and bring forth life!
Can you think of ways you can support your body by changing the way you think, feel, act and live? If you have some great ideas I would love to hear them!
~M
Monday, November 28, 2011
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving
Whatever kind of family tradition's you embrace this holiday season, I hope you have a beautiful day full of gratitude and laughter!
If you have a few minutes, read this great article about Gratitude
Thanks for reading,
~M
If you have a few minutes, read this great article about Gratitude
Thanks for reading,
~M
Monday, November 21, 2011
Indian Head Massage
I spend so much time thinking and talking about Ashiatsu that I often leave Indian head Massage out.
I want to fix that right here and now! Indian Head Massage is AMAZING!
It will leave you feeling relaxed, alert and focused. Perfect for a quick recharge during the work day and it is only 30 minutes long so you don't have to feel guilty for taking the time. Quite the contrary, because you will be more relaxed and yet alert and focused, you will be far more productive anyhow.
So next time you feel like you need a massage but you just don't think you have the time, schedule an Indian Head Massage. You won't regret it and you may even decide to add it in to your wellness routine regularly.
I want to fix that right here and now! Indian Head Massage is AMAZING!
It will leave you feeling relaxed, alert and focused. Perfect for a quick recharge during the work day and it is only 30 minutes long so you don't have to feel guilty for taking the time. Quite the contrary, because you will be more relaxed and yet alert and focused, you will be far more productive anyhow.
So next time you feel like you need a massage but you just don't think you have the time, schedule an Indian Head Massage. You won't regret it and you may even decide to add it in to your wellness routine regularly.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Placing a dollar value on good health. from wholeliving.com
-- Jenny C., Modesto, California
A. Anytime something gets up over $1,000 a year, you start to think of how much of your salary that amounts to -- never a great feeling. But you also have to ask yourself, "What do I value more, my money or my well-being?" It's a question I had to ask myself at one time. When I first started my career, I wound up with a horrible case of carpal tunnel syndrome. I could barely move my hands, much less type. My doctor wanted to put me in casts up to my elbows. I talked him out of it by promising to visit an acupuncturist and perhaps combine that with massage. My health-care plan didn't cover either one, but I went anyway. As a consequence, I regained the complete use of my hands, avoided surgery and pills, and never felt better.
My point is, sometimes the expense is worth it. You wouldn't forgo groceries or heating your home just to save money, and, at some point, you need to put your health care into the same nonnegotiable category. Just as water pipes will freeze in winter if you don't turn on the heat, not taking care of your back could have its costs: doctor visits, painkiller prescriptions, or physical therapy if the pain gets out of hand. Think of massage as a necessary expense, and you'll find a way to work it into your budget, no matter what.
One way to make it a little more affordable: See if your employer offers a health savings account (and if they don't, ask them to reconsider; HSAs are a great way to make health care more affordable). Basically, these plans allow you to set aside a portion of your pre-tax salary for health-care expenses -- up to $2,900 for individuals and $5,800 for families in 2008. You choose the amount you want to set aside, your employer puts it into a special account, and you use that money for your health-care needs without ever paying taxes on it. Your back massages will likely qualify if your doctor or chiropractor is willing to recommend them for you.
As long as you have a comfortable income and no significant debt, the money you're spending on massages each month isn't really a huge price to pay for your well-being. So I say go ahead and take care of yourself, and stop feeling so guilty. Being healthy is definitely worth it.
Text by Tracy Fernandez Rysavy
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Did you know massage can help relieve allergy symptoms?
HOW MASSAGE CAN HELP RELIEVE ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
David Lies, a massage therapist in Wichita, Kansas, remembers his honeymoon well: The lush, nascent flowers and trees of early May in Eureka Springs, Arkansas; time relaxing with his new wife, Linda; the rustic honeymoon cottage—and his allergies, triggered by the colorful blooms around him. “I used to say that I was allergic to everything under the sun,” Lies says.
Lies discovered an unexpected ally in his allergy battle: The honeymoon cottage’s landlord, who was also a massage therapist. “He offered to give my wife and me massages,” says Lies, who finally said yes when his swollen eyes, nonstop sneezing and coughing fits started to put a damper on his honeymoon.
Lies remembers the horrible pain as the therapist dug his elbow into his back along the muscles and trigger points long contracted from coughing, sneezing and related stress. Just as he was about to cry uncle, the therapist removed his elbow—or so Lies thought as he thanked him. His wife, who was watching the session, laughed. “He hasn’t moved his elbow at all,” she told Lies. The muscles had simply finally relaxed.
After the massage, Lies made it through the week with just a few sniffles, his first nondrug-induced relief in years. He returned to Wichita inspired, enrolling in massage school and eventually opening A Servant’s Hands, a full-service massage therapy clinic with a special interest in allergies.
Lies discovered an unexpected ally in his allergy battle: The honeymoon cottage’s landlord, who was also a massage therapist. “He offered to give my wife and me massages,” says Lies, who finally said yes when his swollen eyes, nonstop sneezing and coughing fits started to put a damper on his honeymoon.
Lies remembers the horrible pain as the therapist dug his elbow into his back along the muscles and trigger points long contracted from coughing, sneezing and related stress. Just as he was about to cry uncle, the therapist removed his elbow—or so Lies thought as he thanked him. His wife, who was watching the session, laughed. “He hasn’t moved his elbow at all,” she told Lies. The muscles had simply finally relaxed.
After the massage, Lies made it through the week with just a few sniffles, his first nondrug-induced relief in years. He returned to Wichita inspired, enrolling in massage school and eventually opening A Servant’s Hands, a full-service massage therapy clinic with a special interest in allergies.
RELAXING THE SYMPTOMS
Many Americans rely primarily on conventional treatments, including antihistamines and steroids, both of which can have some adverse side effects. Massage therapists, however, can help relieve some allergy symptoms by reducing stress, increasing circulation, releasing muscle tension and reprogramming the body’s panic reaction, which can exacerbate symptoms."It’s not to take away from the biological, inflammatory component of the disorder,” says Rosalind Wright, MD, a pulmonist on staff at the Harvard Medical School. “But if you use complementary modalities, including massage therapy, you could optimize the results.”
Few studies researching massage therapy and allergy relief exist, but we do know massage helps with stress, as shown in the 1992 Touch Research Institute study where 30-minute body massages on depressed adolescents decreased saliva cortisol levels. And stress definitely impacts allergies. A 2008 Harvard Medical School study co-authored by Wright showed that mothers-to-be who expose their unborn children to stress may increase these kids’ vulnerability to allergies and asthma.
So, just getting clients to relax may help their allergies. “Most experienced massage therapists know the immediate relief from sinus congestion that can result from just lying face down,” Lies says. This position gives you a chance to work on the upper back and shoulders, where many sinus trigger points are located.
Source: Parts of this article were excerpted from Clare La Plante's piece in mtj® (Massage Therapy Journal®) Summer 2009.
4 hour Body
I started the 4 hour body diet this week. Not because I want to loose weight but to give sugar and carbs the boot. When it comes to food I have a nasty habit of getting too busy to eat, especially around lunch time. I always eat breakfast and dinner but lunch is often a skip over which leads to chocolate or candy or bread or some other kind of carb and a roller coaster of short lived energy boosts.
Just into day two and I am enjoying a wonderful breakfast of eggs and beans and cabbage and turkey sausage. I am amazed at how this yummy healthy food does not fill me the way a bowl of cereal and apple slices does (my usual). I am in awe at the craving, low level but definitely a craving, for carbs. I was prepared for the sugar craving but not a general desire for bread and cereal, and so soon as well.
The kids are on board too! Although their diet changes are small. They can no longer have any sugar cereal or any treats of any kind. No cookies no sweets, no chocolate, no cupcakes, no ice cream!!
How did I get the kids on board with this you ask?
Binge Day!
The boys have seen my mom and her husband on this diet for months and they have been actually encouraging me to get on it as well so we can all enjoy the binge day, It's the day that makes it all work, it's the day I have been looking forward to since Sunday night ( I started the diet monday morning!)
Binge day means, every Saturday night we get to go to the grocery store and buy whatever junk we want and spend all day sunday eating everything we want to !!! I plan on starting with about 6 york peppermint paddys and bowl of ice cream.
~M
Just into day two and I am enjoying a wonderful breakfast of eggs and beans and cabbage and turkey sausage. I am amazed at how this yummy healthy food does not fill me the way a bowl of cereal and apple slices does (my usual). I am in awe at the craving, low level but definitely a craving, for carbs. I was prepared for the sugar craving but not a general desire for bread and cereal, and so soon as well.
The kids are on board too! Although their diet changes are small. They can no longer have any sugar cereal or any treats of any kind. No cookies no sweets, no chocolate, no cupcakes, no ice cream!!
How did I get the kids on board with this you ask?
Binge Day!
The boys have seen my mom and her husband on this diet for months and they have been actually encouraging me to get on it as well so we can all enjoy the binge day, It's the day that makes it all work, it's the day I have been looking forward to since Sunday night ( I started the diet monday morning!)
Binge day means, every Saturday night we get to go to the grocery store and buy whatever junk we want and spend all day sunday eating everything we want to !!! I plan on starting with about 6 york peppermint paddys and bowl of ice cream.
~M
Saturday, May 14, 2011
New time slots availabel
I just opened up some times on Wednesdays from 10am- 2 pm. Go get a spot and get yourself or someone you love a massage. Everyone needs a massage!
Also, don't miss out on a nice leisurely Saturday morning slot, they will only last as long as the summer. Once school starts again they will be gone.
Enjoy the beautiful weather.
~M
Also, don't miss out on a nice leisurely Saturday morning slot, they will only last as long as the summer. Once school starts again they will be gone.
Enjoy the beautiful weather.
~M
Friday, April 22, 2011
Reasons to live in Spokane, WA
In order only as they come to my mind and not by priority or top reason. I just read a challenge to come up with such a list and I am happy to do so. I spent years wanting to move back to Portland then just a few months ago we were offered a transfer to get ourselves back there with a salary and all. You know what I did? I cried! Not tears of joy either. I still love and adore Portland but my heart is here and for so many reasons, I will probably have to keep adding more to the list. So here goes:
1. Traffic. We simply don't have it. Even when people here start thinking there is traffic it is nothing absolutely nothing!
2. Easy to get around.
3. Fast to get around, I recently forgot about an appointment downtown. When I got the "are you coming?" call I jumped in the car and rushed down to arrive only 15 minutes late and I was able to park right outside the office. Can Seattle or Portland offer this, I don't think so!
4. I can go to a park and enjoy the quiet more often than not. There are certain parks that are often busy but so many green spaces exist where you can find peace and solitude.
5. Hiking and biking is easy and right around the corner almost anywhere you live.
6. Cost of housing is WAY lower. I can live in the neighborhood I want to live in and I am not confined to a tiny space.
7. Pride. In the past 3-5 years Spokane has really begun to appreciate itself. I am proud to live in Spokane.
8. Loving Spokane shows you really are an individual and independent thinker. It's easy and trendy to love Seattle and Portland, it takes a true individual to see what a gem Spokane really is.
9. Spokane is not pretentious and does not really have a really specific identity. For example, we all know what a Portlander looks like, we all know what Seattle ite(?) looks like. I for one don't know what a Spokanite looks like and the freedom in that is huge. Not following me? Well, think about conformity and peer pressure here, we all subconsciously give into it on some levels. The peer pressure and conformity in Portland for example is on display in shows like Portlandia. While the pressure leads to some great things, cycling, eating healthy and looking out for the planet, it is pressure just the same. In Spokane I love it here, but I don't identify with it so I don't feel any conformity or peer pressure. If you don't get me here you never will, sorry.
10. on a lighter note, cheap and plentiful golfing, I know I just started but I am excited to get into it!
11. Also, cheap and plentiful snowboarding, although I haven't ridden on years. :)
12. The garbage goat, yes really.
13. Great public Schools
1. Traffic. We simply don't have it. Even when people here start thinking there is traffic it is nothing absolutely nothing!
2. Easy to get around.
3. Fast to get around, I recently forgot about an appointment downtown. When I got the "are you coming?" call I jumped in the car and rushed down to arrive only 15 minutes late and I was able to park right outside the office. Can Seattle or Portland offer this, I don't think so!
4. I can go to a park and enjoy the quiet more often than not. There are certain parks that are often busy but so many green spaces exist where you can find peace and solitude.
5. Hiking and biking is easy and right around the corner almost anywhere you live.
6. Cost of housing is WAY lower. I can live in the neighborhood I want to live in and I am not confined to a tiny space.
7. Pride. In the past 3-5 years Spokane has really begun to appreciate itself. I am proud to live in Spokane.
8. Loving Spokane shows you really are an individual and independent thinker. It's easy and trendy to love Seattle and Portland, it takes a true individual to see what a gem Spokane really is.
9. Spokane is not pretentious and does not really have a really specific identity. For example, we all know what a Portlander looks like, we all know what Seattle ite(?) looks like. I for one don't know what a Spokanite looks like and the freedom in that is huge. Not following me? Well, think about conformity and peer pressure here, we all subconsciously give into it on some levels. The peer pressure and conformity in Portland for example is on display in shows like Portlandia. While the pressure leads to some great things, cycling, eating healthy and looking out for the planet, it is pressure just the same. In Spokane I love it here, but I don't identify with it so I don't feel any conformity or peer pressure. If you don't get me here you never will, sorry.
10. on a lighter note, cheap and plentiful golfing, I know I just started but I am excited to get into it!
11. Also, cheap and plentiful snowboarding, although I haven't ridden on years. :)
12. The garbage goat, yes really.
13. Great public Schools
Friday, April 15, 2011
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Finishing Day.
I'm feelin a little emotional as I prepare to head home. Mostly I am truly exhausted. It was a wonderful week. Wonderful women. A fantastic passionate instructor and a beautiful technique that can only get better and better with time. I won't be surprised if I find that in no time at all my hands may get an early retirement. :). Book yourselves now. I have no doubt my passion and excitement about this treatment will call people to my table. You won't regret it.
~M
~M
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Advanced Ashiatsu. AMAZING!!
I don't even know how to describe it. Watching is amazing, receiving is amazing, giving is, well you guessed it, amazing. The moves are fluid and strong. Deep and smooth. They will not only penetrate fascia and muscle tissue but definitely create an incredible transcendental experience.
I really enjoyed ashi before. Now I feel passionately about it.
The instructor, Jeni Spring loves what she is doing. I mean really LOVES it, with an abundant sort of energy that offers itself to you. I know I will be going home with some of that energy and passion, we all will, and then I will share it with you,
This is hands down, or feet down I should say, the best workshop I have ever taken. I love the energy that every one of my fellow massage therapists brings to the class and I would enjoy spending one on one time with any one of them. That in itself speaks volumes. Jeni's passion and teaching style are both relaxed and calm as well as bold and intuitive.
I am definitely working with an elite group of passionate and like minded women and I feel very blessed to be here! Gina, Dannette, Michelle, Sandra, Lindsey, Amy and of course Jeni, thank you for such a great two days, I look forward to tomorrow.
Tomorrow we get to blend all we have learned into a smooth flowing dance of barefoot massage that is sure to melt anyone.
I can't wait!
~M
I really enjoyed ashi before. Now I feel passionately about it.
The instructor, Jeni Spring loves what she is doing. I mean really LOVES it, with an abundant sort of energy that offers itself to you. I know I will be going home with some of that energy and passion, we all will, and then I will share it with you,
This is hands down, or feet down I should say, the best workshop I have ever taken. I love the energy that every one of my fellow massage therapists brings to the class and I would enjoy spending one on one time with any one of them. That in itself speaks volumes. Jeni's passion and teaching style are both relaxed and calm as well as bold and intuitive.
I am definitely working with an elite group of passionate and like minded women and I feel very blessed to be here! Gina, Dannette, Michelle, Sandra, Lindsey, Amy and of course Jeni, thank you for such a great two days, I look forward to tomorrow.
Tomorrow we get to blend all we have learned into a smooth flowing dance of barefoot massage that is sure to melt anyone.
I can't wait!
~M
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
New Scheduling
I know I know, I am always changing things around, or so it seems. However, the truth is that I am always striving for newer and better ways to make your experience as grand as possible. You are worth it! For a long time I have been wanting a way to send you birthday discounts and thank you's and welcome to my practice emails. Yet I had no way of doing this conveniently.
When technology is what it is , I find it painful to look through my notes and search out everyones birthdays. My mom even made me a little book of birthdays once, very sweet and thoughtful, but still I failed to use it. Finally, I have found a program that will keep me in the loop on your birthday so I will not forget AND it will make my entire business run more smoothly as well! I love technology!!
For now, continue to book your appointments as usual. When the change occurs there will be a link in my menu bar that says : SCHEDULE NOW! just click it and viola you are ready to schedule your next appointment, plus have the opportunity to review any past appointments in case you forgot what your favorite service was! I think you are going to love this new booking system. The best part, it isn't too far off of what I was previously using so you will still enjoy the same easy to use calendar to see the dates and times I am available.
I hope to have it up and running before I leave for my Ashi training, which I am incredibly excited about!! You should be too, you are the lucky ones who get to enjoy this decadent and therapeutic service!
~M
When technology is what it is , I find it painful to look through my notes and search out everyones birthdays. My mom even made me a little book of birthdays once, very sweet and thoughtful, but still I failed to use it. Finally, I have found a program that will keep me in the loop on your birthday so I will not forget AND it will make my entire business run more smoothly as well! I love technology!!
For now, continue to book your appointments as usual. When the change occurs there will be a link in my menu bar that says : SCHEDULE NOW! just click it and viola you are ready to schedule your next appointment, plus have the opportunity to review any past appointments in case you forgot what your favorite service was! I think you are going to love this new booking system. The best part, it isn't too far off of what I was previously using so you will still enjoy the same easy to use calendar to see the dates and times I am available.
I hope to have it up and running before I leave for my Ashi training, which I am incredibly excited about!! You should be too, you are the lucky ones who get to enjoy this decadent and therapeutic service!
~M
Monday, March 28, 2011
Cultivate paece and calm in your life
Stretch and breath
Exercise and build strength
Practice Presence
Practice Presence
Practice Presence
Smile
Exercise and build strength
Practice Presence
Practice Presence
Practice Presence
Smile
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Hypnosis and my special place
I have been feeling a little more than a little down lately. I took on the world in February and trucked through the month with such passion and zeal that my body declared March a month to inhale. To slow down. To move inward and rebuild my fire. As with most women i know, I don't always feel I have time to slow down and rebuild the fire. So then my body took matters into it's own hands and I got sick. I have watched my family go through colds and remained healthy and thought I was on a roll but now I had truly left my poor immune system tired ,depleted and depressed. Just waiting for something to take it down, to take me down and force me to slow down for a few days.
Wanting to get back on my game and looking for a magic cure to stay there, to avoid the ebb and flow and the need to constantly recharge I sought out some professional help. I visited with a business coach last week and that got me excited and fired up. Then today I tried hypnotherapy. It was really good. The rest of the day after though, I did not feel recharged. What I felt was calm, and exhausted. I felt ok with being exhausted.I felt comfortable and at peace with my lack of efficiency and motivation. I have been kicking ass for weeks and now it was time for me to slow down, and finally, I was ok with that.
She told me that there is no magic cure, ( Sure,I knew that! I can dream right?) she told me what I really needed was to congratulate myself, to celebrate myself, all of my selves, all of the mini me's that do so much. The mother, the wife, the business woman, the financial planner, the housekeeper, the teacher, the massage therapist, the organizer, the schedule keeper... I am sure I am missing someone, or some part of me but the point was that all of these parts are constantly giving and giving and giving and..... No wonder I crashed. No wonder I have crashed so many times before.
I recharge my phone every single night. Without fail.I would like to start giving myself the same courtesy, or being more understanding with myself when I am not able to.
My special place
About 12 years ago I was preparing for a dance that I was going to be doing with a group of people in Olympia. For our prep we had a guided meditation. I went really deep, I remember someone saying that too as they waited for me to come out of it. I love guided meditation, I am great at visualizing. That day I was to go to a place where I felt safe and happy. I was to meet someone and they were to give me a gift. My place was instantly very clear to me; a lone tree in a field, it was warm with a gentle warm breeze. When you zoomed out a little you saw that there was a stream that ran by my tree and headed into a heavily wooded forest not too far away and yet not to close either. My gift was wrapped in a lovely box, the kind that you can just remove the lid. When I opened it, a heart flew out and away.
A few years later when I was in need of my place again I was able to call on it with such ease. It was incredibly vivid and it took me where I needed to go. Sometimes at the tree, sometimes flying away with the heart.
Today almost instantly I was there again. As soon as she started the hypnosis, I drifted there directly. It was peaceful and beautiful and nourishing, just as I had remembered. Before my session I had felt disconnected to the things that I hold most dear. I was feeling lonely and isolated because of it. After my session and visiting my special tree, I knew that I was not alone, I knew that those things I love most are right here, I have just been very very busy and stuck in the part of my mind that ignores the heart and the creative center of me.
It is good to know that I was never that far from where I wanted to be in the first place. I look forward to my next session!
The reason I wanted to share this with you is because I know that, while my specifics may be mine alone, I am not alone in feeling disconnected. I know I am not the only one who crashes from time to time. I know that I am certainly not the only person that pushes herself way too hard with much too little credit and self appreciation. So pat yourself on the back. Tell your inner critic to knock it in the head! You are beautiful, you are lovely, you are strong and wise and capable and smart and fragile and whatever else you know to be true and much more. Tell yourself this, everyday. Recharge that battery every night. EVERY night. Bring peace and happiness into your life, start by appreciating everything you do.
I guarantee you will affect more than just yourself.
~M
Wanting to get back on my game and looking for a magic cure to stay there, to avoid the ebb and flow and the need to constantly recharge I sought out some professional help. I visited with a business coach last week and that got me excited and fired up. Then today I tried hypnotherapy. It was really good. The rest of the day after though, I did not feel recharged. What I felt was calm, and exhausted. I felt ok with being exhausted.I felt comfortable and at peace with my lack of efficiency and motivation. I have been kicking ass for weeks and now it was time for me to slow down, and finally, I was ok with that.
She told me that there is no magic cure, ( Sure,I knew that! I can dream right?) she told me what I really needed was to congratulate myself, to celebrate myself, all of my selves, all of the mini me's that do so much. The mother, the wife, the business woman, the financial planner, the housekeeper, the teacher, the massage therapist, the organizer, the schedule keeper... I am sure I am missing someone, or some part of me but the point was that all of these parts are constantly giving and giving and giving and..... No wonder I crashed. No wonder I have crashed so many times before.
I recharge my phone every single night. Without fail.I would like to start giving myself the same courtesy, or being more understanding with myself when I am not able to.
 |
| Image from Outdoor-photo.com |
About 12 years ago I was preparing for a dance that I was going to be doing with a group of people in Olympia. For our prep we had a guided meditation. I went really deep, I remember someone saying that too as they waited for me to come out of it. I love guided meditation, I am great at visualizing. That day I was to go to a place where I felt safe and happy. I was to meet someone and they were to give me a gift. My place was instantly very clear to me; a lone tree in a field, it was warm with a gentle warm breeze. When you zoomed out a little you saw that there was a stream that ran by my tree and headed into a heavily wooded forest not too far away and yet not to close either. My gift was wrapped in a lovely box, the kind that you can just remove the lid. When I opened it, a heart flew out and away.
A few years later when I was in need of my place again I was able to call on it with such ease. It was incredibly vivid and it took me where I needed to go. Sometimes at the tree, sometimes flying away with the heart.
Today almost instantly I was there again. As soon as she started the hypnosis, I drifted there directly. It was peaceful and beautiful and nourishing, just as I had remembered. Before my session I had felt disconnected to the things that I hold most dear. I was feeling lonely and isolated because of it. After my session and visiting my special tree, I knew that I was not alone, I knew that those things I love most are right here, I have just been very very busy and stuck in the part of my mind that ignores the heart and the creative center of me.
It is good to know that I was never that far from where I wanted to be in the first place. I look forward to my next session!
The reason I wanted to share this with you is because I know that, while my specifics may be mine alone, I am not alone in feeling disconnected. I know I am not the only one who crashes from time to time. I know that I am certainly not the only person that pushes herself way too hard with much too little credit and self appreciation. So pat yourself on the back. Tell your inner critic to knock it in the head! You are beautiful, you are lovely, you are strong and wise and capable and smart and fragile and whatever else you know to be true and much more. Tell yourself this, everyday. Recharge that battery every night. EVERY night. Bring peace and happiness into your life, start by appreciating everything you do.
I guarantee you will affect more than just yourself.
~M
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Massage improves your quality of life!
You may feel that massage is a luxury, or you may know someone who does but I am here to tell you that it is simply not true. While you won’t fall over dead if you do not receive regular massage, you may fall over broken. We are often so busy with our day to day tasks that we refuse to listen to our body’s complaints. It will pass, or work itself out, right? Not always.
Massage not only keeps your muscles in good shape it draws attention to your body so that you are more likely to notice when something is off. Also, regular massage knocks an item off of your to do list. When you schedule regularly you will be less likely to be dealing with those regular aches and pains and , and thinking “I should really take care of that”.
Not only does massage help to prevent many aches and pains as well as repetitive stress injuries but it also lifts your spirits, or grounds them, whichever you may be needing. Every one needs a little lift sometimes.
So don’t be shy call today to schedule your next visit or buy a gift for someone who needs it. I look forward to hearing from you.
~M
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Teaching
I did it! I made it through day one. The students were great and very interested in learning about bones and muscles and movement and all the fun stuff you get to learn in a Musculoskeletal class. I actually enjoyed myself and I am looking forward to next weeks class.
I knew I would enjoy teaching but as it got closer and closer I was beginning to wonder what I had gotten myself into. I was stressed about the unknowns and wondered if I would end up with an hour left in class and nothing to talk about. Silly really, there is always something we can talk about or study in this class. Sometimes stress and anxiety can lead us to irrational thought patterns!
All in all I am excited for this opportunity to learn new skills and to work with some bright and passionate massage therapists in the making!
~M
I knew I would enjoy teaching but as it got closer and closer I was beginning to wonder what I had gotten myself into. I was stressed about the unknowns and wondered if I would end up with an hour left in class and nothing to talk about. Silly really, there is always something we can talk about or study in this class. Sometimes stress and anxiety can lead us to irrational thought patterns!
All in all I am excited for this opportunity to learn new skills and to work with some bright and passionate massage therapists in the making!
~M
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Baby Fair
This Sunday 3/13 is the baby fair. Come on down to check out tons of great vendors, including myself! I will be offering samples of Indian Head Massage. If you've never been to the baby fair, it's a fun day for you and the wee ones. Games, prizes and give aways. Don't miss it.
~M
~M
Monday, February 21, 2011
Become a Fan today!
I am running a special for new clients this month. Until the end of February enjoy $15 off any service 60 minutes or longer. Become a fan on facebook to stay connected and hear about specials for my fans only. Facebook.com/Elysiumtouch
~M
Friday, February 18, 2011
Website
I just finished my website make over. I love the colors and the feel of the pictures taken by Brandon Vasquez. They are truly amazing and give it all so much depth and character. I love it! I hope you do to!
~M
~M
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Beginings
I use to hate being a beginner. When I lived on Mt Hood, I waited till no one was around to take a run through the park. I enjoyed my speed runs through the trees when no one was looking and it wasn't until I felt like I could ride that I felt really comfortable around the rest of my friends. I rode with them while I was learning but the sense of guilt and shame for sucking was huge. Silly I know. I blame it on being an only child and a serious sense of competition. As an only child I grew up around adults and liked to be good at everything I did, and living up to the expectation of being a little adult. Up until highschool I was kind of a know it all, and prided myself in excellent school work and following the rules, and well, knowing it all.
Being a beginner is a vulnerable place for me. It leaves me feeling insecure and inadequate.
When I started my business it was important to me that I came into it with experience but starting out was hard for me because it made me feel like a beginner again. Now that I have to rebuild as a cash practice, I am beginning again. I want to network and I feel it is crucial to meeting the right people who are perfect for my practice and who could benefit from the services I offer.
Now, I can talk, I will talk your ear off if you get me started. I have a lot to talk about. The problem is, I don't know how to start. I never thought of myself as an introvert but I was recently talking with a counselor, I enjoy the occasional talk therapy sessions, and we came up with the idea of me as an introvert. It sounded completely absurd at first but then there it was and it totally rings true. I have never been a friend collector, I prefer very close long term friendships to many many friendships that lack the intimacy. I prefer conversations with one or two close friends to small talk with a lot of people.
So now I want to network which specifically means two things for me. 1. I have to go at it as a beginner, I am not good at it and I can't pretend to be, I have never done it before. 2. I have to try enjoying small talk with many different strangers.
Fortunately, I have had a change of heart about beginnings. I attribute this to my new found sense of self, while I have always felt pretty self assured, marriage, babies and various other life changes had left me reeling. Moving my business home, feeling a deeper and deeper connection with my husband and a greater sense of my strengths as a parent as well as many challenges I have faced and overcome in the last year, have all given me a greater sense of self then I have ever known before. Now I actually prefer to be a beginner! I realize that being a beginner, if accepted openly, offers so many more opportunities for growth than being an expert. I will be forced to learn and do things that are uncomfortable to me but I can always say, "I'm just learning this, it's ok if I screw it up or fail. Eventually I will get it."
My first networking event is this Thursday, wish me luck and maybe I'll have some beginners luck!
~M
Being a beginner is a vulnerable place for me. It leaves me feeling insecure and inadequate.
When I started my business it was important to me that I came into it with experience but starting out was hard for me because it made me feel like a beginner again. Now that I have to rebuild as a cash practice, I am beginning again. I want to network and I feel it is crucial to meeting the right people who are perfect for my practice and who could benefit from the services I offer.
Now, I can talk, I will talk your ear off if you get me started. I have a lot to talk about. The problem is, I don't know how to start. I never thought of myself as an introvert but I was recently talking with a counselor, I enjoy the occasional talk therapy sessions, and we came up with the idea of me as an introvert. It sounded completely absurd at first but then there it was and it totally rings true. I have never been a friend collector, I prefer very close long term friendships to many many friendships that lack the intimacy. I prefer conversations with one or two close friends to small talk with a lot of people.
So now I want to network which specifically means two things for me. 1. I have to go at it as a beginner, I am not good at it and I can't pretend to be, I have never done it before. 2. I have to try enjoying small talk with many different strangers.
Fortunately, I have had a change of heart about beginnings. I attribute this to my new found sense of self, while I have always felt pretty self assured, marriage, babies and various other life changes had left me reeling. Moving my business home, feeling a deeper and deeper connection with my husband and a greater sense of my strengths as a parent as well as many challenges I have faced and overcome in the last year, have all given me a greater sense of self then I have ever known before. Now I actually prefer to be a beginner! I realize that being a beginner, if accepted openly, offers so many more opportunities for growth than being an expert. I will be forced to learn and do things that are uncomfortable to me but I can always say, "I'm just learning this, it's ok if I screw it up or fail. Eventually I will get it."
My first networking event is this Thursday, wish me luck and maybe I'll have some beginners luck!
~M
AiCM
Hi, I think I forgot to mention my new job. Starting in March I will be teaching Musculoskeletal anatomy and kinesiology at the American Institute of Clinical Massage in Post Falls!
Some of you know that I have been wanting to teach for some time now and I am really excited about this, a little bit terrified but completely excited! It is only one day a week which works great for my already busy schedule. It will not affect my times available for massage.
With this and my other focus on restructuring and redesigning my practice, on top of my parenting and domestic gig, I have been super duper busy lately. I really want to pick up and begin blogging more but I keep running into a wall as to what to blog about. So I wanted to ask you what you would like to know. Within the realm of a healthy and whole lifestyle so many topics can be covered and it is hard to know where to start.
I would love any input you have to offer and I hope to start working on it in mid march when my schedule regains some normalcy.
Thanks,
~M
Some of you know that I have been wanting to teach for some time now and I am really excited about this, a little bit terrified but completely excited! It is only one day a week which works great for my already busy schedule. It will not affect my times available for massage.
With this and my other focus on restructuring and redesigning my practice, on top of my parenting and domestic gig, I have been super duper busy lately. I really want to pick up and begin blogging more but I keep running into a wall as to what to blog about. So I wanted to ask you what you would like to know. Within the realm of a healthy and whole lifestyle so many topics can be covered and it is hard to know where to start.
I would love any input you have to offer and I hope to start working on it in mid march when my schedule regains some normalcy.
Thanks,
~M
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Designing
Today I had 4 models and 1 talented photographer, Brandon Vasquez, come to my house for a photo shoot for my website and the new brochures I have been working. I think the photos are going to turn out great and I am excited to see them!
I am also working with a soon to be design grad from Eastern, Brie McGuire, to bring all of my ideas to life. I think this is the most exciting part about a business. The energy and intensity that is involved in putting it all together breathes new life into a business and those who are working to get it going.
I know I have been in business for 3 1/2 years now but after my recent changes, moving home and switching to a cash only practice, I feel like I am starting a new business. The changes have been incredibly empowering for me and I am really looking forward to getting back up and running again so I can share that strength and vitality with my clients and then in turn they can share it with others they meet and so on.
On top of all the business changes my husband and I are 1 month into P90X (a popular 90 day workout program). It has been hard but very rewarding work. I am feeling a greater sense of clarity and strength both physically and mentally. Maybe for now, at this time in my life, this is my meditation. This has brought about many of the emotional and spiritual changes that I was seeking in meditation. I have been making so many changes it is hard to pin point which ones have had the most impact but working out hard every day and with my husband has definitely been a big one!
So from photography to working out.. what can I say, it's how my brain works!
~M
I am also working with a soon to be design grad from Eastern, Brie McGuire, to bring all of my ideas to life. I think this is the most exciting part about a business. The energy and intensity that is involved in putting it all together breathes new life into a business and those who are working to get it going.
I know I have been in business for 3 1/2 years now but after my recent changes, moving home and switching to a cash only practice, I feel like I am starting a new business. The changes have been incredibly empowering for me and I am really looking forward to getting back up and running again so I can share that strength and vitality with my clients and then in turn they can share it with others they meet and so on.
On top of all the business changes my husband and I are 1 month into P90X (a popular 90 day workout program). It has been hard but very rewarding work. I am feeling a greater sense of clarity and strength both physically and mentally. Maybe for now, at this time in my life, this is my meditation. This has brought about many of the emotional and spiritual changes that I was seeking in meditation. I have been making so many changes it is hard to pin point which ones have had the most impact but working out hard every day and with my husband has definitely been a big one!
So from photography to working out.. what can I say, it's how my brain works!
~M
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
some quality cheese to end the day.
Today was such a lovely day! I went for a fun walk with my four year old. I asked him if he thought he could make it all the way to the store and he said, "my body can make it!" It was really cute (or "weally cute"as he would say). I loved his determination. We didn't make it all the way to the store but we made it pretty far.
Sometimes I feel like I am too busy, cleaning, working, planning, cleaning some more. I feel like I get too busy to enjoy these moments with my wee men. It is these small moments that keep me going though. They inspire me and if nothing else they put a big grin on my face, and if I let myself get carried away by the moment, I feel silly like a kid again. I'm not sure there are many things that set the soul soaring like a big innocent smile and a hearty laugh.
So tomorrow go out there and emrbace all of the little things, the quirky thing your kids say, the funny way your dog snores. Laugh at those habits your partner has that drive you nuts or laugh at your own self irritating qualities. Laugh at the irritation in the first place, nevermind the quirk. Just laugh even if you don't want to. Even if it feels ridiculous. Smile and laugh just because it will lift your spirits and anyone who make cross your path.
Come on and just give it a try.
~M
Sometimes I feel like I am too busy, cleaning, working, planning, cleaning some more. I feel like I get too busy to enjoy these moments with my wee men. It is these small moments that keep me going though. They inspire me and if nothing else they put a big grin on my face, and if I let myself get carried away by the moment, I feel silly like a kid again. I'm not sure there are many things that set the soul soaring like a big innocent smile and a hearty laugh.
So tomorrow go out there and emrbace all of the little things, the quirky thing your kids say, the funny way your dog snores. Laugh at those habits your partner has that drive you nuts or laugh at your own self irritating qualities. Laugh at the irritation in the first place, nevermind the quirk. Just laugh even if you don't want to. Even if it feels ridiculous. Smile and laugh just because it will lift your spirits and anyone who make cross your path.
Come on and just give it a try.
~M
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
The State of the Union
While our President spoke of the shootings in Arizona, the camera panned over to the family who lost their young daughter, Christina. The camera caught the little girl's brother comforting his parents as they choked on the pain of the Presidents reference and the terrible loss they must be feeling. Such a strong young man.
I was really moved by this moment and I thought I would share it with you.
~M
I really enjoyed the speech. If all of those dreams and hopes and intentions can come to life, I believe we will have an America we can be truly proud of. Not to say I'm not proud now, but I really liked the ideas he spoke about. I also loved the idea of mixed seating arrangements. All of the fuss that was going on around it really made our politicians a little more human and gave a light hearted feeling to the event as opposed to drawing lines and creating a hard line between left and right.
I was really moved by this moment and I thought I would share it with you.
~M
I really enjoyed the speech. If all of those dreams and hopes and intentions can come to life, I believe we will have an America we can be truly proud of. Not to say I'm not proud now, but I really liked the ideas he spoke about. I also loved the idea of mixed seating arrangements. All of the fuss that was going on around it really made our politicians a little more human and gave a light hearted feeling to the event as opposed to drawing lines and creating a hard line between left and right.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Pushing
Today Brendan's friend came over to work out with us. It was great to have another person to push us through. I feel like I really worked hard today and I am excited to see the results in the coming weeks as we work our way forward through this program.
It got me to thinking how great it is to have someone around who inspires you to always put your best foot forward. Brendan has always been a big inspiration to me and I am very self driven, however I think if I had a person who could push me to test my limits more often in various aspects of my life I would be so productive and ready to take on the world.
I need to find that person!
Do you have someone who pushes you? Someone who you either look up to and are inspired by or someone who you can't let get there before you? Whether it is competition or emulation or both, find that person who really pushes you and stand up to the challenge!
~M
It got me to thinking how great it is to have someone around who inspires you to always put your best foot forward. Brendan has always been a big inspiration to me and I am very self driven, however I think if I had a person who could push me to test my limits more often in various aspects of my life I would be so productive and ready to take on the world.
I need to find that person!
Do you have someone who pushes you? Someone who you either look up to and are inspired by or someone who you can't let get there before you? Whether it is competition or emulation or both, find that person who really pushes you and stand up to the challenge!
~M
Thursday, January 20, 2011
January 2011
This will be another in a set of false starts as I continue to get my engine revved up. With my recent change of direction, no longer accepting insurance payments, my life and my business are continuing in the right direction. As I mentioned in my last post, change is in the air and I am fully embracing it. Keep an eye out here for more and more frequent posts as I finalize the look and feel of my business. I will be talking more about special offers and discounts coming up in the future as well as some new services I have added to my menu.
This April I am finally taking a long awaited advanced ashiatus class! If you love Ashi you will be thrilled to try this when I complete my training. I can't wait to practice it on you. If you haven't tried it then get on in here to feel what you've been missing.
On a personal note, Brendan and I are almost done with our second week of P90X! We are "bringin it" and getting our butts kicked, but we're loving every sweaty minute of it! My arms will be super strong in time for my advance ashi training!
If you haven't been in in awhile I miss you, if you haven't been in ever, I want to meet you!! It's a beautiful new year and I am feeling fresh and ready to go!
See you soon!!
~M
This April I am finally taking a long awaited advanced ashiatus class! If you love Ashi you will be thrilled to try this when I complete my training. I can't wait to practice it on you. If you haven't tried it then get on in here to feel what you've been missing.
On a personal note, Brendan and I are almost done with our second week of P90X! We are "bringin it" and getting our butts kicked, but we're loving every sweaty minute of it! My arms will be super strong in time for my advance ashi training!
If you haven't been in in awhile I miss you, if you haven't been in ever, I want to meet you!! It's a beautiful new year and I am feeling fresh and ready to go!
See you soon!!
~M
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