We found an article from February '11 on that discusses the benefits of receiving a regular massage to help alleviate pain due to sciatic nerve problems...enjoy!
Can Massage Therapy Deliver Lasting Relief from Sciatica?
February 13, 2011 | Author: Leroy Lombard | Posted in Massage
Massages sure feel amazing, don’t they? After a massage session, you feel so relaxed and light. But just how effective is massage as a way to treat sciatica?
Massages can in fact be quite helpful if you suffer from back pain or sciatica. If you can manage to find a massage therapist with knowledge of muscle imbalances, you’ll do much better.
There are quite a few upsides to massage for sciatica. You’ll notice that a lot of massage therapists these days employ a variety of different techniques and styles. Anything from traditional massage to energy work or even correcting muscle imbalances. Many studies have even shown that massage can improve flexibility, decrease back pain, encourage sound sleep, and decrease feelings of depression.
When you’re looking for a therapist to give you a good massage for sciatica, try to find one that has an understanding of muscle imbalances. These types of massage therapists are unbelievably rare, but if you can find one, you’ll be quite happy. Since most causes of sciatica actually come from muscle imbalances, finding someone who knows a lot about it can help tremendously.
What are the benefits of massage therapy for sciatica? Massage can increase blood circulation and help reduce any sort of inflammation. Massage helps to move lymph through your system, which can actually impede circulation and and promote inflammation if it isn’t managed. Not only that, but you’ll be more flexible, be more relaxed, have a better night’s rest, and you have an overall sense of well-being.
Massage can help relax tense muscles that may be putting pressure on your sciatic nerve, as may be the case with conditions such as Piriformis Syndrome. But can it help be an effective treatment in all cases of sciatica?
Well, although you might feel good after a massage, you should not rely solely on massage to treat sciatica. Simply put, massage does not deal with many of the important underlying factors that are responsible for back pain and sciatica such as muscle imbalances, poor posture, or other personal habits we might have about how we hold our body throughout the day.
You will probably see some amazing results if you combine it with other types of treatment out there. But alone, it just doesn’t cut it. Perhaps it would be more effective to use massage together with other forms of treatment like stretching exercises that can restore equilibrium to how you hold your body.
So, go and get a massage. I’m sure it will help you feel better and relax you. But be sure to not stop there. Keep working and untangling the root cause and you’ll find lasting relief.
If you found these tips helpful and you’d like to discover the best sciatic nerve pain exercises and the ones you definitely want to avoid, check out my Bulletproof Back review. This program, combined with massage therapy is quite helpful for relieving sciatica and back pain.
Showing posts with label couples massage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label couples massage. Show all posts
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Saturday, November 6, 2010
A Simple Massage Could Keep you From Getting Sick
Here is a great article I came across while doing my daily internet browsing. It seems like everyone is sick at the moment so I was happy to read about the positive effects massage can have on the immune system!
(NaturalNews) Massages are a great way to release tension and stress and promote relaxation. But a new study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine has revealed for the first time that massages also provide a measurable, therapeutic benefit to the immune system as well.
Dr. Mark Rapaport and his team of researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif., evaluated 53 people, 29 of which received 45-minute Swedish massages--one of the most common forms of massage used in the U.S.--and 24 who received gentler, light touch massages. Researchers took blood samples at intervals before and after the massages and found that those who received even just one Swedish massage experienced significant, positive changes in blood composition.
"This research indicates that massage doesn't only feel good, it also may be good for you," explained Dr. Rapaport in a press release. "People often seek out massage as part of a healthy lifestyle but there hasn't been much physiological proof of the body's heightened immune response following massage until now."
Besides experiencing a significant increase in lymphocytes, the white cells in the body that help fight and prevent disease, the Swedish massage group experienced lower cortisol levels as well. Cortisol is the hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress.
The Swedish massage group also experienced a decrease in arginine vasopressin, a hormone linked with aggressive behavior.
"European-style massage is often used to treat back pain, sleep disorders, and other stress-related disorders," explain Bradley J. Willcox, D. Craig Willcox and Makoto Suzuki in their book The Okinawa Program: How the World's Longest-Lived People Achieve Everlasting Health.
(NaturalNews) Massages are a great way to release tension and stress and promote relaxation. But a new study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine has revealed for the first time that massages also provide a measurable, therapeutic benefit to the immune system as well.
Dr. Mark Rapaport and his team of researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, Calif., evaluated 53 people, 29 of which received 45-minute Swedish massages--one of the most common forms of massage used in the U.S.--and 24 who received gentler, light touch massages. Researchers took blood samples at intervals before and after the massages and found that those who received even just one Swedish massage experienced significant, positive changes in blood composition.
"This research indicates that massage doesn't only feel good, it also may be good for you," explained Dr. Rapaport in a press release. "People often seek out massage as part of a healthy lifestyle but there hasn't been much physiological proof of the body's heightened immune response following massage until now."
Besides experiencing a significant increase in lymphocytes, the white cells in the body that help fight and prevent disease, the Swedish massage group experienced lower cortisol levels as well. Cortisol is the hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress.
The Swedish massage group also experienced a decrease in arginine vasopressin, a hormone linked with aggressive behavior.
"European-style massage is often used to treat back pain, sleep disorders, and other stress-related disorders," explain Bradley J. Willcox, D. Craig Willcox and Makoto Suzuki in their book The Okinawa Program: How the World's Longest-Lived People Achieve Everlasting Health.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Chocolate-Pumpkin Tart Recipe
It's my favorite time of year! With pumpkins, fall colors, crisp weather and all the wonders that the season has to offer I thought I would share a delicious pumpkin treat. This was found on marthastewart.com
Ingredients
Serves 10
* 20 chocolate wafer cookies
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for pan
* 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted
* 1 1/2 cups cooled Sugar-Pumpkin Puree or canned pure pumpkin puree
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar
* 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, pulse cookies and sugar until finely ground. Add butter; pulse until crumbs are moistened. Using the bottom of a dry measuring cup, press crumbs into bottom (but not sides) of a 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan. Place tart pan on a rimmed baking sheet; bake until set, about 12 minutes.
2. Pour chocolate onto warm crust; spread with a spatula. Freeze until chocolate is firm, about 5 minutes. Brush sides of tart pan with butter; set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin, egg, cream, sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin-pie spice, and salt. Pour filling into prepared crust; bake on a rimmed baking sheet until set, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool 1 hour at room temperature; refrigerate 1 hour (or up to 1 day).
4. Unmold tart (if sides stick, gently loosen with a knife). With two thin metal spatulas, transfer to a platter.
Ingredients
Serves 10
* 20 chocolate wafer cookies
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for pan
* 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted
* 1 1/2 cups cooled Sugar-Pumpkin Puree or canned pure pumpkin puree
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup packed light-brown sugar
* 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
* 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin-pie spice
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, pulse cookies and sugar until finely ground. Add butter; pulse until crumbs are moistened. Using the bottom of a dry measuring cup, press crumbs into bottom (but not sides) of a 9-inch removable-bottom tart pan. Place tart pan on a rimmed baking sheet; bake until set, about 12 minutes.
2. Pour chocolate onto warm crust; spread with a spatula. Freeze until chocolate is firm, about 5 minutes. Brush sides of tart pan with butter; set aside.
3. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin, egg, cream, sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin-pie spice, and salt. Pour filling into prepared crust; bake on a rimmed baking sheet until set, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool 1 hour at room temperature; refrigerate 1 hour (or up to 1 day).
4. Unmold tart (if sides stick, gently loosen with a knife). With two thin metal spatulas, transfer to a platter.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Light Pressure Massage is most beneficial for overall well-being.
Exciting news for the entire spa industry! When the New York Times runs an article about a new study showing that “a single session of massage caused biological changes,” it is time for our industry to celebrate!
Here is the scoop. Researchers, from a division of the National Institute of Health, conducted a study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in which one group of adults was given a deep-tissue massage and another group was given a light massage. Blood samples were taken before and after these 45-minute massage. The participants who received the deep-tissue massage displayed (among other favorable results) decreasing levels of the stress hormone cortisol and an increase in white blood cells, an essential part of the immune system. Those who received the lighter massage had an even greater decrease in cortisol and increase in white blood cells, as well as an increase in oxytocin, a hormone associated with contentment. The study was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
I found it amusing that the article mentioned the researchers’ reactions to the results as “a surprise.” Well…it’s certainly not a surprise to any of us in the industry, nor to most people who have had a massage and felt the physiological effects.
Kudos to the National Institute of Health for conducting this study. Now, if they could just relate this to the fact that, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stress helps account for two-thirds of family doctor visits (other studies show the percentage even higher), we would no doubt have people lining up outside of our doors to receive massages!
We found this facinating article through Spafinder.
Here is the scoop. Researchers, from a division of the National Institute of Health, conducted a study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in which one group of adults was given a deep-tissue massage and another group was given a light massage. Blood samples were taken before and after these 45-minute massage. The participants who received the deep-tissue massage displayed (among other favorable results) decreasing levels of the stress hormone cortisol and an increase in white blood cells, an essential part of the immune system. Those who received the lighter massage had an even greater decrease in cortisol and increase in white blood cells, as well as an increase in oxytocin, a hormone associated with contentment. The study was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
I found it amusing that the article mentioned the researchers’ reactions to the results as “a surprise.” Well…it’s certainly not a surprise to any of us in the industry, nor to most people who have had a massage and felt the physiological effects.
Kudos to the National Institute of Health for conducting this study. Now, if they could just relate this to the fact that, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stress helps account for two-thirds of family doctor visits (other studies show the percentage even higher), we would no doubt have people lining up outside of our doors to receive massages!
We found this facinating article through Spafinder.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Dispelling Myths of Pregnancy Massage: 5 Common Myths About Pregnancy Massage
Here at Elements in Fountain Valley/Huntington Beach we are very excited to begin our "Belly Friendly" program. With the Belly Friendly program we are initiating a Prenatal Massage Menu that will cater specifically to our mom-to-be clients. Along with our specialized prenatal massage menu we are offering 3 products for purchase that help prevent stretch marks, breast sagging and relieve weary legs and feet. For more information about the products and Belly Friendly Menu please call our studio at (714)965-2700.
As our excitement built we began doing a lot of research on prenatal massage. Here is an article we found (expectantmothersguide.com) that sums up some myths for prenatal massage.
Myth #1: I can't receive a massage during my first trimester because it may cause a miscarriage.
Here's the Fact: You absolutely can receive a massage anytime during your pregnancy, even during labor and especially post partum. You can even receive deep tissue, except for the abdominal muscles. There is no physiological reason to skip massage in the first trimester. Some day-spas will refuse to see a woman in her early pregnancy simply because the statistical chance of her miscarrying is greater and they wish to avoid any liability the woman may, in her distress, place on them. At this state, however, the uterus is still only the size of a plum and therefore protected by the bony structure of the pelvic cavity. Massage produces endorphins, lowers catecholamine (stress hormones) and can lower blood pressure. This is reason enough to schedule a massage during the first trimester. Begin your pregnancy with a happy and healthy mind and body!
Myth #2: Massaging my feet will send me into labor.
Here's the Fact: Absolutely untrue. If this were the case, women all over the world would go into preterm labor from simply putting on socks! While it is believed that acupressure points on the ankle, feet, shin and hands can bring on labor, it must be specific work with the set intention of stimulating the uterus, not just simply massaging the feet to relieve swelling and joint pain. A trained pregnancy massage therapist knows these points and would work specifically and accurately, very close to the due date and/or during labor to stimulate uterine contractions. Pregnant women need their feet massaged! Gentle Swedish massage helps tremendously with edema and joint pain and is safe for all women who have not had or are having pre-term labor.
Myth #3: I really miss sleeping face down. Sidelying position won't be as relaxing.
Here's the Fact: Actually, sidelying position is just as comfortable if not more due to the special ergonomic cushions that allow your spine to be in perfect position to relax all your back muscles. If you receive a massage face down, even with table holes or pillows, your low back is still compressed and does not receive the appropriate massage. (After all, aren't you primarily coming in for a massage to relieve back pain?) The hole is never one-size-fits-all, so you will either hang through and strain your uterine ligaments or it will cause pressure on the sides of your belly.
Myth #4: I can't receive deep tissue massage.
Here's the Fact: As a fetus grows in utero, the woman's muscular and skeletal systems instinctively adjust to her new center of gravity. The muscles used to keep you upright need to work harder, therefore creating adhesions that are most successfully relieved through deep tissue massage. You may have heard that "toxins" are released into the body when you receive a massage (especially a deep tissue massage). This is true in the fact that waste products are released from the tissue, but it is minimal and does not cause harm to the mother or the baby. The certified prenatal massage therapists are specifically trained to administer the appropriate deep tissue massage to the muscle groups that need attention.
Myth #5: It's best to wait to get a massage towards the end when I feel really uncomfortable.
Here's the Fact: Why? By the time you feel really miserable, it will take several sessions to unwind. Stay on top of your discomfort and start receiving massage as a part of your prenatal wellness now! You may be surprised to know that your developing baby benefits from prenatal massage as well. Research shows that pregnant women experienced reduced anxiety, improved mood, reduced back pain, and increase sleep after receiving massage.[1] The massaged women had fewer complications in labor and fewer premature babies. While research is ongoing in this area, it may be that massage is effective in lowering the stress-related hormone cortisol, which is one indicator of premature babies. There is belief that maternal stress on the fetus actually changes the way the baby's brain is developed. Studies show that expectant moms with high stress levels have aggressive, emotionally underdeveloped children, whereas moms who actively work to decrease their stress have babies who are easily calmed and children who socialize well with others.[2] Since massage therapy is one way to reduce stress, one could conclude that prenatal massage can have a positive effect on the development of your baby. We often hear our clients say their babies are low-key and easily soothed, leading us to coin the phrase, "massage babies are mellow babies."[3]
BONUS MYTH BUSTER: Most women don't realize you can receive massage within days or weeks after birth. Post Partum massage helps with milk production, alleviates muscle strain due to labor and delivery, balances hormones which can help decrease the onset of post partum depression, reduces fatigue and facilitates a speedy recovery.
Note: Certain conditions may require your doctor/midwife's approval before you receive massage. These include: undiagnosed pregnancy induced hypertension, previous pre-term labor, severe (pitting) edema, or other conditions your doctor deems "high-risk".
As our excitement built we began doing a lot of research on prenatal massage. Here is an article we found (expectantmothersguide.com) that sums up some myths for prenatal massage.
Myth #1: I can't receive a massage during my first trimester because it may cause a miscarriage.
Here's the Fact: You absolutely can receive a massage anytime during your pregnancy, even during labor and especially post partum. You can even receive deep tissue, except for the abdominal muscles. There is no physiological reason to skip massage in the first trimester. Some day-spas will refuse to see a woman in her early pregnancy simply because the statistical chance of her miscarrying is greater and they wish to avoid any liability the woman may, in her distress, place on them. At this state, however, the uterus is still only the size of a plum and therefore protected by the bony structure of the pelvic cavity. Massage produces endorphins, lowers catecholamine (stress hormones) and can lower blood pressure. This is reason enough to schedule a massage during the first trimester. Begin your pregnancy with a happy and healthy mind and body!
Myth #2: Massaging my feet will send me into labor.
Here's the Fact: Absolutely untrue. If this were the case, women all over the world would go into preterm labor from simply putting on socks! While it is believed that acupressure points on the ankle, feet, shin and hands can bring on labor, it must be specific work with the set intention of stimulating the uterus, not just simply massaging the feet to relieve swelling and joint pain. A trained pregnancy massage therapist knows these points and would work specifically and accurately, very close to the due date and/or during labor to stimulate uterine contractions. Pregnant women need their feet massaged! Gentle Swedish massage helps tremendously with edema and joint pain and is safe for all women who have not had or are having pre-term labor.
Myth #3: I really miss sleeping face down. Sidelying position won't be as relaxing.
Here's the Fact: Actually, sidelying position is just as comfortable if not more due to the special ergonomic cushions that allow your spine to be in perfect position to relax all your back muscles. If you receive a massage face down, even with table holes or pillows, your low back is still compressed and does not receive the appropriate massage. (After all, aren't you primarily coming in for a massage to relieve back pain?) The hole is never one-size-fits-all, so you will either hang through and strain your uterine ligaments or it will cause pressure on the sides of your belly.
Myth #4: I can't receive deep tissue massage.
Here's the Fact: As a fetus grows in utero, the woman's muscular and skeletal systems instinctively adjust to her new center of gravity. The muscles used to keep you upright need to work harder, therefore creating adhesions that are most successfully relieved through deep tissue massage. You may have heard that "toxins" are released into the body when you receive a massage (especially a deep tissue massage). This is true in the fact that waste products are released from the tissue, but it is minimal and does not cause harm to the mother or the baby. The certified prenatal massage therapists are specifically trained to administer the appropriate deep tissue massage to the muscle groups that need attention.
Myth #5: It's best to wait to get a massage towards the end when I feel really uncomfortable.
Here's the Fact: Why? By the time you feel really miserable, it will take several sessions to unwind. Stay on top of your discomfort and start receiving massage as a part of your prenatal wellness now! You may be surprised to know that your developing baby benefits from prenatal massage as well. Research shows that pregnant women experienced reduced anxiety, improved mood, reduced back pain, and increase sleep after receiving massage.[1] The massaged women had fewer complications in labor and fewer premature babies. While research is ongoing in this area, it may be that massage is effective in lowering the stress-related hormone cortisol, which is one indicator of premature babies. There is belief that maternal stress on the fetus actually changes the way the baby's brain is developed. Studies show that expectant moms with high stress levels have aggressive, emotionally underdeveloped children, whereas moms who actively work to decrease their stress have babies who are easily calmed and children who socialize well with others.[2] Since massage therapy is one way to reduce stress, one could conclude that prenatal massage can have a positive effect on the development of your baby. We often hear our clients say their babies are low-key and easily soothed, leading us to coin the phrase, "massage babies are mellow babies."[3]
BONUS MYTH BUSTER: Most women don't realize you can receive massage within days or weeks after birth. Post Partum massage helps with milk production, alleviates muscle strain due to labor and delivery, balances hormones which can help decrease the onset of post partum depression, reduces fatigue and facilitates a speedy recovery.
Note: Certain conditions may require your doctor/midwife's approval before you receive massage. These include: undiagnosed pregnancy induced hypertension, previous pre-term labor, severe (pitting) edema, or other conditions your doctor deems "high-risk".
Sunday, August 1, 2010
The Lymphatic System and Why it is Important
I found this article on the naturalnews.com website and found it to be very educational. The lymphatic system is largley affected by massage. Read on to learn about what it is, how it works and what you can do to keep it healthy.
The lymphatic system is one of the most overlooked systems in the body, despite the fact it plays a central role in your overall health. Keeping your lymphatic system in top shape is an important aspect in maintaining a healthy life.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that runs through your entire body. Lymph nodes are strategically located throughout the system for optimal performance, and are clustered in areas like the underarms, abdomen and neck.
What does the lymphatic system do?
Your lymphatic system performs the vital function of cleansing the fluid that surrounds the cells in your body by removing impurities and waste products. This process not only protects your body from toxins, but also allows cells in the body to function at their best.
What happens when the lymphatic system can't function properly?
An unhealthy lymphatic system can have a serious impact on your health. Poor lymph function is associated with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, aches and pains, bloating and poor digestion. Studies have shown that an unhealthy lymph system can contribute to cellulite, fat deposits and obesity as well.
How can you keep your lymphatic system healthy?
Drink plenty of water. The lymphatic system depends on a constant supply of fluid, so it's very important to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep it functioning at its best. Purified or filtered water is the best choice.
Choose healthy foods. Preservatives, artificial sweeteners, refined grains, excess sugar, chemicals and processed foods all put strain on the lymphatic system. Choose foods that are organic, whole and natural as much as possible.
Eat your fruits and veggies. Fruits and vegetables supply the lymphatic system with important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients. The chlorophyll in green vegetables is especially beneficial to the lymphatic system.
Get your essential fatty acids. Healthy fats are necessary for the proper function of the lymphatic system. Good sources of essential fatty acids include pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, almonds and avocados.
Stay active. When your muscles move, they essentially massage the lymphatic system and promote the flow of fluid through your lymph vessels. Regular exercise like stretching, yoga, daily walks and strength training are all great ways to keep those lymph juices flowing.
Practice deep breathing. Like exercise, deep breathing promotes the movement of fluid through the lymphatic system while providing it with fresh oxygen.
Take echinacea, wild indigo and goldenseal. These herbs support immunity and help cleanse the lymphatic system. These should be used as part of a cleansing period lasting for about 2-4 weeks, one to three times per year.
Get a massage. Massage stimulates the lymph nodes and helps promote fluid movement in lymph vessels. Lymph drainage massage is especially supportive of the lymphatic system.
Relax in a sauna. A weekly hour in the sauna or steam bath can facilitate detoxification and take some pressure off the lymphatic system.
http://www.naturalnews.com/026500_lymph_lymphatic_system_health.html
The lymphatic system is one of the most overlooked systems in the body, despite the fact it plays a central role in your overall health. Keeping your lymphatic system in top shape is an important aspect in maintaining a healthy life.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that runs through your entire body. Lymph nodes are strategically located throughout the system for optimal performance, and are clustered in areas like the underarms, abdomen and neck.
What does the lymphatic system do?
Your lymphatic system performs the vital function of cleansing the fluid that surrounds the cells in your body by removing impurities and waste products. This process not only protects your body from toxins, but also allows cells in the body to function at their best.
What happens when the lymphatic system can't function properly?
An unhealthy lymphatic system can have a serious impact on your health. Poor lymph function is associated with fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, aches and pains, bloating and poor digestion. Studies have shown that an unhealthy lymph system can contribute to cellulite, fat deposits and obesity as well.
How can you keep your lymphatic system healthy?
Drink plenty of water. The lymphatic system depends on a constant supply of fluid, so it's very important to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep it functioning at its best. Purified or filtered water is the best choice.
Choose healthy foods. Preservatives, artificial sweeteners, refined grains, excess sugar, chemicals and processed foods all put strain on the lymphatic system. Choose foods that are organic, whole and natural as much as possible.
Eat your fruits and veggies. Fruits and vegetables supply the lymphatic system with important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytonutrients. The chlorophyll in green vegetables is especially beneficial to the lymphatic system.
Get your essential fatty acids. Healthy fats are necessary for the proper function of the lymphatic system. Good sources of essential fatty acids include pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, almonds and avocados.
Stay active. When your muscles move, they essentially massage the lymphatic system and promote the flow of fluid through your lymph vessels. Regular exercise like stretching, yoga, daily walks and strength training are all great ways to keep those lymph juices flowing.
Practice deep breathing. Like exercise, deep breathing promotes the movement of fluid through the lymphatic system while providing it with fresh oxygen.
Take echinacea, wild indigo and goldenseal. These herbs support immunity and help cleanse the lymphatic system. These should be used as part of a cleansing period lasting for about 2-4 weeks, one to three times per year.
Get a massage. Massage stimulates the lymph nodes and helps promote fluid movement in lymph vessels. Lymph drainage massage is especially supportive of the lymphatic system.
Relax in a sauna. A weekly hour in the sauna or steam bath can facilitate detoxification and take some pressure off the lymphatic system.
http://www.naturalnews.com/026500_lymph_lymphatic_system_health.html
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The US Open of Surfing is upon us once again. Living in Orange County has many perks, not only do many pro surfers live in the area but the annual US Open is held at the Huntington Beach pier every year. If you want to see some amazing talent in not only surfing but skateboarding, art, BMX and music then you need to stop by downtown Huntington between July 31-August 8, 2010.
As a massage studio in Fountain Valley (neighboring city to Huntington Beach) we have the pleasure of staking claim of the lead massage therapist to the pro surfers at the US Open. One of our own, HERNANE MAYANG, has been the lead therapist at the US Open for the past 4 years! Hernane is one of the best! Being constantly booked with regulars and at times hard to get in with is just proof that he is a devoted, nurturing, educated therapist. Needless to say we are very proud to have him on our staff here at Elements.
For more information on this event go to the event website:
www.usopenofsurfing.com
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Bob Intro YT.mov
This is Bob, he is the Chief Growth Officer for Elements Therapeutic Massage. The Big T Network is a Channel they have created to keep everyone updated in what Elements is doing. This video explains what Elements is all about.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is the belief that specific points of the feet are closely related to other body parts. It is also known as “Zone Therapy” because each zone on the foot correlates with a specific part, gland and organ. A reflexologist will massage the feet in a way that helps restore balance and maintain equilibrium. Today, reflexology is used as a therapeutic treatment for a full range of conditions, including back pain, sports injuries, migraines, and arthritis. Stress and tension release is the most common condition that people today treat with Reflexology.
The Reflexology Association of Canada defines reflexology as:
"A natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears and their referral areas within zone related areas, which correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes without the use of tools, crèmes or lotions, the feet being the primary area of application, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body."
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Concerts in the Park
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
at Fountain Valley Sports Park
Starts on July 1, 2010 at 6:00PM
Ends on July 1, 2010 at 8:00PM
Opening concert on July 1 with the first band OPEN WIDE!
Don't forget to bring your picnic blankets and chairs to each event! There will be picnic style games for the kids and food items available at each concert.
This is a great event to break up the week and join family & friends for a FREE night out.
Open Wide is a classic rock band composed of practicing dentists from Orange County.
The band has been performing since 1998, and consists of almost all dentists. The band performs classic rock and roll from the fifties through the nineties, including selections from The Beatles, Elvis Presley, Jefferson Airplane, Brian Setzer, The Doobie Brothers, The Doors, and many, many more.
This is a great band for dancing and for all ages.
Check out our other concerts and events coming up this summer at www.fountainvalley.org.
Kitten Performing Shiatsu Massage
This adorable kitten gives another kitten a deep massage. We just couldn't help ourselves and had to re-post, so precious.
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