Tag Archives: NaBloPoMo

Check yourself…

…before you wreck yourself!

Hopefully, you have the day off today, but that doesn’t mean you’re not slouched at a computer or a smartphone! These little videos can help you adjust your posture while you’re on one your devices. As much as I would love to give you a great neck and shoulder massage after you’ve fallen for hours down the rabbit hole of the internet, it’s important to be aware of how you are positioned, because you can really get into a world of hurt. Make sure you also get up to walk around and stretch, and don’t forget to breathe! And while you’re at it, make sure you have a massage scheduled.

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It might be Wednesday, but it’s finally Muscle Monday!

Ok, folks! I hope you are having a good week. Monday and Tuesday were so busy and stressful for me…I felt a little like I was being tossed around in a big wave. I did get several things done, however. I gave a little speech about Thai Massage (which I have been assured was not as bad as I thought), changed my insurance plan (to make it less expensive and include my husband finally), and went to a networking meeting. Today I have a little rest, which means I will make a big pot of soup, and also finally give you the next installment of Muscle Monday, just a few days late! Today, the sternocleidomastoid! Continue reading

Muscle Monday–Scalenes

Today’s muscle is a small group of muscles in the anterior neck, known as the scalenes.

Origin: Transverse processes of the 2nd-6th cervical (neck) vertebrae

Insertion: Upper surfaces of 1st & 2nd ribs

Actions: Bilaterally, elevates rib cage during inhalation. Unilaterally, laterally flexes the neck, and rotates head & neck to the opposite side

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What is Thai Foot Reflexology?

Update 8/24/18: Right now, I’m not offering this service, but read on, learn, and if you’re interested, contact me, and maybe I’ll bring it back!

Thai Foot Reflexology (or Thai Foot Massage) combines acupressure, stretching, and massage of the legs and feet with reflexology done with lotion and a wooden stick. I generally give the work in a manner similar to Thai massage, with the fully clothed recipient lying on a mat on the floor for the duration of the session. However, it can be done on the table, often as an add-on to a regular massage by request.

Jacksonville Florida Thai Foot Massage

Wooden stick used in Thai Foot Massage

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What to expect at your massage appointment

Are you new to massage? Or maybe just curious what goes on during a massage session at my office? Well, you’ve come to the right place, because in this post I’m going to outline what to expect, including specifics for both a traditional therapeutic massage on the table, and a Thai yoga massage. Continue reading

Think about this in the morning

I would like to share a small excerpt from the morning affirmation section of Tapping for Stress Relief, from Jessica Ortner of The Tapping Solution:

Today is a gift.
I’m grateful to be alive,
And to have this day.
I refuse to waste it
By complaining about what is.
I choose to focus on what I create.
I create my reality.
I choose wisely.

Enjoy your day! 😀

Book review

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So Teebs (the black and white cat) reminded me of my promise to tell you about one of my favorite massage books: The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook, by Clair Davies.

The subtitle is “Your self-treatment guide for pain relief,” and that is the truth. Basically, it breaks down the big red Travell trigger point manuals for the layperson, and gives symptoms, causes, and treatment for almost every trigger point of the body. I mentioned the Theracane yesterday, and that is one of the primary treatment tools. The book features many clear pictures of where to place the Theracane, the lacrosse ball, or the supported thumbs–whatever tool is best–for the most immediate relief.
Really, I can’t recommend this book enough. I refer to it several times a week for use with clients, and on myself at home. As you can see in the picture, I’ve added my own tabs for easy reference. As a massage therapist, I definitely suggest getting frequent massage, but in between, this book and some self-massage tools can often help life feel more bearable!