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6/14/2023 0 Comments

Massage Therapy: The Conductor of Your Body's Energy Symphony

Just as a symphony orchestra brings together an ensemble of varied instruments, each with its own unique sound, to create beautiful harmonious music, our bodies comprise different elements — physical, mental, and spiritual. As a licensed massage therapist, my role is akin to that of a symphony conductor, orchestrating the harmony of these elements through the profound wisdom of Asian energy techniques. Let's explore this captivating analogy further.

Understanding Chi: The Rhythm of Life

Chi, or Qi, a term rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, could be thought of as the rhythm that drives our bodily symphony. This 'life force' or 'energy flow' sets the tempo, and when it's in balance, our body performs a melody of optimal health. But if this rhythm is disrupted or becomes unbalanced, it could lead to a discordant tune, manifesting as physical or emotional illness.

Through the art of massage therapy, I aim to serve as your personal conductor, aligning your rhythm, ensuring your life force maintains its balanced flow. Much like a skilled conductor can detect a slight offbeat and correct it before it disrupts the entire performance, so can a skilled massage therapist perceive and rectify a disruption in your Chi.

The Integration of Qi Gong and Tai Chi: A Harmonious Dance

Consider Qi Gong and Tai Chi as the dance elements of our symphony. These traditional practices work harmoniously to balance the rhythm of your Chi. Just as a ballet dancer combines delicate movements with controlled breathing and meditation, these practices blend seamlessly into the symphony, enhancing the rhythm and ensuring a smoother flow of energy.

When these practices are integrated into massage therapy, it’s like adding a mesmerizing dance performance to an already enchanting symphony, bolstering its beauty and captivating the audience — in this case, your body.

The Role of Yoga: The Orchestra Tuning Up

If you've ever attended a symphony performance, you'll notice how the musicians take time to tune their instruments before the performance. Yoga, in this analogy, plays that role. It prepares your body (the instrument) by aligning and tuning it, opening up channels of energy flow (the music notes), and synchronizing the body, mind, and spirit (the melody). This preparation ensures that the performance — your overall wellness — is at its best.

The Power of Chakras: The Symphony Sections

In an orchestra, different sections create unique sounds. The woodwinds, brass, strings, and percussion sections each have their part to play, and when one is out of sync, it impacts the whole symphony. Similarly, chakras, the energy centers in our bodies, each play a critical role in our health. When these 'sections' of our body's symphony are balanced and working in harmony, we experience optimal health and emotional well-being.

In my role as your 'conductor,' I use techniques such as Shiatsu to align these chakras, much like a conductor ensures each section of the orchestra is in tune and ready to contribute to the harmonious melody.

The Importance of Meridians: The Melodic Pathways

Meridians, as defined in traditional Chinese medicine, can be likened to the sheet music followed by an orchestra — they provide the path along which the melody, or in our case, Chi, flows. Stimulating these meridians through specific massage techniques is akin to reading the music correctly — it ensures the melody flows as intended, creating a beautiful and harmonious performance, and in this case, overall wellness.

The Grand Finale: Energy Work in Massage Therapy

To create a symphony that captivates the audience, all elements must work together in harmony under the expert guidance of the conductor. Similarly, as a massage therapist, my services are designed to orchestrate harmony within your body, providing a holistic tune-up that goes beyond physical relief.

By integrating techniques focused on unblocking Chi in meridians and balancing chakras, my massage therapy sessions are curated to not only alleviate physical discomfort and reduce stress, but also promote profound emotional release and relaxation — creating a melody of holistic wellness.

In the grand symphony of life, we realize that health is more than just treating physical symptoms — it’s about nurturing the body's natural ability to heal and supporting the energy flow that facilitates this healing, just as a symphony is more than the sum of its parts. It's the harmony, the melody, and the rhythm together that create the beautiful Sonata.

So, whether you're a fellow massage therapist seeking inspiration or someone on a quest for holistic wellness, let's fine-tune your body's symphony to ensure you're playing the most harmonious melody possible. Until next time, stay balanced and keep the energy flowing and the music going!

As always if you want to chat with me about how I can help, I am happy to listen to you and your body and make a tailored routine just for you. Text me at 435-764-2603 (Calista)

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6/13/2023 0 Comments

Massage Therapy: A Heart Healthy Approach to Wellness

I am a licensed massage therapist with a passion for integrating the healing benefits of massage into holistic health routines. Over the years, my practice has focused not just on alleviating muscular tension or enhancing relaxation, but also on the fascinating interconnections between massage and cardiovascular health. Today, I want to shed some light on the often-overlooked benefits of massage therapy on blood flow and cardiovascular function.

A Gateway to Enhanced Circulation

Massage therapy, in essence, stimulates the body's tissues, which in turn increases blood flow. This increased blood flow not only helps transport oxygen and nutrients to the body's muscles and organs but also aids in the removal of waste products such as lactic acid and metabolic byproducts. This process, known as vasodilation, essentially means that your arteries and veins expand, allowing for more efficient blood flow.

Vasodilation

Massage techniques such as stroking, kneading, and tapping can stimulate the dilation of blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood flow. This dilation helps to improve circulation and deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.

One of the most commonly experienced forms of massage, Swedish massage, involves long, flowing strokes along the body. These strokes are designed to follow the direction of blood flow towards the heart, which can support vascular health and improve circulation.

Removal of metabolic waste

Massage can assist in the removal of metabolic waste products from the body, such as lactic acid and carbon dioxide, by enhancing circulation. By promoting blood flow, massage aids in the transportation of waste materials away from the muscles and organs, allowing fresh oxygenated blood to replace it.

Breakdown of adhesions and scar tissue

Deep tissue massage and certain techniques like friction can help break down adhesions and scar tissue in the muscles and connective tissues. These adhesions can restrict blood flow and cause circulation problems. By breaking them down, massage restores proper blood circulation and enhances overall tissue health.

Activation of the lymphatic system

The lymphatic system is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body. Massage can stimulate the lymphatic system, assisting in the removal of toxins and excess fluid buildup. Improved lymphatic circulation indirectly benefits blood flow by reducing swelling and inflammation, allowing blood vessels to function more efficiently.

By releasing chronic muscle tension, breaking up scar tissue, and getting the lymphatic system moving, deep tissue massage can clear the pathways for blood to circulate more freely, thereby promoting better cardiovascular function.

The Relaxation Effect

Stress and anxiety are well-known contributors to cardiovascular disease. Chronic stress stimulates the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can raise heart rate and blood pressure and put unnecessary strain on your cardiovascular system. This is where massage therapy truly shines.

Massage promotes the production of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin, neurotransmitters that help reduce stress and generate feelings of wellbeing. In turn, the reduction in stress and anxiety can help regulate blood pressure and maintain a healthier heart rate, making massage an excellent adjunct therapy for overall cardiovascular health.

While massage therapy is certainly not a standalone treatment for cardiovascular issues, it can be a powerful complement to traditional medical interventions and a heart-healthy lifestyle. It's important to remember that every individual is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.

As a licensed massage therapist, I believe in the power of touch as a means of healing and wellness. The benefits to circulation and cardiovascular function are just the beginning. Massage therapy can bring about a sense of overall wellbeing that leads to healthier living and a more balanced lifestyle. For a more tailored recommendation you can give me a call and we can put together a session for you based on your own needs.

Until next time, take care of your heart, and remember that wellness is a journey, not a destination.

*It's important to note that while massage can have positive effects on blood flow, it may not be a substitute for medical treatment in cases of serious circulatory conditions. If you have specific concerns about your circulation, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Yours in health,

Calista (Text me to schedule your massage today!) 435-764-2603

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6/12/2023 0 Comments

Understanding and Leveraging the Bodily Rhythms: A Deep Dive into the Role of Massage Therapy

As a massage therapist, I have become deeply attuned to the human body's subtle rhythms and flows. An integrated exploration of these physiological processes, including blood circulation, respiratory patterns, energy flow, chakra alignment, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) movement, lymphatic drainage, and myofascial release, reveal a complex, interconnected system. In this article I investigate these bodily rhythms, highlights their interplay, and highlight the beneficial role of massage therapy in modulating these systems to foster well-being and health.

The Unique Flows and Rhythms

Each component of the body's system of flows and rhythms brings its unique characteristics and benefits. Blood flow is a dynamic process involving the heart's rhythmic contractions, pushing blood through a vast network of vessels to deliver nutrients and oxygen to tissues. Respiration, in tandem with blood flow, is a vital rhythm marked by inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide.

The body's energy, also referred to as "chi" in traditional Chinese medicine, is believed to flow along meridians and is critical for overall health. It's akin to a vital current, connecting different body parts and regulating physical and emotional well-being.

Chakras, according to ancient Indian belief, are energy vortexes situated at different body points, influencing physical, mental, and spiritual health. The alignment and balance of these chakras are considered crucial for holistic well-being.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) serves as a protective cushion for the brain and spinal cord and acts as a conduit for nutrients and waste. Its rhythmic flow, closely tied to the brain's glymphatic system, is vital for cognitive health.

Lymphatic drainage is an essential detoxification process. The rhythmic movement of lymph through lymphatic vessels facilitates waste elimination and immune response.

Lastly, the myofascial system, an interconnected web of tissues enveloping muscles and organs, plays a significant role in body posture and movement. Myofascial release alleviates tension and improves flexibility.

The Commonality and Interplay

While each flow or rhythm may seem disparate, they share a fundamental commonality: they collectively contribute to the body's homeostasis, a dynamic equilibrium vital for health and survival. Their rhythms are a testament to the body's ceaseless work, orchestrated in a harmonious symphony of life.

Moreover, these rhythms interact intricately. For instance, respiratory rhythm can influence blood flow rhythm (respiratory sinus arrhythmia), while a balanced chi and well-aligned chakras can positively impact mental and emotional states, which, in turn, influence physiological rhythms like heart rate and breathing. CSF rhythm impacts brain health, which can regulate body rhythms like sleep. Efficient lymphatic drainage relies on good blood circulation, and a relaxed myofascial system aids in unimpeded blood flow and lymph drainage.

The Benefits of Massage

Massage therapy, with its multifaceted techniques, can modulate these bodily rhythms. It enhances blood circulation and lymphatic drainage by mechanically stimulating the vessels, promoting nutrient delivery, waste removal, and immune response. This aspect is especially important for combating lymphedema, a common issue post-surgical interventions.

Through techniques like deep tissue massage, a therapist can alleviate myofascial tension, promoting improved posture and movement. This release also aids in reducing pain and enhancing relaxation, which can positively impact other body rhythms.

Furthermore, techniques like acupressure or reflexology can potentially manipulate chi flow, although more scientific research is needed to understand these processes thoroughly. The same goes for chakra alignment, where certain massage therapies might aid in balancing these energy vortexes.

Enhancing Health through Modulation

By understanding and modulating these bodily rhythms, we can make a significant positive impact on health. Regular massage therapy can maintain or enhance the balance of these flows and rhythms, contributing to overall well-being.

Regular and targeted massage therapy can potentially alleviate chronic conditions, improve recovery, enhance detoxification, foster relaxation, improve sleep quality, and even enhance cognitive function by improving blood and CSF flow.

The intricate dance of the body's rhythms and flows is a testament to the complex beauty of human physiology. As massage therapists, we can become the conductors of this physiological orchestra, understanding its beats, and using our hands to modulate the rhythms to enhance well-being and health.

For the next few posts, I will be discussing more in depth each of these areas and how, through massage we can increase our Mental, Emotional and Physical wellbeing.

If you are interested in signing up for a massage please text me at 435-764-2603 (Calista)

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5/31/2023 0 Comments

Muscle Activation Technique: Enhancing Performance with Massage Therapy

When it comes to rehabilitation and fitness enhancement, the importance of muscle strength and flexibility cannot be overstated. One novel approach, Muscle Activation Technique (MAT), combines elements of exercise and massage therapy to improve muscle performance, reduce risk of injury, and enhance overall functionality.

What is Muscle Activation Technique (MAT)?

Muscle Activation Technique is a unique method aimed at addressing muscle imbalances in the body. Developed by Greg Roskopf, a biomechanics expert, this technique addresses the body's response to injuries, stress, or overuse. Specifically, MAT aims to identify weak or under-performing muscles, also known as muscle inhibition, and correct these imbalances via targeted exercises and massage therapy.

The Role of Massage Therapy in MAT

Massage therapy plays a crucial role in Muscle Activation Technique. When a muscle is identified as underperforming or inhibited, the MAT specialist uses specific massage techniques to stimulate that muscle. This massage therapy isn't your typical relaxation-focused approach; rather, it is a targeted and specific technique to wake up the underactive muscles and prepare them for the subsequent exercises.

Muscles operate on a system of reciprocal inhibition, which means when one muscle contracts, its counterpart relaxes. When muscles aren't functioning correctly, it can cause an imbalance, leading to a higher risk of injury. Massage therapy, as applied in MAT, can help restore the balance by reactivating the underperforming muscles and promoting optimal muscle function.

The Benefits of Muscle Activation Technique

By applying massage therapy within the MAT framework, numerous benefits can be realized:

1. Enhanced Muscle Function: Through the process of identifying and activating inhibited muscles, MAT enhances overall muscle function. This improvement can lead to increased strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

2. Injury Prevention: By addressing imbalances and weaknesses in the muscular system, MAT can help prevent future injuries. Ensuring muscles are correctly activated and functioning optimally can reduce the risk of strains and sprains.

3. Improved Performance: Athletes, in particular, can benefit from MAT. Improving muscle function can lead to better athletic performance, from increased power and speed to enhanced endurance.

4. Rehabilitation: For those recovering from injury or surgery, MAT's targeted approach can help speed up recovery and ensure muscles are functioning correctly during the rehabilitation process.

MAT and Massage Therapy: A Perfect Synergy Muscle Activation

Technique represents an exciting fusion of exercise science and massage therapy. With its focus on identifying and rectifying muscle imbalances, it offers an effective method to improve muscle function and reduce the risk of injury. The role of massage therapy within MAT is vital, helping stimulate underactive muscles and contribute to a balanced, optimally functioning muscular system.

Whether you're an athlete looking to improve your performance, a fitness enthusiast aiming for peak physical health, or recovering from an injury, MAT, with its emphasis on targeted massage therapy, could be the game-changer you're looking for. By unlocking the full potential of your muscles, MAT and massage therapy together can pave the way to enhanced physical health and superior athletic performance.

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5/29/2023 0 Comments

Unveiling the Power of Homeopathies: 5 Incredible Benefits for a healthier Life

Hey there, fabulous readers! Welcome to Calista's corner, where we dive deep into all things fascinating and fun. Today, we're taking an exciting journey into the world of homeopathics. Buckle up, because we're about to explore the top 5 incredible benefits of these fascinating remedies that will leave you amazed!

Gentle and Natural Healing: Nature's Gift to Your Well-being

Imagine having access to a gentle and natural healing approach that supports your body's innate ability to recover. Homeopathics offer just that! Derived from natural sources like plants and minerals, these remedies promote holistic healing without harsh chemicals. Embrace the power of nature and experience the wonders it can work on your well-being!

Personalized Treatment: Navigating the Path to Wellness

Ever wished you had a personalized guide to navigate the complexities of your health concerns? Homeopathics act as a compass, leading you on a journey toward improved well-being. By stimulating your body's healing mechanisms, these remedies address the root cause of your symptoms. From chronic headaches to bothersome allergies, homeopathics offer targeted treatment tailored just for you.

Immune Support: Fortifying Your Body's Defenses

Your immune system deserves a medal, boosting and balancing your body's defense mechanisms. These remedies provide the support needed to strengthen and fortify your immune system, helping you fend off common invaders. Bid farewell to those persistent sniffles and welcome a healthier, more resilient you!

Mood Enhancers: Finding Your Inner Joy|

We all need a little pick-me-up for our mood, don't we? Homeopathies can be your secret weapon for finding that inner joy and relieving everyday stress. These remedies are known to support emotional well-being and promote a sense of calm. Whether you're battling the blues or feeling overwhelmed, homeopathies offer a gentle nudge in the right direction, brightening your day and bringing harmony to your mind.

Harmonizing Mind, Body, and Soul: Embracing Balance

In a fast-paced world filled with chaos, finding balance can be challenging. But fear not! Homeopathies act as a guiding force to help harmonize your mind, body, and soul. By addressing imbalances, these remedies pave the way for a life filled with serenity and vitality. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and let homeopathies support you in creating a harmonious and fulfilling life.

And there you have it, fellow health enthusiasts! The top 5 incredible benefits of homeopathies that will add a touch of wonder to your life. From gentle healing to immune support, these remedies offer a natural and personalized approach to well-being. Embrace the power of homeopathic and let them unveil a path to improved health and balance.
Remember, dear readers, life is too short to settle for the ordinary. Embrace the extraordinary and discover the potential of homeopathic remedies in enhancing your quirky, fabulous life. Until next time, stay curious, stay healthy, and keep embracing the wonders that surround you!

Yours adventurously,

Calista

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5/27/2023 0 Comments

H2Oh-Yeah! The Underrated Superhero of Our Time: WATER

Hello there, fine readers of the internet! I'm here to talk about a topic that's been making waves (pun very much intended) in the health and wellness world. Let me introduce you to the superhero that’s been with you all along, yet rarely gets its due credit – it’s the one and only, the amazing, the invincible, the breathtakingly clear…drum roll… WATER!

That's right. Simple, humble H2O. We’re about 60% water, give or take. However, the majority of us treat water like the most underappreciated sidekick, only acknowledging its existence when the Saharan Desert decides to take up residence in our throats. It’s time to change that narrative, folks!

Act 1: The Adventures of “Water Boy/Girl”

First off, if you've ever watched a superhero movie, you know that a lot of them operate by the "with great power comes great hydration" principle. Okay, maybe I fiddled with the quote a bit, but it makes sense, doesn't it? Imagine Iron Man flying around New York in a dehydrated state, forgetting mid-flight which buildings he’s supposed to be soaring over. Let’s not even think about Spiderman casting his webs in the wrong neighborhood. The point is, hydration keeps your brain sharp, folks! Just like our superheroes, we need water to keep our memory sharp, our focus pinpointed, and our mood brighter than a Marvel movie poster.

Act 2: “Thirsty” Cells: The Gossipmongers

Now, every good superhero story has drama, right? Well, let's talk about the drama in our bodies. Every single cell is a little gossip, constantly sending messages back and forth. And guess what? They use water as their personal postal service. That's right, folks! Hydration plays a crucial role in nutrient delivery, waste removal, and general communication between cells. So, staying well-hydrated is like providing reliable 5G coverage to your cells. Without it, your body's gossip network breaks down, and let’s face it, nobody likes dropped calls. You wouldn’t want your cells to miss the latest intra-body gossip because of bad network coverage, would you?

Act 3: The Battle of The Body Temperatures

Superheroes fight battles, and so does water, but inside our bodies. Its biggest arch-nemesis? Body temperature. When we're burning up with fever or just after a killer Zumba class, water swoops in like a cool superhero, regulating our body temperature and preventing us from overheating. And we all know that being ‘cool’ is the first rule of being a superhero.

Act 4: Flushing Out the Villains

Water is like the silent, stealthy ninja who’s constantly protecting us, flushing out toxins, keeping our skin glowing, and our systems flowing. All this, while asking for nothing more than a refill. Now, isn't that the hero we all need? Remember folks, every time you ignore that glass of water, you're snubbing the superhero within you. So, let’s raise our glasses (filled with water, of course), and toast to hydration! So, there you have it! The superhero saga of water. If you're not already sprinting to the nearest tap, I've seriously failed as a writer. Water may not come with flashy capes or impressive CGI effects, but it's saving the day, one hydrated cell at a time. Stay hydrated, my friends. Not just because it's important, but because every superhero deserves recognition.

If you'd like a free bottle of water feel free to book a massage by calling or texting me at: 435.764.2603. Free bottle after every massage :)

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5/26/2023 0 Comments

The Magic of Canine Massage: Unleashing the Benefits for Your Furry Friend

Hello, fellow dog lovers! Calista Burbank here, a licensed massage therapist with a passion for improving the lives of our four-legged friends. Today, I'm going to delve into the world of canine massage, exploring the numerous benefits it can bring to your dog's health and overall well-being.

Canine massage isn't just a trendy luxury for pampered pets; it's a vital wellness tool that can significantly enhance your dog's quality of life. The primary focus of massage is to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and provide comfort. But, did you know that the benefits of massage for dogs go far beyond just relaxation?

Improved Circulation: The first notable benefit of dog massage is improved circulation. By stimulating the muscles and tissues, massage promotes better blood flow. This process transports oxygen and nutrients more effectively throughout your dog's body, enhancing their overall health and vitality.
Pain Relief: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from muscle tension, arthritis, or injuries. Regular massage sessions can alleviate these discomforts by reducing inflammation, easing muscle tension, and promoting faster healing.
Stress Reduction: Dogs can also suffer from stress and anxiety. Whether it's due to separation anxiety, a trip to the vet, or changes in the environment, a good massage session can soothe your dog, providing a sense of security and comfort.
Enhances Mobility: Aging can take a toll on your dog's mobility. Regular massage can help keep joints flexible and muscles toned, which can significantly enhance your senior dog's quality of life and keep them active for longer.
Strengthens Bond: Massage isn't just beneficial to your dog's physical health; it's also a great way to strengthen your bond. By spending focused, quality time with your pet, you're communicating your love and care for them, which can greatly improve their emotional well-being.

Now that we've explored some of the benefits of massage for dogs, it's essential to understand that professional training is key. As a licensed massage therapist, I strongly recommend seeking a certified professional's expertise for your canine's massage sessions.

Canine massage is an excellent addition to your pet's health routine. Its benefits range from physical wellness to emotional stability. However, always remember, while the power of massage is significant, it is not a substitute for regular veterinary care.

Experience the benefits of canine massage firsthand. Book a session with your furry friend today, and discover how massage can make a world of difference for them. As always, love and care for your pets, because they give us more than we could ever give back. Feel free to contact me too about boarding your dog and giving them the benefits of massage while you are on vacation.

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4/20/2023 0 Comments

Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous System.

Hey, have you ever stopped to think about how your body just knows what to do?

Like when you're walking, breathing, or just sitting here reading this awesome article. Well, your nervous system is like the CEO of your body, calling all the shots. And guess what? Your nervous system has not one, but two parts – the revved-up sympathetic nervous system and the chillaxed parasympathetic nervous system.

The sympathetic nervous system is like a turbocharged engine in a fancy car. It's the one that gets you all pumped up and ready to go, like when you see your crush and your heart starts pounding, your palms get sweaty, and your body goes into "fight or flight" mode. Thank your sympathetic nervous system for that rush of adrenaline.

Now, let's talk about the parasympathetic nervous system, which is like the brakes in that same fancy car. It's the one that helps you slow down, chill out, and recover. You know that feeling when you're just kicking back and relaxing, and all of a sudden you drift off into dreamland? That's your parasympathetic nervous system doing its thing in "rest and digest" mode.

But here's the kicker: sometimes, our nervous system can get a little mixed up and trigger anxiety when there's no real danger. That's when our sympathetic nervous system goes into overdrive, and it's like driving a sports car through a school zone - not cool. To calm down, we need to hit the brakes and activate our parasympathetic nervous system.

So, how do we tap into that chill mode? Well, deep breathing is a great option. You could also try meditation or a relaxing massage from your favorite licensed massage therapist. Who needs wine when you've got a skilled massage therapist to help you unwind?

Our bodies are pretty remarkable, and the nervous system is like the boss of it all. By balancing our "gas" and "brakes" - the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems - we can take control of our stress levels and enjoy life in the fast lane or the slow lane, whichever you prefer. So go ahead, treat yourself to a massage and let your nervous system do its thing.

--Brett

Thank you to my guest writer!! You're awesome!

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3/11/2023 0 Comments

Anger: Friend or Foe

What is anger? Is it a base emotion or a reactionary emotion.

The "Paul Ekman’s research, anger is one of the six “basic emotions” identified in the Atlas of Emotions along with disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, surprise. Anger is felt by everyone at one point or another and it’s completely valid as its own emotion."-A The Atlas of Emotions shows that there are several types of anger ranging from annoyance to fury.

Anger isn't a bad or wrong emotion; however, it does leads to not so pleasant reactions, if ...... channeling the energy from the emotion isn't dispersed in a healthy way. So what are some healthy ways??

Qi Gong: Beat the bag!!!!

I took a 25-30 lb bag of rice. I wrapped it in duct tape... a few layers so there will be no mess. I took a wooden handle like for a broom that I got at a local hardware store. I cut it in half and wrapped part of them in a base ball bat grip. So I have two wood mallets and a bag of rice. I place it on my massage table but a couch or bed would work as well. Take a mallet in each hand and raise up above and behind your head (By your ears). Swing your hands down and beat the bag with your mallets while saying the word "NO". Repeat over and over again. You will automatically start feeling all the anger that is stored somewhere in your body and pull it up and out from the liver meridian and out of you. It will bring up really strong emotions so doing it with someone is a wise. Make sure that someone is a safe person. Someone you would feel comfortable having them see your pain and fury, resentment, bitterness and frustration. Taking a pillow and beating a bed can also work.

I have found that sometimes my children are willing to jump in and beat the bag in a moment of anger and rage and it works great!!! Sometimes they don't and it takes some encouragement. Anger can be overwhelming and sometimes scary. It is very important to put it into perspective. Anger is a result of your rights being violated and sometimes figuring out what right is violated can help dispel the anger as well. Whether it is the right of getting what you want as a toddler, your right of receiving unconditional love as a child, or the right to make choices like an adult as a teenager. The right to be safe, the right to choice, the right to freedom, the right to having both parents in your home, the right of understanding your friends and the right to have autonomy. There are many rights we have whether based on truth or not doesn't matter we beleive

As a parent and dealing with your child's anger make sure you don't take it personally. It means something different than what is being expressed and often getting to the root of that anger is helpful. Asking them why may or may not give you the real answers but you can get clues. Ask them what they feel like should be happening to get an idea of what they expect and what right might be violated. Ask them if they are afraid or worried about something to see if there is a different base emotion behind the anger. Ask them how they want to release the anger. Let them know it's ok to be angry and that there are healthy ways channel it. It's ok to let them know they can't hurt others or destroy things. It's ok to turn their outrage into an external movement like running around the house or block. It's ok to yell to get it out, while controlling the yell, shout an "Arrg" with them, keep words with meaning out of it and turn it into a loudness contest. tv.

Telling them to calm down is like telling someone who is sobbing to take a deep breath. It doesn't do anything to help. The problem with sobbing is not a lack of oxygen which a deep breath would fix it is a build up of carbon dioxide which needs to be dispelled. Helping someone sobbing by two quick exhales will lead to a deep breath and calm a sob. Just like joining their anger and channeling it in a healthy way will dispel anger rather than compile it into further increase of the emotions.

The best way to discuss anger is after the fact.... often long after the fact. Obviously depending on the age of the child, the discussion of what caused or led to the outburst of anger should be postponed long after the outburst. For a 3 year old that would be a few hours afterwards. For a teenager it might be a couple weeks later before you bring it up to discuss. It is rarely ever necessary or wise to discuss it in the moment even with adults. The reptilian brain that does the fight or flight response that takes over emotions and thinking when anger takes over the controls, needs to be calmed and the mind able to step into the logical thinking frontal lobe of the brain.

Good luck! And as a parent if you're able to do all of this without pulling out your hair or wanting to beat a bag yourself you have been successful. Feel free to share things that you have done that works and we will share it here as well.

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2/22/2023 0 Comments

ParaSympathetic Nervous System

The Power of Rest and Digest: Calming the Nervous System for Full-Body WellnessBy Calista Burbank, LMT - Logan, Utah
Located at Logan Mental Health and Wellness
In our fast-paced world, stress can overwhelm the body, keeping us in a constant state of "fight or flight." Activating the parasympathetic nervous system is essential for achieving true relaxation, healing, and overall well-being. Through relaxation massage, you can restore balance and unlock the benefits of the rest and digest response.
Understanding the Parasympathetic Nervous SystemThe parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for regulating bodily functions during restful states. When activated, it:

Slows the heart rate for improved cardiovascular health.
Relaxes muscles to reduce tension and pain.
Encourages digestion by increasing gut motility and enzyme release.
Promotes mental clarity by reducing anxiety and calming the mind.

How Relaxation Massage Supports Nervous System HealthA relaxation massage is a powerful tool for stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. By applying gentle, flowing strokes and soothing techniques, this type of massage signals the body to unwind and shift from stress mode to calm mode.
Benefits of Regular Relaxation Massage

Improved Sleep: Deep relaxation leads to better quality rest, helping the body repair itself overnight.
Reduced Anxiety and Stress: By lowering cortisol levels, relaxation massage helps you feel calmer and more grounded.
Enhanced Digestion: Activating the parasympathetic system improves nutrient absorption and gut health.
Boosted Immune System: Restorative relaxation supports the body's natural ability to heal and fight off illness.

Book Your Relaxation Massage TodayIf you're feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, or out of balance, a relaxation massage can help reset your nervous system and improve your overall well-being.
I’m currently booking appointments at Logan Mental Health and Wellness in Logan, Utah. Take a moment for yourself — your mind and body will thank you.
Contact me today to schedule your session and start your journey toward lasting calm and full-body wellness.

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