April 30, 2011

Anatomy In Motion is Going Universal!

We are busily working on the universal version of Anatomy In Motion! This version has some great updates that utilize the unique possibilities of the ipad user and also gives iphone and ipod touch users some new tools as well.

The first addition we are giving you a sneak peak of is the note taking feature! Remind yourself to study a certain muscle or note a difference from your personal references. Jot down a great stretch you learned. Mark down any info you want for each and every muscle in Anatomy In Motion!

Stay tuned form more details on this mega new update!

April 22, 2011

Relaxation Techniques: Essential for Reducing Stress

Relaxation techniques are an essential part of your quest for stress management. Relaxation isn't just about peace of mind or enjoying a hobby. Relaxation is a process that decreases the wear and tear on your mind and body from the challenges and hassles of daily life.
Whether your stress is spiraling out of control or you've already got it tamed, you can benefit from learning relaxation techniques. Learning basic relaxation techniques is easy, often free or low cost, and poses little risk. Explore these simple relaxation techniques to get you started on de-stressing your life and improving your health.

The benefits of relaxation techniques

April 20, 2011

Bouquet of the Day!

This week's bouquet from Hibiscus Flowershop is ringing in Spring for Mending Hands clients!

Not only that, Mending Hands and Hibiscus Flowershop are pairing up for the celebration of Brooklyn Moms! This Mother's day - if you buy your favorite mom a Mending Hands Gift Certificate you will be eligible for an exclusive discount at Hibiscus Flowershop! Celebrate mom with 10% off your  Hibiscus purchase of $30 or more. Feel free to email for more details on how to make your mom feel relaxed and loved this Mother's Day!

April 11, 2011

The Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy

Studies indicate that massage therapy performed during pregnancy can reduce anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, relieve muscle aches and joint pains, and improve labor outcomes and newborn health.

Massage therapy addresses different needs through varying techniques, one of which is called Swedish Massage, which aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation through mild pressure applied to the muscle groups of the body. Swedish Massage is the recommended prenatal massage method during pregnancy because it addresses many common discomforts associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts during pregnancy.

April 07, 2011

Bouquet of the Day!

This week's bouquet from Hibiscus Flowershop is bringing in some beautiful tropical vibes for Mending Hands clients!

April 04, 2011

Face Down, Stuffed Up

A few months ago I addressed a natural and releasing reaction to massage - to have a good cry! The popularity of that post gave me an idea - what other reactions do people have during a massage that are completely, absolutely human?  In this series - Absolutely Human,  I will explore some common, complex and supposedly taboo reactions that are totally normal during a massage session.

Today we snuff out a stuffed nose!

Many of my clients - no matter what the season, no matter if they are prone to allergies or sinus infections, whether or not they are skirting around a head cold - get stuffed up when face down.

This just makes sense.

The truth is - your sinus cavities always have a mucus lining. It is one of the ways we purify and warm the air before it travels to our lungs. And when else in life are we laying down with our sinuses at the mercy of shear gravity? Getting congested when you are in that position is very common. Just ask for a tissue! Or if the pressure gets to be too much - get creative! Licensed massage therapists learn how to give a massage in many positions. Part of the creativity of the job is figuring out how to work your hamstrings if you get too uncomfortable (for whatever reason!) in the ideal position.

Mending Hands Pro Tip: When I'm finished with all posterior work and turn the client onto their back, I put a few drops of Eucalyptus or Tea Tree oil on a tissue and place it on their chest. This is a great holistic way to open up the air passages!