The area surrounding the hips and thighs is quite powerful and very in tune with the root chakra. When we feel grounded in our life and supported we tend to have good flexibility in this area with healthy joint mobility. However in times of financial distress or emotional turmoil we will typically feel tension and a sense of immobility in our hips. For instance, after a woman experiences a traumatic experience in childbirth her hips are usually quite sore and stiff for many weeks if not months to follow. When someone has a strong support system throughout something as intense and at times scary as childbirth the body tends to heal up quite quickly. The hips are where we process many of our burdens in life especially those related to money. When we struggle to get by financially there is often times more pain associated with the right side rather than the left. When the issue of distress is more emotionally based we will probably feel the pain or tension in our left hip. Being able to perform regular self care exercises involving not only stretching but also strengthening the hips is very important. Think of hip openers in yoga and exercises like skiing or biking for maintaining healthy hips and thighs. Massage therapy can be invaluable when it comes to relaxing and relieving tension in the hips. Ashiatsu is a beautifully deep form of massage that allows the therapist to position the client on his or her side therefore creating a deep connection with the muscles surrounding the hip. Prenatal massage prepares the body for birth and encourages the release of tension from the hips so that we are able to let go when it is time. The application of essential oils like Vetiver can encourage balance in the hips and remind our body that we are safe and supported. Ask your massage therapist about aromatherapy next time you’re in the spa for a luxurious boost in your treatment. Lets all try and be a support system for one another this holiday season, we all have the ability to lend a helping hand to those in need. Remember to take care of yourself and you will be better able to take care of others.

There is an old adage that goes something like, “if it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it." I am a firm believer in following the gut both physically as well as emotionally. If I experience an upset stomach after eating certain foods, well I just don’t eat those foods again. If I happen upon a situation that doesn’t sit right in my belly, well I just avoid those situations. Your intuition is linked up to your gut and when there happens to be discomfort in your stomach you are probably experiencing either a food borne illness or an emotionally difficult issue. Lets look at one of my most favorite essential oils: patchouli. Not only is this particular oil aligned with the root chakra but it is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to relieve cramping, nausea and indigestion. This herbaceous and spicy scent helps to remove dampness from the body and harness an earthy energy. Those who fear losing control of situations would be wise to work with Patchouli regularly. Just a simple topical application of a drop or two with coconut oil on the abdomen can help relieve tension in this sensitive area. We work through decisions with our brain but also with our belly. We may think we are ready to move on but feelings lingering in the stomach could be telling another story. Be open to receiving insight and wisdom from your gut, it is highly in tune with your immunity and wellbeing. Perhaps it is time we take some of the decision making process off the brain and learn to check things over with our digestive system first. I have been working with Patchouli for two years now and sense the grounded energy just from the aroma alone. It is powerful and gentle at the same time making it a fabulous essential oil for the entire family. Please stop by for some centering massage therapy work this season. Let the stress fall away with the leaves as we welcome changing seasons.

By Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist
NLMSC

We all tend to experience some sort of tension or stress in certain areas of the body and often times it can be a chronic problem. There are various events like sports accidents or trauma that may leave injury but these issues can also stem from emotional baggage. Moving on from the head and neck to the chest and arms we begin to explore a highly energetic area of the body. The heart chakra is an area where we feel love or on the other side of the spectrum, fear. It is impossible to feel both at the same time and therefore in times of great danger people tend to feel tightness or discomfort in their chest. When we have been shamed or disillusioned at some point in our lives the heart chakra responds by closing up. Moreover, when our hearts are open and we feel secure we tend to sit up straight and move our arms freely. Circulation is linked up with the heart chakra and when we are closed off in that area we may feel tingling or numbness in our arms and hands. We need the blood to flow in order for our life force to reach our extremities. Geranium essential oil has been helpful in relieving stagnant energy and encouraging blood flow. This particular oil is a wonderful tonic for the heart and tends to calm the wearer with tender maternal vibrations. Applying a drop or two to your favorite lotion and massaging the feet before embarking on your day will help to quell coldness in the feet and toes. Remember to show love to others even when you may not feel loving. Just as we study in order to pass an exam we need to create healthy habits to remind ourselves how good it feels to love and be loved in return. With the fast paced lifestyle so many of us lead today it is easy to run on autopilot, just floating through life. Let us not forget the simple and easy steps we can take towards a healthier and more fulfilling life like the act of giving another a hug or a smile. When we allow our heart chakras to beam with gratitude others will take notice and maybe, just maybe they will pay it forward. Take a moment to reclaim your loving power by stopping in for a healing session and allowing your heart to open and flourish.

Are you aware of how powerful the sense of smell can be on your emotional and psychological wellbeing? Our noses are able to pick up on thousands of different odors all at once. When something foul smelling comes in to our system, we immediately react with a sneeze or perhaps even a headache. When something pleasing enters our sense of smell, we react with a smile and an uplifting attitude. The chemical definition of aroma states that individual compounds are able to interact with olfactory receptors in our nose, head and face. Because each essential oil contains a different blueprint, different oils will affect us in different ways. Those smell receptors high up in the nasal cavity are linked up with our limbic system and therefore the scent of an essential oil can have quite a strong impact on our emotions. You may find that a particular essential oil helps to aid in the reduction of anxious feelings while another reminds you of a soothing place from your past. Moreover, essential oils also interact with the hypothalamus and may even aid in the regulation of blood pressure, sleep and memory.
When using a diffuser, look for a unit that does not use heat to emit aroma. Heating essential oils can alter their delicate and intricate chemistry so opt for a cold air diffuser instead. Simply placing a drop of your favorite calming oil in the palm of your hand and inhaling before entering a stressful situation like a doctors appointment or an interview can be very helpful in maintaining feelings of calm and peace. Our talented therapists enjoy using a wide array of essential oils during their healing sessions. Just walking into a room filled with a mellow blend of essential oils like Lavender or Vetiver can bring the client from a place of extroversion to a place of stillness and introspection. Our sense of smell is linked up with so much more than previously thought and diffusing essential oils is a great way to boost the mood, improve sleep and maintain a healthy and happy household. If you have any questions about diffusers, please don’t hesitate to ask! Be well.
By Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist
NLMSC

As an Aries (rules the head) with the moon in Taurus (rules the throat) I typically suffer from pain and tension in my head and neck. I have experienced many a night where I used acupressure and yoga in order to avoid a full-blown migraine. While pain management seems like a daunting and impossible task at times it is actually an incredibly insightful process through which you learn a lot about your body and mind. For instance, the areas of tension for myself differ from those of my clients and my loved ones. My father experiences low back pain, something I rarely encounter, and for my mother it tends to be sciatica. Interestingly enough my father is a Virgo/Libra cusp, think low back and digestive processes, while my mother is a Libra, think gluteus. Your astrological make up can directly influence your tolerance to pain as well as the sensitive and vulnerable areas of your body. You may also find relief from using essential oils aligned with your astrological footprint. Some of my favorites happen to be strongly identified with Aries: Peppermint and Rose. Both of these essential oils work to immediately relax the muscles in my head and neck while calming the mind and opening the heart. I have to pay attention to the emotional connection related to stiffness in these specific areas as well. The neck represents your ability to see both sides of any given situation, therefore when we find tension in this area it is wise to focus on accepting the validity of opinions that may not be our own. Tension in the head can be the result of over analytical thought processes and obsessive worry. Meditation and yoga may be hugely helpful in shutting down and tuning out those persistent negative thoughts. No matter what type of fatigue you are dealing with being able to stay open to a variety of healing modalities is always important. Stop by the spa and relax with one of our talented therapists. We are all differing in our approach to healing and that is what makes us such a successful team!
By Sarah McCallum
Massage Therapist
NLMSC

There is something in the air this time of year and it smells divine. The sights and scents of fall are not only comforting and delicious but they can be quite healing as well. Take Clove for example, this spice is a wonderful antioxidant and therefore helpful in boosting immunity. We could all use a little extra boost in our health when the seasons begin to change and the temperatures drop. Fall is a time of introversion, reflection and preparation for the winter months. As the cooler temperatures roll in our internal heat also declines and we need extra help increasing our circulation. Ginger essential oil has been known to help light our internal fires and get our blood moving. Both Clove and Ginger will come to the rescue when dealing with any type of digestive upset. Ginger helps to warm the digestive tract while Clove reduces bacteria found in the gut. Black Pepper has been known to aid in the reduction of cold hands and feet while also delivering a powerful punch of Vitamin K. Try a drop or two in your lotion and apply topically to the body before heading out into the chilly fall weather. Cinnamon essential oil not only smells divine but also increases heart health by raising the internal body temperature and improving circulation. Regular use of the powdered spice as well as the essential oil of Cinnamon has been shown to help reduce the risk of heart attack. Cardamom, typically found in Chai tea, is a wonderfully powerful antimicrobial spice. Try using a drop of Cardamom essential oil in a few tablespoons of water as a chemical free alternative to your mouthwash in order to fight oral infections. The aroma is uplifting and works as a stimulant thus Cardamom is best used in the morning. In my opinion, all of these essential oils can be tossed into a diffuser for a fantastic fall scent. Each essential oil listed above when applied to the body topically, always diluted, can help decrease muscular strain and joint pain. Therefore, next time you’re feeling bogged down by the hectic schedule of the fall season please stop by the spa for an aromatherapy massage treatment featuring a spicy scent. We will make sure to prepare your body for the busy months to come. You will leave feeling rejuvenated and refreshed!

By Sarah McCallum, Massage Therapist at NLMSC

I would like to discuss the process of applying essential oils to adolescents and children. The typical amount and usage of certain oils on adults is not at all appropriate for youngsters because of their sensitive skin and delicate constitutions. When using essential oils on a child always dilute in a tablespoon or more of carrier oils like coconut or almond before applying to the skin. Use caution when applying essential oils to areas that are more sensitive like the belly or the neck and be sure to use only a drop or two to start. The spine and bottoms of the feet are my favorite spots to apply essential oils to my child as well as my clients. It is a good idea to wait about 20 minutes after application; do not expect the child to show results immediately. My toddler responds beautifully to calming essential oils like Vetiver, Roman Chamomile and Cedarwood but I always allow him time to wind down in the bath tub before expecting a mellow mood. Moreover, the amount of essential oil used will totally dictate the outcome, so be conservative when using essential oils on anyone but especially with children. Remember that a drop alone is very powerful and using too much of an essential oil can be harmful and ineffective. Just because you are dealing with a typically toddler meltdown doesn’t mean it is time to apply a boat load of oil, always start with a drop or two, wait 20 minutes and then add a drop or two more if needed. Never use essential oils like Lemongrass, Clove, Oregano or Peppermint on a child who is under the age of being able to verbalize their feelings. These oils can cause a burning or cooling sensation that may send your little one into a fit of rage. That’s not to say that they aren’t fabulous essential oils but I suggest waiting until you can explain the possible side effects to the child before using those particular oils regularly. Oils like Lavender, Spearmint, Lemon, Roman Chamomile, Wild Orange, Cedarwood and Vetiver are all safe, effective, soothing and excellent choices for children. Remember that every body is very unique and just because one essential oil becomes a favorite of your child doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best oil for every child. With proper dilution and application knowledge you and your kids will be off to a very productive and healthy fall season!

By Sarah McCallum, Massage Therapist at NLMSC

As we embark upon our final astrological sign in the zodiac it seems fitting to explain how we have come full circle. Pisces, ruled by Neptune, is a water sign that governs the liver, lymphatic system and feet. As we began this series with Aries and the head we end this series with Pisces and the feet. Each sign progresses in many ways but the most obvious is its flow forward through the human body. Pisces are imaginative, intuitive and highly sensitive individuals whom often times complain about aches and pains especially during the cooler months. As we approach the Autumnal equinox and dropping temperatures I myself sure feel chilled to the bone. While this shift is quite welcome it can be very shocking to those with more delicate constitutions. Warming Clove essential oil can help increase warmth within the body during the fall and winter months. It is said that a Pisces in particular should never sit around in a wet bathing suit and this is due to their vulnerability surrounding the lymphatic system as well as the feet. Cold hands and feet most often times result in a cold or flu. Be wise as we head into the changing seasons and carry a warming essential oil like Clove or Cinnamon when embarking on hikes or walks outdoors. Be careful when applying Clove essential oil topically as it can cause a burning sensation in most so make sure to always dilute in coconut oil. A foot massage with Clove not only helps to warm the toes, it also decreases the production of fungus that leads to athletes foot. This same treatment may also help reduce soreness of the feet and body. Surely you are in the mood for some immune boosting self-care during the transition from bright and cheery summer to cool and cloudy fall. Please allow us to treat your tired feet to an aromatherapy foot soak followed by a blissful reflexology session. Your body and mind will float happily home!

By Sarah McCallum, Massage Therapist at NLMSC

As we delve into the last of the air signs let us focus on the difference between the Aquarian versus the other air signs. While Gemini likes to make connections among friends and discuss smaller social situations and Libra prefers to act out the mental activity hidden beneath their diplomatic exterior, the Aquarian prefers to make their original and inventive ideas come to life for the benefit of society at large. The true desire of any Aquarius is to bring truth to light. Here is the reason why this sign is often mistaken for a water element; being known as the water bearer confuses most. The idea of bringing water is parallel to the idea of bringing truth. The unveiling of large-scale ideas and off the cuff plans can lead to a lot of gossip. The Aquarian hardly ever looks inward; rather their focus is always on the outside world. The ruling planet of Aquarius is Uranus and this planet can make for a lot of uniquely creative and even brazen works of consciousness. These people are usually on the move navigating bumpy and possibly dangerous terrain. The ankles and shins of an Aquarius person need extra love and care. The circulatory system is also a weak spot for this on the go air sign. Therefore, these types would be wise to turn to Grapefruit essential oil when looking to boost circulation and avoid varicose veins. A regular application of Grapefruit essential oil and coconut oil mixed together and applied to the thighs and calves can help immensely in curbing the formation of varicose veins and bruises. Be sure to keep your legs covered after topical application because this particular essential oil is photo-toxic and may cause skin sensitivity when exposed to sunlight. Grapefruit improves focus and uplifts mood making it a wonderful addition to your morning routine. I even enjoy a drop or two in my morning smoothie when I am feeling a little under the weather. Kids love this flavor and aroma as well because it is juicy and fresh. If you are dealing with sore legs after a long day on the lake water skiing, please come by the spa for a fantastic reflexology treatment featuring this beautiful citrus scent. Our spa offers a wide range of treatments varying from deep tissue to shiatsu to esthetics so bring a friend or two! Be well!

One of the first things I learned in the healing arts field is the idea of yin/yang or feminine/masculine. This idea that there are varying levels of passive versus aggressive tendencies within each and every one of us made so much sense once I began working on different bodies. Some people requested deeper pressure while others liked a lighter touch; some would talk the entire massage while others quickly escaped to a place of quiet. Two opposing astrological signs of the zodiac represent the mother and the father and these are known as Cancer and Capricorn. As I previously stated in an earlier blog post, Cancer and the Moon are full of maternal, intuitive and introspective vibrations. Capricorn on the other hand is known as the father and Saturn has the vibration of hard work, endurance, and logical thought processes. Capricorn men and women are fabulous go-getters who almost always achieve their goals after a lengthy and admirable trek to the top. A Capricorn is always climbing and this causes a lot of stress on the joints, in particular the knees. Myrrh essential oil can give the goat a beautiful sense of relief due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. This essential oil is one of the best restorative oils and it is sure to help heal a variety of issues that typically result from stress and overwork. On an emotional level, Myrrh can encourage the acceptance of the self and others. It is thought of as a softening essential oil that helps to clear up congestion of the mind, skin, joints etc. Myrrh essential oil has long been associated with motherly love and therefore it is a perfect fit for balancing out the fatherly Capricorn. Be sure to come into the spa for a full body massage that will deliver a healthful boost to worn out joints and skin. We are here to serve and enjoy doing so, please stop by for some self care soon, your body is deserving of the love.