I have received many a massage. And I was thinking, "What makes a good massage?"
Some practitioners have been studying for years, some just out of school. Others have no formal education, others have learnt from mentors. While it is true that some have the "right" touch, there is something else at play here.

While on the table the other day, in receiving mode, I experienced something interesting. The techniques were fantastic, I could really feel my body starting to let go. And then I felt rushed. 

Where was that feeling coming from?

When I began to pay attention to what I was feeling, I noticed that the practitioner was rushing through the session. Like they were on automatic pilot.
They knew the moves, knew exactly where to go, but they were somewhere else. So while it was still a lovely massage, I never dropped into a deeper healing state.
I started to wonder how many times I drifted off into my own thoughts or problems when working on someone else. When I wasn't  fully present with my clients, could they feel it as well?

I know that I am human and my mind can easily wonder. 
Part of the yogic practice of Kripalu massage helps me get into that mindful state. Deep breathing before the client is on the table. Techniques to centre before the client rings the doorbell.  

I know that when I am fully there with my client, magic happens. They can open fully to the experience and I can give all of myself in the session.  We both walk away with so much.

Next time you go for any bodywork treatments, here are some tips that may help you, as the client, to have a perfect experience. :)

Set the intention of what you would like to experience in your session
Let your therapist know if the pressure is too painful or too light
Start your massage with 3 deep, slow breathes
Let go of anything that is not happening in the moment
Keep talking to a minimum, unless something emotional surfaces and you feel the need to express it
Breathe into tight areas 

Smile.


And if your practitioner is not present, do tell them. It will help their practice tremendously.

In health,
Andrea

Intentions. The road to hell is paved with them. I had fully intended to update my blog more frequently. WHAT HAPPENED? Life got busy. Good, bad and ugly. And somehow I managed to stay as mindful as I could. Give or take. (insert grin)

I have been busy travelling. Busy with family. Busy in my practice. I have been running. I have been hot yoga'ing. And at the end of the day I do my best to take time for me. To relax. To integrate my day. To breathe. So this is a good thing. It's what I am always urging my clients to do. Find balance. Take time for themselves. Be more selfish.
So I guess I am finally listening to my own advice. 

It now feels more appropriate to update my blog when the inspiration strikes. To share when there is truly something to share. To leave the blog blank when stillness is needed. (for both you AND me!) 

...

It has been exactly 2 months since I undertook a 10 day water fast. Actually it was 11 days. The benefits have been incredible. 
When I finished the fast there were noticeable changes immediately. I had lost close to 14 pounds. My skin was glowing. My eyes were bright and clear. All signs of good health.
What can I say now, after the excitement has passed? 

More great news! 

When I moved to Victoria 15 years ago, I had the worst case of allergies every May and June. I had to take Claritin in order to make it through the day. Every May. Every June. Like clockwork.

And...drum roll please. So far, nothing. NOTHING! A few sneezes here and there. But I have yet to jump into the allergy season. This is exciting. The strength of my immune system. I am very happy, especially since I work outdoors during the summer at the markets. 

Since returning from the fast, I have noticed that I have more physical strength and stamina. I sleep way better, and can go all day long without tiring. I am able to exercise more without injury. I am running again, and doing some weight training. I will also be starting Pilates soon. My body is responding well.

I believe the fast was a gift. A way to cleanse and restore. Now I eat about 95% raw foods. Mainly fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds. It's important to nourish a cleansed system. I feel that I am on the road to optimal health day by day.

I would love to talk to you about this, if you are interested, and support you on your healing journey as well. 
Remember...take care of your inside and you will shine on the outside.

Many years ago I discovered a Natural Hygienic approach to life. In order to be healthy there needs to be balance. Optimal health comes from a good diet, exercise, rest, sleep, pure water, fasting when ill,  sunshine, less stress, and healthy relationships. When I am in harmony with these principles, I feel fantastic. 

I started eating healthy years ago. I gave up animal products and ate a low fat raw food vegan diet. (This was before it was vogue to be a raw foodie!) I deviated over the years, added cooked food, junk food and dairy products. This in turn affected other areas of my life, and I had problems keeping a balanced sleep pattern. Then I was too tired to continue exercising. Over the years, I became enervated. I was exhausted and barely coping on a day to day basis. I decided to take on a 10 day juice feast, followed by a 10 day water fast. I got my energy back, and I feel fantastic. I sleep through the night, lost 13.5 pounds, and feel less stressed in my everyday life.

I would be happy to offer any advice/ideas to help you on your healthy journey as well. Just ask!

Here is an easy recipe for a wonderful summer meal Feel free to play with amounts.


Diced Mangoes
Diced Pineapples
Chopped Tomatoes
Chopped Red Peppers
Red Onions
Cilantro
Juice of lime
Cumin


Let the juices mix and serve over spring mix lettuce. You will not be disappointed!

It has been awhile since I posted anything. A series of life events got in the way.
I wasn't feeling well after my visit to Sedona, AZ. I decided to take a break and go on a 10 day water fast. The results were amazing. I feel healthier, stronger and committed to eating 100% raw veggies, fruits, nuts and seeds. More to follow on this soon.
The markets are starting this weekend. Yay! Drop by and say hello.

Be well