Happy New Year 2009!

Rubdown Warning~ from Natural Solutions

Back in October, Natural Solutions listed some great solutions about helping with Breast Cancer and Massage was one of them.  However, I was very upset that they missed one very important key component: Lymph Nodes. If you are a current survivor or you know someone, then you may know what I am speaking of...lymphoedema 

After certain types of surgery (breast surgery, node dissection for melanoma) the lymphatics are intentionally removed to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.  Although in many patients other lymphatics can compensate for this loss, in some patients this is not enough and lymphoedema develops in the arm.  This can also occur after radiotherapy which can damage lymphatic vessels.  In patients who have had both surgery and radiotherapy there is an even greater risk of developing lymphoedema.  After surgery lymphoedema may not develop immediately.  It can develop gradually as the operation site heals by the formation of scar tissue.  About one third of the patients who develop lymphoedema will do so more than one year after their breast cancer surgery.

In some patients the development of cancers themselves can lead to lymphoedema. This is because sometimes the tumor cells invade the lymphatic vessels, blocking them.  However, if a Breast Cancer patient receives a massage from an unknowing therapist or fails to mention how many Lymph Nodes or if any were removed, this can develop.

I have had the greatest honor of working with a few surviors. The question of Lymph Nodes is on my intake form and it is discussed in greater detail if any are indicated.

If you pick up the January 2009 copy of Natural Solutions, check out page 12, under "Letters" and you will see my 'Rubdown Warning" to help other surviors become aware of this nasty issue with all they currently are dealing with!

Massage Specials

Massage Monthly Special Prices:

Aromatherapy Massage:  $ 65.00 

Therapeutic Massage:     $ 55.00 

Massage Special description: 60 Minutes for a session completely customized to your therapeutic needs.  My massages include Swedish, Therapeutic, Acupressure, Trigger Point Work, Gentle Stretching, Reiki and Reflexology techniques for the maximum healing results you seek!  Session time may extend due to extra work on neck and shoulders, extra time and work is at no charge.

I am seeking some participants for some practice sessions. Requirements are that you are a current client so I know you are comfortable with the style of Massage I will be providing (Lomi Lomi - a Hawaiian style, which is very graceful and full of energy!).  The cost will be $30 but I suspect the session to be at least 1.5 hours which is a very good rate for this session. ---- This practice session is now canceled and no longer available. 

 

Spa treatment at home:

Bath "Cookies"

2 cups finely ground sea salt
1/2 cup baking soda
1/2 cup cornstarch
2 T light oil
1 tsp vitamin E oil
2 eggs
5-6 drops essential oil of your choice

Preheat your oven to 350 F. Combine all the listed ingredients and form into a dough.  Using a teaspoon or so of dough at a time, roll it gently in the palm of your hand until it forms a ball.  Form all dough into one teaspoon balls, and gently place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.  Consider sprinkling the bath balls with herbs, flower petals, cloves, citrus zest and similar aromatic ingredients.   Bake your bath cookies for ten minutes, until they are lightly browned. Do not over bake. Allow the bath cookies to cool completely. To use, Drop 1 or 2 cookies into a warm bath and allow to dissolve. Yield: 24 cookies, enough for 12 baths.

Healing Affirmation:

Focus on the wonderful things in every person. Look for only those things. Do not blame or criticize anybody, ever.

Wishing you and your family a beautiful New Year of Abundance, Health and Wellness!