Easing into the Season

I love the holidays but find this time of year can be exhausting. Cramming in holiday events, shopping, wrapping and hiding gifts, a busy workload, school events, and my son's sports schedule leave me little time to unwind and center myself. Don't get me wrong- I am blessed to have a busy life, but I also get depleted energetically, physically, and mentally if I am not vigilant. However, the self-care mantras get overwhelming, and frankly, I don't always have time to do indulge. So how do we support ourselves during this busy time of year? Simply reminding ourselves to slow down. Remind ourselves to take a moment, however brief, to breathe deep, say a little prayer, or meditate. Five minutes is more than enough. Take a walk, read a chapter of a book, sketch a doodle or crochet. These small experiences can have a significant impact on our mental health this time of year. I love adding some uplifting oils to my diffuser, such as Sweet Orange, Lemongrass or Spike Lavender. Herbal tea is a must have for me, but hot cocoa is always a nice treat. I also love restorative yoga this time of year, as our energies wind down. I find it helps alleviate the strain on my body, and at 42, I need that. This time of year can also be a sad time for many, and in this precarious political landscape, it is easy to feel depressed. I encourage to you to seek the support you need to guide you and get bodywork when you can. Remember, it does not have to be a hustle; it does not have to be a grind. Ease into the holiday season with grace, and slow pace and give yourself the gift of rest. You deserve it. Happy Holidays, and Peace, Love & Bear Hugs.

Falling into Autumn

I adore the autumn~ it is truly my favorite season! The cooler weather, fall foliage, and Halloween evoke a spirit in me that I love! I have some special occasions that mean so much to me in the fall, including my son's birthday and my wedding anniversary. As a massage therapist, I find the slowing down of the year is the perfect time to receive bodywork. The hustle of the holidays is around the corner, and autumnal massage is restorative and nurturing! Aromatehrapy-speaking, I turn to my warming oils: cinnamon bark, black pepper, clove bud, and cardamom work well for inflammation, pain, muscle soreness, and digestive support! Either in my diffuser or in a massage blend, spice oils warm the spirit and support the mind and body! It is also a great time of year to whip up fire cider and eucalyptus salve for immune support!

I wish everyone a fantastic fall of apple picking, pumpkin carving, and caring for yourselves! Keep blooming!

LABOR DAY, CLOSING OF SUMMER

Labor Day signals the closing of summer, and even though the equinox is still a few weeks away, the smell of autumn is in the air!  The leaves have begun to change where I live in the Adirondacks, and the air is cooler. It inspires me to decorate for fall, shop for herbal tea and bring out my sweaters and scarves. My favorite essential oils for the fall are the warm spices, like cinnamon, clove, black pepper and cardamom. They are powerful, earthy and spicy, adding depth to any massage or diffuser blend. I also like to use sweet orange and tangerine with my spice blends to add levity and brightness, while supporting my mood and immune system. Cold and flu season will be upon us and it is important to stay well and relaxed!

I have a busy fall ahead with loads of classes both in person and virtual. I will be at the Center for Natural Wellness: School of Massage in Albany, NY, speaking about massage therapy and the grief experience- this inspiring topic will help practitioners better understand how their craft can aid those in mourning. It is the perfect way to honor the season and embrace warmth.

Lots of love and happy blending!