Marketing Coordinator, Sarah Jeffords

Seasons Marketing Coordinator, Sarah Jeffords and her husband, Mark, welcomed healthy baby boy John Mark Jeffords on Wednesday, July 27th, 2011 at 5:55 p.m. John Mark was 21.5 inches long and weighed 8 lbs. and 3 ounces.

Louisiana Tech alumni, Sarah and Mark have already taken John Mark on his first trip to Louisiana Tech Campus and plan to take him to football games this fall. “We couldn’t be more in love with this little guy. He is an absolute joy!” said Sarah. “We look forward to watching him grow”.

John Mark Jeffords Photo by Kimberly Hearne Photography

John Mark Jeffords Photo by Kimberly Hearne Photography

One word can sum up the root of most illnesses in America today. And the word is…stress!

Stress can cause a variety of problems from wrinkles, to ulcers, to more severe illnesses such as cancer. At Seasons, we offer services to help manage stress including Facial Reflexology. Not only is Facial Reflexology relaxing, but it is a natural way to improve the body’s function and appearance from the inside out. A soothing Facial Reflexology treatment is performed by the practitioner applying pressure on different points of the face and scalp, as well as massaging specific areas searching for deposits or “knots” under the skin. These deposits will reveal problematic areas that can act as the base of future treatments. Symptoms can be treated over time through working with these deposit areas. Each client is unique and some treatments are recommended through a series of 4 or more treatments.

Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist

“Following a Facial Reflexology session, most clients feel deeply relaxed with a healthier complexion. Individuals should get plenty of rest and consume plenty of water to support the body in its transition.”  – Bethany Cox, LMT & LFR

What is Facial Reflexology?

Facial Reflexology combines the modern science of neurology with ancient therapies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, South American Zone Therapy, Vietnamese face maps, and Acupuncture points. This technique of Facial Reflexology was developed by Lone Sorenson. Sorenson’s technique is based around the idea that by using finger tip pressure, you can stimulate a release of endorphins and serotonin, leaving the face feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. This stimulation sends impulses through the central nervous system and the meridians to the physical body and the major organs. Sorenson’s technique of Facial Reflexology stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in addition to balancing hormones and leveling emotions. The technique calms the body and allows it to heal naturally.

Want more information about the benefits of Facial Reflexology? Check out our other blog posts:

• 10 Natural Ways to Cure Your Bedtime Blues
• Top 10 Pregnancy Tips
• The Proof Is In The Practice – A Journey to Reflexology
• Treat The Inner and Outer You with Facial Reflexology

To schedule your Facial Reflexology session or a consultation with our Facial Reflexologist, call Seasons – The Spa at 318.255.1155.

Tip #4 - Catching some Zzz's

During your pregnancy you may find yourself bombarded with advice. Everyone from your doctor to the stranger at the grocery store offers their version of “should” and “shouldn’t do’s”.

To cut down on the confusion, we’ve made this list for you. Since we know a thing or two about pregnancy (3 Seasons team members are expecting) and wellness (I mean c’mon, it’s what we do!), we have put the two together to bring you our Top 10 Pregnancy Tips.

10 Reflexology

During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through series of hormonal changes which can cause her to feel nauseous. This nausea can last until week 16 of pregnancy – or sometimes even longer. Facial and Foot Reflexology is a form of therapy which helps accommodate the body’s changing state during pregnancy by using pressure point therapy. Seasons is one of the only clinics in Louisiana to offer Facial Reflexology.

9 Prenatal Massage

Taking time for yourself during pregnancy can be very important to your physical and emotional state. The soothing essence of massage allows expectant mothers to feel serene, healthy, and comforted while helping to relieve common ailments of pregnancy.

8 B-12 + Folic Acid Sprayology

Sprayology makes homeopathic products that provide therapeutic benefits – symptom relief, metabolic support, immune system maintenance, and detoxification – through a spray. A spray? Yes, how cool is that?! Even with the memory fog that can come with some pregnancy, you can still remember to spray your vitamins!

7 FIT4BABY Prenatal Fitness Class

Pregnancy is the perfect time to commit to you and your baby’s health! Fit4Baby is a prenatal fitness program created to safely and effectively teach women in any stage of their pregnancy to exercise. Instructor and Ruston mom, Maryanne Smith, is nationally certified in pre- and post-natal fitness. Classes include warm-up, strength training, cardio, stretching, and balance exercises and are held at 6pm each Monday in the Resource Room of Seasons – The Spa. For more information about classes, click here.

6 DHA Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated multivitamins that make up for nutritional deficiencies in the mother’s diet. It is very important to take your vitamins daily to make sure your baby is getting the vitamins he or she needs. Our advice: buy the best quality prenatal vitamins, avoid nausea by taking them with a little food, and don’t let anyone talk you into taking Flintstone vitamins instead of prenatal vitamins! Your body doesn’t need the added sugar!

5 Guinot Stretch Mark Cream

Let’s face it, stretch marks are not pretty. Whether you are trying to avoid them or trying to minimize the look of the ones you already have, we have found the product for you! The rich, non-oily formula penetrates rapidly to nourish and repair skin. Skin’s elasticity and firmness is reinforced as support tissues are repaired and protected. You don’t have to go all the way to Europe to get this fabulous product, Guinot’s Stretch Mark Cream (or Crème Spécifique Vergetures as they say in France) is available at Seasons – The Spa.

4 Sleep

It is common to be tired during pregnancy so don’t feel guilty for sleeping more than normal. Sufficient sleep is an essential element for healthy fetal development and the well-being of expectant mothers. So sleep in and take your naps – this is one of the ‘pregnancy perks’!

3 Stay Hydrated

The American Pregnancy Association states that water during pregnancy is important to help increase blood volume and to assist in removing waste from the body. Dehydration can lead to miscarriage, preterm labor, constipation and fatigue. The recommended daily amount of water intake is a minimum of 64 oz. Drink, drink, drink!

2 Aromatherapy Facial

With all the joy of pregnancy comes some things that are, well, not so pleasant. Be sure to pamper yourself during pregnancy. You deserve it! The Aromatic Facial at Seasons The Spa is an all natural facial using essential oils and plant extracts. This “green facial” provides the “glow” without the chemicals that your body doesn’t need during this important time.

1 Nutritional Planning for Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy is a key time to nourish you and your baby’s body. Make sure you are giving your baby everything he or she needs by receiving personalized nutritional counseling. Registered Dietitian Valerie Costanza can help create a balanced diet that will benefit you and your baby during pregnancy. As a new mother, Valerie has lots of good information about getting the best nutrients into your diet while not giving up the stuff you crave. (She also posts monthly nutritional tips and recipes on our blog under ‘Nibble On This‘.)

Dr. Goodyear and the entire Seasons Team are here to assist you in your journey to wellness – whether you are a mom-to-be or just want to feel better. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us! Seasons Wellness Clinic 318.255.3223 or Seasons – The Spa at 318.255.1155.

Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist

- by Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist.

Medicine, cosmetics and massage: three ever-changing aspects of wellness are finally wrapped into one treatment method – Facial Reflexology.

The term “reflexology” refers to a process of stimulating reflexes in specific parts of the body by manipulating points on the hands, feet, and face, for the purpose of creating and maintaining homeostasis, or balance, within the body. Facial Reflexology, as the term states, is a homeopathic face treatment for this very purpose. It stems from ancient oriental and Indian techniques coupled with modern neuro-anatomy to create a relaxing and productive compliment to modern medicine.

Whether you’re suffering from a chronic disease or crow’s feet, Facial Reflexology is a wonderful, relaxing face and scalp treatment that can not only polish the outside appearance, but also treat the root cause of your current health issues. The cure is found in the balance of the body’s energy flow. When your body is in homeostasis, you look and feel your best. Facial Reflexology is the calm, comfortable step to a better, brighter and more beautiful you!

I was recently given the opportunity to travel to Denver for an eight day course of four intense Facial Reflexology modules taught by Lone Sorensen, the originator of these specific treatments. During that week we were taught not only the 7-step treatment plan, but also about the physiology and anatomical make-up of the human body. It was an amazing experience to learn from someone who is so dedicated and passionate about her work and how she pours her heart and soul into helping improve the quality of life for her clients all over the world. Her enthusiasm was contagious!

At Seasons – The Spa, we are excited to add Facial Reflexology  to our wonderful menu of services.  If you are interested in finding out more about Facial Reflexology or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our certified facial reflexologists, please call us at 318.255.1155. Facial Reflexology is available Monday – Friday in our Ruston location.

Pregnancy is the perfect time to commit to you and your baby’s health! Stroller Strides and Seasons have teamed up to offer Fit4Baby. Fit4Baby is a prenatal fitness program created to safely and effectively teach women in any stage of their pregnancy to exercise.

Instructor and Ruston mom, Maryanne Smith, is nationally certified in pre- and post-natal fitness. Classes include warm-up, strength training, cardio, stretching, and balance exercises.

• 1 class = $10
• 12 classes = $100
• Fit4Baby Package: 6 Fit4Baby Classes, 60 minute Prenatal Massage, B-12/Folic Acid Sprayology = $145
• Fit4Baby Plus Package: 6 Fit4Baby Classes, 60 minute Prenatal Massage, B-12/Folic Acid Sprayology, Guinot Stretch Mark Cream = $219

Fit4Baby classes are held in the Resource Room of Seasons – The Spa in Ruston located at 1809 Northpointe Lane, Suite 202. Classes are held every Monday beginning January 3, 2011. Space is limited. Participants should call 318-255-1155 to reserve a spot for each class.

Crème Spécifique Vergetures by Guinot

Let’s face it, stretch marks are not pretty. Anyone can get them and thanks to Guinot, anyone can get rid of them. Guinot’s new product, Crème Spécifique Vergetures, can now prevent or minimize the look of stretch marks.

The rich, non-oily formula penetrates rapidly to nourish and repair skin. Skin’s elasticity and firmness is reinforced as support tissues are repaired and protected. Crelastine B reinforces the external structure of the skin, improves intercellular cohesion, and stimulates synthesis of elastic fibers. Crème Spécifique Vergetures prevents the deterioration of elastic fibers in order to reinforce the skin’s elasticity and firmness.

Say ”Au revoir” to stretch marks!

Pregnancy is a time of beauty and wonder. It can also be a time of discomfort and trial. Keeping your body strong and fit can make pregnancy more enjoyable and can speed your labor, delivery, and recovery. Exercise is an important component to your pregnancy, as well as your strength as a new mom. Keeping fit will help you avoid conditions like constipation, gestational diabetes, back pain, cramps, morning sickness, excessive weight gain, and swelling.

Pregnancy is the perfect time to commit to you and your baby’s health! Stroller Strides and Seasons have teamed up to offer Fit4Baby. Fit4Baby is a prenatal fitness program created to safely and effectively teach women in any stage of their pregnancy to exercise. Instructor and Ruston mom, Maryanne Smith, is nationally certified in pre and post-natal fitness. Classes include warm-up, strength training, cardio, stretching, and balance exercises.

Fit4Baby  package ($179) includes:

• A relaxing, 60 minute pre-natal massage
• Sprayology B-12 + Folic Acid spray
• 6 Fit4Baby sessions

Fit4Baby Plus package ($239) includes:

• A relaxing, 60 minute pre-natal massage
• Sprayology B-12 + Folic Acid spray
• Creme Specifique Vergetures Stretch Mark Cream by Guinot
• 6 Fit4Baby sessions

Fit4Baby classes will be held in the Resource Room of Seasons – The Spa in Ruston. Classes will be held each Monday starting October 18th from 6pm-7:15pm. Space is limited, please reserve your spot today! To register for Fit4Baby, please contact Seasons – The Spa at 318.255.1155.

How CycleBeads work:

Move the black marker over the color-coded bead that represents fertile and low fertility days. Each day move the ring one bead forward in the direction of the arrow located on the clasp. If the ring is on a colored bead, there is a low likelihood of pregnancy and if on the white bead the probability of conceiving is high.

This inexpensive method is easy to use and most importantly more than 95% effective when used correctly. CycleBeads is the most natural way to identify potentially fertile days. No medications, no side effects!

Seasons strives to keep you informed and educated on the issues that concern you. We are happy to offer our patients CycleBeads as a more natural approach to monitoring fertility.

To purchase CycleBeads or for more information, please contact Seasons Wellness Clinic, Ruston, LA. 318-255-3223.

During the first three months following the procedure, your body and the micro-inserts work together to form a tissue barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. After these three months, Dr. Goodyear will perform an Essure Confirmation Test, a special type of x-ray to confirm that your tubes are completely blocked and that you can rely on the Essure micro-inserts for birth control.

The benefits included:

- No cutting into the body so there are no unattractive scars.

- 99.80% effective (based on 4 years of clinical data)

- Quick return to normal activities

- This procedure is performed in-office with minimal anesthesia.

- No hormones or silicone to interfere with your body

o Unlike birth control pills, patches, rings, and some forms of IUDs, Essure does not contain hormones to interfere with your natural menstrual cycle.

o Your periods should more or less continue in their normal state.

- Peace of mind with the Essure Confirmation Test.

http://www.essure.com/

However, you don’t need you doctor to tell if you are pregnant!

If your period is late, wait one full week after the time you expect your period to start, then check with any over-the-counter urine pregnancy test.

If your test is positive, call your doctor to set an appointment.

And congratulations!