Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist

At Seasons Wellness Clinic and Seasons – The Spa, we use essential oils on a daily basis. I am often asked what essential oils are and why we use them. In short, essential oils are the natural, aromatic liquids found in shrubs, flowers, trees, roots, bushes, and seeds. In order to provide the most benefit to the body, Seasons only uses 100% pure therapeutic grade Young Living oils. And because we believe that essential oils should play a role in everyday life, we offer these oils for purchase to our clients.

In my massage practice at Seasons – The Spa, I use Young Living essential oils and lotions every day. These essential oils have many therapeutic benefits such as helping to calm and soothe muscle tension with blends of peppermint, coconut oil, lemongrass, oregano and sweet almond oil. I have had advanced training in Young Living essential oils and techniques using the oils and would be happy to answer any questions you may have by leaving a comment on this post.

Young Living Essential Oils are available at Seasons.

In the next few months, I will be writing a series of blog posts to highlight different essential oils and their benefits. My first blog post will highlight orange. Orange, as a pure essential oil, not only relaxes the mind with its sweet citrus scent, but it is also great for the immune system. To read more about this essential oils and to find out how you can receive a FREE orange Young Living essential oil, click here.

Orange essential oils offer a magnitude of health benefits and therapeutic properties, including:

• Anti-depressant. Well-known for its uplifting properties, orange essential oil is soothing to the mind and helps to relieve stress. It is refreshing and relaxing and commonly used for the treatment of anxiety.
• Anti-inflammatory. It provides relief from both internal and external inflammation caused by infections. It is helpful in treating swollen tissue by stimulating blood circulation.
• Anti-septic. It inhibits microbial growth and can help ease a sore throat if used in a gargle. It also helps to heal mouth ulcers when used in a mouth wash.
• Improves Digestion. It is known to promote digestion, ease constipation and increase the absorption of vitamin C. Use as a massage oil in the abdominal area.
• Anti-Cancer. D-limonene is a super-nutrient that occurs in Orange essential oil. It has been studied extensively for its ability to prevent cellular mutations and combat cancer tumor growth.
• Encourages Detoxification. Orange essential oil encourages detoxification by acting as a diuretic. It also stimulates the lymphatic system, the bladder and kidneys. Increased urination assists in the elimination of toxins like uric acid, bile and excess salts and helps relieve fluid retention. Detox and cleansing properties help breakdown and eliminate cellulite.
• Skin Treatment. Orange essential oil is shown to promote the production of collagen as well as increase the blood flow to the skin. It is helpful at soothing dry, irritated skin as well as acne-prone skin. It is excellent for rubbing on calluses on the feet.

Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist

Bethany Cox, LMT & Facial Reflexologist
A graduate of Cedar Creek School, Centenary College of LA (Health and Exercise Science) and Natural Health Institute in Nashville, TN (Massage Therapy), Bethany has many talents! Besides being a smartie (she has always made great grades) and a fabulous massage therapist, she is an accomplished pianist and golfer. She even played golf in college. Bethany enjoys setting goals for herself and achieving them. Her favorite moment? A hole-in-one! Her favorite way to decompress after a long day? Scrapbooking, exercising, and practicing deep breathing for relaxation.

Don't spend your lunch break in front of the computer!

1. Botox – You may have heard the expression “wearing your emotions on your sleeve,” but in reality you wear them on your face. Say goodbye to the evidence of age and watch your frownlines diminish and disappear with this simple and quick procedure. Results vary and usually last up to four months. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.

2. Photofacial – This non-ablative, non-invasive treatment can be performed on the face, chest, neck, arms, legs and back and is highly recommended for acne, rosacea, and skin rejuvenation. Utilizing Intense Pulsed Light, a specific wave length targets and destroys unwanted blood vessels and pigmented discolorations without harming skin and stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen that replenishes what time and sun damage has taken away. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.

3. Microdermabrasion Facial – Suitable for most skin types, this non-surgical mechanical exfoliation removes the outer layer of dead, dry skin. Regular treatments stimulate cell regeneration and improve the appearance of brown spots, shallow acne scars, sun damage, enlarged pores, and fine lines. Appointment time: about 45 minutes.

4. Session in the Sauna – The infrared sauna has completely transformed the meaning of the word “sauna”. Our no-steam sauna offers 7 times the effectiveness of a traditional sauna because of its ability to penetrate human tissue. Weight loss isn’t the only advantage of a sauna. A sauna helps rejuvenate and heal the body as you simply relax. Additional benefits include: detoxification, pain relief, improved circulation, lowered blood pressure, wound healing, skin purification, immunity, cell health, muscle recovery, weight loss and more! Appointment time: between 15-45 minutes.

5. IPL hair removal – Hair removal with intense pulsed light is fast and very effective in eliminating large areas of unwanted hair. Light is absorbed by the pigment in the hair and converted to heat in the follicle. The heat damages the follicle and disables it from growing new hair. Excellent for areas such as the lip, under arms, or even the bikini area. IPL works best on darker hair, and is recommended in a series of four to six treatments. Consultation required. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.

6. 30 Minute Swedish Relaxation Massage - This is a soothing massage that relaxes and calms the body, improves circulation, and eases muscle aches, tension, and stress. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.

7. Cellulite Reduction with Smooth Shapes – This pain-free treatment uses dynamic laser and light energy with the ultimate result of tighter and smoother skin. Collagen is regenerated, circulation is improved and metabolic processes are restored. This treatment is recommended in a series of eight treatments. Consultation required. Appointment time: about 45 minutes (1 area).

8. Paraffin Hand and Foot Therapy – Experience this warm and relaxing therapy for hands or feet. Healing heat penetrates deeply and promotes relaxation. This therapy is ideal for achy muscles, arthritic joints, and rough, dry skin. Appointment time: about 20 minutes.

9. Eyebrow shaping – At Seasons, we use waxing and tweezing as a method of semi-permanent hair removal. Our brow experts will de-fuzz those bushy brows and leave you with beautifully sculpted eyebrows. Appointment time: about 30 minutes.

10. Ion Foot Bath – This safe, effective, and natural foot bath rids your body of impurities and toxins. The ion spa uses water as a conductive medium to detoxify and cleanse your body. Benefits include heavy metal removal, increased energy, pain relief, improved oxygen delivery, and much more. Appointment time: about 45 minutes.

Can’t get enough of our spa services and products? Become a Spa Member at Seasons – The Spa and enjoy our services all year long! For more information about the Spa Membership Program, visit our website or contact the Spa Concierge at 318.255.1155.

Bethany Cox, LMT and client during a Hot Stone Massage at Seasons - The Spa.

A visit to the spa is a great way to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Seasons The Spa now has extended hours of service beginning July 1st, 2011. We will now be open Tuesday through Saturday for retail and spa services. Visit Seasons The Spa to experience the ultimate in relaxation, rejuvenation and renewal of the mind, body, and spirit. Contact the Spa Concierge for your appointment: 318.255.1155.

• Tuesday – 9 am – 7 pm
• Wednesday – 9 am – 6 pm
• Thursday – 9 am – 7 pm
• Friday – 9 am – 6 pm
• Saturday – 9 am – 3 pm

For a list of our services, please visit our spa services page.

La belle au bois dormant. In French, this means the beauty asleep in the woods. I would love to feel like that. Wouldn’t you? I have vivid childhood memories of Sleeping Beauty in a peaceful sleep on a beautifully adorned bed awaiting a kiss from the daring and young Prince Philip. Could this really be a curse? Hardly.

60 million Americans suffer from sleep-related disorders each year and would love a night of rest! 18 million prescriptions are written each year for sleeping medications. By taking sleeping pills for your sleep disorder you can experience drug dependence, drug tolerance, drowsiness throughout the day, or you may be masking the underlying problem keeping you from sleep. Seasons has compiled a list of the top 10 natural ways to cure your bedtime blues.

1.Valerian. The use of Valerian dates back to second century A.D.! Scientists believe Valerian increases the amount of GABA in the brain. GABA regulates nerve cells and has a calming effect on anxiety. Although it may take a few weeks for it to be effective, Valerian can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and improve the quality of sleep itself. Valerian can be bought in capsule form at drugstores or online.

2.Lavender Oil and Body Lotion. Research shows that simply inhaling the soothing scent creates calming and sedative effects. I would suggest putting lavender body lotion all over your body before bedtime or rubbing one to two drops of Lavender in essential oil form over your pillow. Young Living’s Lavender Essential Oil is available at Seasons.

3.SleepEase. SleepEase by Sprayology contains herbs such as Valerian and Chamomile for a restful nights sleep. It treats symptoms of wakefulness, restlessness, emotional stress, anxiety, and caffeine sensitivity. SleepEase does not leave you with the groggy feeling of prescription sleep aids. To use: Spray 2 times under the tongue before bedtime and if sleep is interrupted. At a lower dosage, SleepEase is great for children!

4.SnoreSoother. At one time or another we have all fallen prey to an infamous snorer. Whether it be your husband, wife, child, or perhaps your own noisy habit keeping you from sleep, snoring can ruin a perfectly good nights rest. SnoreSoother by Sprayology consists of ingredients that reach the root of the problem. It has lung extract for bronchial congestion and the promotion of healthy lung tissue, as well as, white aspidosperma bark which eases difficult breathing and asthma symptoms. For best results spray twice under the tongue 3 times per day and if sleep is interrupted.

5.Facial Reflexology. If sleep is a problem for you, it is most likely caused by something else. Using special techniques, reflexology works on the root of your problem by finding the biggest deposit under your skin. After a series of treatments clients begin to notice a difference. As your body begins to heal in the area of the deposit you will find that sleeping becomes easier as well. You can schedule a Facial Reflexology appointment at Seasons. We recommend a series of 8 – 10 for best results.

6.Massage Therapy. This is a relaxing option to improve your sleep patterns. Massages decrease stress hormones, relieve chronic pain and balance your nervous system allowing you to sleep better, especially if your insomnia is stress induced. Seasons offers several massages. We recommend a Hot Stone or Swedish Relaxation massage for consistent sleep habits.

7.Yoga. Yoga gives your body and mind time to meditate. In addition, deep breathing and stretching are important aspects of yoga. Studies show that daily yoga for eight weeks improves total sleep time and the time it takes to fall asleep. Seasons offers yoga classes to those of all levels of experience.

8.Avoid Sweets and Caffeine. Your diet is an important part of your sleep regimen. Sugar could be one of the culprits keeping you from sleep, causing you to wake up during the night as your blood sugar levels fall. Cutting or significantly decreasing your sugar intake is important if you have trouble sleeping. If you frequently drink caffeine in the late afternoon or in the evening you may want to try eliminating caffeine from your diet as well. Not only does caffeine increase difficulty in falling asleep, it also reduces the amount of deep sleep you get.

9.Magnesium and Calcium. These sleep aids are most effective when taken together. A Magnesium deficiency can make you feel nervous and keep you from sleeping while a Calcium deficiency causes you to feel restless. You should take 500 mg of Calcium and 250 mg of Magnesium 45 minutes prior to bedtime. Be sure to choose a pharmaceutical grade supplement for best results.

10.Bed-time Routine. Remember when you were young and 7:30 bedtime was strictly enforced even if it was still light outside? Maybe it’s time to get back into that routine. No, you don’t have to go to sleep at 7:30. But it is important to get a full eight hours of sleep every night. A routine works best when fighting insomnia. Make sure that you are going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

These natural remedies will have you snoozing in no time. Having trouble finding a product? Call Seasons at (318)255-1155. Don’t miss out on another night of beauty sleep!

Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist

Where did you receive your massage therapy training?

I received my massage therapy training at Natural Health Institute at the downtown Nashville location. It was such a rewarding experience, and my instructors were so supportive and encouraging. We were taught massage as more of an art than simply a technique.

What are the benefits of massage/bodywork? And how often should I get a massage?

Health benefits range from helping lower blood pressure and easing muscle tension to simply relaxing the mind and body. Muscle manipulation within a massage loosens sore, over-worked and tight muscles that can cause nerve impingements. It also helps move toxins such as cellular debris out of the muscle as well as moving important nutrients into the muscles and throughout the body. Sometimes the best medicine is a nice, relaxing Swedish Massage to unwind from a busy day!

What should I expect from my first massage visit? And do I have to be completely undressed during the massage?

Upon arriving at Seasons, you will be welcomed by our spa concierge and invited to lounge in our wonderful waiting area. I bring clients back to the massage area where I explain a little about the massage. I always want my clients to feel safe, relaxed and comfortable during their session and encourage my clients to disrobe to their comfort.

How early should I arrive for my massage therapy session?

I prefer for my clients to arrive between 10 and 15 minutes early for their session. Our lobby is very soothing and tranquil, which creates a wonderful pre-massage experience. It helps calm the spirit and any anxiety about a massage session.

What type of massage oils do you use and do they have any therapeutic benefits?

I use Young Living essential oils and lotions. These essential oils are 100% pure and have many therapeutic benefits. The essential oils help calm and soothe muscle tension with blends of peppermint, coconut oil, lemongrass, oregano and sweet almond oil. I have had advanced training in Young Living essential oils and techniques using the oils and would be happy to answer any questions you may have at your appointment.

Massage has to hurt to do any good, right?

Even a deep tissue massage should never be uncomfortable to the point of pain. There is a difference between “productive pain” and “ouch” pain. At the start of a deep tissue massage, lighter pressure is applied in order to warm-up the muscles. When those muscles are warm, they are easier to manipulate, and therefore, do not hurt when deeper pressure is applied.

Bethany Cox, LMT and client during a Hot Stone Massage at Seasons - The Spa.

How much does a session of massage therapy usually cost?

Our massage sessions range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes and the cost starts at $35. For a full list of massages and prices, please visit our Spa Menu page.

Can I talk during a massage? Is it appropriate to ask my therapist not to talk?

Conversation is common during a massage session, but that is not everyone’s preference. This is a time for relaxation and I respect the client’s time for a peaceful session. Clients are especially encouraged to verbalize if the pressure is uncomfortable.

There are so many types of massage, how will I choose the massage that is right for me?

Specific massage modality is decided by the client. If you have specific muscle pain, a nerve impingement, or are simply achy, then deep tissue would be a great massage! Remember, pressure should never be more than you can handle. Hot Stone massage is also beneficial for achy muscles. Instead of penetrating the muscle through pressure, heat from the stones penetrate in a more relaxing session. Swedish massage is a wonderful massage for relaxing and lowering blood pressure and high stress levels. The newest massage on our spa menu is the Raindrop massage. The Raindrop technique is wonderful for detoxing the body as well as easing back pain and specific tension around the spinal area. No matter what massage you choose, remember to drink plenty of water afterwards to rehydrate the body and flush out toxins from the muscles!

To experience any of our relaxing and therapeutic massages, please contact the Spa Concierge at Seasons – The Spa. 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.