Valor Essential Oil Blend: Empowering The Mind, Body & Soul

Written by Bethany Cox, LMT

For the next nine months, I will be sharing the benefits of the nine Young Living essential oils used in the Raindrop massage.

The Raindrop massage is a technique used for detoxifying the body as well as easing back pain and specific tension around the spinal area.  This massage combines the art of aromatherapy with the techniques of Vita Flex and massage in the application of essential oils to various parts of the body. Rain Drop Technique combines a revolutionary means of bringing balance and harmony to the body, spirit, and mind.

I describe The Raindrop massage to my clients as “an experience rather than a massage, that will leave your body completely relaxed, refreshed and renewed.” The nine essential oils used in Raindrop are applied on the bottom of the feet as well as massaged into the back and dropped along the spine, hence; the Raindrop effect.

The first oil applied in this particular massage, Valor, is used to help balance the body’s energy and calm the nerves. The other eight oils include: Thyme, Basil, Peppermint, Oregano, Wintergreen, Cypress, Marjoram, and  Aroma Seiz.

Valor  balances and relaxes the physical body and works to strengthen the spirit by improving spinal problems such as scoliosis. A blend of Frankincense, Tanactin, Spruce, and Rosewood, Valor releases a strong, yet soothing aroma, pleasing to both men and women. Personally, I love Valor Roll-on! Whenever I start to feel anxious, stressed or worried, I roll this oil on the crown of my head and take a few deep breaths. Immediately, my negative emotions fade, I feel more self-confident, and I can think much more clearly. During my couples’ massage class, I like to diffuse Valor to ease any anxiety in the room. Overall, this empowering essential oil will make a positive impact on your life!

Here’s how Young Living describes Valor: Valor is an empowering combination of therapeutic-grade essential oils that works with both the physical and spiritual aspects of the body to increase feelings of strength, courage, and self-esteem in the face of adversity. Renowned for its strengthening qualities, Valor enhances an individual’s internal resources. It has also been found to help energy alignment in the body.

Here are a few ways that you can use Valor at home:

• Diffuse for any anxiety, phobia or sleeplessness.
• Massage into neck and shoulder region to help release any built-up tension.
• Rub on bottom of feet to help balance and align the body.
• Drop onto wrists or crown of the head to ease anxiety and yield emotional strength and confidence.
• Apply to bruised areas to reduce trauma to the area.

To experience any of our relaxing and therapeutic massages including the Raindrop massage or to purchase Young Living Essential Oils, please contact the Spa Concierge at Seasons – The Spa: (318) 255-1155.

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This post was provided by Licensed Massage Therapist and Facial Reflexologist, Bethany Cox. 

About Bethany:

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 at Seasons – The Spa, 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.

Identifying Genetically Modified Produce at the Supermarket by Tracy L. Carmack

For conventionally grown fruit, (grown with chemical inputs), the Price Look-Up (PLU) code on the sticker of fresh produce consists of four numbers. Organically grown fruit has a five-numeral PLU prefaced by the number 9. Genetically engineered (GE) fruit has a five-numeral PLU prefaced by the number 8.

Don’t Get Flushed! It’s National Rosacea Awareness Month!

Which would you like first, the good news or the bad news? Let’s get the bad news out of the way. Unfortunately the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no known cure. But the good news is that you can suppress the symptoms during a flare-up with the right procedures and products.

Depending on your skin and the severity of your rosacea, procedures such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and red light treatments can help to strengthen capillaries. In addition to facial treatments, products such as Obagi Rosaclear and Guinot Red Logic are great for treating the symptoms of rosacea. Some treatments and products that treat rosacea may be acceptable expense items under your Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account.

April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month by The National Rosacea Society (NRS)  to emphasize the importance of seeking medical help for the skin ailment. Any of the following are a signal to make an appointment for a consultation with a Seasons aesthetician. Our aestheticians can make sure you are taking advantage of all of the procedures and products available to help your skin and insure that you aren’t doing anything to worsen the condition.

• Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
• Small visible blood vessels on the face
• Bumps or pimples on the face
• Watery or irritated eyes

• Rosacea by the numbers. It is estimated that rosacea affects more than 14 million Americans.¹ It occurs most commonly in adults age 30 to 60.² And 30% to 40% of patients with rosacea have a close relative with the condition.³ It tends to occur more often in women but more severely in men.²
• Menopause is a red flag. Many menopausal women tend to think they have adult acne when they see red bumps and pimples. However, it is possible that it could be rosacea. In fact, hot flashes might cause the first appearance of rosacea, so visit a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis.
• The sooner the better. People often delay treatment, thinking they have a temporary condition that will go away quickly, yet rosacea is reported to worsen with time—so the sooner treatment is started the better. If you have facial redness, acne-like pimples, flushing of the cheeks, nose, chin, and/or forehead, meet with your physician for a diagnosis and to discuss the prescription-based Rosaclear^® System.
• Avoid the aggravation. Prevent future flare-ups by avoiding things that can trigger rosacea. It might be helpful to keep a journal because everyone has different triggers. The most common ones include sun exposure, vigorous exercise, caffeine, stress, spicy food, excessive sugar and sweets, and alcohol.
• Keep your chin up. According to a National Rosacea Society survey, nearly 70% of rosacea sufferers reported experiencing embarrassment and anxiety because of their condition. The Obagi Rosaclear System incorporates a therapeutic prescription component, as well as products that help calm your skin and minimize the visible redness and blotchiness associated with rosacea. Even better, it is a skin care regimen that is noncomedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores. This can make it easier for rosacea sufferers to face the world and it helps improve their quality of life.

At Seasons – The Spa, our skin specialists are highly trained in treating the symptoms of Rosacea with advanced skin treatments and professional strength products. Call us today for a complimentary consultation and let us help you achieve a clear, calm, and more balanced-looking skin tone, (318) 255-115.

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¹ American Academy of Dermatology and the National Rosacea Society

² www.medicinenet.com/rosacea/article.htm

³ www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/160281.php

The Paleo Diet: Back to Basics

My husband, Evan, and I live by the saying, “You can’t out-train a bad diet.” We believe good health requires a foundation of proper nutrition and we have found that foundation with the Paleolithic Diet. Because the name ‘Paleo Diet’ is new to many people, some consider it a “fad diet.” However, eating unprocessed foods as close as possible to their natural state is not a fad. It’s a concept that’s been around since the first humans walked the earth!

So what does it mean to eat Paleo? Paleo consists of meat, vegetables, nuts, seeds, berries, some fruit, limited starch, no sugar, no grains, and no alcohol. The first thing most people ask after hearing the do’s and don’ts is “How will I get the carbohydrates my body needs for energy?” And the answer is this: all vegetables and fruits are made of carbohydrates. The concept of the Paleo Diet is quality over quantity with the main goal of maximizing efficient macronutrient intake.

My husband was first introduced to the concept of eating Paleo at a CrossFit Trainer certification course in 2008. At that time we were following the standard American diet: high in processed foods, low in complex carbohydrates, low in plant-based foods, and high in simple carbohydrate sources. We were having difficulty reaching our weight loss goals and certain health conditions began to surface: high blood pressure, obesity, and inflammation. It seemed no matter how many calories we cut or how many additional hours of cardio we did, our weight loss goals were still unobtainable. Since we began eating Paleo exclusively in 2010, we have seen wonderful results in our overall health and positive body composition changes.

So how can you incorporate the Paleo Diet into your daily life? Surprisingly, it’s easier than you think. The following steps will make your chances for success greater.

• Don’t treat it like a transitory diet that you will quit after a few days or weeks. The success of this diet is changing your lifestyle. Think of food as a fuel that makes you better instead of treating it as a reward.
• Next, clean out your kitchen and pantry of all junk food and buy whole foods.
• Last, commit to this change for a lifetime of good health. You will be thrilled with the wonderful results!

There are lots of resources and recipes online. Here are two good websites to help you get started:

• www.robbwolf.com
• www.chriskresser.com

Related articles

• Paleo Diet: Blueberry Spinach Smoothie (mainebelle.com)

Sharon Jackson Says: “The Key to Weight Loss Success is Mindset!”

 

I have been in the fitness business for 12 years. And the more I work with women, the more I find that a woman’s opinion of herself is the most common reason some succeed in their goals and others don’t.

Losing weight, eating healthy and exercising consistently are not  always easy. My experience has been that the women who have decided in their minds to lose weight are the most successful.

Your mind and spirit must be in agreement. This means the internal power that is inside drives you to do and be more than you thought possible! You must continually see yourself exactly how you want to feel and look.

Remember you determine your success! Don’t be distracted by the obstacles that will definitely come your way. Obstacles are a part of life! Instead, keep your mind flowing with positive thoughts, and you can’t lose! Teach yourself to think like a champion!

About Sharon Jackson, PTS

Sharon Jackson is a Certified Medical Exercise Specialist & Certified Personal Trainer. In June 2008, Sharon Jackson founded Sharon’s Slammin’ Bootcamp. Her credentials include:

•  Bachelor of Science in Fitness and Wellness

•  Master of Science in Exercise Science Exercise

•  Exercise Physiologist in Physical Therapy for 15 years

•  Certified Personal Trainer by ‘National Strength and Conditioning Association’ for 10 years

•  Group Exercise Instructor

•  Certified Medical Exercise Specialist

•  Post Rehab Conditioning Specialist (American Academy of Health, Fitness and Rehab Professionals)

•  Pilates Mat Certification

 

Burn Relief, Sleep Aid and Other Benefits of Lavender Essential Oil

As an herb, lavender has been in documented use for over 2,500 years. Today, most people appreciate lavender essential oil for its light, soothing scent, used in soaps, shampoos, perfumes, lotions and many other aromatherapy products. Known for its calming effects, Lavender essential oil helps to relax both the mind and body which is why it is a staple oil in my massage practice at Seasons – The Spa.

Lavender can be diffused for comfort, applied topically for beauty and healing purposes, as well as ingested as a dietary supplement. Lavender essential oil has also been used as a remedy for a range of ailments from insomnia and anxiety to depression and fatigue. Here are a few ways that Lavender essential oil can help you:

Sleep: Recommended for those with sleep problems or insomnia, lavender’s tranquil scent helps to slow brain waves, allowing you to relax and drift off to sleep without the use of medication. Here are a few way you can use lavender essential oil to treat restlessness:

• Add a drop or two to hot herbal tea.
• Rub a few drops onto your hands and spread it over your pillow.
• Add a few drops to your bath and soak.
• Diffuse the oil in your bedroom before bedtime.
  

  Young Living Lavender Farm in Mona, Utah, US

Pain Relief: Lavender essential oil is an excellent remedy for pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, and sprains. I encourage my clients to have regular massages with lavender oil to provide relief from joint pain.

Respiratory Disorders: Lavender can be used to help heal and soothe throat infections such as the flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. Here are a few ways that lavender essential oil can be used to heal your respiratory problems:

• Use in the form of vapor by diffusing a few drops at night.
• Apply topically onto the skin of neck, chest and back.
• It can also be added to vaporizers or inhalers for cold and coughs.

Blood Circulation: Lavender can improve blood circulation in the body and has been shown to aid blood pressure control.

Digestion: Lavender can be useful for digestion as it increases the motility of the intestine. Lavender also aids in treating indigestion and can help alleviate stomach pain, gas pains, vomiting, diarrhea and colic.

Skin Care: Lavender has antiseptic and antifungal properties, and can be used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly because it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil can also be used to treat eczema when added with chamomile.

Young Living essential oils and products are available for purchase at Seasons – The Spa. As with many other essential oils, if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult with a healthcare professional prior to use. Keep away from eyes and out of reach of children.

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We use only the best, therapeutic-grade essential oils at Seasons – The Spa and Seasons Wellness Clinic. If you would like more information on essential oils, please call us at (318)255-3223.

Here are a few additional articles about essential oils.

• Be Confident, Be Happy, Believe!
• Bethany Cox To Highlight Essential Oils In A Series Of Blog Posts
• Featured Essential Oil: Orange
• American Spa Magazine Features Aromatic Facial
• Healthy Living Tips: A Recipe For All-Natural Bug Spray!

Top 10 Health Experts to Follow on Pinterest

Lately you are more likely to hear someone ask, “Are you on Pinterest?” than “Are you on Facebook?” or “Do you do Tweet?” But if you are new to the world of Pinterest, it is best described as a virtual pinboarding site that combines imagery bookmarking with the fun of social media. Users (or “pinners”) post images and links onto virtual pinboards and share visual ideas with other pinners. Share the things you love – whether that be health tips, things you want to make, or anything in between.

I love the idea of making “vision boards” with pictures of things that inspire you to live a healthier life. My pinboards include my favorite Paleo and low-fat recipes, fitness routines, inspiring images and quotes, and general wellness tips. While pinning, I have come across pinners whose pinboards provide a gold mine of healthy inspirations. I have compiled a list of these pinners to create my Top 10 Health Experts to Follow on Pinterest. Happy Pinning!

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1. SeasonsWC:

   I love to follow Seasons because not only do they have great tips, recipes and links to informative posts, they also share skincare tips from their Aesthetician and news on the best beauty products.

   

2. Dr. Oz:

   His boards include fitness tips and recipes. My favorite pinboard is ‘Oz Approved Desserts’. Yum!

   

3. FitSugar:

   With 27 boards and counting, you are sure to find something you are interested in! They have a whole board dedicated to gluten-free recipes!

   

4. Whole Foods Market:

   Whole Foods’ pinboards include a range of interests related to the organic lifestyle including gardening, recycling and, of course, recipes.

   

5. Health Magazine:

   Their board dedicated to all things smoothie will undoubtedly compel you to blend a green smoothie for breakfast!

   

6. Eating Well Magazine:

   41 boards of RECIPES! Need I say more?

   

7. Shape Magazine:

   If you are looking for great abdominal workouts – Shape has you covered, follow their boards for inspiration and new things to try.

   

8. YouBeauty:

   Like Seasons, You Beauty believes beauty reflects your inner health. Some of my favorite pinboards from their Pinterest page include ‘Yoga’, ‘Makeup Articles’, ‘Favorite Fitness Articles’, and ‘DIY Beauty Treatments’.

   

9. Yoga Journal:

   Pull out your yoga mat! They have pinned everything you need to know about yoga including tips and videos to inspire you to de-stress and exercise more often.

   

10. Whole Living Magazine:

    The health, happiness, wellness, food, and green living magazine has a wide array of boards including ‘Crazy for Quinoa’ and ‘Healthy Chicken Recipes’.

    

At Seasons, we are dedicated to providing individualized treatment and improving your quality of life by providing the best complementary and integrative medical treatment available. Our hope? To transform lives, one patient at a time. Follow our pinboards for great information on health and wellness! Not on Pinterest? Follow this link to request a Pinterest invite.

This guest post was written by Seasons team member Lauren Derveloy, a Certified CrossFit Trainer and coach/choreographer for the LA Tech University’s Regal Blues. Lauren loves using Pinterest as a resource for inspiration and information in her pursuit of healthy living!

Get Your Body Back On Track With These 5 Points of Wellness

Featured Essential Oil: 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. It aids as an anti-inflammatory, relieving inflammation caused by infection, fever and toxins. For both ladies and gentlemen, orange can promote good hormones and enzymes along with keeping your metabolism running smoothly.

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.

 

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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.

From The Doctor’s Desk: New Year Solutions

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