Valor Essential Oil Blend: Empowering The Mind, Body & Soul
Raindrop Massage available at Seasons - The Spa
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!
Valor Essential Oil Blend by Young Living
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.
Bethany Cox, LMT & Certified Facial Reflexologist
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.
Confession #23: The Scheduled Escape of Inner Me
Sometimes I feel like unzipping. You know…setting the inner me free.
Inside is my inner me waiting to climb out of the suit the outer me is wearing.
Sounds like a science fiction movie, doesn’t it. The heroin, wearing the old lady disguise, unzips her flesh and the youthful and energetic younger version of herself emerges, old-lady flesh and tired clothing dropping to the floor.
There are days when my inner me longs to be set free.
She dreams of a beach vacation and a good book.
She dreams of a long soak in a jacuzzi tub with no knocks at the door followed by, “Mom…I need…”
She dreams of a weekend away with the hubby, sitting on a porch overlooking a lake, temperatures in the mid-60s, a bottle of wine, an outdoor fireplace, and the sound of crickets.
She dreams of free time to be more organized for the busy times. You know, organized closet, organized sock drawer, organized catch-all drawer in the kitchen.
She dreams of an hour a day to practice piano and discover new favorite pieces and composers.
She dreams of never being rushed or in a hurry, but instead having the appropriate amount of time to get things done right.
She dreams of a Wal-Mart where the lines are short. (Just had to slip that one in.)
At our house, we have frequent conversations about super-hero powers. If you were a super-hero, what would your super-power be? And with my daughter anywhere near, you are going to get multiple hilarious answers.
One day, her answer was, “I’d have super-skates and could skate anywhere as fast as I want.”
On Saturday evening, Reagan and I enjoyed dinner at the American Girl Doll bistro in Dallas, Texas with her Girl Scout troop. They sold a bazillion (exactly how many is that?) boxes of cookies and earned a weekend trip to Dallas which included ice skating, swimming at the hotel, and the magical visit to the American Girl Doll store.
On the table was a small gift box filled with questions. The questions circulated the table and served as great conversation starters. The best and most discussed question was, “What super-power would you choose? To fly? Or to be invisible?”
Of course, Reagan and I had fun with that question because it is frequent conversation between us. She chose flying. But I chose being invisible. I’m pretty sure it had something to do with that inner me who’s trying to get out. Inner me needs a little peace and quiet, and being invisible could be a handy tool for getting away without going far away.
So what does your inner me say to you?
Perhaps your inner me is like mine. She needs some rejuvenation. I think that’s typical of women in my age group (and men, too). We are moving through the busiest time of our lives. We are juggling the activities of children, spouses, extended family, friends, work. There’s not much left over for ourselves.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned as my children have gotten older and busier is that I need a little time to unwind. And setting aside that time is the priority that gets pushed aside most often.
So what to do? Even if it’s only 30 minutes, that investment in your own rejuvenation will pay dividends the rest of your week. And everything will get in the way of your rejuvenation time unless it is SCHEDULED and you have ACCOUNTABILITY for that time.
So go ahead. Schedule a facial. Schedule a masssage. Schedule a yoga class. Schedule lunch with a friend. Schedule a girls’ night. Schedule a mani/pedi with your daughter. But do something.
Your inner me is waiting…
Elizabeth Haynes Drewett
Elizabeth Haynes Drewett: a hormonal woman rumored to be somewhere between the age of 30 and 50. Her job: Managing Partner of SPRING Media USA, a boutique marketing firm in Ruston, LA. Her training: BA in journalism degree from LSU and a BFA in piano performance from LA Tech. Her life: wife of C.P. Drewett, Jr. and mother to Langdon, age 13, and Reagan, age 7. Her passions: the state of Louisiana – as Miss Louisiana 1992 she devoted her year of service to breast cancer education; lover of music – choir director and piano teacher; lover of a good game – job experiences include PING Golf Equipment and the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Her favorite things: an underdog who overachieves, a good laugh, a good book, a good word, and a good hair day. Follow her on Twitter or Pinterest and see what she’s up to today.
Don’t Be A Stupid Cupid: 10 Outside The Box (Of Chocolates) Valentine’s Day Gifts
Valentine's Day is quickly approaching. Make her melt with a thoughtful gift from Seasons - The Spa!
OK guys…let’s flashback to Valentine’s Day 2011. It’s 5 p.m. and you are on your way home from work when you notice a vendor on the side of the road selling balloons and stuffed bears out of the back of his trunk. Shoot! She has been dropping hints all week but you have somehow forgotten to “do something special” for her. So you pull into the local Walgreen’s because surely they have something you could buy her for Valentine’s Day. Whew! You aren’t the only guy sifting through picked over cards and candy.
There aren’t many options but you think to yourself, “Hey, she will never know I bought this last minute plus she will LOVE this Sponge Bob card and tinfoil-covered chocolate rose.” You get home and present her with the drugstore treasures only to find out that she – in fact – could tell you put little thought into her gift and her face is getting that look right before she says “I’m fine” and starts vacuuming really fast. And, well…you remember how the rest of the night went!
Don’t be a stupid cupid! Give her a gift that we guarantee will knock her socks off (any other article of clothing is up to you)! Here are 10 Valentine’s Day gifts from Seasons – The Spa that will show her you are thinking outside of the box (of chocolates).
- The Dream Gift: Spa Membership. With the Spa Membership, she can pamper herself all year long with services like monthly massages, unlimited yoga classes, sauna sessions, and more! Starting at only $60 per month, we have 3 three unique membership plans to help her de-stress on a regular basis.
- The Romantic Gift: Couples Massage Class. Throw out the usual plans and join us on Valentine’s Day from 5-6:30 p.m. for a class in massage. Learn how to release tension in your partner’s arm, legs, hands and feet and use compression techniques on the torso. Only $35 per couple [$25 for Spa Members]. Class includes door prizes, hors d’oeuvres and wine from Portico Bar & Grill, and a goodie bag. Reservation required (We had to make your responsible for something).
- The Gift of Relaxation: Hot Stone Massage. Relax and enjoy a complete mind, body, and soul treatment with the benefits of a deep tissue massage without the deep pressure. This massage promotes healing and well-being on all levels by using hot stones. 60 minutes, $80.
- Gift For Him: Man’s Facial. This relaxing facial includes cleansing, exfoliation, aromatherapy, steam and extractions as well as special treatment for the beard area. 60 minutes, $65.
- The Beautiful Gift: Liftosome Facial. This firming, radiance-boosting treatment uses a thermal mask that shapes the facial features and diffuses energizing concentrates of Vitamin C and Ginseng. These active ingredients combine with a warming effect and fill the skin with new energy, restore its elasticity and regenerate new cells. 75 minutes, $95.
- The Perfect Gift: A Gift Card for Spa Services of her choice. She keeps saying she hates those crow’s feet around her eyes, but if you’re afraid a gift certificate for Botox might send you to the doghouse, then a gift card will be perfect! Available in any denomination and as always, wrapping is complimentary.
- The Favorite Gift: Clarisonic Pro, Mia, or Mia 2. Starting at only $119, Clarisonic’s innovative technology vibrates at 300 movements per second to clean, soften and smooth your skin. In just one minute, the micro-massage action brush head cleans better than traditional manual cleansing. Available in a variety of colors (Oh, No! Choices! Our friendly spa staff will help you pick the perfect Clarisonic!).
- The Gift of Peace and Quiet: Yoga Classes. Flexibility, strength, muscle tone, pain prevention, stress reduction, and improved breathing. Yoga provides all of these benefits and much more! 12 classes are only $100.
- The Hot Couples Gift: Sauna Sessions. Our Sunlighten infrared sauna has completely transformed the meaning of the word “sauna.” The state-of-the-art, no-steam sauna offers 7 times the effectiveness of a traditional sauna with added amenities including a DVD player. At no extra charge, book the sauna for you and your lovely lady. Starting at $15 per session.
- The Waterworks Gift: Prenatal Massage. This gift is guaranteed to make her cry the happy tears. Now, the hormones might have something to do with it, too, but we know she will love that you thought of her during this special time. The soothing essence of massage allows expectant mothers to feel serene, healthy, and comforted while helping to relieve common ailments of pregnancy. Packages start at $45 for 30 minutes.
The team at Seasons – The Spa is here to assist you in your journey to becoming the Smartest Cupid Ever. If you have any questions about how to attain this title, please give us a call! Seasons – The Spa at 318.255.1155. As always, wrapping is complimentary!
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.
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.
Looking for a Lunchtime Get Away?
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.
New! Extended Hours at Seasons – The Spa
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.
Managing Stress With Facial Reflexology
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.
Q&A with Massage Therapist Bethany Cox, LMT, CFR
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.
Top 10 Pregnancy Tips
Tip #4 - Catching some Zzz's
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.
The Proof Is In The Practice – A Journey To Facial Reflexology
by Bethany Cox
Bethany Cox, Licensed Massage Therapist & Facial Reflexologist
Lone Sorensen is a Denmark native, and one of the hardest-working women I have ever known. During our training she would begin the day’s lessons with a bit of her personal background, her life journey and client testimonials. I couldn’t help but be inspired by her passion and dedication to her work!
Lone Sorensen, Facial Reflexology Pioneer
Lone Sorensen: Her education and her journey.
Lone began her professional journey at 18 as one of Denmark’s first foot Reflexologists. At that time, there were only a handful of Reflexologists in Denmark. Today, there are over 12,000.
Anatomy classes were later required for Reflexologists, so she decided to also study acupuncture; a three-year-long education. During this time she had Reflexology clients as well. And this was the beginning of her first official Reflexology practice.
Her passion for children drove her to study cranial therapy in Germany, but this was not producing the results for which she hoped. She was invited to Argentina by a Chinese doctor to study acupuncture points on the face which help with children’s concentration, memory and behavioral problems. At this time, Lone realized she had found the right combination of therapies to affect change for her clients. These facial points she found more effective because the acupressure pulses applied were closer to the brain stem.
During one particular class, Lone spoke of moving herself and her two children to Argentina. It was there, through the hardships of being located outside of the main city as well as not knowing the Spanish language, that she began her foot Reflexology practice. Around Argentina, word-of-mouth proved to be the best form of advertisement for her, and within a few months, she had clients from early morning to late at night!
As the months passed, she found herself struggling with allergies. During her search for curing these allergies, she came across a village of aboriginal South American Indians practicing some kind of facial work. Lone was allowed permission by these Indian women to watch and learn their practice. Through these observations Lone began to develop what she now calls Facial Reflexology.
The proof was in the practice.
One of her first clients was a local woman who suffered with spasticity, the result of a car crash three years earlier. Lone treated her client with neurological pressure points, Foot Reflexology and cranial lines and points for brain damage. After a year of facial reflexology therapy, this woman was 97% cured!
Lone studied more in Cuba to learn and eventually develop Temprana therapy courses for parents with disabled children. This therapy consists of 80% facial and 20% foot Reflexology. It is an intense course, but wonderful for parents with children who require special attention for conditions ranging from Down’s Syndrome to Spina Bifida to paralysis. (For more information about Lone’s treatments and testimonials visit her website)
In 2001, Lone Sorensen and her three children moved to Barcelona where she has her own Institute of Reflexology. Today she travels the world teaching her students about this phenomenal practice. The world of medicine and wellness is expanding more towards homeopathic and natural remedies.
Facial Reflexology, in my experience and through my knowledge from this course, is a wonderful compliment to modern medicine.
