There are so many different therapeutic massage modalities. Many of them offer sustainable relief from pain and circulatory issues. 
The questions are:

• What are they, what do they focus on?
• What will they do my condition?
• How will I know if it's helping me with my issue
• How to choose the right modality and therapist.
• Is it okay for me to ask the therapist to change pressure or give feedback?
• How do these modalities differ from a relaxing "spa-like" massage

This blog article will provide information to support your choice to add Therapeutic Massage to your self care menu! Therapeutic massage incorporates a variety of advanced modalities that enhance the body's natural restorative functioning. Light to firm touch is used to release tension, relax muscles, increase blood and lymph circulation, and increase production of serotonin...a neurotransmitter and your body's antidote to too much adrenaline!

Below are the massage modalities offered through Bridge to Health by Brittany Craven LMT. She has put together this information to educate clients and readers about therapeutic massage, which therapies are best for your needs and how to know whether the therapist you are choosing is qualified. Regulations for training in massage therapy have expanded in the past twenty years, most states and some cities require licensing and certain levels of certification. Organizations such as ABMP & NCBTMB help ensure standards of practice throughout the profession.

Having a short conversation with the therapist before making your initial appointment is crucial. It's your opportunity to ask about their credentials, training, years of experience. Additionally it is recommended that you check out their website and reviews. Bridge to Health offers a Free Fifteen Consult for all clients. This allows you to get to know the therapist and allows them to make recommendations based on your symptoms or needs.

The massage session will/should focus on your major areas of concern. A well trained therapist will also allow time to round out your session with other complementary modalities.

Conditions which will benefit from therapeutic massage modalities are:

• General inflammation or swelling
• Edema, circulatory issues 
• Digestive disorders, constipation
• Acute or chronic sinus congestion with recurring infection
• Immune disorders and those prone to frequent colds, flu or allergies 
• Migraines & tension headaches
• Difficulty swallowing, or TMJ
• Fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome
• Chronic pain in any part of the body
• Stress & Anxiety
• Loss of range of motion
• Post surgical rehabilitation, scar treatment

​Therapeutic massage differs from "spa like" massages in that they are specifically targeted to relieve pain and bring improvement to the acute or chronic issues that arise in the body of almost everyone at some time.

Spa massages generally are high in the feel so good response. They are relaxing and indulgent. Practitioners of quality pamper and promote relaxation on the level of a mini-vacation. Sessions with an excellent relaxation massage therapist are a delight to the senses and will leave you smiling!

Lymphatic Drainage Massage:
The lymphatic system cycles fluids with toxins from our tissues and intestines it is a key component of the immune system

Similar to the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is  a network of vessels that transport lymph fluid and pathogen fighting cells to the tissues of the body. However, it does not have a heart to pump it so it requires movement in order to flow properly.

Lymph vessels are very thin so it is easy for them to become partially clogged by dead cells and proteins or constricted by surrounding connective tissue tensions. For lymphatic drainage, gentle techniques are applied to release tissue tension to encourage lymph fluids to release clearing the internal clogs.

The intestinal lymphatic system serves vital functions in the regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune surveillance, and the transport of nutrients, and conversely this system is affected by, and directly contributes to disease processes within the intestine. Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Visceral Manipulation work well together to improve overall immunity and fluid clearing.

Myofascial Release
Myo...latin derivation for muscle, fascial...the fascia tissue of the body.

Fascia is an network of tissue that runs throughout the entire body. it is interconnected through every cell, organ, and body cavities. You could remove all the bones, organs and muscles leaving only the fascia and your body would still be the shape it is now. The fascia is the amazing organ that literally holds you together!

Fascia can become injured, dehydrated or restricted. Causes of fascial restriction are numerous, but can be boiled down to injuries, repetitive movements (tennis elbow, etc..), poor workplace ergonomics, surgeries and scar tissue, emotional trauma which can develop into chronic holding.

Chronic holding is finding yourself clenching your jaw...holding your breath, shoulders are up to your ears...everyday stresses of life tend to produce chronic holding as does lifetime traumas or abuse.  This holding causes the restriction in the fascia, reduces the flow of blood and lymph leading to chronic pain.

MFR is the "king" of pain relief modalities. In addition to being effective for a wide variety of issues, a good therapist will also give you "homework" in the form of self treatment options to further promote healing. Tis modality is most effective when sessions are frequent and close together.

Cranio-sacral Therapy
Pioneered by Osteopathic Physician, John E. Upledger, during his tenure years at Michigan State University where he served as professor of bio-mechanics. He developed the foundational techniques of Cranio-Sacral Therapy used today.

During CST treatment the therapist evaluates and enhances the functioning of what is called the cranio-sacral system. This system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

Using these techniques practitioners release tension and restrictions in the cranio-sacral system allowing the body to relax and self correct, freeing the central nervous system to perform at it’s best.

Reflexology and Trigger Point Therapy
Reflexology and trigger point therapies are similar and yet different. Reflexology focuses on the areas of the body that are junction points for the energetic meridians of the body. This therapy is applied primarily to the feet and hands, but is also used on other parts of the body especially along the neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Similar to acupressure the goal is to relieve congested energy improving the flow of chi or energy in the body system.


​Trigger point therapy consists of the practitioner focusing on "hot spots" in the body, commonly referred to as trigger points. Pressure is applied to these painful, sensitive areas in order to alleviate the pain. Massage and trigger point therapy are sometimes used together. Active trigger points can cause what is called "referred pain", meaning the constriction at the trigger point may be responsible for pain in other parts of the body. This brings us back to the fascia....restrictions in one part of the body can cause pain in another part of the body!
The therapist finds and applies pressure at painful trigger points which will relax the muscle and affected tissues.
​When pressure is applied on the trigger point, it may cause discomfort, though it does sometimes produce the odd effect "it hurts so good"!

Therapeutic Stretching
This modality is especially helpful for clients who suffer with "range of motion" issues due to injuries, lack of exercise, too much intense exercise or age related to limited movement capability.

During a session of therapeutic stretching the practitioner will initially assess the clients needs and work progressively on the areas of greatest concern.

As with MFR this modality becomes more effective when sessions are regular and clients continue to support the session work by doing recommended practices at home between sessions.

The relief that comes from having someone else stretch you out is amazing! The therapist is able to help you make gains in flexibility and improved range of motion that  might not otherwise be possible for you to f=do on your own. The goal with therapeutic stretching is restoration of movement and improved overall flexibility.

Chronic constipation is nearly the norm in modern societies.
​But, what exactly is constipation...how do we define it?

con·sti·pa·tion| ˌkänstəˈpāSH(ə)n | noun
* A condition in which there is difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened feces. 
* A high level of constraint or restriction; a pronounced lack of ease.

Constipation is defined by  transit time. Essentially from the time you  ingest food until it comes out as stoll should ideally be within 24- 48 hours. Anything longer than that and you are constipated. See the PDF below for a test to determine your transit time.


Chronic constipation effects more than 20% of the US populations and is as common in children, teens adults and the elderly. For those who care for the elderly it is critical to pay daily attention to their bowel functions and seek professional help from someone who can bring a healthy solution to the problem. 

In my practice I have seen that MD's and Emergency Rooms are not equipped with a proper understanding to solve impaction or chronic constipation. They often recommend products that will cause the colon to balloon above the impaction with disastrous results! Bridge to Health offers Emergency Colonic Sessions for situations in which a client is impacted. 

Why is constipation a problem.....

• Your colon can store 5-10 lbs of feces for every foot of length....your colon is as long as you are tall!
• Stored feces means that bacterial infestations in the form of biofilms can develop within the colon. Go to the "Why do a Series of Colonics Blog" for more information about the serious effects of biofilm growth in the colon
• The bacteria proliferate in the colon along with toxic gases which should be eliminated with the stools. All of this toxicity is then absorbed through the capillary network of the colon into the bloodstream and put an undue burden on the liver and kidneys to eliminate the toxins.
• Those who are constipated are more likely to develop SIBO. This excellent article from CytoPlan Blog represents my view of SIBO and how to facilitate a cure without antibiotics or antifungal medications.
• Chronic constipation is auto-intoxication that produces a wide variety of symptoms and will eventually lead to autoimmune disorders, liver and gallbladder issues, lethargy, poor concentration, lack of spark...low endocrine function which has serious implications over time.
• Chronic constipation can also lead to rupture of the colon. Using laxatives and fiber formulas to try to create a bowel movement when the colon is impacted is the leading cause of colon ruptures. This is a very serious situation that can cause death.

Learn more about colon function...

Those who suffer from chronic constipation experience these common symptoms...

• Halitosis
• Headaches
• Aches and pains in the body
• Lethargy and a general lack of energy
• Hemorrhoids
• Low back pain
• Digestive issues
• SIBO
• Liver complaints & gall stones
• Poor Sleep & irritability

What are the causes of chronic constipation?

• Diets low in fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables, high in processed grains, white flour and high in sugar.
• Diets high in cheese and processed cheese foods and other non-fermented dairy especially cow's milk which is very high in casein a glue like substance.
• Casein based protein supplements. Casein is a glue like substance extracted from cows milk dairy, it is literally the stuff that glue is made from... these protein drinks also often contain hidden artificial sweeteners as well.
• Highly acidic diets high in meats, especially processed meats and meats with fillers. Keto diets.
• Constipation, irritable bowel syndrome contribute greatly with the inflammation these condition cause .
• Antibiotic, benzodiazepine and opioid usage.
• Emotional issues often play a role in constipation and can be addressed best through Chi Nei Tsang or Visceral Manipulation rather than talk therapies. Zero Point Process Sessions have also proven to be effective in the treatment of these emotional "blocks"

Is it possible to reverse chronic constipation?
Yes, but with all things related to the manifestation of symptoms, we must first be willing to understand that the symptom is the body talking to you....what is your body saying it needs? Just what does it need? The answers can be very individual, but there are tendencies and patterns that I often see in my Wellness and Colon Hydrotherapy practices.

What will help alleviate Chronic Constipation?

• Dietary changes are needed, more fruits and veggies generally and a greater variety of whole foods.
• Dehydration is also a common problem.
• Bowels are not "trained"...allowing time to sit down to have a bowel movement...too much of I need to go go go! The colon needs time!
• Stress is almost always a factor
• Low bile production from the liver
• Withdrawing from medication known to have constipation as a side effect...benzodiazepines, antibiotics especially are problematic. 
• Possible minor obstructions, or years of accumulated harden stools
• Low enteric probiotics...something you can't get from a pill. Probiotics are best cultivated not supplemented. 
• Colon cleanse products that support the break down of biofilms and improve peristalsis can be helpful, however they are best used with caution and with the supervision of a well educated practitioner.

Bridge to Health offers the Online Chronic Constipation Relief Protocol as a support for anyone determined to overcome chronic constipation. If you are uncertain whether or not your constipation issue is chronic, schedule a Free Fifteen Minute Wellness Consult with Vanessa Goldeen Certified Wellness Consultant and I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist.

FDA Warning:
​This information is for education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition ​

My interest in educating you about artificial sweeteners is a subject of a recent recovery success story in my practice and..... a painful story with a sad ending from my younger days.

My closest and dearest friend was an artificial sweetener junkie. Back then it was saccharin which was a trade name for a chemical, benzoic sulfimide. (if you follow this link you'll see who supports it's continued use...these same organization encourage the use of other non-foods as healthy for humans). Sodium saccharin is an artificial sweetener with effectively no food energy. It is 300–400 times as sweet as sucrose with bitter or metallic aftertaste, especially at high concentrations. Saccharin was used to sweeten products such as drinks, candies, cookies, and medicines. One of the principle reason soft drinks use artificial sweeteners...is that they have a low volume. Meaning they can add more water and make more money, sugar takes up too much room!

Now, to the present. A client recently came to see me because in spite of the fact that she is only in her early 30's she had presented with elevated liver enzymes and evidence of a fatty liver. She came to me as recommended by a close friend who thought I might be able to help her. Remember, I said I am a science geek, so the first thing I do is a little detective work. I immediately researched issues relating to fatty liver in individuals who do not fit the usual profile. She didn't drink other than occasionally, her diet was fairly healthy and she was not a big junk food eater and fairly active...the most common factor in fatty liver disease in alcohol and poor diet.

Upon reviewing her intake info I discovered that she had been eating a protein drink product "Gold Standard Whey" chocolate flavor for at least the past 3, maybe up to 5 years. This product contains acesulfame whose sweetening effect is even higher than saccharine. Acesulfame is currently being studied as it is implicated that is may be causing liver damage! Additionally she was taking inorganic vitamin supplements, an iron supplement and had occasional IV nutrient infusions to boost her energy and detox her body. All of which also may cause liver damage. IV nutrition has been widely used in hospitals, but recent studies indicate long term use of IV infusions are leading to liver damage. IV infusions are a popular fad these days...we'll be reporting more on this in future blogs.

I set her up with a liver restoring protocols, she began a series of colonics to push the detox, and is also having regular Chi Nei Tsang sessions to help improve her biological functions, increasing serotonin and reducing adrenaline...the true secret to real health! After only 2 months she present her last liver enzyme test to me and her test ratios where nearly normal. Her doctor was AMAZED, stating that she "had rarely ever seen anyone reverse in this way and certainly not this quickly". My client has been diligent and dedicated as her serious health risk threatened everything that means the most to her...her family!
​​

A little note about liver enzymes....

• Elevated liver enzymes often indicate inflammation or damage to cells in the liver. Inflamed or injured liver cells leak higher than normal amounts of certain chemicals, including liver enzymes, into the bloodstream, elevating liver enzymes on blood tests.
• The normal range for ALT is 10-40 units per liter (U/L) of blood for men and 7-35 U/L for women
• Higher ALT is an indication of liver distress or disease.

Many people, whose energy is low, digestion is problematic, are constipated, have frequent headaches and body pains may have elevated ALT liver enzymes...distressed liver. In true Naturopathic, Chinese and Ayurvedic Medicine it is understood that liver health is crucial.

The liver is a powerful organ, able to be restored to healthy function and is highly resilient when you provide it what it needs!

• A healthy diet rich in greens, other vegetables, especially cruciferous types such as cabbages, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, kale.
• Detoxifying herbal support for the liver.
• Relieving constipation through colon hydrotherapy
• Lymphatic massage and/or Visceral manipulation, Chi Nei Tsang
• Regular light exercise
• Discontinue use of alcohol, soda's and junk foods, including fried foods.

​The Bridge to Health Winter Detox focuses on liver health. Look for our upcoming Liver Restoration Protocol which will guide you through all facets of improving liver function. All the BTH Protocols give you access to questions and answer via our members only Protocol Forum...is like having a Certified Wellness Consultant in your pocket...ie, your phone!

The label above doesn't say artificial sweetener. Many of the foods you may be eating daily could contain artificial sweeteners. Unless you know that acesulfame is what it is, you wouldn't recognize it. 

They are added to foods such as...

• beverages, including soda, fruit juices, non-carbonated drinks, and alcohol
• tabletop sweeteners
• dairy products, yogurts, ice cream
• desserts and baked goods
• jam, jelly, and marmalade
• toothpastes and mouthwash
• chewing gum
• yogurt and other milk products
• breakfast cereals
• condiments, salad dressings, sauces and marinades

READ LABELS!!

Here's a few more facts about artificial sweeteners....

• They are addictive...most of them contain in addition to acesulfame, dextrose and maltodextrin...light form a speed that is habit forming. They screw with your metabolism. 
• Researchers are currently studying links between regular consumption of artificial sweeteners and obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome (a cluster of health issues that present as a pattern, high blood pressure and diabetes)
• They can cause neurological disruptions and decline in brain function. The current oldest generation in the US, were the original consumers of saccharine!
• And...saccharine is actually still in use. It is an additive to the newer artificial sweeteners! 
• Raw honey, powdered stevia, palm sugar, coconut sugar, molasses, sorghum are all excellent sweetners that actually have nutritive value. The truth is a little sugar is better than anything artificial! 

The following links support evidence that artificial sweeteners.
* Acesulfame potassium affects the gut microbiome and body weight gain.
*Aspartame intake causes changes in the trans-sulphuration pathway, glutathione depletion &  liver damage

LEARN MORE ABOUT STAYING HEALTHY SUBSCRIBE TO THE BTH WELLNESS & RECIPE BLOG

Refer to the chart above for a better understanding of symptoms associated with Covid.

FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES AND PASS THEM, NOT THE COVID, ONTO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!

• There are similarities in symptoms, so it's important that you not guess...GET TESTED!
• If you have any symptoms for the Covid, Influenza, a cold or allergies don't guess...GET TESTED!
• If you have any symptoms for the Covid, Influenza, a cold or allergies don't guess...DO NOT GO OUT IN PUBLIC, UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN TESTED!
• GET TESTED REGULARLY, as many folks are asymptomatic in the beginning, but are still passing the virus onto others.
• AVOID GETTING THE COVID. See our "Fear not the Covid" blog for a simple commonsense guide to protecting yourself and your family.
• STAY AWAY FROM CROWDS! The newest mutation of the virus is more contagious, not more virulent. It's easier to get and to pass on....GET TESTED!
• WEAR YOUR MASK OVER THE ENTIRE FACE. Encourage other to do the same, politely. There are a number of companies making head bands with buttons to the straps can go onto the button and not over the ears...easing the pain of wearing a mask all day! Etsy Amazon...or sew buttons on head bands you  already have!
• ASK...at your workplace, your family members, friends....do they have symptoms, have they been exposed? Refer them to this post or to the CDC Guidelines, or to your State's Guidelines for prevention of the spread.

IF YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO AN ACTIVE CASE.....

• DO NOT GO ANYWHERE...YOU MUST QUARANTINE FOR 10 DAYS. This includes you and any family members who have been exposed by you , were with you  when you were exposed or live in your residence.
• GET TESTED, within three days of exposure and then again on the 10th day. If the virus has gained a foothold in your mouth, sinuses, ears, eyes and throat you  will begin to have symptoms within a few days.
• IMMEDIATELY FOLLOW THE PREVENTION PROTOCOLS, in the "Fear not the Covid-19 Blog
• Not everyone gets the same symptoms, DO NOT DISMISS ANY SYMPTOM ON THE CHART ABOVE, until you have been TESTED!

So I hope you are all getting the import here....get tested regularly, use your commonsense and focus on building your immunity and your consciousness in order to help yourself and others! Below is a chart showing the most common symptoms of Covid.

As a I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist I often recommend clients undertake a series of sessions close together.
This is not a "sales pitch" but a recommendation that enables the colon to be cleansed of accumulated biofilms, bacteria and older hardened stools. Additionally colonics help relieve constipation, strengthen the colon and improve peristaltic motion. The detoxification from one colonic equals three days of fasting. As a Certified Wellness Consultant, cleansing the colon is the first recommendation I make for those interested in restoring or improving their health. Our motto..."A Commonsense Approach to Wellness"!

Improving constipation and colon motility

• Constipation which is defined by transit time...meaning what you ate 24 - 48 hours ago should pass through the colon in that time frame. If your transit time is less than 24 - 48 hours...you are constipated.
• Constipation ​is the number one contributing factor to the development of biofilms and colon cancer.
• Constipation clogs the colon and reduces the colon's peristalsis movement. This is the constant pulsing contractions that move liquid chyme from the small intestines through the colon to form stool and to eliminate them. Regular colonics exercise the colon and improve the strength of peristalsis. It's like taking your colon to the gym!
• Debunking the myth #1.... you will become dependent on colonics.... colonics actually improve colon function over time. 

​

To summarize....​Your colon is the most amazing organ in your body!

• It has it's own enteric nervous system...meaning it functions independently of your brain and central nervous system.
• The colon has as many nerve cells as your brain.
• There are more acupuncture points on the colon than the entire rest of the body.
• The colon has the richest capillary network in the body.
• The colon interior has the most amount of sq. inches of surface, depending on whether your male or female this equals the sq. footage of a tennis court or badminton court!
• In Taoism and Chinese Medicine the colon is considered to be the seat of emotional processing and is truly our second brain....ie...the "gut feeling"!

Learn more about your colon:
Wikipedia, ER Services, The Second Brain, Michael D. Gershon MD

Eleuthero - Eleutherococcus senticosus

​The main active agents in Panax ginseng are ginsenosides, which are triterpene saponins. Beneficial effects include anti-inflammation, antioxidant. As well as inhibiting cancer growth. Clinical studies indicate that ginseng improves psychologic function, improving depression symptoms and elevating mood. Additionally ginseng helps regulate blood sugar, beneficial to those who may be borderline diabetic.

​It is generally well tolerated, but there can be contraindication to take in consideration. In particular it may interact with warfarin, oral hypoglycemic meds, insulin and phenelzine.


​
It is advisable to consult with you health care practitioner and your medical doctor before adding this to you protocol. Maximum time to use 3 -4 month, then take a break and return to it if needed. 

You may be asking yourself what is this all about?
The pineal gland is a central player in the endocrine system. When the endocrine system is humming along and all playing well with each other, we experience optimum health. We have vitality and energy, we are able to sleep soundly and get good sleep consistently.

This pea sized gland is responsible for the production of serotonin a neurotransmitter essential to maintain a sense of wellbeing and joyfulness. It is an antagonist to adrenaline. In our modern life we have become overstimulated and produce high amounts of adrenaline which is at the root of many of our health problems. Insomnia, stress related conditions such as heart palpitations, panic disorders, rashes, learning disorders, depression and much more.
The effects of too much adrenaline.
It is the syndrome effect of too much adrenaline that sets folks on a downhill slide into deeper health issues. Lack of sleep alone is enough to breakdown one's health and wellbeing. It is during the sleep cycles that our bodies repair and restore. We also work out our emotional and psychological struggles during the deeper dream states of sleep.

The pineal gland's important serotonin production during waking hours converts to melatonin as night falls. Melatonin is the lullaby that winds us down for sleeping. Without adequate serotonin, sleep will be disturbed and irregular. Over time we become walking zombies! Lacking the uplift of serotonin we do not have the energy or inclination to exercise, get out into nature, take in the sun or prepare ourselves healthy nourishing meals. 

So, we see the pineal gland is key to health.
The pineal gland is naturally stimulated with light. It is also stimulated when we find the meditative state. This does not necessarily mean meditation in sitting for hours trying to be still and allowing our thoughts to subside, although this is an excellent practice. There are many forms of meditation to be found within our daily activities, painting, even a fence, drawing, riding a bike, going for a walk or run, just sitting and enjoying the day go by in the fresh air and sunshine is meditative. This recent scientific abstract from MDPI and independant peer reviewed journal of chemistry offers insight into the effects of pineal calcification and the reversal of this process.
"Pineal Calcification, Melatonin Production, Aging, Associated Health Consequences & Rejuvenation of the Pineal Gland"

Chi Nei Tsang healing modality focuses on improving endocrine function. As a regular part of my practice as a Chi Nei Tsang therapist my #1 homework assignment for clients is to begin a regular practice of sun gazing which stimulates the pineal gland to increase serotonin. When we look up to the sun with eyes closed, the parasympathetic nervous system becomes dominate as the pupils contract. The optic nerve carries the light stimulation directly to the pineal gland and stimulates the production of the much needed serotonin. 

Throughout history, sound has been used to help people and boost the spirit. Chi Kung Masters believe that sound can heal the body. That’s because humans have a natural instinct for sound therapy. Just think about how a favorite song can lift your mood. Sound healing synchronizes brain waves to achieve profound states of relaxation, helping to restore the normal vibratory frequencies of the cells in our bodies. An excellent article, "Sound Healing - How It Works and It's  Health Benefits" by author Gayatri Bhumik offers an expanded incite into the many options for sound healing. You can follow Gayatri on Instagram, @gontheroad!

The Six Healing Sounds of the Chi Kung are both a practice and a meditation and have been employed for 1,000's of years predating the development of Chinese Medicine. These "healing" sounds synchronize brain waves to achieve profound states of relaxation. The tonal sounds are made using the force of breath (the diaphragm), the vocal cords and mouth. However, the activity engages the whole body and the mind. Practice of this meditation activates your endocrine system, there by improving health. When our endocrine system is functioning fully we light up with the vivacious energy of good health. We have better mood and less moodiness, serotonin increases, we are calmer and sleep better. Anxiety and depression are eased.

The six healing sounds as a meditation and practice are beneficial for those suffering from anxiety or PTSD. They are a valuable tool to destress at the end of a busy day or as a way to get off to a good start each day.

​One can practice all six sounds in one session or concentrate on just one sound for a number of days. Making the practice your own and finding the easiest way to add it into your routine is pragmatic and beneficial any way you can make it work. Practicing once a week with a friend or family member allows you to compare notes on the feelings you have after a session.

The Six Healing Sounds are as follows:

• SSSS - The metal sound, color is white, season is Fall. Builds courage and sensitivity, reduces sadness.
• WOOO - The sound of water, color is blue, season is Winter. Increases creativity and gentleness, reduces fear.
• SHHH - is the wood sound, color is green, season is Spring. Increases understanding and kindness, decreases anger
• HAAA - is the fire sound, color is red, season is Summer. Increases spiritedness and joy, decreases impatience
• HOOO - the the earth sound, color is yellow, season is Indian Summer. Increase spontaneity and balance, decreases worry
• HEEE - is the Triple Warmer sound, fire is it's element, violet is it's color. Increases harmony and balance, decreases glandular imbalances. 

As a Certified Chi Nei Tsang Practitioner I use these healing sounds in the treatment room. They are sounds many folks naturally begin to make when they are "unwinding" energetically. If you  think about it you will realize we make these sounds often. Pay attention to the times you or others make certain sounds and you'll see how natural a form of expression these sounds are!

To schedule an appointment for a Chi Nei Tsang session follow this link or call Vanessa @ 805-235-8071

Cilantro - Coriandrum sativum
The love it or hate it herb, truly. Most people perceive the taste of cilantro (coriander leaves) as a tart, lemon/lime taste, but 3–21% of people  think the leaves taste like dish soap. This disparity is linked to a gene in some people that allows them to detect the taste of specific aldehydes that are also used as odorant substances in many soaps and detergents.
Native to Southern Europe, North Africa and Southwest Asia this herb is able to be cultivated in many other locations around the world. Its cultivation by humans dates back to the ancient Greece of the second millennium.

The mature seeds of cilantro are referred to as coriander a popular ground spice that has a nutty slightly sweet flavor. Both the leaver, cilantro and the seeds, coriander can be found in many culinary dishes as well as being used medicinally as well as an essential oil.

Cilantro is taken by mouth fresh or in capsule form is excellent for cancerous conditions. It is highly beneficial to remove toxic heavy metals such as mercury, lead, or aluminum from the body. I recommend my clients do a heavy metal detox at least one time per year. Cilantro is part of that protocol.

Cilantro, appear to have more antioxidant activity than the coriander seeds due to the high phenolic content. Coriander leaves contain beneficial flavonoids, polyphenols, and phenolic acids. The polyphenols present include kampferol and quercetin, which have also been shown to have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. These plant metabolites have attracted interest and study for their potential protective role against oxidative damage and its associated diseases, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancers. The leaves of the plant are high in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as calcium.

Incorporating this herb in food, taking it as a nutritive support or for the benefits it offers as a powerful antioxidant this herb packs a punch on every level!