CranioSacral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety

How can CranioSacral Therapy (CST) treat depression and anxiety? First, sometimes depression or anxiety symptoms can result simply from physical compression in the dural tube, or the membrane that surrounds the brain, spine, and nervous system. We can then misinterpret these symptoms as a result of being overworked, or having a chemical imbalance, when in reality the depression and anxiety may be caused by that minor compression in the body. These compressions are often the result of injuries, trauma, or grief we have experienced that gets stored in the body.

CST will restore the length of the dural tube, which can then restore your motivation to move and exercise. Exercise being another key way to ameliorate symptoms of depression and anxiety, consider this a "double whammy." CST will also calm the nervous system, strengthen and promote resiliency in the body and mind, as well as increase relaxation, grounding, and more restful sleep. Still curious? Read more about how CST treats depression and anxiety here

Happiness (and Chocolate) for Self-Care

Can a dessert like this one pictured at left be considered self-care? Sure! However, one should indulge mindfully, and be sure not to guilt oneself for indulging. Rather, ask yourself what 'recharges your battery' so to speak, and savor whatever that may be with gratitude. This is one tip from Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project.

A chocolate truffle is provided for your enjoyment after your massage session as a way for you to practice mindfulness as you indulge your senses in the rich and complex aromas and flavors that blend with the chocolate. Maybe the smell brings back a particular fond memory, or perhaps the soft inside of the truffle reminds you of the silkiness of a warm white sand beach on the soles of your feet. In this way, paying attention to your own experience and reactions as you indulge can increase the degree of joy you take from the things you already find pleasurable. It will even increase the joy you take from things that are not so pleasurable. To read more on how mindful eating can increase happiness, click here.

July Wellness Retreat

Last month’s trip to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park found me at backpack campsite #3 for 3 days of incredible blue skies. As I sat on the shore with a cup of jasmine tea,  I noticed a delicate dragonfly flitting over the water from scrubby tree branches to massive rocks. It was only when I leaned back  to catch sun on my face that I realized the sky directly above me was filled with masses of the creatures. As if at an agility competition, they circled and spiraled among the massive trees where the forest met the stones pushed up by Lake Superior every winter. As I watched their antics, a family of 7 loons swam across the little bay, just a few feet from my dogs sunning themselves at my feet. So much of our experience is shaped by perception, isn’t it? We can be crabby about the traffic (and road construction) or happy and grateful that the “check engine” light is off. We choose where we direct our attention.

At any moment we can turn our attitude around just like the sticky, hot baby, suffering in the humid Minnesota summer. Fill the pool with cool refreshing water, climb in and watch the smiles.    
Schedule your next massage to follow a swimming session at Schedulicity.com or Blooma.com. And sleep like a baby again.  

Bodywork for Balancing Lower Abdomen and Jaw Structures

Did you know that the lower abdomen and the jaw are linked energetically and physically? Not only are they similar in anatomical form and structure (both are horizontal diaphragms made mostly of soft tissue, they are also both creative centers (one for the reproductive tasks it manages and the other for creating narrative through language and sound). Furthermore, as mentioned in the CranioSacral article above, tightness in the the throat can translate to tightness in the cervix. 
For women who are trying to conceive or who are expecting, this is why jaw and throat tension can sometimes lead to reproductive complications. Prenatal bodywork will help to release restrictions in these regions (craniosacral jaw release technique pictured at right) and re-balance both energy centers. In addition to prenatal bodywork, you can release tension and open up your jaw structure on your own by yawning, laughing, or screaming. To read more about techniques massage and CranioSacral  therapists use to release fascial tissues in the pelvic floor and the occipital cranial base, and how the issues in the two areas can transfer, read this blog post.

Benefits of Therapeutic Grade Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil is what I most commonly apply in my massage practice. Why, you ask? Because it is a highly effective analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-tumor, anti-spasmodic, astringent, expectorant and stimulant. It is also a great oil to have on hand during the summer months, as it is a cooling to the body when applied topically and will also repel insects, as well as soothe spider and mosquito bites.
Speaking of repelling insects, here is one of many recipes for homemade insect repellent.
    * 2 ounces distilled or boiled water
*     1.5 ounces witch hazel, rubbing alcohol or vodka
*     30 drops citronella essential oil
*     25 drops peppermint essential oil
*     15 drops tea tree essential oil
*     1 teaspoon of jojoba, almond, or olive oil* (optional, if you add this, add only 1 ounce of vodka or witch hazel)

Looking for a good brand of therapeutic grade essential oils? Check out Veriditas, which can be purchased at your neighborhood co-op, or Cure Oils, which can be ordered online.

Massage for Tennis Players

Any frequent tennis players out there are most likely familiar with at least one of the following: shoulder muscles issues, tennis elbow, issues with external rotator muscles of the hip, lower back pain, knee pain, or tight calves. Sound familiar? Please don't hesitate to ask for specific work on these areas at your next massage appointment. Receiving massage can help prevent and reduce the extent of tennis-related injuries. Massage will also increase circulation, thereby facilitating the removal of lactic acid and other metabolic waste that can inflame these areas. Additionally, strengthening the muscles that surround an injured area can relieve stress on the tendons. 

Your session will start prone (lying face down) and switch to supine (lying face upwards). In addition to focusing on the muscles used in tennis, we will do some proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (or PNF stretches) using assisted stretches and resistance stretches designed to enhance your range of motion and rehabilitate any complications from past injuries. Peppermint oil will also be applied (unless you request otherwise) due to its many incredible properties listed below. Read more in The Role of Massage Therapy in Tennis Medicine.

CranioSacral Therapy for Trauma and Abuse Survivors

For survivors of domestic and sexual violence, there are almost always after-effects of the abuse that get stored in the body and can impact a person for years. CranioSacral Therapy is one way to help resolve stored trauma in the body by clearing away energy cysts that may be disrupting or restricting the flow of one's craniosacral fluids. For example, often times the need to keep the abuse a secret will manifest in physical tightness in the jaw and throat. Likewise, as the jaw structure often echoes patterns in the lower abdomen (see 'Bodywork for Balancing Lower Abdomen and Jaw Structures' below), there will also be tension in the lower abdomen, which the light, gentle touch of CranioSacral can help to release. It is important to remember that trauma will not disappear entirely from our bodies and consciousness, but rather that the associated memories and physiological states lose their debilitating power over us. To learn more about how CranioSacral can facilitate the healing process for survivors of abuse and violence, read this article.

Constructive Rest for Self-Care

Ever feel like you need to hit the reset button on your state of mind? When you feel stretched thin or just need a break in your day, take a towel, yoga mat, or blanket to a favorite place in nature. Whether you go to the beach, the Minnehaha Falls, or simply your own back deck, use the constructive rest position (as pictured at right) or corpse pose for 5 minutes just relaxing. For the next 5 minutes, focus your attention on the space between your skin cells, imagine them gently opening as in this exploding cranium video. Doing this will reset your nervous system from sympathetic (fight or flight) to parasympathetic (rest and digest) by flushing cortisol (or stress hormones) out of your system and allowing you to feel more relaxed. Do this at least once a day for best results. Maybe it's during your lunch break, after you return home from work, or maybe at both opportunities!

Walking meditation

Walking meditation always inspires me. A very recent trip to the Superior Hiking Trail took me up Carlton Peak, with it's magnificent vistas of Lake Superior on one side and the BWCAW on the other side. As hawks circled above, I breathed in the fragrance of pine, cedar and cypress. Healing occurs when we spend time in nature whether it is in the wild areas of Minnesota or something as simple as my own little back yard, full of Black Eyed Susan and Milkweed. As I rock my granddaughter we watch the bees, butterflies and their cohorts doing what they do best. Summer waits for no one, but, if we are paying attention, we can slow ourselves down enough to savor the flavors and fragrances; and to hear the sweetness of the birdsong a little more clearly. Feeling the heaviness of this 6 month old beauty in my arms as she drifts in and out of dreamland, I recognize that there is only now, the present moment.
Sometimes we lay on my deck watching the movement of the trees, birds and clouds. Occasionally eagles will soar through our tiny piece of the sky. It is truly heaven on earth.

I encourage you to be gentle, with yourself first, and those around you when you have an opportunity. This may take some practice, but it is a skill worth developing, like compassion, mercy, and cleaning your start up disc. And I suggest that you nurture yourself, so that those around you will learn from your example. Invest in your wellness and everyone around you shares in the returns of your investment. I look forward to seeing you soon!

April Truffle Flavor

Locally produced, handmade chocolate truffles available for your post-massage enjoyment this month is cardamom, courtesy of Tour de Chocolat. Benefits of cardamom include promotion of detoxification, lower blood pressure, prevention of blood clots, and prevention and relief of cold and flu symptoms. Interested in purchasing your own batch of truffles? Visit Tour de Chocolat's Etsy. Or look for them at Rustica Bakery at Calhoun Village, Kowalski's on Hennepin (at the cheesemonger's), Sugar Sugar, the ever so cute candy boutique at 38th and Grand (Mpls), Lake Street Wine and Cheese and, of course, on sale at Orchestra Hall in 2 packs.

April Wellness Retreat

In need of a quick wilderness getaway that's not too far from home? Join me for a 24-hour wellness retreat, from Monday April 27th - Tuesday the 28th at Lake Maria State Park. A cabin has been reserved for those who prefer the comforts of sleeping on a mattress, having a roof overhead, and heat from a wood stove. However, this means no dogs are allowed. Just an hour northwest of the cities, this will be the perfect opportunity to unplug from technology, surround yourself in the woods, do some hiking and birdwatching, practice yoga, tai chi, meditation, or to simply relax. If interested, text me at 612-205-4453 or email juliehmueller@earthlink.net

How Racism Impacts Pregnancy Outcomes

Why are pre-term births, low birthweight, and infant death more common for women of color than for white women? Studies have shown that the cumulative effects of racism experienced over the course of one's lifetime may be the greatest risk factor for women of color who become pregnant. The chronic release of stress hormones caused by everyday exposure to racism can create wear and tear on the body's organs and systems, and can also trigger premature labor. Prenatal massage and CranioSacral Therapy may be one effective approach for reversing these impacts on the body, and decreasing risks for birth outcomes. Watch this 4 minute video to learn more, or read this brief article.

Massage for Runners

Running in the spring feels great, doesn't it? You no longer need to worry about slipping on ice, and the pleasant temperatures are more conducive to going longer distances. Not to mention that running stimulates the lymphatic system, another way the body naturally purifies itself. If you are currently easing into a jogging routine, or training for, say, the Twin Cities Marathon, it may be the perfect time to get a massage. Massage for runners will concentrate on the legs, and consist of assisted stretches for the hamstrings, quads, and piriformis (external rotators). Ideally, runners should receive monthly or weekly massages in order to prevent injuries and to relieve any tightness before it becomes problematic. At the very least, consider getting a massage the evening or following morning after your hardest training block, in order to maximize time for your body to recover before the next run. And don't forget to drink plenty of water after your massage so as to flush out all the toxins that get released from the muscles during massage. Read more about the benefits of massage for runners here.

Benefits of Therapeutic Grade Rosemary Oil

While we are on the subjects of brain and liver health, Rosemary essential oil is your go-to oil for the brain and liver, as well as for your skin, hair/scalp, mouth, and throat and lungs. Here are just a few of the many uses for therapeutic grade Rosemary oil. ▪ Diffuse in a room or simply take a whiff to improve mental clarity and memory. ▪ Apply one drop over the liver and kidneys, or to reflex points on the feet to promote detoxification. ▪ Swish around in the mouth to freshen the breath and kill bacteria. ▪ Apply over chest for bronchial infections, or add to boiling water and inhale the steam. ▪ For hair and scalp health, dilute with coconut or olive oil and massage directly into the scalp to fight dandruff and promote hair growth. For other uses, you may visit these links: 50+ Uses For Rosemary Essential Oil Rosemary Essential Oil Gives Me Clarity!

CranioSacral Therapy for Brain Health

When we think of detoxification, we may not think of the brain immediately, but your noggin has its own system of flushing out excess waste and toxins. Yes, the 'glymphatic system' is a recently identified system in the brain similar to the lymphatic system, that pumps cerebrospinal fluid all around the brain in a fast, pressurized rhythm in order to wash away excess waste. Researchers are already looking into how this discovery may connect with Alzheimer's disease, as a healthy glymphatic flow helps to eliminate excess amyloid β, a protein in the brain that builds up and clogs the spaces between brain cells of those suffering from Alzheimer's. Therefore, means of stimulating glymphatic circulation could have powerful implications for those afflicted with Alzheimer's or other diseases of the brain, brain injuries, or as a preventative measure. So how does this relate to CranioSacral Therapy? This recent discovery of the glymphatic system confirms Dr. John Upledger's hypothesis developed in the early 1980s regarding the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and CranioSacral Therapy. As such, CranioSacral Therapy is one promising way to unblock restrictions in the circulation of cerebrospinal fluids throughout the brain and spinal cord, and thereby eliminate toxins that may have built up in these structures. Read more about CranioSacral and the glymphatic system here.

Juicing for Liver Health

Now that it is officially spring, it may be time to cleanse the ol' liver, and juicing is an easy and tasty way to do this. According to Chinese medicine traditions, spring is when the liver is the most active and vulnerable, so forms of 'detoxing' are all the more powerful during this time of year. Benefits of cleansing the liver include healthier skin, increased energy levels, improved mood, and a boosted immune system. Ready to start juicing? Here is a recipe specifically for liver health. Also, remember to use fresh, organic ingredients to maximize health benefits, and consume promptly after juicing, as the nutrients do not keep. ▪ Juice from one fresh lime, squeezed directly into juice collector prior to juicing in order to prevent oxidization ▪ 3 large or 4 medium organic carrots ▪ 1 organic beet ▪ 1 large or 2 small organic apples ▪ Optional: 1 1-inch long piece of ginger Drink this blend regularly for two weeks, and you should start to look and feel much better. Click here to read more about how the recipe impacts the liver. For a list of foods you can eat to cleanse the liver, click here.

Massage and wellness

Wellness starts early in life. Sitting in the sunshine on your Granny’s lap, listening to descriptions of Minnesota’s natural resources is a great place to begin to appreciate the healing power of the wilderness. The warm days of March made dogsledding impossible and many of us, including myself, spent a significant amount of time recovering from a virus which taught us the wisdom of sleep, fluids and allowing the body time to recover. Many people have asked if it is helpful to receive bodywork while recovering. Certainly, if you are beyond the contagious, acute stage, massage can accelerate your recovery time and soothe sore muscles. Techniques, such as tapotement, can break up any trapped phlegm/mucous in your respiratory system. Essential oils, such as rosemary, can ease symptoms to allow for more restful sleep. Book online at schedulicty.com or text me at 612 205-4453.

May Pilates specials

Ask for the Pilates 'footwork special' this month to receive a complimentary half hour on the Pilates reformer (footwork exercises pictured at right). Watch a YouTube video of these exercises here. Pilates sessions with trainer are priced the same as bodywork and may be combined with soft tissue therapy. Pilates self guided reformer sessions are $20/hour or $100 for a 6 hour punch card! Schedule online through Schedulicity. Check us out on Yelp, or leave a Blooma testimonial. View the Complementary and Alternative Health Care Client Bill of Rights here. NO-SHOWS AND LESS THAN 24 HOUR CANCELLATIONS WILL BE CHARGED FULL PRICE FOR ALL APPOINTMENTS! No more exceptions. Thank you for your consideration on this matter.

May Wellness Retreat and Truffle Flavors

Did you know that 10% of all the world's fresh water supply is contained in Lake Superior? Plan in advance: the wellness retreat this month will take place beginning early in the day on Monday May 25th and go through til Wednesday the 27th at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park. Join me in experiencing the natural beauty of the north shore and the health benefits of the fresh breezes coming off Lake Superior. Come learn proper dry brushing technique, partake in dream journaling, meditation, yoga, tai chi, hiking, and anything else you may be itching to do (maybe you just want to relax, that is okay too). As always, call, text (612-205-4453) or email (juliehmueller@earthlink.net) for more details. On a different note, a variety of the locally produced, handmade chocolate truffles are available for your post-massage enjoyment this month including Latin Spice (cinnamon and a touch of heat), mint, classic, thyme/lemon, white poppyseed/jasmine, and basil/lime. These lovely creations are from Tour de Chocolat. Need a last minute Mother's Day present? A five flavor truffle gift package or the "Truffle of the Month" membership paired with a gift certificate for bodywork will properly demonstrate your gratitude.

Bodywork for Birth Partner Bonding

This month's prenatal care topic relates to promoting a solid bond between the mom-to-be and her birth partner. If possible, the partner should come with to a prenatal bodywork session in order to find out how to effectively alleviate the woman's sciatica, general aches and pains; figure out which techniques work (i.e. reflexology, or smooth, flowing strokes) and which do not, and other means of being a supportive birth partner. Additionally, massaging the mom-to-be once a day for 10-15 minutes can help the birth partner bond with baby, and help the woman sleep. If the birth partner learns these techniques early, chances are greater that communication skills will be healthy, so the partner knows not to massage too hard or too fast. This will also clarify reflexology and acupressure points, to ensure the birth partner is not scared or in danger of inducing a miscarriage. Prenatal bodywork sessions can also help to establish creative visualizations of a fantasy birth. The more detailed the visualization is, the more powerful it is for how the birth will manifest. For example, maybe a string quartet is playing in the hospital room when you deliver your baby, maybe your favorite restaurant delivers food to your hospital bed, or perhaps you deliver your baby in a tropical Tahitian island setting, or even at the top of a waterslide. The waterslide is an extremely strong visualization for promoting a smooth, easy birth. Visit this link to learn 10 ways to be the perfect birth partner. And this link for more information on the impact of visualization for pregnancy and labor.

Benefits of Therapeutic Grade Cypress Oil

Building off the spring theme of liver health, cypress essential oil promotes optimum liver health, as well as many other benefits. In addition to protecting the liver from contracting infections, cypress oil regulates proper discharge of bile from the liver. Cypress oil is also a powerful sudorific, which means it makes you sweat. Sweating, as we know, is yet another way that our body rids itself of toxins, excess salt, and water, making it another beneficial 'spring cleaning' oil.

Other uses for cypress oil include easing menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding, soothing arthritis pain, improving lung efficiency, treating internal and external wounds, digestive support, skin revitalization, and as a sedative. To learn more applications and proper usage techniques, please visit the following links.
50+ Benefits and Uses of Cypress Oil
Health Benefits of Cypress Essential Oil

Massage For Golfers

If you are a golfer, chances are you are gearing up for more time on the course as the weather continues to beautify. Sound about right? You may want to buy a massage package for this period of increased activity, scheduled once every two weeks. These sessions can be concentrated on sports-specific areas, or full body. The benefit of receiving a full body massage is that it works to loosen up all fascial tissues, promoting less overall tension on the golf course. Golf-specific massage will ease muscular stress in areas most used during golf (commonly the lower back, shoulders, wrist, elbow, neck, knees, hips, and piriformis). Massage will also improve your game by lengthening your muscles, thereby increasing flexibility and range of motion. Ask for the 'golfer's special' at your next session and receive 15 minutes of free sport-specific massage that will focus on the lower back, hips, and piriformis. If you'd like to read more on the benefits of massage for golfers, check out: Kinks From the Links: Massage for Golfers Massage Helping Move Golfers "Fore"ward

CranioSacral Therapy for Liver Issues

To reiterate from last month, Chinese medicine principles state that spring is a time of year when the thymus gland, liver and gallbladder meridians are most vulnerable due to seasonal shifts. As such, this is a perfect time to resolve any liver-related issues through CranioSacral Therapy.

In Dr. John Upledger's article "When the Immune System Attacks, Ask Why", he shares the story of working with a client who was diagnosed with autoimmune disease of the liver. Through communication with her thymus gland and immune system, and six sessions of CranioSacral Therapy, her blood tests showed significantly improved liver function. She had more energy and vitality, and within three months, her liver tests were all within the normal limits. This illustrates the interconnectedness of the various systems in the body, and the importance of acknowledging these systems' consciousness in order to promote healing.

Dry Brushing for Lymph Cleansing

To build off our theme of 'spring cleaning' from last month, dry brushing is another great way to stimulate your body's natural process of draining toxins through the lymphatic system. Dry brushing will also remove layers of dead skin cells, boost the immune system and skin functioning, stimulate circulation as well as hormone and oil glands, tone the muscles, and may even help reduce cellulite. For pregnant women, dry brushing can also help with edema and fluid retention issues. So how do you dry brush? You can dry brush daily before showering, ensuring the brush and your skin are both dry. Start at your feet brushing vigorously in a circular motion, then work in long sweeping motions up the legs, torso, back, arms and hands moving towards heart, then brushing down toward the heart when brushing the neck. Before your shower, tap the dead skin cells off the brush into the trash, and when you get out of the shower, be sure to moisturize with a natural plant-based oil such as coconut, cocoa butter, jojoba, almond, etc. Wash your brush once a week with hot soapy water, then dry completely in a sunny or well-ventilated area. Always store your brush in a dry area so it won't get mildew-y. Care to learn more about dry brushing? Here are a couple links to check out... Dry Brushing: Benefits and Techniques The Benefits of Dry Body Brushing

May Newsletter 2015

While walking at Lake Maria, I recently spotted a blue heron. He saw me first, of course and I just caught a glimpse of him out of the corner of my eye as he flew off. There was a light drizzle and I was happy that I had brought rain gear with me. I was warm and dry. 
At lunch with my ancient mother I listened to her count the many blessing she's experienced over her 80+ years. She continues to inspire me with her gardening activities. When I asked what she wanted for her birthday she requested a trip to the gardening store as she had run out of potting soil for her newly transplanted hibiscus plants. She has been receiving weekly 30 minute massages after many years of not allowing herself anything as self-indulgent as massage. She noticed she was experiencing discomfort after sitting on the floor while working on a project. She realized it was more difficult to stand up. Please follow her example: live long, plant beautiful flowers and get bodywork on a regular schedule.