Health Benefits of Peppermint Therapeutic Grade Essential Oil

The benefits of peppermint are many, but the most common reason I offer it to my massage clients is that it relieves muscle soreness at the same time as it reduces inflammation. I frequently see people who have an acute condition, but more often I find overuse of a particular muscle group is the cause of restriction and discomfort. I usually apply 4 to 6 drops along the spine, lightly effleurage the oil with my fingertips and then cover with coconut or apricot kernel oil. Peppermint oil will continue to relax muscles, even after leaving my treatment room for as long as you leave it on your skin. You can further reactivate the effects by applying heat to the area. If you have only one essential oil at home, make it peppermint.

Canine therapy

Early this morning (4/1/2020) my dog Sophie died at the U of M small animal emergency room. We had 7 lovely years of camping on the North Shore, hiking the SHT, walking around Lake Harriet and Pike Island, and relaxing in the sun. Some of you may have gotten to know her as she worked the reception area to greet people before sessions. Some of you allowed her to be present during bodywork sessions. She was patient, kind and fiercely protective. She loved to dance and do tricks for treats. I am so grateful that I had her in my life and had a chance to hold her and tell her how much she meant to me as she died. She was such a generous creature and I hope someday I will be her equal. 
Research suggests that through caring for and interacting with a dog, there can be many benefits, including: 
Decreased stress 
Increased physical activity and healthy play 
Relief from anxiety and depression 
Increased focus and attention through experiential learning 
Improved communication and social skills 
Learning appropriate ways to treat self and others 
Unconditional love, affection, nurturing and empathy 
Increased self-esteem and feelings of empowerment 
Reduced blood pressure 
Elevated mood 
Raised levels of oxytocin 
Reduced loneliness and bigger sense of purpose 
Setting and respecting boundaries 
Motivation to stay in treatment and participate fully in therapy

Dear Kingfield and Blooma Clients,

April brings us closer to the end of our government mandated "shelter-in-place" and provides an opportunity for me to catch up on some writing projects that have neglected. Check out my posts here and here when you have a moment. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have enjoyed writing them.
Ian't it a blessing that outdoor opportunities for practicing mindfulness, standing, sitting or walking in stillness is increasing with the warmer weather? Five most important benefits of a mindfulness practice are: decreases the risks or symptoms of heart disease, decreases cognitive decline from aging or Alzheimer’s, reduces cell aging, reduces psychological pain and, most importantly at this period in time, improves your immune response.
Supporting the immune and lymph systems as the risk of contracting covid-19 continues to be a concern for most of us. Research shows that bodywork and massage make a difference. However your options are limited until May 2nd. You can book your next appointment now by scheduling online: schedulicity.com or blooma.com or text me at 612 205-4453. Looking forward to seeing you in May.