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.

November Newsletter 2014

When the weather changes, as it has now, it is common for the change to resonate through our bodies. These seasonal shifts are an ideal time to schedule a bodywork session. The lymph system is flushed, and the soft tissues are warmed and stretched. Restricted areas which have become denser with warmer weather activities are released and range of motion increased.

During a mid October break from camping I watched the red maple in my backyard slowly change colors and drop it’s leaves. Mixed with the yellow leaves of my birch it was a dazzling display of those colors and their variations. I walked the trails at Lake Maria. Deeply covered with oak leaves it seemed wise to slow my usual brisker pace to avoid tripping on the hidden tree roots and uneven surface of the path.

I realized that I am looking forward to trying my snow shoes, but for that activity snow is necessary: not just a little snow but some serious amounts. It is the first year in many winters that I feel happy about the prospect of winter. This is another opportunity for me to move out of my comfort zone.

November brings two opportunities to celebrate “date night” with a massage for couples class. What a great idea for the dark nights ahead of us! For registration details check below. Although this is not a substitute for professional massage it is an effect means to de-stress and support your partner’s health. Being comfortable in your body is important to being present to the people around you: family, friends, co-workers, everyone who crosses your path.

As always, care for your body gently, lovingly, gratefully. As if one day it will be gone...

Young Living Essential Oils Available For Purchase

 Thank you for your interest in exploring the realm of therapeutic grade essential oils! Below is the alphabetically organized list of unopened bottles of Young Living essential oils and oil blends I have available for purchase. You will find a brief description of each oil, as well as a link to the Young Living website where you will find more detail on the product and market price. If you are interested in purchasing directly from me, feel free to email (muellerbodywork@gmail.com), call or text me (612-205-4453), or inquire at your next appointment. Let the healing begin!

Clove (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Hot and spicy aroma that promotes healing and assists memory. Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, antiparasitic, anti-aging, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-tumoral, anticoagulant, immune stimulant anticonvulsant, disinfectant, stomach protectant (ulcers) and warming.

Copaiba (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, stimulant (circulatory and pulmonary systems), also enhances effects of other oils; its sweet, balsamic aroma is mentally uplifting and relaxing.

 
Frankincense (0.5 fl. oz.)

          Anti-catarrhal, anti-depressant, anti-infectious, anti-tumoral, antiseptic, expectorant, immune-stimulant, muscle relaxant and sedative. Its scent is uplifting and centering, with a sweet, balsamic and warm aroma with incense-like overtones.

Lemon (0.17 fl oz)

            Antitumoral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, astringent, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulant, diuretic, digestive, expectorant, and calming. Uplifting to body and mind, and improves concentration.

Lime (0.5 fl. oz.)

           Antibacterial, antiviral, antirheumatic, restorative and tonic. Aromatic qualities are very uplifting to the body and mind, also very light and improves concentration. Also helps to relieve irritation, worry and stress that creates unhappiness and anxiety.

Melaleuca ericifolia (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Gentle, calming and nonirritating to skin, alternative to tea tree oil for anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties with softer, earthier aroma.

Myrrh (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Uplifting warm and woody aroma. Oil is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumoral, analgesic, anti-infectious, antiviral, anti-parasitic, antiseptic, astringent and tonic. Used for spiritual and religious purposes for over 5,000 years it encourages us to let go of fear, depression, anxiety and trauma, and trust and accept others and ourselves.

Orange (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Fresh, citrus aroma that uplifts mind and body. Antitumoral, antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, digestive, circulatory stimulant, sedative and tonic. Also eases anxiety and calms the spirit.

Peppermint (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Strong, clean, fresh and minty aroma, soothes digestion, promotes mental clarity, alertness and concentration, relieves headaches, boosts energy, supports liver and respiratory system.

Purification (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Blend of Citronella, Lemongrass, Lavandin, Rosemary, Melaleuca alternifolia and Myrtle essential oils. Purifies air and neutralizes odors, can be used as bug repellent, relieves bug bites and stings, sterilizes cuts and wounds, and freshens laundry.

Rosemary (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Strong aromatic smell of herbs and wood, keeps mind alert and focused. Also antitumoral, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, liver protecting, cardiotonic, digestive, detoxicant.

Rosewood (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Anti-bacterial, anti-infectious, antiviral, antifungal, stimulant and anti-parasitic. Sweet, woody aroma that is relaxing and grounding, also good for skin conditions such as acne, blemishes, eczema, psoriasis, and wrinkles.

Sacred Mountain (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Blend of Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood, Balsam Fir, and Spruce essential oils. Calming and grounding aroma that promotes protection and empowerment. Spiritually uplifting, energetically recharging, also relieves stress, trauma, grief and sorrow, and tension headaches among other emotional and physical ailments.

Thieves (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Blend contains clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils. Purifying and cleansing, uplifting and energizing, anti-infection and antibacterial.

 

Valor (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Blend of Rosewood, Spruce, Frankincense, and Blue Tansy essential oils. Aligns our physical, mental and emotional bodies electrically in the body, promotes courage, and is calming and balancing. Works to relieve back pain and scoliosis, is also beneficial for those with ADD, anxiety and stress, insomnia and depression.

Western Red Cedar (0.17 fl. oz.)

            Antibacterial and antiseptic, nourishing to skin hair, strong spicy and woody scent that promotes meditation and grounding.

  

White Angelica (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Blend of Bergamot, Geranium, Myrrh, Sandalwood, Rosewood, Ylang Ylang, Spruce, Hyssop, Melissa and Rose in a base of almond oil. Soothing and calming, offers spiritual protection and security against negative energies, strengthens aura and promotes energetic balance and healing. Works well when applied on top of shoulders.

Ylang Ylang (0.5 fl. oz.)

            Sweet and floral aroma that is calming and relaxing. Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiseptic, anti-depressant, vasodilating, regulates heartbeat, anti-diabetic, tonic and sedative. Releases negative emotions and promotes positive feelings of self-love and spiritual awareness, also balances male and female energies for achieving harmony.

Bodywork For Cyclists

In addition to regular stretching before and after rides, as well as conditioning the core, leg, and glute muscle groups, massage is key for preventing cycling injuries and reducing soreness and inflammation. Typical injuries include pressure on knees if the body is not aligned correctly or saddle position is not correctly adjusted, stiff and forward-bent neck from holding the head forward for long periods of time, tight or sore wrists, and strain on quadriceps, abductors, gluteals, hamstrings, and lower back muscles. Not to mention any injuries or broken bones that occur from falls or crashes. Massages are recommended shortly after a long ride, a few days before a long ride, or between rides for maintenance.

To read more, check out this article on massage for cyclists and cycling injuries:
http://www.anewyoumassage.net/sports-massage.html

Doula Services Available

As a certified doula, my services integrate craniosacral therapy, acupressure, aromatherapy, soft tissue techniques, and positioning suggestions. Prenatal bodywork helps to ease pregnancy complications such as sciatica and lower back pain, hormone-related migraines and tension headaches, nausea, morning sickness, fatigue, and emotional concerns. As the due date approaches, acupressure at 39-41 weeks will encourage correct positioning of the baby’s head, as well as induce and enhance the efficacy of uterine contractions. Postpartum bodywork will reduce fluid retention, ease anxiety and depression, promote more restful sleep, accelerate recovery, and improve lactation.

$800 will cover two one-hour prenatal sessions, one postpartum session, and in-hospital services during labor. To inquire about doula services, please text or call me (612-205-4453) or email me at muellerbodywork@gmail.com.