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5/20/2021 1 Comment Why your posture mattersLet's have an honest discussion right now. How are you reading this? Are you hunched over your desk? Slouching on the couch with your neck bent down over the phone? Laying in bed reading this upwards and poking out your chin? If you answered yes to any of these questions keep reading, because you aren't doing your body any favors. TL/DR- Stand up straight, stop slouching, incorporate movement into your day, don't overload your purse or backpack, and see the professionals (that would be me, haha) to get a massage. I see it time and time again in my practice. My lovely guest is filling out their intake form and we get to the question "what would you like to work on today?". 9 times out of 10 what goes down on the form is T&S, which is my own abbreviated shorthand for "traps and scaps" or your trapezius and muscles of the scapula. Why are so many of us carrying so much tension here? One answer is stress and while that can be a BIG component, it's also about your posture (which can also be affected by stress, but that's a whole different post). In today's fast moving world, we are constantly on the go, multi tasking, and more often than not using our digital devices. All of these lead to some major postural issues. Let's look at something called "tech neck" which is when we lean over to compensate looking down at our phones or computers. For every inch you tilt forward, the amount of pressure on your spine DOUBLES. Yes, you heard that right, doubles. Then we have our slouchers. When you slouch on your couch (I feel a little like Dr Suess here), you put unnecessary strain on the discs in your lower back. You won't feel it instantly, but over time this creates wear and tear, as well as exacerbates in underlying postural conditions you may already have. We also have a big problem of carrying overloaded backpacks, purses and bags and creating even more strain. There is even a term for it now- handbag syndrome. So how do we fix this, and not only alleviate back pain, but prevent future injury as well? -The first is pretty obvious. Fix your posture. Stop the slouch, strengthen the core, hold your head up high. You know the drill, when your mama said sit up straight, that's what she meant. -The second is to add some gentle stretches and various movements into your day. Humans weren't made to sit still in a cubicle or at a desk all day. Take short breaks and do some chair yoga, take a walk around your building, touch your toes or do some sun salutations, calf stretches or raises while waiting in line, you get the idea. Find the time to do these "micro movements" through the day. They add up. -If you carry a purse or backpack make sure you aren't overloading it. It should never be more than 10% of your weight (and let's be real....I'm a mom and our purses/bags/Mary Poppins trunks can easily be much more). -Finally, and you knew I was going to say this one.....get a massage! Yes, it feels amazing, but more than that we are trained to relieve tension and knots, and release the fascia....which leads to....you guessed it, better posture. When you let your body relax, and release those points of pressure, you automatically are able to carry and align your body better. Not only that, we know our stuff(if I do say so myself), so don't be surprised when we give you "homework". Yep, we can help you find self care stretches and ways to alleviate the tension in between visits. If you are ready to come in, CLICK HERE, and it will take you directly to our online booking site. So...stand up straight, move a little more, and contact us today to book a treatment. References- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25393825/ https://www.healthline.com/health/lower-back-pain-when-sitting#causes https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5441201/ https://www.google.com/amp/s/time.com/5053206/heavy-purse-health-risks/%3famp=true
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10 things about massage that no one talks about, but should!
10- EVERYTHING is connected. If your lower back hurts, I'll probably tackle your glutes in addition to your low back. If your hand or wrist hurts, we would work your arm and shoulders too, etc. Pain can originate from different areas of the body and not just where you are feeling it. That's why when you come into our spa we go over a wellness plan and massage that's customized to YOUR needs. 9- Speaking of customizing your massage- You can 100% ask for extra work on certain areas, or not have any treatment on others. Want extra back work? Feel like you would rather focus on feet? Don't want your legs worked on? All of these, and more, are completely adaptable to your treatment plan during your time. As therapists our goal is to make you comfortable, relaxed and feeling better than when you came in, so don't be shy, speak up and let us know! 8- We really don't care if... You haven't shaved, you come in wearing sweats, you have scars, your body isn't perfect (hint- NO ONE'S is!), or anything else you think is wrong. You are perfect just the way you are, and as a therapist we honestly have seen everything. Our only goal is to have you feel better walking out than you did walking in. 7- Deep pressure isn't about making you feel pain! You shouldn't feel battered and bruised after a session. Deep pressure is just about what technique you use and how you apply it. The goal is wellness, and reaching that goal shouldn't involve pain. See the article below for more info. https://www.abmp.com/textonlymags/article.php?article=588 6- You can talk during a treatment or.... You can stay completely silent, you can even snooze! Totally your preference and as your therapist I'll go with whatever flow you set. You can even ask for certain music to be played, remember, it's YOUR massage, and YOUR time, and we are here to help you relax. 5. Prenatal massage is safe in all trimesters! It is a relaxing way to help moms to be and a proven safe treatment. Check out the studies and info. below. You can also check out my Facebook page HERE and see my reviews. Prenatal massages are one of my favorite massages to give! https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/massage-and-pregnancy-a-powerful-combination/ 4- Massage can change your mood. In clinical studies, massage has been found to help anxiety and depression. We really do ease stress, and guide you into wellness! https://www.amtamassage.org/publications/massage-therapy-journal/enhance-mental-health/ 3- It also helps you sleep! https://www.sleepreviewmag.com/sleep-health/prevailing-attitudes/massage-therapy-sleep/ 2- Massage is for all ages! We just have to adapt the routine to fit. Yes, babies, children, teenagers, adults, and elderly can all benefit from massage therapy. 1- Massage is one of the oldest forms of healthcare dating back to 3000 BC! https://www.naturalhealers.com/blog/history/ Interested in booking your own wellness package? Send us a message, or book your own getaway HERE , we would love to hear from you! 5/2/2021 0 Comments Weekend News RoundupHappy May everyone! We are so excited at all this beautiful new month has to offer at our spa! Starting this month, we will be transitioning our springtime dandelion detox treatment, into a summertime rose oil treatment. The same amazing exfoliation , thermal wrap, and relaxation massage, but with a hand infused rose and coconut oil replacing our dandelion oil. We also have several new services we will be offering, and can't wait for you to try them! We are expanding our line of complementary services, and in addition to offering aromatherapy, and hot towels during your massage, we will also have soothing eye pillows for our guests to help you relax even more. In the the shop, we will have new teas, oils, and yes eye pillows, available for purchase as well. Finally, we are giving all of our guests the opportunity to upgrade their massage with a hibiscus infused sugar foot scrub. An easy, relaxing way to treat yourself even further during your spa time! So now, how about what's new in the massage, and health world? The fun, the weird and the interesting... Tips on how to get a better nights sleep Dealing with foot pain? These products may help. Kinetic chain patterns, and why we treat the whole body. What are the chakras, and how to apply to Reiki? Add some spice to your life! New Journal Studies- Acupressure and reflexology reduce anxiety in hospitalized patients being treated for heart disease. Social Media Notes Have you seen our newest FREEBIE this week???? It's the last week of our Freebie Blitz so don't miss out! Dandelions are awesome. Yes, yes I do. Yoga for sciatic pain. 4/24/2021 0 Comments Weekend News RoundupThe fun, the weird, and the interesting
Don't make this mistake in yoga. Are you a side sleeper? Here are the best doctor recommended pillows. Massage therapy can reduce sick days. A quick look at what Thai massage is. (Hint- We offer it at Green Barn Therapies!) New Journal Studies- Yoga supports healthy aging and sleep quality. Social Media Notes Have you seen that we are open for special hours on Mother's Day? Don't forget to recharge yourself as often as your phone. We are beings of light and energy. 4/17/2021 0 Comments Weekend News RoundupTrying something a little different. Each weekend check back here for new information related to massage, health, and things going on in the world. I'll try to bring a little bit of everything. Let's get started! The fun, the weird and the interesting- Massage isn't just for humans, it's also for.....plants? Pay attention to your pain, it's your body's internal alarm system! Massage away your pain using different modalities. Pollen in South LA is awful this time of year but here are some ways to find relief. Babies need massage too! New Journal Studies- Fascial manipulation can improve ankle flexibility and stability. Social Media Notes- Have you seen this week's FREEBIE? Check out City Girl's Farm micro-greens (hint- we have some big news coming soon!) The power of touch Namaste Let's be real happy, not fake happy. Question of the week- Chamomile or lavender, which is your favorite for relaxation? We are so excited to announce that later this month we will be moving to our new location!
From the start of opening my spa I have dreamed of an alternative and holistic approach, where clients can come to relax and find wellness and healing for the mind, body, and soul. Our new location allows me the freedom to provide these luxuries and new treatments to my wonderful guests. Along with all of the massage and spa treatments currently offered we will also be able to add in a wet spa room and feature body scrubs, and full body masks. We also have more room for meditation and yoga retreats, as well as ladies nights. This is such an exciting process and I am so grateful to my wonderful clients for being there and supporting me every step of the way! As a special thank you, we are doing a FREEBIE BLITZ with a giveaway every week from now until May! Follow our Facebook page HERE to enter to win! We can't wait to see you at our new location! Stay tuned because we have all sorts of amazing things coming your way! 2/1/2021 0 Comments Happy February!Another beautiful month to celebrate at the spa! At Green Barn Therapies we are going ALL OUT for Valentine's Day and have so many fun events planned! First, we are offering couples night for a limited time, and with select dates available. During this 2 hour class, you and your partner will not only receive a massage, but also learn the techniques that professional therapists use to take home! It truly is the gift that keeps giving. On Saturday the 13th we are having our monthly ladies night out, but with a twist. Our Anti-Valentine's Day Stupid Cupid party is just the fun you need! Bring your girlfriends and come have some fun while enjoying no "cock"tails, games, an hour long massage, and a calorie free chocolate facial. Every lady goes home with a fun filled gift bag, so don't forget to schedule your spot today. In our salon, we are welcoming our new stylist Lori. We are so happy, and truly lucky to have her, because Lori is not "just" a stylist, she is a bona fide beauty guru. Come see her not just for hair, but for makeup, waxing, and facials as well. You can check out all of her services here- Stylist Lori We have so many things coming this month and can't wait to share them with you, but we don't want to spoil all the surprises just yet! Now for the fun stuff! Have you seen the latest edition of Body Sense magazine? It's free to all of our clients and guests and jam packed with all sorts of fun, and educational information. This month even features a delicious, AND healthy snicker-doodle dessert hummus....so decadent! You can read all about it here- Be sure to check out the articles on exfoliation as well! At Green Barn Therapies we have a specialized massage that is PERFECT for renewing your skin! We use a locally sourced, organically grown loofah (that you keep and take home) for a dry brush technique, followed by a nourishing heated oil wrap, and hour long massage. To say that it is blissful is an understatement. It truly helps with dry winter skin and leaves you feeling soft and pampered all over. We can't wait to see you this month at our spa and salon. If you have any questions feel free to email us at greenbarmmassage@gmail.com or give us a call at 504-784-3515. 12/28/2020 0 Comments New Year and New things!Happy New Year from Green Barn Therapies!
We are so excited to start out our New Year with you, and announce some of our new packages, and what's happening at our spa and wellness clinic this month! This January we are releasing our all new Winter Blues Buster Treatment package. An hour long blissful massage with peppermint infused creme, hot towel face massage to relax, soothe , and help with winter sinus pressure, and hot towel reflexology treatment. Pure bliss, and the perfect way to combat the winter doldrums. Want to know more? Check out this study showing how peppermint can be used for sinusitis. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/peppermint From the article- "Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is the first essential oil that comes to mind for sinusitis. It is the essential oil the U.S. Navy used to test gas masks and if anything can penetrate a mucus-blocked sinus, peppermint will! " From another study - "The essential oil group was consistently more improved with three of the five members completely clear of congestion, and two nearly free." If you face winter congestion and sinus pressure, as most of us do, let us help and book your Winter Blues Buster package today! CLICK HERE TO BOOK NOW! If you want to try an easy treatment at home for sinus and respiratory relief you can make a simple thyme tea. Not only are there chemical compounds in this amazing herb that her fight congestion in the respiratory system, but it keeps you hydrated as well (so important when we start turning on those heaters!) https://www.prevention.com/health/a20466914/thyme-relieves-cold-symptoms/ Thyme tea recipe- Steep fresh thyme 5-15 minutes, sweeten with honey to taste. We are also excited to announce that we now offer cupping therapy at the spa! What is cupping? https://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/cupping-therapy#1 Here are some more great links from our Facebook page that list journal studies and how cupping can improve YOUR well being and mobility. https://www.facebook.com/GreenBarnMassage/ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR CUPPING TREATMENT In our salon, we are excited to announce that we are expanding and will soon have more stylists and more services available to offer you. We have BIG news coming with this, and can't wait to share more! Our Stylist Lindsey has been working hard through the holidays making our clients beautiful. We call her our blondeing expert because she has made legit magic happen! Check out the salon page to see some beauties who went from blah to blonde this holiday season! https://www.facebook.com/The-Salon-at-Green-Barn-Therapies-103293031620378/ She doesn't stop there though, when you come in for a deluxe pedi, you get THE WORKS! Trust me when I say after one of her hot stone treatments, you will be on cloud 9! We hope to see you this month at Green Barn Therapies to relax and pamper you. From all of us at the spa, Happy New Year, may it be full of love and light and joy! 12/4/2020 0 Comments December 04th, 2020Exciting things are happening at Green Barn Therapies and we can't wait to share them with you!
First up- Our clients will have an added luxury service available with the hydrobed up and rolling in January. This aquabed has soothing pulses of water pressure to help you relax into bliss and is perfect for a quick little getaway or as a massage or salon add on! Next - You asked, we delivered and tanning services will be up and rolling in January! Don't let the winter doldrums get the best of you! And let's not forget, January 2021 will welcome a new addition to our spa with The Invocation Room, your one stop shop for holistic and alternative items like crystals, candles, herbs and more. Here is a sneak peek of some other things that are being detailed out- -Reiki training classes -Spa memberships - Cupping therapies -More vendor events and pop up opportunities -Couples massage -Pamper parties -Photography packages -Ladies Night And so much more! To better serve our clients we will also be implementing a new system to pre pay. This helps our clients get the money bit over with so all you have to worry about is showing up and relaxing. It also helps us AND our clients so that there is less of a chance of no shows and makes sure our business runs efficiently and that clients who need to come in have every opportunity to do so We can't wait to see you! Cheers to the new year! 11/17/2020 1 Comment Gua Sha TherapiesWhat the heck is gua sha????
Pronounced Gwa- Sha, we can break the word itself down into its 2 parts. Gua- meaning to scrape and Sha- pertaining to the redness that arises from it. Ok, so now we know what it means, but what exactly is it??? In Traditional Chinese Medicine, and other Eastern modalities, gua sha is used to break up fascia, release stagnant energy (qi), and increase circulation. Some people even call this "coin, quarter, or spoon" massage because of the tools used. Similar to cupping, studies have shown that it can boost immune system response- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5028785/ Reduce pain- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2827462/ And aid in sports recovery- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254627217300262 Some commonly asked questions are- **Does it hurt? -Pain is based on each individual's perception. If you do not like deep tissue massage, this treatment may not be something you enjoy. That being said, when I have received gua sha treatment, I find it very soothing and relaxing. **How long does the redness last? - It can last anywhere from a few hours, to several days, depending on the depth of treatment, and your bodies individual response. **How often should I receive a gua sha treatment? - We recommend once a week for maintenance, but each person is different. At Green Barn Therapies, we use Reiki charged polished, stones and gua sha tools to help break up fascia, release tension, and reduce pain. We would love to help you on your healing journey, email DM, or text, to book and appointment or consultation. |
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