Yesterday I went to my local coffee and bagel shop and treated myself to a little something just for me. It's been a rough few weeks as my father passed away not long ago. My emotions have been surprisingly unpredictable. I find myself crying over magazine articles, unsure what struck me so deeply. I guess this is normal, just unfamiliar territory in which I am treading.
One outspoken employee was complaining to another, quite loudly, how much her heel was hurting her. She commented over and over again how annoying it was, and how she was trying to avoid putting pressure on it while she was going about her work. I had to stifle a laugh as an annoyed co-worker chimed in to say her brain hurt.
As I was the only customer standing in front of them, they then turned to me to ask if I wanted in on the conversation. I am certain they were expecting some short clip about a paper cut or bug bite. What jumped off my lips was more real. "My heart hurts," I simply said. Being caught of guard, they simply stared at me. I could almost hear one of them thinking, "The employee handbook doesn't say what to do in this situation." After a quick detailless explanation, I thanked them for my purchase and left.
My heart hurts. Yes, that is what ails me right now. I am not afraid to be honest, even with strangers. I think we'd all be more compassionate if we kept in mind that those around us may have hurts we know nothing about. Yes, some are physical - an aching heal or a pulled muscle. But many of the aches out there cannot be fixed with ice and stretching. Hurt is all around us. It is a part of life. Pay attention to it. And once in a while, treat yourself to a little something simply because it will make you smile.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Sound of Silence
I have a very loud life. No, I don't constantly listen to music or leave a television on for hours on end. I don't even live on a busy road. What I do have is three young children, two of them being of the male variety. Now, I grew up in a household with three girls. I am proud to be an introvert. I was not prepared for the leap into auditory chaos that raising my kids would force on me. It took me a few years to understand the great need I had for silence in my life.
So, now what? I can't exactly build a sound proof room and enjoy bliss as they fend for themselves, can I? Well, I can dream. What I can do is be purposeful about meeting this need on a regular basis. Every day I set aside at least an hour for "quiet time". My younger ones nap and my oldest plays quietly on his own in another room. It doesn't always work as I hoped, but for the most part it is enough to recharge me.
I don't believe "quiet time" is something only children and parents of young kids need. Each of us needs time to recharge away from the noise of others and electronics. Part of having less stress in life is taking time to process all the things that are being thrown at you, allowing yourself permission to just be who you are. If you are uncomfortable with silence, consider exploring why it bothers you so much. Don't reach for a remote or a keyboard - relax and breathe deeply. Pray, daydream, or look out a window to appreciate the beauty of nature.
As for me, I might do some stretching, pray, or daydream about that soundproof room. Consider joining me in the quietest revolution ever.
Here's to a calming day,
Debbie
So, now what? I can't exactly build a sound proof room and enjoy bliss as they fend for themselves, can I? Well, I can dream. What I can do is be purposeful about meeting this need on a regular basis. Every day I set aside at least an hour for "quiet time". My younger ones nap and my oldest plays quietly on his own in another room. It doesn't always work as I hoped, but for the most part it is enough to recharge me.
I don't believe "quiet time" is something only children and parents of young kids need. Each of us needs time to recharge away from the noise of others and electronics. Part of having less stress in life is taking time to process all the things that are being thrown at you, allowing yourself permission to just be who you are. If you are uncomfortable with silence, consider exploring why it bothers you so much. Don't reach for a remote or a keyboard - relax and breathe deeply. Pray, daydream, or look out a window to appreciate the beauty of nature.
As for me, I might do some stretching, pray, or daydream about that soundproof room. Consider joining me in the quietest revolution ever.
Here's to a calming day,
Debbie
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
A Grateful Heart
For the last few months I have been keeping a journal of people, events, and things that I am thankful for. If you have never tried it, I suggest you keep an open mind. Now, I wouldn't necessarily call myself a negative person. I will admit that when the winter gets long and I get less exercise and fresh air than I should, I tend to get cranky. All those who understand, raise your hand. What I found in the past was that I focused too much on what I wanted in the future or what I did not have, than on what I was thankful for. So began my little mood boosting experiment.
Not so surprising, my positive focus lingered during the days when I wrote in my journal. My day, as well as the day for my family members, improved in quality. I felt happier and cared less about what individuals around me thought of me. And because I was less tense, not clenching my jaw or tightening my neck muscles in frustration, I had fewer headaches.
Pain, in any form, is not fun. If writing down and thinking joyful, thankful thoughts helps me have more pain-free days, I better stock up on journals. I invite you to do the same.
Debbie
Not so surprising, my positive focus lingered during the days when I wrote in my journal. My day, as well as the day for my family members, improved in quality. I felt happier and cared less about what individuals around me thought of me. And because I was less tense, not clenching my jaw or tightening my neck muscles in frustration, I had fewer headaches.
Pain, in any form, is not fun. If writing down and thinking joyful, thankful thoughts helps me have more pain-free days, I better stock up on journals. I invite you to do the same.
Debbie
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Pulled a Muscle - Now What?
Here are a few simple things you can do at home to alleviate
the pain of a pulled muscle.
Within the first 48 hours, apply an ice pack to the sore area.
This will counteract the inflammation of the muscle.
Take ibuprofen to help the pain and the swelling subside.
You can do this for several days if needed.
Apply a cream to the area such as Icy Hot.
After two days, apply heat the the affected area.
Put a damp washcloth around a heating pad or take a warm bath.
Moist heat will help loosen up the area that is tight.
If you choose to receive a massage while you are still
quite sore, be sure to speak up about the location and level
of the pain you are experiencing.
Seems simple enough, but try to go easy on the area that is sore.
Ask for help when you need it. Get plenty of sleep at night.
Your body needs a break so it can focus on healing.
the pain of a pulled muscle.
Within the first 48 hours, apply an ice pack to the sore area.
This will counteract the inflammation of the muscle.
Take ibuprofen to help the pain and the swelling subside.
You can do this for several days if needed.
Apply a cream to the area such as Icy Hot.
After two days, apply heat the the affected area.
Put a damp washcloth around a heating pad or take a warm bath.
Moist heat will help loosen up the area that is tight.
If you choose to receive a massage while you are still
quite sore, be sure to speak up about the location and level
of the pain you are experiencing.
Seems simple enough, but try to go easy on the area that is sore.
Ask for help when you need it. Get plenty of sleep at night.
Your body needs a break so it can focus on healing.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
General Chair Massage Information
Where does the massage take place?
I will travel within a 25 mile radius of Cutlerville, MI to bring my massage chair to your home, and assist you to relax in familiar surroundings. I will consider longer distances on a case by case basis.
Do I need to undress?
The massage does not require you to remove any clothing. I recommend wearing a t-shirt or similar type of thin shirt.
What areas will you work on?
The massage will focus on the areas of your choice: head, neck, shoulders, back, arms, and/or hands. I will tailor each session to your specific needs.
How much will the massage cost?
Initial 30 minute session $10
30 minute chair massage $25
45 minute session $35
Can you give massages to groups of people?
Yes, I am happy to come to a special event to help several individuals relax. The cost for each hour of massage is $50. This can be broken up between individuals however you desire.
If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email or give me a call.
Debra
I will travel within a 25 mile radius of Cutlerville, MI to bring my massage chair to your home, and assist you to relax in familiar surroundings. I will consider longer distances on a case by case basis.
Do I need to undress?
The massage does not require you to remove any clothing. I recommend wearing a t-shirt or similar type of thin shirt.
What areas will you work on?
The massage will focus on the areas of your choice: head, neck, shoulders, back, arms, and/or hands. I will tailor each session to your specific needs.
How much will the massage cost?
Initial 30 minute session $10
30 minute chair massage $25
45 minute session $35
Can you give massages to groups of people?
Yes, I am happy to come to a special event to help several individuals relax. The cost for each hour of massage is $50. This can be broken up between individuals however you desire.
If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email or give me a call.
Debra
I Know a Young Lady Whose Head was Pounding
To the tune of "I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly"
I know a young lady whose head was pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who swallowed some meds
Like her doctor said, she swallowed some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who massaged her temples
Had seen the example of massaging the temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who lay down for a nap
Her energy was sapped, she lay down for a nap
She lay down for a nap after massaging her temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who gave me a call
Can you help me at all, she gave me a call
She gave me a call after she lay down for a nap
She lay down for a nap after massaging her temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, it ceased to be pounding
She no longer cries
I know a young lady whose head was pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who swallowed some meds
Like her doctor said, she swallowed some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who massaged her temples
Had seen the example of massaging the temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who lay down for a nap
Her energy was sapped, she lay down for a nap
She lay down for a nap after massaging her temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, yet again it was pounding
Perhaps she'll cry
I know a young lady who gave me a call
Can you help me at all, she gave me a call
She gave me a call after she lay down for a nap
She lay down for a nap after massaging her temples
She massaged her temples after swallowing some meds
She swallowed some meds to cease the pounding
Seems so astounding, it ceased to be pounding
She no longer cries
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Water, the Sweet Magic Liquid
We've all heard that it is good for us to drink lots of water. We have the best of intentions, but often fall back into our old habits of a sip or two here and there. Why is water so good for us? What does it really do? Is all liquid created equal?
First, water acts as a lubricant between the layers of tissue that you have. When your water level is low, these layers will rub against each other, causing unnecessary strain. Over time, your muscles stiffen which can interfere with how flexible you are.
Second, water helps flush away the toxins that are in your body. Waste products attach themselves to the hydrogen molecules and are removed by your urinary system. As my swim coach used to say, "Drink, drink, and drink some more, until it comes out clear on the other end." A good goal is to consume roughly six to eight glasses each day.
Third, water can help you burn more calories, particularly cold water. Your body burns calories by heating up cold water to body temperature. Drink a tall cold glass first thing in the morning, as well as one a few hours after each meal. You will not only eat less, but you will be burning roughly 80 extra calories each day with very little effort on your part.
The purer the water you drink, the more toxins can be removed from your body. Other liquids may help some, but only water can give you all of these benefits, without any extra calories.
I hear the ice cubes calling my name now. Bottoms up!
Debra
First, water acts as a lubricant between the layers of tissue that you have. When your water level is low, these layers will rub against each other, causing unnecessary strain. Over time, your muscles stiffen which can interfere with how flexible you are.
Second, water helps flush away the toxins that are in your body. Waste products attach themselves to the hydrogen molecules and are removed by your urinary system. As my swim coach used to say, "Drink, drink, and drink some more, until it comes out clear on the other end." A good goal is to consume roughly six to eight glasses each day.
Third, water can help you burn more calories, particularly cold water. Your body burns calories by heating up cold water to body temperature. Drink a tall cold glass first thing in the morning, as well as one a few hours after each meal. You will not only eat less, but you will be burning roughly 80 extra calories each day with very little effort on your part.
The purer the water you drink, the more toxins can be removed from your body. Other liquids may help some, but only water can give you all of these benefits, without any extra calories.
I hear the ice cubes calling my name now. Bottoms up!
Debra
Take This One Sitting Down
Okay, quick posture check. Freeze right where you are. Notice what position your shoulders, neck, and head are in. Chances are, if you have been sitting in this way for over a few minutes, you are putting yourself at a great risk for muscle strain. When you tighten muscles for an extended time, the other muscles around them need to overcompensate for the unnatural angle you are forcing upon them. Thus, the whole area becomes sore.
If your shoulders are up by your ears, relax them. Pull them back to stretch and loosen them a bit. Do a few shoulder rolls. If you hear cracking at this point, you know it's been too long since you have done this. Try to find your own "neutral" position for your shoulders, the place where they rest naturally and no muscles have undue strain. Yes, this takes effort, and requires you to check in with your shoulders every now and then. Your back will thank you for this.
Your neck and head have a neutral position as well. When you are sitting or standing, your ears should be over your shoulders and your chin should be level. If your computer screen is too high or too low, your neck muscles will let you know. As a general rule, your eyes should be at the middle of the computer screen. Every so often take a break, tilt your head to each side, as well as up and down.
Being mindful of how you carry yourself is a gift you can give your body. Practice good posture and stretch, and I guarantee your muscles will rejoice, rewarding you with less pain filled hours than you have previously experienced.
Happy, relaxed surfing!
Debra
If your shoulders are up by your ears, relax them. Pull them back to stretch and loosen them a bit. Do a few shoulder rolls. If you hear cracking at this point, you know it's been too long since you have done this. Try to find your own "neutral" position for your shoulders, the place where they rest naturally and no muscles have undue strain. Yes, this takes effort, and requires you to check in with your shoulders every now and then. Your back will thank you for this.
Your neck and head have a neutral position as well. When you are sitting or standing, your ears should be over your shoulders and your chin should be level. If your computer screen is too high or too low, your neck muscles will let you know. As a general rule, your eyes should be at the middle of the computer screen. Every so often take a break, tilt your head to each side, as well as up and down.
Being mindful of how you carry yourself is a gift you can give your body. Practice good posture and stretch, and I guarantee your muscles will rejoice, rewarding you with less pain filled hours than you have previously experienced.
Happy, relaxed surfing!
Debra
Monday, February 14, 2011
Small Investments for Long Term Relief
Harriet Carter Cervical Gel Collar(www.harrietcarter.com)
Can be used hot or cold
Velcro strap so it stays put
Very soothing
Memory Foam Pillow
I purchased mine from JC Penny
Supports the neck while sleeping
Can be used for side and stomache
sleepers too, in different positions
Eliminated waking up with a
stiff neck
Massaging Shower Head
Mine is from Target
5 settings, from gentle to jet
Soothes sore muscles
Stimulates endorphins for
pain relief
Yes, it is Supposed to be
a Dog Toy
Purchased at PetSmart
Place at the base of
the neck while lying
on a hard surface
Stretches neck and
head muscles
Feels so good on trigger
points under skull
Homedics from BB&B
Heat function for
sore muscles
Helps when I cannot
get a massage from
someone ASAP
Magnesium and Vitamin D
Two supplements recommended
highly by my Neurologist
for helping chronic headaches
Consult your doctor when unsure
about supplements
These are a few of my favorite things!
I hope you find as much relief from
them as I do!
Debra
Thursday, February 10, 2011
What if I Need Relief NOW?
Of course I am a big advocate for massage when an individual is experiencing headache pain, but what if no one is around (or willing) to help you feel more comfortable? Here are a few of my favorite tricks for easing headache pain:
* Place an ice pack on the forehead or at the base of the neck
and a heating pad under the knees. This technique draws the
blood down from the head, causing some of the pounding
sensation to let up.
*Lie on the floor with two ping pong sized balls under the head,
at the base of the skull, one on each side. This will stretch out
the muscles in the neck. Hold for up to 10 minutes while
breathing deeply. It's surprisingly soothing; I once fell asleep
like this.
*Sit in the bathtub and run the shower so that the spray hits
both the head and back. I find much relief with a massaging
showerhead that includes a turbo jet setting.
*I do use some prescription medication, but when it is not
available or needs a little boost, I take a few Alieve tablets
with a cup of some caffeinated beverage. This works much
better if you do not consume much caffeine normally.
<Please consult your doctor about the medication possibilities
that are right for you.>
*Grab hold of your hair near the roots at the top of your head
with both hands. GENTLY pull while yawning at the same
time. I'm not making this up, honest. Just try it. Something
about Oxygen and stretching that works together...
Hopefully at least a few of these help. Try to schedule a head and neck massage soon. When you are in pain, you tense up more muscles than you realize. If the pain lasts awhile, so will your residual stiffness.
Hope you are smiling again soon!
Debra
* Place an ice pack on the forehead or at the base of the neck
and a heating pad under the knees. This technique draws the
blood down from the head, causing some of the pounding
sensation to let up.
*Lie on the floor with two ping pong sized balls under the head,
at the base of the skull, one on each side. This will stretch out
the muscles in the neck. Hold for up to 10 minutes while
breathing deeply. It's surprisingly soothing; I once fell asleep
like this.
*Sit in the bathtub and run the shower so that the spray hits
both the head and back. I find much relief with a massaging
showerhead that includes a turbo jet setting.
*I do use some prescription medication, but when it is not
available or needs a little boost, I take a few Alieve tablets
with a cup of some caffeinated beverage. This works much
better if you do not consume much caffeine normally.
<Please consult your doctor about the medication possibilities
that are right for you.>
*Grab hold of your hair near the roots at the top of your head
with both hands. GENTLY pull while yawning at the same
time. I'm not making this up, honest. Just try it. Something
about Oxygen and stretching that works together...
Hopefully at least a few of these help. Try to schedule a head and neck massage soon. When you are in pain, you tense up more muscles than you realize. If the pain lasts awhile, so will your residual stiffness.
Hope you are smiling again soon!
Debra
New Customer Special
For a limited time (a.k.a. I'll see how many people take me up on this and then decide), I am offering new customers the chance to get their first 1/2 hour chair massage session for only $10. Rough day at work? Terrible headache and need some relief? Just feel like treating yourself to something special without making much of a dent in your wallet? Give me a call or send me an email. Once you see how quickly and completely you can relax, you'll want to keep my number close at hand!
Offer Applies to the Grand Rapids, MI Area Only.
(At least until I can afford that private jet)
Debra
Offer Applies to the Grand Rapids, MI Area Only.
(At least until I can afford that private jet)
Debra
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