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Lasting Change the Kaizen Way

From the book One Small Step Can Change Your Life: The Kaizen Way by Robert Maurer, Ph.D.

August 31, 2009 - 5:00PM

Originally a Japanese philosophy, "Kaizen" is the technique of taking very small steps to achieve large goals, one of the most effective ways to achieve consistent levels of success in making lifestyle changes. This philosophy can be applied to many personal and professional situations to implement and sustain change.

Managing Stress and Its Impact

by Steven Tan, M.D., M.T.O.M., L.Ac., Director of Complementary and Alternative Medicine

September 14, 2009 - 12:00PM

Stress triggers changes in our bodies that prepare us for crisis and survival. Examples include elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rates, tense muscles, higher blood sugar and cortisol levels, brain activation, etc. These are good for acute and limited crisis management, but when they become persistent as we're seeing in modern times, we can have chronic health problems such hypertension, palpitations, pain, headaches, diabetes, and insomnia.

Citrus Grove Bath Oil


September 29, 2009 - 4:41PM

If you're not quite ready to say so long to summer, a soothing bath ritual might be just the remedy to extend the warm, sunny feeling a bit longer. Try this simple recipe for an at home spa experience.

Calming Chamomile

November 21, 2009 - 3:00PM

Many people enjoy the soothing benefits of chamomile in tea to relax at bedtime. Chamomile has been used for centuries to aid with sleep and digestion. In addition to its commonly recognized use for relaxation, chamomile (also known as earth apples for its sweet bouquet), possesses many therapeutic properties to revitalize the skin. In fact, German chamomile is valued for its anti-inflammatory properties and is excellent for regenerative skin care.

Helpful Tips for Visiting a Spa

January 29, 2010 - 6:00AM

Whether you’re visiting a spa for the first time or as a seasoned spa-going pro, some helpful tips and answers to frequently asked questions can help you maximize the enjoyment of your spa experience.

The Fundamentals:  Swedish Massage

February 14, 2011 - 5:00PM

While there is some debate around the origin of Swedish massage, there is no question that the experience is sure to provide relaxing benefits. Typically, this soothing style will incorporate long, fluid strokes (effleurage) designed to calm and comfort the individual. Other motions that may be utilized during a Swedish massage are kneading (petrissage), a rhythmic tapping known as tapotement, friction and vibration. Whichever method(s) is selected, based on the client’s needs, the goal is to soothe sore joints and muscles, reducing stress.

The Fundamentals:  Reflexology

February 17, 2011 - 5:00PM

Introduced in the U.S. in the early 1900’s by Dr. William Fitzgerald, reflexology was first known as “zone therapy”. The general premise is that each region of the foot or hand correlates to specific glands, organs and other parts of the body. Through manipulation and pressure, the energetic pathways to these areas can be opened, promoting health.

The Fundamentals:  Shiatsu

February 21, 2011 - 12:00PM

The modern version of this massage modality was recognized in Japan in the early 1900’s but Shiatsu has roots in traditional Oriental medicine that go back thousands of years. Now widely accepted, Shiatsu practitioners utilize their fingers, hands and sometimes elbows and feet in slow, rhythmic pressure. This therapy commonly combines acupressure, stretching and compression for a soothing treatment.

The Fundamentals:  Craniosacral Therapy

February 24, 2011 - 5:00PM

First originated in the early 1900’s by osteopath William G Sutherland, Craniosacral Therapy has largely been championed by Dr. John E. Upledger, D.O., O.M.M. for the past several decades. Practiced by osteopaths, chiropractors and qualified spa therapists, this treatment evaluates the craniosacral rhythm and increases the natural circulation of fluids through the nervous system. Unique to craniosacral bodywork is the very gentle pressure utilized: the equivalent of the weight of a nickel, no greater than 5 grams.

The Fundamentals:  Thai Massage

February 28, 2011 - 5:00PM

Traditional Thai massage incorporates aspects commonly found in Ayurvedic medicine, yoga and acupressure and has roots dating back thousands of years. This highly hands-on treatment incorporates specific sequences rather than free-flowing massage. Thai massage practitioners may incorporate poses that seem very similar to yoga practice and utilize their bodies, including the feet, elbows, hands and knees, to facilitate stretches and apply pressure. While this may seem unusual, the result is a heightened awareness of the body and increased energy.

The Fundamentals:  Reiki

March 03, 2011 - 5:00PM

Originally developed by Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddist, Reiki roughly translates to mean “universal life force”. Aptly named, this treatment focuses on the transfer of energy, or qi, between the therapist and recipient to encourage the natural healing process. The therapist will place their hands above, or lightly on, the body in patterns to facilitate the opening of blocked energy channels. By opening the energy channels and balancing the chakras, Reiki creates the conditions necessary for healing. While the practice of Reiki is spiritual by nature, it is not affiliated with formal religion, but rather focuses on the connection of the physical and spiritual in the body.

Breathing for Relaxation

By Michael Brazeal, M.A., Director of Fitness

May 19, 2011 - 9:00AM

Breathing is the movement of air to and from the environment and our lungs. This simple action that we take for granted is responsible for the oxygenation of our cells and tissues while removing waste. This is an autonomic nervous function, or, in other words, we don’t have to think about it or remember to breathe. Interestingly, it’s also the only function in our body that we can voluntarily exert control over to manage things like stress and tension.