Overcoming Anxiety: Tips and Strategies for Coping with Symptoms

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health blog on Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects many people across the globe. It can cause intense feelings of fear, worry, and nervousness, which can impact daily life and even relationships. While it may be challenging to overcome, it is important to understand that there are ways to manage and cope with anxiety effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss what anxiety is, what someone with anxiety may be feeling, and provide tips for overcoming and coping with anxiety.

 

What is Anxiety?

 

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or danger. It is a feeling of apprehension or unease about an upcoming event, such as a test or job interview, or an ambiguous situation, such as a social interaction. While some level of anxiety is normal and can be helpful in certain situations, excessive or chronic anxiety can be debilitating.

 

What Might Someone With Anxiety be Feeling?

 

If you are experiencing anxiety, you may feel a range of symptoms, including:

  • Restlessness or feeling on edge
  • Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
  • Increased heart rate or palpitations
  • Sweating or trembling
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Avoidance of certain situations or activities

These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency, depending on the individual and their level of anxiety.

 

Tips for Overcoming and Coping with Anxiety

  1. Understand your triggers: Identifying what triggers your anxiety can be helpful in managing and reducing your symptoms. Take note of situations or thoughts that make you feel anxious and work to avoid or mitigate those triggers.
  2. Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety symptoms. Incorporate these practices into your daily routine to help manage your anxiety.
  3. Get enough sleep: Lack of sleep can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Establishing a regular sleep routine can help you get the rest you need to manage your anxiety effectively.
  4. Exercise regularly: Regular exercise has been shown to reduce anxiety symptoms. Find a form of exercise that you enjoy, such as running, swimming, or yoga, and make it a regular part of your routine.
  5. Seek professional help: If your anxiety is interfering with your daily life or causing significant distress, seek professional help. A mental health professional can work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
  6. Practice self-care: Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental health is essential in managing anxiety. Make time for activities that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time with loved ones.
  7. Stay connected: Social support can be helpful in managing anxiety. Reach out to friends or family members for support, or consider joining a support group for individuals with anxiety.

 

In conclusion, anxiety is a common mental health issue that can be challenging to overcome. However, with the right tools and support, it is possible to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively.

 

If you experience anxiety and haven’t talked with a trained professional we encourage you to do so. Book with ViVi Therapy’s Counsellor Claire Kingston RSW MSW.

 

Claire creates a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and learn effective coping skills. Through a combination of talk therapy, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, Claire helps her clients build resilience and regain control over their lives. Whether you are struggling with generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or panic attacks, Claire is here to help you navigate the challenges and move towards a happier, healthier life.

 

To book a free 15-minute initial consult with Claire Click here

 

Wishing you health, happiness, and a life free from anxiety!

 

Your team at ViVi Therapy

 

 

Is Acupuncture Good for Pain? Treating the Root Cause.

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Acupuncture and Back Pain.

 The Power of Acupuncture for Pain Management: Treating the Root Cause

 

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years as a healing practice. It is a safe, effective treatment for a wide variety of health issues, including pain management. Acupuncture is based on the principle that there are pathways, known as meridians, that flow throughout the body. When these pathways become blocked or disrupted, it can lead to pain and illness. By inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, acupuncturists can help to introduce movement potential, which can have effects on the nervous system and other tissues of the body.

 

Whether you are experiencing acute or chronic pain, musculoskeletal dysfunction, or injury, acupuncture can be an effective tool in your recovery. Biomechanical analysis, manual muscle testing, and assessment techniques are at the heart of an acupuncture treatment for pain. These help practitioners to determine which areas of the body to target during treatment. A central principle of Chinese medicine is that “if there is no free flow, there is pain. If there is free flow, there is no pain.” Therefore, acupuncturists aim to restore free flow by combining needles with other modalities such as electro-acupuncture, Cupping Therapy, Tui Na (massage), Gua Sha (scraping), Moxibustion (heat therapy), and Shi Liao (dietary therapy).

 

An acupuncturist’s approach to treating pain is holistic, taking into account the interconnectedness of the body’s organ systems and meridian pathways. Acupuncture theory considers the root cause of pain and patterns of symptoms. Therefore, treatment is designed to address both the underlying cause and the presenting symptoms.

 

Pain and presenting symptoms can be compared to the fruiting body of a mushroom, while the root cause is likened to the network of mycelium below the ground. Acupuncture treatment aims to treat both the mycelium and the fruiting body of the mushroom. Similarly, pain is often the visible symptom of an underlying condition, while the root cause is hidden.

 

By treating both the root cause and the presenting symptoms, acupuncture can offer a wide range of benefits for pain management, including:

 

  1. Reduced inflammation: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be particularly helpful for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

 

  1. Improved circulation: Acupuncture can help to improve circulation, which can promote healing and reduce pain.

 

  1. Pain relief: Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of pain conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, menstrual cramps, and back pain.

 

  1. Reduced stress: Acupuncture can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate pain conditions.

 

  1. Improved sleep: Acupuncture has been shown to improve sleep quality, which can help to reduce pain and improve overall health.

 

  1. Increased range of motion: Acupuncture can help to improve range of motion and mobility, which can be particularly helpful for conditions like frozen shoulder or arthritis.

 

Acupuncture is a powerful tool in the management of pain. Acupuncturists take a holistic approach, addressing the underlying cause of pain and patterns of symptoms. By using a combination of needles and other modalities, acupuncturists can restore free flow, introduce movement potential, and reset muscles into an anatomically neutral position.

 

If you’re interested in trying acupuncture to alleviate your pain and improve your overall health and well-being, consider booking an appointment with ViVi’s own Alana Wood. As a licensed acupuncturist, Alana takes a personalized approach to each patient’s treatment, focusing on the root cause of their pain and developing a customized plan to restore balance in their body. 

 

Click Here to schedule your appointment with our Acupuncurist now and start your journey toward optimal health.

 

Wishing you health and wellness,

 

Your team at Vivi Therapy!

 

 

 

Feeling Stressed Out? Tips for Identifying & Managing Your Stress

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stress management

Let’s face it, stress is an inevitable part of life.

 

Whether it’s work deadlines, school projects, or relationship issues, stress can quickly take over and leave us feeling frazzled.

 

But identifying what triggers our stress and learning how to manage it can make all the difference in our overall well-being.

 

So, take a moment to think about your top three current stressors.

 

Maybe it’s the long hours you’re putting in at work, the demands of school, or the constant pressure to meet social expectations.

 

Whatever it is, acknowledging these stressors is the first step in finding effective ways to manage them.

 

When we’re stressed, our bodies often give us warning signs, such as tense shoulders, headaches, and irritability.

 

These physical clues are our body’s way of telling us that we need to take action to reduce our stress levels. It’s essential to pay attention to these warning signs and take steps to manage our stress before it takes a toll on our health.

 

But how do you react during stressful situations?

 

Do you find yourself worrying excessively, struggling to make decisions, or feeling irritable and snappy?

 

Identifying how we react can help us develop coping mechanisms to manage our stress levels better.

 

Now, let’s talk about stress management strategies.

 

There are many effective ways to manage stress, and finding the right ones for you is key.

 

Here are some ways that can help you cope and manage the stress that you may be experiencing:

 

  1. Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization techniques can help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation.
  2. Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves being present in the moment without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
  3. Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
  4. Diet: Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can help improve overall health and reduce stress levels.
  5. Reduce Alcohol, Caffeine, and Tobacco Use: Reducing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco use can help reduce stress levels and improve overall health.
  6. Sleep: Getting adequate sleep is essential for managing stress. Develop a sleep routine and practice good sleep hygiene to improve the quality of your sleep.

 

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that you enjoy and can incorporate into your daily routine.

 

In addition to finding stress management strategies that work for you, it’s crucial to practice self-care regularly.

 

In conclusion, managing stress is essential for our overall well-being.

 

By identifying stressors, warning signs, and triggers, and adopting stress management strategies that work for us, we can reduce the negative effects of stress on our health.

 

Remember, managing stress is an ongoing process that requires effort and dedication.

 

So, be kind to yourself and prioritize your mental health.

 

If you need support in this area our counselor, Claire Kingston, is available to assist you in managing your stress and living your best life. Claire can help you develop effective strategies to manage your stress and help you build habits that promote your overall well-being.

 

You can book a counseling session and a free consult by Clicking Here.

 

Together, we can all learn to manage stress more effectively and lead happier healthier lives!

 

Thanks for reading,

 

Your Team at Vivi Therapy

What is Chinese Cupping Therapy?

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Chines Cupping Therapy

What is Chinese Cupping Therapy?

Cupping is an ancient Chinese therapeutic method of increasing localized blood flow and meridian circulation or qi (chee).

A partial vacuum is created in cups placed on the skin either by means of heat or suction. This draws up the underlying skin, epidermis and connective tissues. When the cup is left in place on the skin for a few minutes, blood flow is enhanced providing increased oxygen to tissues and localized healing takes place.

Cupping therapy has been further developed as a means to open the ‘Meridians’ of the body. Meridians are the pathways through which energy flows. Energy flows through these meridians to every part of the body including through every organ and tissue. There is access to these meridians from the back and extremities (limbs, neck and head) Cupping creates a meridian portal and allows invigorating energy to travel through the body. It has been found that cupping is one of the best ways of opening meridians. Our acupuncturists use the traditional Chinese method of Cupping, glass fire cups. We are able to incorporate slide cupping into treatment protocols where myofascial release is indicated.  Special vaccuum cups are also used for Facial Acupuncutre which is a very popular non invasive beauty treatment with systemic benefits to the whole body.  Read more on Facial Acupuncture Therapy 

Cupping Therapy has also been found to affect the body up to four inches into the tissues. This systemic reach can help tissues to release toxins, activate the lymphatic system, clear colon blockages and increase circulation to the skin and blood vessels. Cupping has been known as an effective treatment for varicose veins. Cupping provides a unique way to massage tissue deeply. The western bodywork term for Cupping is “Myofascial Decompression” and that is what happens when the vacuum from the cup draws the tissue away from the underlying tissues and bone. The action is decompressing the muscle and fascia and engorging the tissue with blood for healing.

To ensure you receive the full benefits of your cupping therapy session, allow the marks from the cups to fully dissipate before your next session. Stay warm, keep the area warm and draft free and do not expose the marks to direct sunlight for best results.

Rates:

Initial 45 minute appointment ~ $90

Subsequent 30 minute appointment ~ $65

Book Cupping Therapy Online Now

Acupuncture Explained

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Acupuncture TCM and Cupping Therapy Explained

Acupuncture an Ancient Form of Healing

Acupuncture is an ancient form of healing that has been used for thousands of years. It is a type of treatment that uses thin needles to stimulate specific points on the body.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a whole system of medicine that includes;

acupuncture

cupping therapy,

gua sha

infrared heat therapy

TUI NA Chinese-style massage therapy

acupressure

moxibustion

and more.

The goal of acupuncture and TCM is to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and restore balance to the body. This means Acupuncture treatments can provide deep healing for conditions that require hormonal and neurological balance and restoration. The immune system can be boosted aiding healing and defending the body from illness and allergies. Gut and Digestive issues can benefit greatly by restoring harmony between organs and calming the nervous system.  Sleep is one of our greatest sources of restorative healing for the body.  If you are suffering from insomnia acupuncture can get to the root of the problem.

Acupuncture & TCM Explained

A Registered Acupuncture or treatment by a TCM practitioner consists of a careful assessment of the patient to determine how and where the needles are placed during treatment. The combination of careful assessment along with  delicately and accurately positioned needles can be a powerful pain control, prevent disease through enhanced immunity and balance and improve the body’s flow of energy to all vital organs.  The process of regulating the energy flow thru the body called Qi or chi pronounced “chee” is the underlying principal of an acupuncture treatment.

 

Qi flows around the body through channels called meridians. 12 regular meridians corresponds to six yin and six yang organs—the spleen meridian to the spleen organ, the large intestine meridian to the large intestine organ, and so on. Acupuncture treatments also use eight extra meridians.

 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes acupuncture helps Qi flow smoothly through the meridians. This effects changes in the internal organs and musculoskeletal system towards a perceived higher quality of health as the beneficial outcome.

Acupuncture and TCM practitioners believe that our bodies have a special energy called Qi (pronounced “chee”). This energy flows through the body along pathways called meridians. When the Qi is flowing smoothly, we feel healthy and strong. But when the flow is blocked, we can feel pain or become sick. Acupuncture helps to unblock the flow of Qi and restore balance to the body.

 

During a treatment, a practitioner will carefully assess the patient to determine how and where the needles are placed. The combination of careful assessment and delicately positioned needles can be a powerful tool for pain control, preventing disease through enhanced immunity and balance, and improving the body’s flow of energy to all vital organs.

 

Our style of acupuncture has long standing roots in China and requires time to do its work.

 

We believe that applying heat. hot stones and or cupping therapy to the tissues prepares and enhances the effectiveness of the needle. Many of our massage therapy clients also receive acupuncture for maximum wellness. Book an appointment today and experience the benefits of your balanced Qi.

How does Acupuncture work?

Disharmony in an organ often shows up in its corresponding meridian. Practitioners can palpate a point on the corresponding meridian to assess the health of its related organ and sometimes the entire meridians are treated.

For example, a practitioner might treat a sore shoulder by increasing the flow of Qi and blood through the large intestine, lung, and triple burner meridians. The organs related to these meridians may be completely healthy but these meridians are selected because they pass through the area of the injured shoulder. Although they flow deep within the body, each meridian has specific points that can be accessed from the surface of the body via the shallow insertion of a thin needle.

What do needles do in a Registered Acupuncturists treatment?

Modern practitioners use surgical quality stainless steel needles that can vary in length and dimension depending on the treatment and practitioner style. Some needles can be plated with silver, gold, or copper to enhance the efficacy of the treatment. Sterile needles like other medical devices have expiration dates and are used only once and then discarded.

Needling can effect the body and acupuncture points in different ways. Each acupuncture point has a specific set of functions and some functions are local, while some are systemic. As an example if the energy relating to the point is weak or the corresponding organ function is sluggish, then stimulating the point to tonify it would be indicated. On the other hand if the point is sensed by the acupuncturist to be over stimulated as in a stressed or painful condition then the treatment would call for sedation or relaxation of the energy flowing through that point/meridian.

What is TCM?

TCM stands for traditional Chinese Medicine. The practice of TCM was the original Chinese method of health care performed by practitioners and Doctors of Chinese Medicine from centuries past. Today TCM is practiced as an alternative or support to western styles of allopathic medicine. Along with Acupuncture TCM may include the following:

Cupping Therapy – find out more

Heat Therapy

Tui Na (Chinese style massage therapy)

Acupressure (apply pressure strategically to meridians and acu points)

Moxibustion

Gua Sha (a scaping technique using a blunt edged tool to increase circulation and the flow of Qi)

Dietary Advice and Herbal Remedies

Facial Acupuncture Therapy – beauty starts from within find out more

Does Acupuncture Work? Evidence Based Research.

Acupuncture and TCM are some of the oldest forms of healing and have been used for thousands of years.  It is practiced by College trained and Regulated Registered Acupuncturists as well as Physicians and Physiotherapists. So a  resounding yes, acupuncture works! It is definitely worth experiencing, call today and inquire about how acupuncture can benefit you. Read some of our many blog posts about the effectiveness of Acupuncture. Researched studies have shown it to be effective in the treatment of stomach pain, vomiting, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, and low immunity. Needle insertion can relieve certain pain conditions immediately. Modern research confirms that applying needles to specific acupuncture points actually raises the white blood cell count, thus improving immunity and defense against allergies and respiratory illness. Research in China and Japan with electrical conductivity has confirmed the tangible existence of the acupuncture points and double-blind studies have shown acupuncture is safe and effective in treating a wide range of diseases. In some Chinese hospitals, acupuncture substitutes for anesthesia. While it may not be a cure-all, acupuncture and TCM have been shown to be effective in the treatment of a wide range of health problems, including pain, stress, headaches, and even more serious conditions like cancer and heart disease.

World Health & Acupuncture

The World Health Organization recognizes the effectiveness of acupuncture treatments, namely for pain relief, neurological and gastrointestinal disorders.  Acupuncture has been used to treat pain as an alternative to costly anesthesia and analgesic (pain) medication.  Acupuncture has been researched proving its efficacy to improve the natural immunity in patients. Enhanced immunity can reduce the necessity for antibiotics in countries where these medications are less accessible.

Acupuncture & TCM Rates:

Initial 75 minute treatment and consultation~ $120.00

60 minute subsequent treatment ~ $95

Initial ICBC treatment and consultation available

Subsequent ICBC treatment available

Book Acupuncture Now

Cupping Therapy Rates and Treatment Information

What is Chinese Cupping Therapy? read more 

 

If you’re interested in trying acupuncture or TCM, book an appointment with our  Registered Acupuncturist  Today

 

Take our short survey to test your knowledge about acupuncture and see if you learn something new!

Acupuncture for Seasonal Allergy Symptoms-Natural Remedies

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before and after acupuncture picture of woman with allergies

Acupuncture a safe and effective alternative for allergy symptoms:

ENJOY THE SEASON AND BE SYMPTOM FREE WITH NATURAL ALLERGY RELIEF SOLUTIONS!

Spring is here but along with the beautiful blossoms, flowers and their pollen come the not so great allergies! Congestion, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing.  If you have gone through it, then you know that it is really unpleasant.

You could reach for the typical over the counter allergy relief products. Or if you would rather avoid antihistamines & corticosteroids then the more natural approach might appeal to your style of health care and prevention.
Do you want to reduce your dependence on medication? Be symptom free in Spring and Summer? In early spring take two to three sessions of Acupuncture.

Acupuncture treatments focus on alleviating the symptoms you are experiencing and in most cases yield a very quick response.

Patients will notice a decrease in their nose stuffiness, sneezes, and itching episodes around the eyes, as well as an increase in overall energy levels. Book an appointment with our Acupuncturist now and get some relief.

Natural Remedies for Allergy symptoms in the meantime:

Drink plenty of water– When you are well hydrated the mucous membranes of your nose remain moist to expel allergens more easily.

yellow blossoms

spring flowers

Eat local raw honey – Eating a couple of tablespoons of local raw honey every day (which contains traces of pollen) desensitizes the body to local pollen, so that the pollen floating about in the air does not trigger allergic reactions in the body.

Eat pineapple – fresh pineapple is definitely one of the foods that will help with allergies. It is full of vitamin C.  The fruit’s true allergy powerhouse is an enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme fights inflammation to help reduce the swelling and irritation brought on by pollen and other seasonal allergens. You can purchase fresh pineapple already peeled and cored, making it a convenient and healthy snack option.

pineapple pic with label

Add turmeric to rice dishes, curries, soups (check out our bone broth recipe blog)

Turmeric contains curcumin, a phytochemical with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions that are comparable to steroidal and nonsteroidal drugs

Essential oils with Therapeutic benefit for Allergies

Peppermint – Dilute with a carrier oil and rub one drop onto your temples, forehead or over the sinuses. You can also try a drop on the tip of your tongue, closing your mouth and then breathing it in to effectively open up the sinus cavity.

Lavender – Acts as an adaptogen and can assist the body when adapting to stress or imbalances. It can also help if you have difficulty sleeping due to congestion. Add a few drops to distilled water in a spray bottle and spritz your pillow to help you drift off to sleep more easily.

Eucalyptus – Can open the respiratory system, reduce inflammation and allow better breathing.

Rosemary – Has a similar effect to Eucalyptus but is slightly milder so better for use by children.

Lemon– Improves immunity, relieves respiratory issues, is antibacterial and relieves respiratory inflammation.

Shop now for all the essential oils listed above (and more!) available from the ViVi Therapy Massage Supply Store at 1976 Oak Bay Ave.

 

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The Best Chair for Sitting Better

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Image of two Ariel QOR 360 Chairs

The Best Chair for Sitting Better Now Available

The greatest feature of this chair is that it allows your muscles to be active.  “Ergonomic” chairs on the market provide every support imaginable which ultimately have a negative gain after hours of sitting

link to the QOR360 now and order one today

 

Image of two Ariel QOR 360 Chairs

The Ariel by QOR360

Gold Standard in Chairs

The best chair available on the market today is gold standard in active seating. With QOR360’s patented rocking mechanism and a softer, more comfortable seat designed for all day sitting, the Ariel makes sitting healthy while looking damn good doing it. The award-winning Ariel is rapidly becoming a global best-seller, for good reason.  Click the link above and find out all about it.  You can even download a free book by the inventor Dr Turner Osler.

Designer Dr Turner Osler

Discover more about how a dynamic and responsive and ultimately less supportive chair enhances your full body motion. This chair was developed by Dr. Turner Osler a Trauma Surgeon turned researcher. He designed the patented sitting device that he claims will actually increase your metabolism while sitting!  Follow the link above and get his free download “Sit Better” Book.

 

Dr. Turner Osler Explains the reality of ergonomic chairs as we currently know it.

Sit better cover of e book

Dr Turner Olser explains how Ergonomic Chairs Undermine Posture and Health!

How It Works

A recent study[i] found that sitting on a dynamic (tippy) surface resulted in the spine assuming a conformation much closer to that of natural standing as opposed to sitting on a solid surface; as a result, the active chair allowed the spine to express its natural lumbar lordosis. [i] https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/10/21/7567

This chair is designed to connect your head forward posture to your pelvic and leg motion even responding to subtle reaching motion you do all day at your desk or work station.

Avoiding Long Term Effects of Sitting

The case of passive sitting is actually similar to that of smoking: in the 1950’s most people smoked, and it seemed inconceivable that smoking caused lung cancer, emphysema, heart disease and generalized vascular disease. It took decades to persuade people to abandon their addiction to smoking. It’s likely that getting folks to abandon their infatuation with passive sitting require a similarly prolonged effort.

Research has linked carpel tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, back pain, neck pain, back and neck tension, headaches, nerve compression and disc degeneration to long periods of static posture at a desk or repetitive seated tasks.

Take a positive step to moving more while sitting purchase the Ariel Now

Is your work out one sided?

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skeleton and gym

Every week I see clients with one sided, tension related problems.  Sore right shoulders leading to sore right necks and poor range of motion.  Pain in the right sacroiliac joint, lumbar spine region leading to favoring movement to avoid discomfort, and sciatic nerve symptoms of pain down the leg or diffuse hip and buttock region pain.  These people are fit and active, some runners, cyclists, yoga aficionados.

I took an advanced training Feldenkrais workshop in Montreal a while back with my mentor and friend Feldenkrais trainer Yvan Joly.  We were studying the 4 pillars of laterality.  Hmmm that doesn’t even come up as a word…laterality what does it mean?

The term laterality refers to the preference most humans show for one side of their body over the other. Well, we all know about right handedness or left handedness and how our speech is a function of the left side of the brain if we are right handed and if we are a true lefty it is located in the right hemisphere of the brain.  But what about how we see (our visual field), how our head motion is influenced by our vision and  how we organize our pelvis on the right or left?  What can we do differently when our therapist says you are oriented more to one side than the other?  How can we reduce the effort we put on one side of the body and distribute that effort more evenly among all parts of the body?  That is truly where the Feldenkrais Method comes in.  Join me for my next workshop focusing on asymmetries and areas of lost or dysfunctional movement patterns in a part of the body that is often neglected in the big picture of aiding both the sacroiliac joints and the shoulders and neck.  Be the first to know when classes start up in the fall by emailing info@vivitherapy.com or give us a call on 250 886 2090

In the mean time while you are doing your regular exercise routines here are some words of wisdom written for Experience Life online magazine by Nicole Radiszewski called Taking Sides: The ONE SIDED STRENGTH WORKOUT  

Roxanne Derkson is a Registered Massage Therapist and a Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner.  You can book with her online for private Feldenkrais sessions. Book in with Richard Cross Registered Kinesiologist and experience his functional assessment and guidance to a more strong and symmetrical body.

 

 

Reduce Shoulder Pain Easily, Improve Mobility & Strength

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Do you experience shoulder pain, back pain or neck pain when reaching, lifting, turning, pulling or pushing?

I see many clients with shoulder problems and pain. Many times these symptoms can be reduced greatly by doing some simple “Awareness Through Movement” exercises that I call shoulder optimizing exercises.  These exercises are based on the Feldenkrais Method of Somatic (body centered) learning.  I am a Feldenkrais practitioner and have a Registered Massage Therapy practice where I offer my clients treatments that help inform them and lead them to better functioning bodies.

During my treatments I often include some customized  movement sequences that help regain and improve mobility of the shoulder girdle and relieve pain in the shoulder, neck and upper back.   I explain to my clients that paying attention to habitual movement patterns of their body during their work and recreational activities is something that will benefit them over their life time.  When executed regularly specific movement sequences done intentionally before and after exertion or postural demanding tasks help align the shoulder girdle connect it to other parts of the body and relieve tension that can lead to pain from joint compression and nerve impingement along with muscular fatigue and imbalance.

I am a therapist here at ViVi Therapy. My name is Roxanne Derkson and I graduated from the Feldenkrais Institute of Somatic Education in Montreal in 1996.  Myself or our Registered Kinesiologists & Athletic Therapistscan assess your functional movement and get you started on a path to stronger more functional living.  Email questions to info@vivitherapy.com. 

Is Massage Actually Good For You?

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shoulder and back massage

Is Massage Actually Good for You?

New science sheds some light!

Article written by Katie Drummond for Prevention Magazine

We’re going to guess you don’t need an excuse to get a massage. But if you can’t afford a weekly spa trip (and frankly, who can?), you’re going to have to get really good at sweet-talking your husband into helping you out now and then. Not easy, we know. But we have some new ammo—and we have a new study from Emory University to back us up.

Over a period of five weeks, study participants received a Swedish massage—characterized by long, flowing strokes—once or twice a week. Compared to those who didn’t get the lucky task of getting massaged in the name of science, those who received massage therapy had lower levels of stress hormones, including cortisol. They also experienced big changes in immunity, including increased counts of white blood cells, which play a key role in fending off illness and infection.

And it gets better: The benefits of massage lasted for several days, and each subsequent massage offered a cumulative benefit. In other words, a routine massage ritual is superior to an occasional rub.

“The act of massage itself has amazing biological effects,” says lead study author Mark Hyman Rapaport, MD, chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. “Of course, a single session will do great things for the body, but regular sessions seem to be even more profound.”

Anyone who enjoys massage should consider indulging regularly, says Dr. Rapaport, who adds that self-massage (for those of you with a reticent beau) has the potential to be a beneficial—and cost-effective—option.

If self-massage is something that appeals to you and your budget, check out these tips from Maureen Moon, a massage therapist and former president of the American Massage Therapy Association:

Focus on your face. Relieve tension and muscle strain caused by stress, fatigue, or staring at a computer screen by working on your face, says Moon. Firmly run your fingers up and down your forehead and then along each eyebrow before applying gentle pressure to eyelids and around the temples.

Oil your feet. Using peppermint or eucalyptus oils, briskly rub the tops of your bare feet several times. From there, rub and rotate each toe and use fingers to firmly draw diagonal lines along the soles of each foot.

Give yourself a hand. Aside from being easy to do on-the-go, a hand massage also relieves tension throughout the body. Tug and rotate each finger, says Moon, and then use fingers or knuckles to draw circles on the inside of your hand.

 

 

ViVi Therapy Integrated Health

1976 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC V8R 1E2

1 (250) 298-4484

info@vivitherapy.com

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