THE END OF 2025

The end of the year is here and I am feeling very reflective. This year was one of change. I closed my large day spa after twenty years and downsized into a small private practice. It was slightly unexpected, but I embraced the change and have found new peace and more balance in no longer managing a large group. If I am being totally honest, it has also brought some joy back into my practice. After two decades, I was feeling burnt out, uninspired, and not enjoying massage as much as I should. This new refresh and rebrand has revitalized me in ways I did not know I needed.

Additionally, it was my best year yet with Bloom, full of amazing experiences! I got to work with massage therapists in Syracuse, Canadaigua, Albany, Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Lake George! I had several classes sell out, and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate the continued support! And my time with the massage students at North Country Community College and the Center for Natural Wellness was wonderful, and my heart is truly full professionally.

As I power down for the holidays, I want to extend my gratitude to all of the massage therapists who chose me to help with their continuing education credits. This year was truly amazing, and I love you all!

I wish you rest, relaxation, and wellness as we move to the end of the year. I look forward to seeing you all in 2026!

Erica

NOVEMBER

November is slowly becoming one of my favorite months. I have finally recovered from the hustle and bustle of summer, and enjoy the gorgeous pop of color of the early fall. November is a slow, quiet time to start to power down, preparing ourselves for the long winter. I love Thanksgiving- a holiday that means gathering with my loved ones and celebrating with each other, and taking some much-needed time off.

In my massage practice, the table warmer is on, and I've blended some immune-supportive and anti-inflammatory blends to help my clients ease into winter. It's a wonderful time of year to receive a massage.

November has also become a time of reflection. This fall, I was faced with an unexpected and stressful transition. Everything worked out beautifully, but there was a stretch of weeks where I felt disconnected, jagged, and anxious. I have never handled change well, and this was a lesson for me that my self-care has suffered, leaving me vulnerable.

I need to be better at the quiet time. That delicate space where I refresh myself, rest my mind and body, and relish in that joy. November gives me that opportunity.

I wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving. I continue to be grateful for all of you who have worked with me over this year. Take care of yourself!

FALL HARVEST

My favorite season has arrived and I feel myself again. Even though summer was amazing, I am thrilled to be heading into the autumn months!  My wedding anniversary, son’s birthday, and Halloween are coming up, and with the cooler days and changing leaves, there is an electric buzz in the air!  I also feel more rested this time of year as the summer bustle slows. It is also the perfect time to have a massage!  Try oils with healing, earthy properties, such as cinnamon, copaiba balsam, and cedarwood, keeping with the scent of the season!  These oils are also anti-inflammatory and muscle soothing, to help ease pain.

I also love these oils in my diffuser at home or in the office, as they evoke the spirit of the season, and fill me with aromatic warmth!

Lastly, it is the perfect time to make a spicy fire cider, to help support our immune systems as we head towards cold and flu season! Consider lemon, ginger, cayenne, and cinnamon to add some depth of flavor and immune-supportive powerhouses!

I wish you all a restful and magical season! Happy blending!