Falling into Autumn

I adore the autumn~ it is truly my favorite season! The cooler weather, fall foliage, and Halloween evoke a spirit in me that I love! I have some special occasions that mean so much to me in the fall, including my son's birthday and my wedding anniversary. As a massage therapist, I find the slowing down of the year is the perfect time to receive bodywork. The hustle of the holidays is around the corner, and autumnal massage is restorative and nurturing! Aromatehrapy-speaking, I turn to my warming oils: cinnamon bark, black pepper, clove bud, and cardamom work well for inflammation, pain, muscle soreness, and digestive support! Either in my diffuser or in a massage blend, spice oils warm the spirit and support the mind and body! It is also a great time of year to whip up fire cider and eucalyptus salve for immune support!

I wish everyone a fantastic fall of apple picking, pumpkin carving, and caring for yourselves! Keep blooming!

LABOR DAY, CLOSING OF SUMMER

Labor Day signals the closing of summer, and even though the equinox is still a few weeks away, the smell of autumn is in the air!  The leaves have begun to change where I live in the Adirondacks, and the air is cooler. It inspires me to decorate for fall, shop for herbal tea and bring out my sweaters and scarves. My favorite essential oils for the fall are the warm spices, like cinnamon, clove, black pepper and cardamom. They are powerful, earthy and spicy, adding depth to any massage or diffuser blend. I also like to use sweet orange and tangerine with my spice blends to add levity and brightness, while supporting my mood and immune system. Cold and flu season will be upon us and it is important to stay well and relaxed!

I have a busy fall ahead with loads of classes both in person and virtual. I will be at the Center for Natural Wellness: School of Massage in Albany, NY, speaking about massage therapy and the grief experience- this inspiring topic will help practitioners better understand how their craft can aid those in mourning. It is the perfect way to honor the season and embrace warmth.

Lots of love and happy blending!

CARTWHEEL INTO SUMMER...

Memorial Day is a reverent and beautiful reminder of the sacred sacrifice people made to ensure freedom and safety. I love to take a few moments of silent gratitude for those lost in battle who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Memorial Day weekend is also the unofficial start of summer and the season evokes images of graduation caps, school field trips and picnics! I love throwing open my windows, dusting off my patio furniture and planting my garden. This year I have decided on more herbs and less vegetables, as the growing season in Blue Mountain Lake, New York is short, and herbs are easier to manage! Plus they make amazing massage oil!

I hope your summer is filled with fun events, warm weather, beach days and BBQs. I also hope you get some down time. Summer, albiet fun and busy, can often leave me feeling depeleted by the time September comes a long. Summer goes so fast, it is important to replenish your own self care coffers. Drink some herbal tea, read a book in a hammock, take a nap on the back porch and take care of your skin with good skin care and sun protection. Schedule yourself a summer massage session to ensure you get some quality down time to restore. This month's aroma blend is designed to elate your spirit while keeping you focused and relaxed.

Keep blooming!