Wednesday, December 17, 2014

December Specials


December news and specials



There has been a new flavour added to the Comfort for Carpenter Hospice fundraiser. It is a Peppermint Ginger Green tea with an Orange Peppermint hand soap. The tea is a great digestive tea and the hand soap is lovely for the holiday season. You can still purchase the Lavender or Earl Grey.

Each package is $22.50 including HST and $10 goes to Carpenter Hospice.  Come in to pick up your today. Call 905-464-8076 for office hours.


To help get you in the holiday spirit Hands to Heel has created a special holiday blend massage oil.
Also appointments in the month of December will receive a Christmas Cracker with a bonus gift from me inside. Gifts include a sweet treat, discounts for future sessions or double your loyalty dollars.
Book your appointment online at handstoheel.setmore.com


Always the right colour, non-perishable, and wonderfully rewarding. A gift certificate for reflexology tells them I care for you. Now purchasing a gift certificate is extra rewarding.
Spend $60 and receive an added indulgent, tasty treat.
Spend $100 for an added foot package*.
Spend $120 for an indulgent, tasty treat and a foot package*.
Spend $200 and receive a free nooner or teaser session**.
*Foot package consists of a foot soak and paddle.** The nooner is a 45 minute reflexology session, valued at $40Receive 25% off if buying three or more gift certificates. Purchase by phone 905-464-8076, email or in person.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Runners

When you run, the pressure that is applied to your feet is four times greater than your normal body weight.

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Another foot fact

The skin on your soles is up to 20 times thicker than the skin on any other part of your body.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Monday, November 17, 2014

Friday, November 14, 2014

Head's up

Psst!  Just because you are not sick doesn't mean you're healthy.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Wow

Did you know...
An average pair of feet will create a pint of perspiration a day.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Foot fact

Did you know...
Your feet may be as much as 5 to 10 percent larger at the end of the day.

Monday, November 10, 2014

Friday, November 7, 2014

Hand reflexology for sleep

Video for Hand reflexology for sleep

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCjwaIeUd98&index=19&list=UUAfGiS6nL8moEu6Ou4fvsKg

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Stroke recovery and reflexology

Incredible results

Video for reflexology and stroke recovery

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9y8CobX85EY&list=UUwjmqlDUDbuD4wSOMrzLr_Q&index=3

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Do you have a longer second toe?

Fascinating video for people with a longer second toe.

Video for do you have a longer second toe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FWYXhHNwJM&index=5&list=UUwjmqlDUDbuD4wSOMrzLr_Q

Monday, November 3, 2014

Another daily foot fact

Did you know...
Our feet cushion as much as a million pounds of pressure during only one hour of strenuous exercise.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Foot fact

Did you know...
The average person walks over 115,000 miles during their lifetime - that’s enough to walk around the world 4 times.

Thursday, October 30, 2014

Daily foot facts

Did you know...

Our feet bear a cumulative weight total of 1,000 tons a day.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

The solar plexus

The solar plexus point is one of my favourites that provides centring, balancing, and stress release.

solar plexus Reflexology and the Solar Plexus

This is an article on the amazing reflex, chakra point and exercises you can use.

http://reflexologysuccess.com/reflexology-teaching/reflexology-and-the-solar-plexus

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Recap World Reflexology Week

World Reflexology week was great.  It was filled with many new and regular faces, great stories, insights and rejuvenation.
 
The winners of a free reflexology session are Sandra Gupta, Janice Jones and Lisa Paribello.  Congratulations.  Thanks to everyone who participated.

Saturday, September 20, 2014

World Reflexology week

September 21 - 27 is World Reflexology week. Reflexology has enhanced my life in so many ways. It has shown me how amazing the human body is, how clearly it communicates its needs and its healing potential. It has also exposed me to many incredible individuals I may not have met. As a result I have been able to share in their stories, walk with them in their low times and celebrate in their triumphs.

I will be doing three draws for a free reflexology session. See details below. If you refer a friend the friend must contact me during World Reflexology week to book their appointment to earn your extra ballots.

Monday, September 15, 2014

Reflexology throughout pregnancy

This is a neat little article on using pregnancy throughout points of your pregnancy to make it easier and more enjoyable.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Make it count

Don't let this moment pass you by. It is called the "present" for a reason.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Carpenter fundraiser

Hands to Heel is proud to carry "Comfort for Carpenter Hospice" fundraising project. Not only are the products amazing the money goes to an exceptional organization. Drop by or email. Thank you.

More about the project:
Comfort for Carpenter Hospice

Almost 3 years ago I lost a dear friend .... a key player in my life. Her last days were spent at Carpenter Hospice. I do believe she has inspired me to do this fundraising project for the hospice! She and I had tea together virtually daily for almost 25 years. And, when I started eScential Wellness, she was my biggest fan. So I have combined these 2 loves of ours in the Comfort for Carpenter Hospice project.


eScential Wellness has teamed up with local entrepreneur Lesley of 3-teas. We are offering a gift pack; a combination organic tea with matching Foaming Hand Soap (made with organic ingredients.) You can purchase a Creme Earl Grey tea with an Earl Grey/Bergamot hand soap; a Lemon Green Tea with a Lemon Green Tea hand soap, and a lovely Lavender White Tea with a Lavender Hand Soap. Each gift pack comes in an organza bag, ready for gift giving. It includes a card to explain what Carpenter Hospice does, and, the story of how the gift packs came to be. The recipient will know that 25% of the retail price goes directly to Carpenter Hospice.

As the gift packs are consumable, you can re-purchase! And the lucky receiver can use them up, and not have to store anything. The gifts are great for either gender of all ages. Perfect as hostess gifts (all those upcoming summer barbecue invites!), Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, stocking stuffers, Get Well gifts...use your imagination.

The gift packs are currently available, for $20+HST

Back to school special


Back to school special 

I love my kids and back to school time means I get lonely without them. So to fill my day I am offering reflexology savings as incentive to have you come and keep me company. 

From September 2 - 10 I am offering $20 off all reflexology appointments. That is 

$40 for reflexology or $75 for the Ultimate Renewal 

Only applicable for new appointments booked. Appointments must be between September 2 - 10, 2014.  Book online.

Meditation video


This free meditation is designed for beginners. Just get into some comfortable clothing. Get into a comfortable position. Ideally you will be in a quiet place. And then just listen and learn the square breathing technique. 

Monday, August 25, 2014

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Mother and baby bond

Not only are we a part of our children, our children are literally a part of us.


Mother and Child are Linked at the Cellular Level | The Outer Womb
Pathways to Family Wellness magazine promotes holistic parenting and...
PATHWAYSTOFAMILYWELLNESS.ORG

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Does reflexology work?

Here is an article from the New York Daily News put four energy modalities to the test.  Does energy healing really work? The Daily News puts four methods to the test

I have many clients say they prefer reflexology to massage and many newcomers to reflexology are shocked what I can tell about their health through their feet. For most people results are felt immediately or within 24 hours. In some cases when the issue has been ongoing or there are multiple health concerns repeated visits are necessary.


Monday, August 18, 2014

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Postpartum anxiety

I wanted to post this amazing & brave article from a mom who recovered from Postpartum Anxiety.

http://www.neworleansmomsblog.com/2013/07/15/postpartum-anxiety-the-little-sister-of-ppd/

Women often are screened for, and familiar with the signs of depression, but anxiety is nearly as common as depression. I have an incredible colleague, Nelia DeAmaral, who began to offer pre/postpartum anxiety support because so many women didn't fit the mold of depression, but they knew something just didn't feel right. If you or someone you know is suffering with pre/postpartum anxiety, please, here is a link to Nelia's e-booklet with detailed local, and online resources.

Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Cool fact

The skin contains approximately 640,000 sense receptors, scattered unevenly over the body's surface. These receptors are most abundant in the ridges of the fingertips, in the lips, at the tip of the tongue, in the palms, on the soles of the feet, and in the genitals.

-National Geographic Society. 1986. The Incredible Machine. Washington, D.C.: The National Geographic Society.

Monday, August 11, 2014

The adrenal gland

Your adrenal glands (which sit on top of your kidneys) make many of the hormones used to signal other organ systems. Including Estrogen, Progesterone and Testosterone. The adrenals are amazing at this, until stress happens. When the body is under stress (physical, emotional or chemical) the adrenals shift from producing essential hormones to stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. When our body is in this fight or flight mode, which I call "gas pedal mode" our digestion system suffers, metabolism is halted, cellular repair /healing stops, and the functioning of our immune system is impaired. This is how our bodies deteriorate under stress.

Do you see why it is important to create an environment that enables your body to supply the proper hormones as they are needed? Your survival depends upon it!

Your body is amazing and incredibly smart. It does not need outside in, quick fixes. It needs your understanding of how the body works, what it needs to thrive from proper nutrition to proper movement. It will serve you well if you learn how to take care of it.


Friday, August 8, 2014

Radiant beauty



Your emotions impact your health and well being.  Often you can pick up on a persons thoughts by their tone of voice, expression and how they carry themselves.


Avoiding negative talk and keeping a twinkle in your wrinkle does wonders for your physical beauty and internal health.


Shine on.

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Reflexology works

Here is an article from the New York Daily News put four energy modalities to the test.

I have many clients say they prefer reflexology to massage and many newcomers to reflexology are shocked what I can tell about their health through their feet.  For most people results are felt immediately or within 24 hours.  In some cases when the issue has been ongoing or there are multiple health concerns repeated visits are necessary.

Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Reflexology techniques for babies

Here is a great quick video on a reflexology routine for babies.

The bones in babies feet are so soft they often experience results immediately.  It is also hugely rewarding for parents to see how they can bring additional comfort to their child in an area they previously felt helpless in.

Monday, August 4, 2014

New Moms


I think the human body is a remarkable structure and yet a woman's body is exceptional and continues to inspire awe.  It is beyond incredible the strength and adaptation, growth and flexibility.  It is that which drew me to a career with pregnant women.

The constant changes and that strength is what inspires me to honour this very special time in a woman's life.   Reflexology is a powerful tool, providing numerous benefits throughout pregnancy.  A reflexology session is an excellent reason and excuse to relax while enhancing the health of you and your baby. 

In the postpartum period reflexology is a restoring and balancing therapy that is also wonderfully pampering.  As new mothers we often put others before us.  Reflexology gives you the opportunity to put on your own oxygen mask so you can care for others.  To learn more about reflexology during this amazing time of your life or pregnancy and birth support visit www.birthbeginnings.com 

Let's celebrate how powerful, beautiful and truly amazing we are.  “The beauty of my body is not measured by the size of the clothes it can fit into, but by the stories that it tells. I have a belly and hips that say, “We grew a child in here,” and breasts that say, “We nourished life.”
-Sarah, from I am Beautiful: A Celebration of Women in Their Own Words

Friday, August 1, 2014

Reflexology for all


Reflexology is beneficial for all age ranges. It is wonderful for a newborn baby who even with the gentlest of birth went through a lot to get here and who is continuing to grow and change at such a rapid rate.  Many people in palliative care benefit from the loving touch therapy and pain relief reflexology provides.

It is a firm touch used which is tailored to the person receiving reflexology.  It does not tickle.  For those who do not enough getting their feet touched reflexology can be done to the hands, face or ears as well.

Thursday, July 31, 2014

Reflexology to aid onset of Labour


Reflexology can help aid the onset of labour. In Ontario we have a medical induction rate of 31% and research shows induction increases the risk of cesarean birth and further intervention. Reflexology relaxes the pregnant woman which aids in the release of the essential hormones that bring on labour. It also helps reduce anxiety and pain which can hold back labour.

Studies show women who receive regular reflexology have better pregnancies, with shorter labours and less intervention.

A postdate reflexology session is designed to prepare the body physically and hormonally for labour. It stimulates oxytocin release which is the hormone that causes contractions. In a medical induction a synthetic version of oxytocin is often used. The synthetic version of oxytocin causes fluid retention and studies have shown less optimal breastfeeding outcomes and an increase in postpartum hemorrhage.

It is important to know reflexology only works when the baby is ready to come. If the baby isn't ready, it won't come.

Along with relief from common pregnancy complaints a reflexology treatment is a safe, non-invasive, incredibly relaxing, rejuvenating experience at a time when your body is going through amazing changes. Appointments can be booked online.


Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Your overlooked, hard working feet




Reflexology is a great treat for your often under-appreciated feet while bringing total body relaxation, balancing of all body's internal and external systems and improving circulation.


A session is 60 minutes.  Easy online booking is available.

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Reflexology and children

Reflexology benefits children and parents

Babies are especially responsive to reflexology. Many mothers will instinctively rub their children’s feet and hands when their child is cranky, crying, or uncomfortable.

Babies' feet have undeveloped arches, and their skin and bones are usually fairly soft making reflexology an effective and fast modality for babies. Results are often experienced immediately.

Reflexology is of valuable help for:

Colic
Constipation
Reflux
Gas
Sleep disturbances
Difficulty to relax
Allergies


Reflexology with children can begin at birth and is a valuable tool for parents to dissipate their children’s stresses in a nurturing way in five minutes.  It is fast and rewarding.

Monday, July 28, 2014

What is a doula?

What is a doula and why do I need one?

A doula brings her knowledge of childbirth and supports both the labouring mom and her partner through this miraculous moment.  It should be a wonderful experience, after all it is your baby’s first birth day and journey into world, it is the birth of a family, it is a day you will relive over and over again, and therefore it is crucial you feel comfortable with every member of your support team.

A doula helps by spending time with you prenatally to determine where your strengths and weakness lie.  She helps magnify those strengths and overcome the weaknesses.  She can help put purpose to each change you are experiencing and be a source of knowledge to call upon when you or your partner are unsure.  A doula is an emotional, physical and knowledgeable care provider who provides support to you and your birth partner prenatally, throughout the birth and in the initial postpartum periodShe is a continuous and familiar presence there to support you in whatever decision you make.

Documented benefits include
Prenatally – better prepared, informed, supported, less inductions
Birth – shorter labours, less interventions (epidurals, narcotics, cesarean sections, vacuum/forceps deliveries)
Postpartum – less Postpartum depression, easier time breastfeeding, and prolonged breastfeeding (bringing numerous health benefits to both mom and baby), healthier babies, more confidence as parent, better bonding, more time spent with babies, feel partners more supportive, feel better about coping during birth.

Many things are done to both mom and baby because they are routine, however research does not always support that they are safe practices.  A doula helps her clients gain solid perspectives so they can therefore give informed consent.  Parental responsibility begins from the moment of conception.  Every woman and her baby are unique and a one-size fits all approach should not be used.  By having a doula at your birth both partners feel in control, and empowered.  When you participate in all decisions regarding your care you will feel better about your birth regardless of the outcome and more confident in your parenting abilities.  A doula is hired by you and works for you.  She is a source of knowledge both prenatally, during the birth and in the postpartum period, and a bug in your ear, helping you advocate for you and your new family.

When the body is relaxed labour will be faster and more comfortable.  The comfort measures your doula will teach you are not labour specific; they are important techniques for everyday use.  Having a doula at your birth takes pressure of both partners so they can participate without having to over think things, she is there to take care of both partner’s, reminding mom when to change positions, empty her bladder and feed the birth partner.  She has no other role therefore she is strictly devoted to you, a calm and supportive presence.

To learn more please contact:

Michelle Haché
Birth Beginnings
905-464-8076

Friday, July 25, 2014

Pregnancy Reflexology

Reflexology is generally considered to be safe in pregnancy and can be given at any stage of pregnancy, although the earlier the treatments start the more effective they can be.

Reflexology experienced during pregnancy can:


  • Promote and support a pregnancy
  • Provide relief from pregnancy related conditions and discomforts
  • Assist in a natural birth
  • Shorten labour time
  • Improve recovery post birth
  • Support good breastfeeding
  • Help with postnatal depression
Reflexology can provide relief from many pregnancy discomforts such as nausea, backache, constipation, symphysis pubis dysfunction, high or low blood pressure, fatigue, headaches and many more.

The link between a mother's health and her unborn child's health is becoming increasing well known.  Reflexology can help the mother achieve her best potential health and consequently assist the health of her baby.



Reflexology can assist in ensuring a natural birth by preparing the body for labour and facilitating the birth process, including priming labour and turning a breech baby.  Research studies have shown that women who receive regular reflexology during pregnancy have better pregnancies and shorter labour with less intervention. (Motha, Dr G. 1994 The Magic of Reflexology in pregnancy Reflexions - The journal of the Associations of Reflexologists.)

Reflexology can promote a speedy recovery after the birth and establish good breastfeeding.  Chinese research has shown that reflexology makes women lactate earlier and more satisfactorily.  Reflexology can also be very beneficial in helping to cope with and recover from postpartum depression.  These positive postnatal effects can benefit a mom who has given birth by cesarean.

The session will balance the entire body with additional gentle working of the reproductive organs and endocrine system reflexes using linking, balancing movements.  Relevant pregnancy complaints will be treated throughout the session as well as extensive work on the lymphatic system to assist with any swelling and fluid retention.

A reflexology treatment is generally an incredibly relaxing experience at a time when a mother's body is going through amazing changes and stresses.  It is immensely beneficial, and wonderful rejuvenating.

Thursday, July 24, 2014

Postpartum recovery with reflexology

A new baby is born full of potential and with that the woman’s role changes as her body, mind and spirit adapts to the dynamic role of motherhood.

For many women it is a natural thing.  Her body recovers on its own without any advice. From the very moment the child is born, her uterus begins to shrink rapidly; giving birth to the placenta and her hormones begin to shift as her body starts a very dramatic and quick process of recovery and preparation for her unique role as a mother.

Nine months of expectations, dreams, as silent and intuitive dialog between the mother and her child has reached their end. It seems natural that she should be happy, euphoric and satisfied with herself.

Yet many mothers exhibit signs of a phenomenon called Baby Blues or Postpartum Mood disorders, sometimes she cries without any apparent reason, feels lonely, melancholic and in some cases, even depressed.

Just as they say “A happy wife makes for a happy life” the same adage applies to motherhood.  In order to better attend the needs of the baby, it would be better for the mother to be relaxed and restore the natural balance she enjoyed before the pregnancy. This is the time in which the touch therapies become not only necessary, but powerfully enhancing.

Reflexology is a restoring and balancing therapy that is also wonderfully pampering. A reflexology session is an excellent reason and an excuse to relax. 
Reflexology is highly recommended to the recent mother for:

· Deep relaxation
· Relief from swelling and edema
· Balancing hormones
· Reducing tension and anxiety
· Better breastfeeding - assisting in milk production and supply
· Relief from aching joints
· Recovery from cesarean birth
· Help processing medications given during the birth
· Backache
· Constipation
· Fatigue
· Perineal pain (due to painful episiotomy)
· Postpartum Mood Disorders
· Urination difficulties and pain


And as a touch therapy, giving support and warmth to somebody that really deserves it.  Online booking is available for your convenience, and babies are welcome to join you during your session.