Thursday, March 27th, 2025

Upcoming schedule block:

My parents will coming to town from April 9th through the 16th. Among other things, we’re going to take a big family trip to Sherwood Forest Faire! I may take a few appointments that week, but probably not very many. So, if you’re planning to book a massage sometime in the next few weeks, it may be a good idea to get that on the books, sooner rather than later, to make sure you can get your preferred spot.

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, March 31st 12-2 All Locations
• Tues, April 1st 2:15-3:45pm Amber Moon Studio
• Wed, April 2nd 12:00-2 and 4:30-7 Most Locations
• Thursday, April 3 12-2 All Locations
• Monday, April 7th  9-1 All Locations
• Tuesday, April 8th  9-2  Most locations
• Wednesday, April 9th  9-2 Most locations

Rain and Artichokes…

Oh this weather! A few days ago there was supposedly a huge storm system headed our way. I was so excited about rain. We heard some good thunder, but when watching the radar, by the time the storm go to our neighborhood, it split off and went around us, we didn’t get a single drop! Then last night there was another huge storm system coming, and right as it got to our neighborhood it dissipated and fizzled out. Again, we didn’t get a single drop! I was so mad. This all means I have to keep watering my garden by hand every other day.

So I’ve been trying to grow my own artichokes for about 20 years, but the plants either can’t survive the summer, or can’t make it through the winter. I just can’t get them well enough established. Now, however, I have an artichoke plant that has finally lasted about 2 years and has gotten pretty big, but has still never produced artichokes. I was feeling pretty good that this would be the year it would happen for me, so I’ve been watching it like a hawk. No sign. Then, 3 days ago I was watering my garden and BAM! There was a fully formed artichoke, just there! Snuck right up on me! I was so excited I screamed and then ran through the house yelling at everyone to come see.

Now, I always told myself that if I ever managed to grow an actual artichoke, I’d let the first one bloom. They’re so beautiful when they bloom. Fortunately, I looked a little closer and found about 4 other little baby artichokes. This morning, however, I discovered that the biggest one, but also one of the little ones were showing the first signs of opening up. So, I decided to harvest the big one and let the little one bloom. I’m so proud.

As always, I’m partnering with Elizabeth Essentials to bring you quality essential oils to further promote well-being!

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or text NOW to schedule

 

Thursday, March 13th, 2025

Tis the Season...

Its been almost a month since my last newsletter and what a doozie of a month it’s been. I started with a head cold that circulated through my whole family and when I thought i was almost over I’d go back to work for a few days (with a mask on just to be sure) and then I would get worse again. Ultimately it developed into bronchitis and walking pneumonia with 2 trips to urgent care and 1 trip to the ER. Fortunately the bronchitis and pneumonia weren’t the contagious type and were easily treated with a course of antibiotics. I promise I’m all the way better now!

Upcoming Availability

• Friday, March 28th 4:30-7 All locations
• Mon/Tues, March 31st & April 1st 9-2 and 4:30-7 Most locations
• Wed, April 2nd 12:00-2 and 4:30-7 Most locations
• Thursday, April 3 12-2 All Locations

Summer Is Coming

School is winding down, and summer is on it’s way. Maybe you need help winding down with it, or maybe you need to plan some you time over the summer. I may have reduced hours so I can spend more time with my family while my kids are home from school. Additionally there are 7 therapists who work at the Lake Creek Office Park location. It may be a good idea to consider booking some sessions early to make sure you can get the spots you want. You deserve self care. Maybe you even want to consider setting a regular schedule. Let me know!

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to schedule!  512-461-4574

 

Sunday, February 23, 2025

 

Thank you for helping me grow my practice

My business has been picking up. I really appreciate all the bookings, shout outs, referrals, and reviews! Thank you, to everyone who’s helping me grow my practice. If you’ve enjoyed a massage with me, I'd really appreciate it if you'd leave me a review. I’m going to start sending these newsletters every other week, instead of every week.

Upcoming Availability

• Tuesday, Feb 25th 9-2 and 4:30-7 All locations
• Wed, Feb 26 9-2 and 4:30-7 Most locations
• Thurs, Feb 27 12:30-2 and 4:30-7 Most locations
• Monday, March 3 9-2 and 4:30-7 All locations

Looking for Models!

I’m needing to get some updated images that I can use in newsletters, social media, and partner websites. I’m looking for models to receive some FREE deep tissue, Swedish, oncology massage, manual lymphatic drainage massage, and table thai. Male and female volunteers, all ages welcome. Email or Text me if you’re interested.

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to schedule!  512-461-4574

 

Sunday, February 16, 2025

New Business Connection!

I’m super excited to be embarking on a new partnership. I will be partnering with a new company called Connect and Thrive. This site will be launching in the next few months and is sort of a cross between ClassPass (who I’m also partnered with) and GoFundMe, but for people touched by cancer. I will be offering Oncology Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, and Deep Tissue massage through their platform. Check out https://connect-and-thrive.com/

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, Feb 17th 9-7 Most Locations
• Tuesday, Feb 11th 1-2 all locations
• Wed, Feb 18 10:30-2 most locations
• Thurs, Feb 19 12:30-2 and 4:30-7 most locations

What is Connect and Thrive (CAT)?

Connect & Thrive (CAT) is a social impact company for cancer previvors, patients, thrivers, and caregivers. CAT empowers women on their personal healing journeys by connecting them to a Marketplace of reputable practitioners and curated products. CAT’s partners offer evidence-based healing modalities and healthy living products that help prevent cancer, navigate a cancer diagnosis, and mitigate the risk of recurrence.

CAT’s mission is to help women CONNECT with a community of partners who can help them THRIVE!

Empower

CAT’s digital platform empowers women coping with cancer to take control of their healing journeys via their personal KittyFund™ which is linked to a curated Marketplace. 100% of a patient’s KittyFund™ is for her exclusive use in CAT’s Marketplace.

Engage

Connect with the curated network of partners in CAT's Marketplace. Our partners offer evidence-based healing modalities as well as services (in-person and virtual) and products designed to nourish your Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Educate

Browse a collection of articles, research studies, videos, and podcasts to learn more about evidence-based healing modalities as well as the side effects and symptoms associated with a cancer diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and thrivership.

If you know anyone touched by cancer, please help me spread the news!

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to schedule!  512-461-4574

 

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Lets talk about Self-care

I had chronic insomnia for years, maybe decades. Then about 6 years ago my family sent me on a cruise. Without having to worry about child care, or chores, or meal prep, or cleaning or work, or life, I discovered that I had no problem getting plenty of sleep. In face, I chose sleep and relaxation over partying many nights. Once I discovered there wasn’t anything fundamentally broken about me, I started to prioritize sleep differently, and I haven’t had problems with insomnia since. In this issue, we’re going to talk about self-care.

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, Feb 10rd 11-2 and 4:30-7 most lOCATIONS
• Tuesday, Feb 11th 9-2 all locations
• Wed, Feb 12 12-2 and 4:30-7 most locations
• Thurs, Feb 13 12:30-2 most locations

Sustaining the Benefits of Massage Through Self-Care

A great massage can leave you feeling relaxed, pain-free, and rejuvenated, but how you care for your body afterward determines how long those benefits last.

Staying hydrated is key, as water keeps your muscles supple. Hydration also: Maintains optimal body fluid balance and supports vital functions. Aids in the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Keeps joints lubricated, reducing the risk of discomfort and injury. Assists in flushing out waste products from the body. Promotes healthy skin by maintaining moisture and elasticity.

Gentle stretching, like yoga or mobility exercises, can prevent tightness from returning while maintaining flexibility. Prioritizing good posture and ergonomic support, especially if you sit for long periods, also helps reduce muscle strain and prolongs the relief massage provides. If you sit at a desk all day, make sure your chair is adjusted so you can keep your feet flat on the floor, and your screen is adjusted so that you’re looking at it strait on, rather than looking up or down at it. Ask me about some stretches that can help support your focus areas.

Beyond physical care, managing stress plays a major role in sustaining massage results. Deep breathing, meditation, or even a warm bath with Epsom salts can relax your muscles and calm your nervous system.

Regular movement, such as walking or light exercise, promotes circulation and prevents tension from building up again.

By incorporating these simple self-care habits, you can extend the benefits of massage therapy and keep your body feeling its best between sessions.

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to schedule!  512-461-4574

 

Sunday, February 1st, 2025

Happy February from Artichoke Hearts Healing!

Snow day the week before...

...and now for some perfect and beautiful weather!

Texas weather sure will make your head spin. My last issue celebrated our fun in the snow, and now spring is in the air? We’ll be in the 70s and 80s for the next week! Why not celebrate this glorious weather with a massage in the fresh air? I can come to you, and set up my table in your back yard!

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, Feb 3rd 11-2 All Locations
• Tuesday, Feb 4th 19-2 and 4:30-7 Most Locations
• Wed, Feb 4 11;30-2 and 4:30-7 Most Locations
• Thurs, Feb 5 12:30-2 most locations

Debunking Common Massage Myths

Massage Toxin Release Myth

The idea that massage therapy causes a "release of toxins" is one of the most debated massage therapy myths. However, scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking. While massage does stimulate the body's systems, it's essential to understand that the body is quite efficient at naturally eliminating toxins through its own mechanisms - the liver and kidneys. Instead of worrying about the myth of massage releasing toxins, focus on the myriad benefits massage provides, such as improved circulation, reduced muscle tension, and enhanced relaxation.

The Lactic Acid and Massage Myth

Lactic acid buildup is often blamed for muscle soreness, but that’s a common misunderstanding. In reality, your body clears out lactic acid naturally within an hour or two after exercise, primarily through circulation and normal metabolic processes. The delayed soreness people feel after a workout—known as Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)—is actually due to microscopic muscle fiber damage and inflammation, not lactic acid buildup. While massage can help with muscle recovery by improving circulation, reducing tension, and promoting relaxation, it does not flush out lactic acid. Instead, it helps the body recover by increasing blood flow, reducing stiffness, and stimulating the lymphatic system to remove metabolic waste. So while massage is beneficial after exercise, it's not because it's "removing lactic acid.

The massage can spread cancer cells myth

That has been widely debunked. Cancer spreads through genetic mutations and uncontrolled cell division, not by physical manipulation of tissues. Research shows that massage therapy is safe for people with cancer and can actually help alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve quality of life. Oncology massage, which is specifically designed for cancer patients, uses gentle techniques to provide comfort without interfering with treatment. Rather than spreading cancer, massage supports overall well-being and can be a valuable part of holistic care.

The Pregnancy Massage can induce labor or cause a miscarriage myth

Simply put, there is no evidence that massage therapy can induce labor, cause miscarriages or create complications. To the contrary, rather than evidence pointing to any dangers of pregnancy massage, research indeed shows many potential benefits. For example, a 2009 study found that pregnancy massage reduced prematurity, low birth weight and postpartum depression. A 2010 systematic review concluded that pregnant women reported decreased depression, anxiety, leg and back pain post-massage. Cortisol levels (the stress hormone) also decreased, excessive fetal activity decreased, and the rate of prematurity was lower. Likewise, a 2015 randomized control trial concluded that massage therapy can reduce lower back pain during the first postpartum month. There is also no evidence to suggest that specific parts of the body are dangerous to massage during pregnancy. For example, one myth is about massaging the feet and ankles during pregnancy because the myth is that this may induce labor. Other myths are that the abdomen may not be massaged, or the lumbar region may not be massaged. With that said, just like with any client, if there is a health condition or known complication, having a client talk with her doctor is prudent.

   

                                                                   "PUSH!!!!"

Drinking Water After Massage Myth

One common massage fable is a myth about drinking water after massage. While hydration is undeniably important for overall health, the belief that you need to drink excessive amounts of water to "flush out toxins" is misleading. While massage can be mildly dehydrating because it increases circulation and lymphatic flow and drinking water after a massage can help maintain hydration levels, overindulging is unnecessary. Instead, listen to your body’s cues. If you're thirsty, hydrate appropriately, but don't feel compelled to guzzle large amounts of water just because you’ve had a massage.

I’m partnering with Elizabeth Essentials to bring you quality essential oils to further promote well-being!

Custom blends - inhalers, roll-ons, and room sprays - $20 each

• Blends can include: Chamomile, Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clove Bud, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Lavendar, Lemon, Lemongrass, Neroli, Peppermint, Pomegranate, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Spearamint, Sweet orange, Tea Tree, Vetiver, Menstrual Cramp Blend, Energy Blend, Purity Blend

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to schedule!  512-461-4574

 

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Snow day!

I hope everyone else had as much fun having a rare snow day as we did. We had the day off work and school. We didn’t lose water or power or gas and we did all the things! We made tiny snow men, and muddy snow angels, and had snow ball fights, and made Fanta and Coke snow slushies. We kept a fire going in the fire place all day and had hot cocoa with marshmallows while watching Frozen II. Now back to real life.

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, Jan 27 10-2 and 4:30-7 All Locations
• Tuesday, Jan 28 10-2 All Locations
• Thursday, Jan 22 4:30-7 All Locations

Enhance your next massage with warming essential oils:  add a warming blend for $10

One way to promote a cozy feeling is with aromatherapy, using warm essential oils that emanate warming and comforting scents.

• Cinnamon bark essential oil has a warm, subtly woodsy, comforting aroma that promotes relaxation and soothes the mind. Cinnamon essential oil is also recognized for its potential to support respiratory health. Inhaling its warm aroma may provide a sense of relief during times of seasonal discomfort.
• Clove essential oil offers a warm, spicy aroma that can create a comforting atmosphere, especially during colder months. Its rich scent is often associated with feelings of coziness and relaxation. Clove oil has been traditionally used for its analgesic properties. Its warming and pain-relieving properties make it a popular choice for massage oil, helping to soothe sore muscles and joints.
• Sweet orange is a delightful essential oil with a sweet and uplifting scent. Inhaling orange oil can boost your mood and bring a sense of energy and warmth.
• Rosemary essential oil offers a warm, herbaceous aroma that is both uplifting and clarifying. Its scent can create an energizing atmosphere, promoting mental clarity and focus. It is also recognized for its potential to promote circulation and ease muscle tension. It can be used in massage blends to provide a warming and soothing sensation, and inhaling it may provide relief from respiratory discomfort.

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

 

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Establish a Self-Care Routine

Hooray! I’ve come to the end of my extended hours at the spa! I’m going back down to just working there Friday-Sunday. Woah, guys, I’ve been working 6-7 days a week for 3 weeks. It’s been real. Anyway, I’m looking forward to having more space opening up for my private practice. So come see me! Also, take advantage of my packages as seen on my website!

Upcoming Availability

• Monday, Jan 20 9-2 and 5-7 Most Locations
• Tuesday, Jan 21 10-1 and 4:30-7 All locations
• Thursday, Jan 22 12:30-2 and 4:30-7 All locations

Your Home - I can bring my table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. Over 9 miles includes a $45 service fee.

Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin

Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area

Birth Co - Cedar Park

ESTABLISHING A SELF-CARE ROUTINE:  Packages!

The health experts at National University of Health Sciences want you to know the top five health benefits of adding regular massage therapy to your health and wellness strategy. Lower stress Increase immune function Boost mental health and wellness Manage pain Improve physical fitness

3 Integrated Massages 30/60/90 Minutes = $127/$255/$382

• To be used within 3 months

3 Oncology Massages 30/60/90 Minutes = $127/$255/$382

• To be used within 3 months

3 Pre/Peri-natal Massages 30/60/90 Minutes = $180/$360/$540

• To be used within 3 months

4 Lymphatic Massages (Starter Package) 30/60/90 Minutes = $240/$480/$720

• *to be used within 1 months

3 Lymphatic Massages (Maintenance Package) 30/60/90 Minutes = $180/$360/$540

• *to be used within 3 months

6 Lymhatic Massages (Post-Surgical Package) 30/60/90 Minutes = $330/$660/990

• *to be used within 1 months

I’m partnering with Elizabeth Essentials to bring you quality essential oils to further promote well-being!

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574

 

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Happy New Year!!!

I’m late, I know. It’s been a wild couple of weeks. I’ve been working at the spa 6 days a week AND my mom was in town for 2 weeks! I haven’t been able to get a newsletter out or take very many private clients. I’ve even had to turn down a few massage requests and I feel terrible about that. However, I’m only picking up that many days at the spa for another week and things are starting to slow down there. There is an end in sight!

Upcoming Availability

• M/Th, JAN 13&16 4:30-7 ALL lOCATIONS
• WED, JAN 15 11:15-2 CLUB PILATES

Your Home - I can bring my table to you at no extra charge if you are within 9 miles of 78729. Over 9 miles includes a $45 service fee.

Amber Moon Studio - Far Northwest Austin

Club Pilates, North Burnet - Domain Area

Birth Co - Cedar Park

New Year's Resolution:  Self-Care

Embrace Relaxation!

It’s that time of year, when we all set our intentions for the new year. In this day and age, people seem to aspire to burn themselves out by overdoing everything - prioritizing hard work over rest and relaxation like the former is more worthy than the latter. But prioritizing self-care is a noble goal.

Ogimi, the friendly village of 3,000 of the world’s longest-living people, is known for its slow pace, and plant based living. They also take great pride in living to 100 and beyond. They have fewer chronic illnesses than most people, including cancer and heart disease, and their rate of dementia is well below the global average.

When most people think about massage, the image of a deep tissue massage might come to mind—firm pressure, intense focus on knots, and that feeling of "good pain". While deep tissue massage is a powerful tool for addressing chronic pain or muscle tightness, it's not always the best option for every situation or client. Sometimes, a lighter massage style, like Swedish massage, can be just as effective—or even better. At your next session, don’t hesitate to discuss how you’re feeling and what you’re looking to achieve. Together, we can determine whether a lighter, Swedish-style massage or a more focused deep tissue session will best meet your needs. Remember: Massage is about your comfort, health, and well-being—sometimes, less pressure can make the biggest impact!

I’m partnering with Elizabeth Essentials to bring you quality essential oils to further promote well-being!

Custom blends - inhalers, roll-ons, and room sprays - $20 each

• Blends can include: Chamomile, Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clove Bud, Frankincense, Grapefruit, Lavendar, Lemon, Lemongrass, Neroli, Peppermint, Pomegranate, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Spearamint, Sweet orange, Tea Tree, Vetiver, Menstrual Cramp Blend, Energy Blend, Purity Blend

Frankincense (15 ml.) $80

• Considered the “holy anointing oil” and has been used in ceremonies for thousands of years. “Used to treat every conceivable ill known to man”. High in sesquiterpenes, which helps stimulate the limbic system of the brain (the center of emotions) as well as the hypothalamus, pineal and pituitary glands. Alleviates depression by supporting the nerves and elevating the mind to aid in overcoming stress and despair. Supports the immune system. Increases spiritual awareness and promotes meditation. Improves attitude and uplifts spirits.

Grapefruit 15ml $20

• Balances mood, reduces stress, lowers blood pressure. antimicrobial and antibacterial properties.

ImmuShield (5 ml.) $31

• Boosts the body's immune system and fights bacteria, viruses and fungi using A proprietary blend of Lavender, Rosemary, Lemongrass, Citronella, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus, Lemon and Colloidal Silver.

Lavender (15 ml.) $30

• Aids depression, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, hives & nervous tension. Is calming, relaxing and balancing both physically and emotionally.

Lemon - 15ml $14.50

• Disinfectant, antibacterial (spores), antiseptic, antiviral, vitamin P-like action for improving microcirculation, promotes white blood cell formation and improves immune function. anti-inflammatory and can help you boost your mood, find mental clarity, reduce stress, and more.

Neroli - 1ml $25

Neroli Essentials 2oz $12.50

• Relaxes and uplifts the spirit, assisting in insomnia and depression. Promotes a calming effect on the intestines and soothes on scars and stretch marks.

Rosemary (15 ml.) $19

• Clarifying for emotions and psychologically balancing. Balances endocrine gland.

Thanks for supporting Artichoke Hearts Healing - Your friendly neighborhood massage therapist!  Feel free to respond to this email with questions, comments, and incites.

Call or Text NOW to Schedule: 512-461-4574