Year to Best: Act #20 - Reflexology

Most of my friends know I am routinely on the hunt for more holistic health care options that are effective and affordable.  Some things simply can't be taken care of well using only holistic practices - for example, my allergies. I tried just about everything before I realized I just need the nasal sprays from my allergist, period.

However, there are tons of things I CAN do that are wholesome - and most of these things address the overall health of my body instead of just helping cure a symptom.  When my body is naturally stronger, it can do its work correctly and efficiently, leading to less sickness, more enjoyment of life, etc.

I routinely get massage - yes, it's relaxing and helps me maintain a calm mind, but it also helps my lymphatic system move white cells through my body and get rid of the "bad" things the lymphatic system picks up to protect me from.  Massage keeps my immune system stronger and is so very worth my small investment.

Today, I tried reflexology for the first time.  Reflexology is known for generally helping the body's systems flow better and helping the organs, circulatory, and nervous systems function at their best levels. I told the therapist little to nothing about myself (just that I had no pain in my feet or physical concerns she needed to worry about).  The session was a simple half hour with some relaxing music, while she massaged and applied pressure to certain points on my feet and ankles. After the session, she was able to tell me (just from pressure on my feet!) exactly what she felt my concerns would be - respiratory function being lower than normal (my allergies), holding tension in my upper back and shoulders, not drinking enough water, and needing to adjust my nutrition at times so my digestive system operates at its best (I have just been traveling so my diet was off).  It was pretty amazing.  She gave me a few good tips and sent me on my way.  I generally feel good, but am eager to see how I feel tonight and tomorrow - to see if I feel my body is functioning any better.

Overall, a good experience - I'll try it again.

Year to Best: Act #19 - Journaling

As part of my journey to unlock my creativity AND be more introspective (thus leading to more personal power), I began journaling again this week.  In the past, I wrote a lot.  I blogged, I journaled, I doodled, I wrote letters and notes and essays.  I don't necessarily feel less expressive now, but that could be an illusion.

So, I picked up a journal at Barnes & Noble and started to simply write.  I am torn between keeping the journal or writing and burning.  Writing and burning is sort of beautiful because you write your heart out and realize that no one (not even yourself) will ever judge or even read what you wrote - because you burn it.  It's purification, with energy.  

To be fair, I may do some of both.  I am only two days in, so we'll see how it helps me be more well overall with time.