Massage is a necessity disguised as a luxury

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and while there may be some controversy around wearing pink, we are making this month about YOU, whether you have breast cancer or not. (Men, I’m looking at you too.) Cancer isn’t predictable and it isn’t pretty, but here are a few simple ways to take care of yourself and honor your breasts. Lead by Example Perform monthly self breast exams, get knowledgeable about your body, and schedule regular mammograms. Make sure you schedule a clinical breast exam with your primary care physician, too. Set a good example for the loved ones around you by incorporating healthy practices. This can include, starting a garden, eating as organic as possible, exercising regularly, and packing healthy lunches for your kids. Talk to Your Family and Friends Teach your children about self care and good breast health. Tell them about the health risks that come with smoking and alcohol. Talk with your kids, siblings, parents and gr...

September 30th is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day . Hundreds of organizations countrywide will be hosting a variety of noncompetitive events covering everything from group walks to health seminars. In the spirit of this holiday, we’ve put together a list of 5 ways you can celebrate women’s health and fitness - regardless if there’s an organization participating near you. Go inward Good health starts within. Too often our lives are so busy that we forget to remember ourselves. Spend a little time thinking about what you want for yourself and what fits your wellness goals. Practicing yoga, meditation, and even a daily drawing habit can help push you toward a more healthful and balanced life. Go outward If working on the inner stuff is important, it’s just as vital to do things in an outward fashion too. Take a long walk, go for a hike, play a sport, go out dancing or even meeting up with friends can have a major impact on your emotional well b...

August 25-31 has been dubbed Be Kind to Humankind Week. We decided to make a list of 9 out-of-the-norm (and some normal) ways to reach out and be kind to your fellow humans. Offer help. Randomly offer to help someone with a task. Rake their yard. Hoist their kayak onto their car. If you see someone bogged down with grocery sacks, offer to lighten their load. Chances are they’ll wave you off with a “no, thanks,” but no doubt the unexpected offer of help will be remembered. Say thank you. Crazy isn’t it? Two simple words can have a way of making someone’s day. I recently heard a story about someone who manned a drive-thru window, she said the amount of people who acknowledged her presence was minimal. As long as they got what they wanted, they didn’t even say a word or look her in the eye. A drive-thru window may seem like such a brief exchange, but it can still have an impact. Be open to conversation. We all have busy schedules, things to do, and...

That’s right, your mirror reflects how beautiful you are! It might sound cliche to encourage you to embrace your beauty (inside and out), but July 3rd is National Compliment Your Mirror Day… it’s practically required that you acknowledge your beauty, at least for one day. Try these simple tips to take steps toward accepting yourself and celebrate Compliment Your Mirror Day. Look at yourself That’s the nuts and bolts of this holiday. Every time you walk past a mirror, take a moment to look at yourself. Really look at yourself - without judgement. Focus on the positive What is your favorite part of your body? What part of your personality makes you happy? Focus on your strengths.   Wear your favorite color Whether it’s a swimsuit or shade of lipstick, wear a color that makes you feel alive, comfortable in your skin, and makes you shine. Buy or repaint your vanity Having a special place designated just for you, complete...

The Great Outdoors is not for everyone. It’s raw, dirty, and you're exposed to the elements.   (And there are bugs. Oh, the bugs.) No matter how rugged (or fancy) your outdoor adventure, there are qualities about camping we won't find elsewhere in one complete package. What could be better than that? If you’re a camping veteran, you know what I’m talking about. If you’re new to the scene, grab your backpack, you’re going to love this. Since June is National Camping Month, I decided to give you five reasons why camping can bring you happiness: Slowing Down As soon as you hit your campsite, it’s like time has been reset. Setting up your “new living space” can be a meditative process (unless you have small children). Cooking food over a fire forces you to slow down and the simple act of sleeping outside can bring about a symphony of sounds that even the best app can’t mimic. Quality Time This is by far the best thing about cam...