The Pav Blog

Pavia to Close and Pass Torch to Preston Wynne; Last Day is June 27, 2010

2010-06-22T10:02:00.000-07:00

I am sad to announce that by the end of June 2010, Pavia will no longer be Pavia. We have struggled to stay afloat during the worsening economic conditions, and after a long battle, we have succumbed. We were just not able to earn enough to keep our space, and as a consequence, we lost our lease.

This is extremely traumatic for me and for my staff, as you can imagine, but there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel. My friend, teacher, and mentor, Peggy Wynne Borgman, owner of Preston Wynne, and I have come to a great solution for our clients, staff, and wellness community. Preston Wynne has invited ALL Pavia employees to apply for employment there, and they have also volunteered to accept all unused Pavia gift certificates as payment for treatments there, allowing clients to use those over 2 visits (50% of the value of the remaining GC per visit), and they have asked me to go and set up a wellness program in their location. So truly, they are picking up the ball and running with it, and for that, I am extremely grateful.

I have to say, I must be an extremely stubborn person to have kept going as long as I did. There I was, at the end of my 7th month of pregnancy, holding down a high-tech consulting position, a husband, AND a spa, and I didn't want to let go of anything. I had to be served a notice of termination of tenancy for the end of June in order to let go of the spa - without it, I know I would have fought on like a determined soldier...or a dog with a bone....or a little kid with a favorite toy. It had to be yanked from me for me to see the bigger picture.

Far wiser people than me have said that at times like these, it's the Universe smashing you in the head with a "brick" to let you know that it's time to move on, there are other things in store. And far wiser people would not have waited for the brick to come a-smashing, but I am not one of those people. Like I said, they're far wiser.

Well, the brick has struck, and I'm now listening and paying attention. At first I resisted (yes, I'd call 2 weeks of crying and raging and sobbing and wailing, "resistance"), but now I am more or less at peace with it. I look forward to bringing our special brand of wellness and our community to Preston Wynne, and to being able to have time to spend with my new baby.

I just want to end by thanking all of those who have patronized Pavia, all those who have worked there, and all those I have met through owning the spa. You have each taught me something, and I will treasure the lessons forever. They were and are a huge part of my growth path. Thank you for blessing me by crossing my path, and I wish you all the best in life. You deserve it.

Love, Mare

The Vitamin D Dilemma

2010-06-01T20:49:00.001-07:00

Recently I was sent an article by one of our vendors on the trade-off between getting Vitamin D and potentially getting skin cancer. Since Melanoma Awareness Month is only just now over (as of yesterday), and since the sun is only going to get stronger as we move into the summer months, I thought I'd re-post what I wrote in my newsletter, which quoted large sections of the article:
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In a nutshell, the vitamin D dilemma goes like this: if the sun is a good source of vitamin D, and we can suffer from vitamin D deficiency by not getting enough sun exposure, then shouldn't we be unafraid to spend 5-10 minutes getting unprotected UV exposure from either the sun or tanning machines 2-3 times a week?

THE CONTROVERSY

Over the last several years, physicians and scientists have debated sun exposure as a beneficial source of Vitamin D. Many assert that vitamin D produced in the body can help prevent prostate, colon, breast, and other cancers, as well as bone diseases.

These scientists are worried that people are now at greater risk for these diseases because "dermatologists have scared them out of the sun." Most dermatologists and cancer groups (including the Skin Cancer Foundation), however, argue strongly against the solution of spending unprotected time in the sun or in UV tanning machines. And new analysis from the Department of Dermatology at the Boston University School of Medicine appears to support this stance.

WHAT DOES THE NEW STUDY SAY?

After reviewing the massive research available on vitamin D and sun exposure, Drs. Dean Wolpowitz and Barbara Gilchrest found that in regions where people have greater sun exposure, fewer cases of colon cancer occur, and fewer deaths occur from colon, breast, and prostate cancers. Presumably, this is because of sun-induced vitamin D. However, Wolpowitz and Gilchrest contend that UV is an officially recognized environmental carcinogen, and that the more than 1.3 million people diagnosed annually in the U.S. with skin cancers qualifies as a "near epidemic." And the cause of most of these cases? Sun exposure.

SO SHOULD I AIM FOR UNPROTECTED SUN EXPOSURE?

In a word, NO. According to Wolpowitz and Gilchrest, the studies that support getting unprotected sun exposure are "observational" and "variable in quality." In general, the data links mortality from colon, breast, and prostate cancer from specific regions with the amounts of UV in those regions, but such studies can be muddled by climactic factors such as pollution, variations in population genetics (such as darker- or lighter-skinned populations), and cultural or lifestyle factors (socioeconomics and diet). Therefore, these studies cannot directly correlate disease with individual sun exposure.

By contrast, much research (ranging from animal studies to surveys to large population and human DNA studies) has strongly established the connection between sun exposure and skin cancer. Drs. Wolpowitz and Gilchrest note that very small amounts of sun exposure provide ALL the vitamin D the body can manufacture. They say that even when you're wearing sunscreen, some UV reaches the skin, and for fair-skinned individuals, this may be plenty. The doctors conclude that greater exposure to the sun does nothing for vitamin D stores, but does increase DNA damage in a linear fashion. Their bottom line? The tradeoff of vitamin D production for photoaging and skin cancer does not make sense.

At Pavia, we like to recommend Colorescience's Sunforgettable powder sunscreens, which come in 3 shades, are SPF 30, easy to apply, water-resistant, and have received FDA approval as well as the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation of America.

SO WHAT DO WE DO TO GET VITAMIN D?

Fortunately, there are effective and almost effortless sources of vitamin D - that are also non-carcinogenic. These include vitamin D supplements and vitamin D-fortified foods. For example, I like to take 4,000 IUs of vitamin D from a supplement supplied by my holistic physician, Dr. Kim Millman. You can also drink vitamin D-fortified orange juice or eat salmon and other fatty fish. There's even a vitamin D oral spray from Dr. Mercola, found here. And all of this is so much easier and safer than climbing into a tanning booth or laying out and frying our whole bodies in the sun.

Events at Pavia: The Power of Group Energy

2010-05-17T16:30:00.000-07:00

Last night was the fourth class in Brian Rainie's series of energy work events at Pavia. Ten women gathered together to learn more about spirit guides and the different energies and entities that surround us in our lives and how they can effect us. Brian has always told us that once a critical mass is reached at about seven people, a group can run its own energy, and the potential for new experiences, perceptions, and even new levels of healing truly takes off.

I have personally experienced how easy it felt to do healing work in the group setting of my Bodytalk classes and Reiki shares, whereas one-on-one work can sometimes feel like more of a challenge. In last night's class I was particularly aware of what an amazing opportunity group work presents. In the fun and welcoming environment of classes at Pavia, we all seem to be that much more capable of "getting out of our own way" and looking past blockages and beliefs that cloud our intuition.

I'm sure that most of the participants (myself included, certainly) started out the class thinking something along the lines of, "But I can't see spirit guides! How the heck will I know what's going on?" But when the entire class began to focus their energies together on these readings, the results were absolutely amazing.

Somehow it's just that much easier to pipe up and say that in your mind's eye you see a very little old man with a stick standing right in front of your classmate's face when your other classmate is sitting next to you, saying "Yea, he's a tiny old man, with a stick!" And it was a beautiful thing to say to the person getting the reading, "He is SO proud of you."

Not only were we helping each other know to our spirit guides, but to know ourselves more deeply. We weren't just building confidence in our own intuitive abilities, we were opening doors to whole other worlds.

Please contact us if you'd like to know more about our events at Pavia and our Soul Therapy energy work offerings.

3 Things Make a Person Ugly...

2010-05-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

1. Tanning
2. Smoking
3. Drinking

Since May is melanoma awareness month, I want to talk about #1: Tanning. I still remember my best friend in college sunbathing every weekend with a can of Crisco at her side. This particular friend is no dummy either - she went to Stanford undergrad, blew away her LSATs, and went on to attend and graduate from Yale law school. But, for some reason, she couldn't get it through her head that sunbathing IS dumb. Sunbathing with Crisco on is just...spectacularly stupid. Sorry Lisa, I love you, but there it is.

Let's start with the basics: What is melanoma?

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The disease begins in skin cells called "melanocytes." These cells make melanin, which gives skin its pigment and also protects the deeper layers of the skin from the sun’s UV rays. When skin receives too much UV light, melanocytes may begin to grow abnormally and become cancerous melanoma.

How do you spot Melanoma?

In many cases, the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color, or feel of an existing mole. Melanoma can also appear on the body as a new mole. Most melanomas have a black or blue-black area and may appear abnormal.

For men, melanoma often appears between the shoulders and hips, on the head, and the neck. Women most commonly find melanoma on the lower legs, palms of hands, on the soles of feet, and even under the fingernails or toenails. Although these are the most common places on the body for melanomas to appear, they can appear anywhere on the skin, so it is important to perform routine self-examinations and get an annual head-to-toe skin check from your dermatologist.

And if you find something that looks suspicious, don't hesitate to contact your doctor.

Did you know that...

* UV exposure is greatest when the sun is highest in the sky between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It is also greatest in the summer, at higher altitudes, and nearer the equator.
* Up to 80 percent of the sun’s rays can penetrate light clouds, mist and fog.
* Fresh snow reflects back about 85 percent of the sun’s rays; water reflects back about 5 percent of the sun’s rays; concrete reflects back 10 to 12 percent of the sun’s rays.
* Protecting your skin during the first 18 years of life can reduce the risk of some types of skin cancer by up to 78 percent.
* Studies have confirmed that sun exposure is responsible for the development of at least two-thirds of all melanomas.

Please, what people don't know CAN kill them. Spread the word to your friends, family, and loved ones about the dangers of melanoma. Wear a full-spectrum sunscreen of AT LEAST SPF 30 every day, whether you're inside or outside. Put this on your children and loved ones as well. If they don't like the greasiness of sunscreen, there are powder sunscreens (we use the Colorescience brand at Pavia) that work as well. My husband won't let me put on a cream sunscreen, but a powder one he will tolerate.

This disease accounts for more than 65,000 new cases, and claims more than 11,000 lives each year. But with early detection, this disease can be stopped.

I wish I'd known to say these things to Lisa. I think I still will call her up and tell her.

A Holistic Medical Approach to Allergies: May 24, 2010, 6:30pm

2010-05-06T23:24:00.001-07:00

Dr. Kim Millman, MD/PhD, is a Board-certified Internist trained in the traditional Western ways, but wholly converted to holistic methods of diagnosis, treatment, and therapy. Dr. Kim, who operates the Millman Clinic in San Jose, CA, has agreed to give us a FREE seminar at Pavia on allergies on Monday night, May 24th, from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Just in time, too, because my allergies have recently attacked me full force, and I could use some help getting rid of them. Here are some of her perspectives on allergies, and how she might approach them.

Dr. Kim, what is an allergy?
You may know that itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing are symptoms of allergies, but you may not realize that allergies can also cause aches and pains, irritability, anxiety, and mental fogginess. In fact, since allergies can affect any organ and any cell in our body, virtually any problem could be caused by an allergic response.

Why do we get allergies?
The body is always trying to heal itself and produces allergic responses in an effort to neutralize or eliminate something that it has recognized as being foreign or toxic, i.e., an allergen. The allergic response gets rid of the allergen, but in the process, the immune system also generates histamine and other chemicals that produce the well -known histamine reaction that results in itchy and watery eyes, sneezing, sniffling, and post-nasal drip.

Allergens can take many forms, including foods, pollens, dandruff, saliva, chemicals, and metals. We screen for over 120 different foods and environmental allergens in our screening process.

How do you feel about conventional methods of diagnosing and treating allergies?
Conventional medicine uses “scratch tests” to identify allergens. It is an insensitive method compared to ours. Allergy shots are given in an attempt to desensitize the body, but typically they are not very effective. On the other hand, allergy medications decrease the production of histamine and leukotriene, components of the immune system that cause the allergic reactions, but depressing components of the immune system is, in general, not a good idea. Medications are all or none, they do not work well in a system that is meant for adaptation. That is why there are so many side effects with allergy medications, including groggy, hang-over like symptoms, and the inability to concentrate.

That explains why I always feel like I got hit by a bus after I take a pill!
Exactly. And then, once the allergic reaction is “under control,” the patient is told to avoid the allergen indefinitely. Treatment in this manner is merely palliative. The allergy still exists.

So, how do YOU approach treating allergies?
I use something called the "Natural Allergy Elimination Technique," which works with the energy system of the body so that it is becomes more compatible with the allergen. As a result, the allergen no longer causes a negative reaction, and the symptoms from the incompatibility disappear. It is like an energetic reset button.

This technique is a procedure that utilizes muscle testing, cold lasers and Qi energy flow. I have personally experienced a profound improvement in my allergies as a result of my treatments - I have had an increase in my mental capacity, a general lightness in my body and mind, and less of the usual sneezing, sniffling and chest tightness. I will demonstrate this technique at Pavia on Monday night, 5/24, and I hope people give it a chance to see if it helps them as much as it has helped me.

I can't wait. I want to volunteer to be the demonstration dummy!

Sani-Tea not Vani-Tea

2010-05-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

It seems like everyone these days is talking up tea. What is all the fuss about?
Well, from what I’ve learned, green and white teas not only have less caffeine and are less acid-forming than coffee, but they also contain powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols help your body to detoxify and regenerate.

Recently we had a visit from our fabulous Eminence Organics sales rep. She told us all about their exciting new line of products called Immuni-Tea. These products contain green, white and red rooibos tea. Each tea has it’s own special vitamin and mineral properties that contribute to the potency of these products. I also learned that white tea actually comes from the same plant as green tea. White tea is made from the unopened leaf buds of the green tea plant and contain even higher concentrations of the potent polyphenol antioxidants than green tea.

Rooibos tea has no caffeine and in the Eminence skin products, it offers the refining and healing powers of alpha hydroxy acid and zinc. Green tea has been proven to boost the immune system, and new studies are finding that it also can have the miraculous effect of helping your body to burn fat. I am especially excited about THAT property. You can read more about it here, in an article from Dr. Mercola.

In addition to smoothing, healing, and strengthening your skin topically with the new Eminence line, there are easy ways to ingest the benefits of tea with out having to drink piping hot pots and pots of it. Many of you already enjoy our Pure Inventions tea extracts in your water before your services at Pavia. Did you know that those little bottles are jam-packed with all concentrated antioxidants of green tea and none of the caffeine?

Pure Inventions even offers a special extract focused on assisting with weight loss. Who knows, we may have some at Pavia just in time for the beach and those infamous bikinis.

Help, I Need a Pedicure! And a Pedicurist!

2010-04-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

Oy, this last week has felt like a string of obstacles to surmount. In no particular order, except the order in which they occur to me, they are: 1) I can no longer see my feet, and can't reach around my big tummy to cut my toenails. So my feet look worse than Paul Bunyan's, I think, but can't confirm because I can't really see them.

Yuck, I just looked down at them and CAN confirm that they are probably even worse than Paul Bunyan's...they probably look like Paul Bunyan's ox's hooves. Nice! Great to be walking around as a spa owner with lumberjack feet.

2) I got the punch-in-the-gut that our wonderful nail technician, Annie, is LEAVING!! Waaaaah. She has been suffering from allergies for quite a while, and they have gotten so bad that she had to spend the night in a hospital recently because she couldn't breathe. Her doctors want her to take a break from the nail industry, so she is doing the right thing and putting her health first.

3) So I start interviewing for nail technicians, and so far, have been striking out. The first one to come through the door seemed very promising, but her cousin needs her help at the family nail salon for the next two months. The second one sent a great resume, but then decided not to relocate to the area after all. Back to square one - I have decided to affirm and trust that no matter what, the Universe will send me the right person. It's better than thinking to myself all the time that finding a good nail technician is hard....that's just the reality I will create if I think that.

Well, if anyone .... ANYONE ... knows of any great nail technicians, let me know. I'll send you a gift certificate for a complimentary pedicure if I hire the person you send me!

Sayonara, Leg Cramps!

2010-04-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

Remember how I complained in a previous blog about my godawfully painful leg cramps? Well, I haven't had one since then, and that blog was at the end of March. It's now the end of April, so what have I done?

1. I went to Dr. Kim Millman for muscle testing, and she thought it was a potassium deficiency. She suggested I take something from Standard Process called, "Organically Bound Minerals," 1 pill a day. Check, I did that. She also realized, through muscle testing, that I am also short on Folic Acid. That elicited a big HUH? from me because I've been taking my pre-natal vitamins religiously - and isn't Folic Acid one of the biggest ingredients in pre-natal vitamins? I guess it just goes to show that everyone is different, and we need customized solutions for each of us.

2. I started eating a banana each day. Okay, that's a lie. I hate bananas. It is accurate to say I started to eat a banana a day, but then stopped for a week, and then started having half a banana a day, and now just eat a banana whenever I think of it (or when the husband shoves one in my face).

3. I started doing ankle pumps throughout the day, especially before bed. Nothing stressful, I just raise one leg at a time and start rotating it and then pressing down on an imaginary gas pedal a few times each hour.

4. I started using Eminence's new Lychee & Chestnut Leg Firming Treatment! This is a new product from their Immuni-Tea collection, and I have to give it two thumbs up. In fact, I wish I had more thumbs to give. The product has been clinically tested and shown to improve circulation, which I think is my primary issue - the baby puts pressure on the blood returning to my torso, and my legs get tired and sore very easily. After a whole night of lying on them horizontally, no wonder they want to cramp, with or without my permission. But I've felt an immediate effect upon application, kind of a re-invigorated feeling combined with a cool, tingling, soothing feeling.

If you're on my newsletter, stay tuned - I am going to make a special deal available on this product for my newsletter members, and ONLY for them. Membership does have its privileges...;-) If you're not on the Pavia newsletter, then what are you waiting for? Sign up!

A Flea Manifestation...Er, Infestation

2010-04-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

This is a story of how you do bring about what you think about. And how Aromatherapy can help the results.

First, a little background: my husband and I just moved into a duplex. When we first toured it, we saw that the previous tenants had a cat. This set my husband off into a tizzy - he was convinced from the first that the cat had fleas and that we would be plagued by unwanted insect housemates from the moment we moved in. I assured him that the landlord had assured me that he would steam clean the carpets before we moved in, and that all would be well.

Except, all has not been well. At least, not for the hubby. Each night since the first night he has woken up with multiple bites on his lower ankles and legs. He looks like he has been eaten alive from knee to ankle, covered with red bumps. At first, I kept telling him that it must be unrelated to the house, because how could I sleep next to him and live with him and NOT be affected by even a single bite? (That didn't go over too well).

Then, I did some research online and learned that fleas DO prefer certain people to others...except that they should prefer the pregnant person, the one with lots and lots of extra blood coursing through her veins. So, I guess it IS possible that they just find my hubby more yummy than me, but VERY improbable. My husband is like Jack Sprat from the nursery rhyme, who could eat no fat (and whose wife could eat no lean). He has no meat on him AT ALL.

Therefore, I conclude that since I am (on paper) a more attractive candidate for a flea, and yet I'm untouched, that he has manifested his own personal flea infestation by concentrating his energy towards it. Talk about law of attraction working like crazy.

Well, here's where the Aromatherapy comes in: I can't change his belief systems or the way he thinks, but I *CAN* help prevent him getting flea bites. I made him an ointment consisting of 25 drops of Tea Tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) and 10 drops of Niaouli (Melaleuca quinquenervia, or also MQV), and 1 ounce of Castor Oil. Castor oil is NOT my first choice of carrier oil, by any means, but it was all I had in the house. It is EXTREMELY sticky, thick, and unpleasant to sleep in. I would have much preferred to use Grapeseed oil, but beggars can't be choosers.

Each night I've applied it from his ankles up past his shins, and for 6 days now, no flea bites the next morning. I've also made an anti-flea carpet powder by combining 8 ounces of Arm & Hammer baking soda and 45 drops of Tea Tree essential oil. I shake it around in a baggy until it's good and mixed, then sprinkle it on the carpet. Then, I wait 30 minutes and vacuum it up - the house smells medicinal and clean and I bet the fleas are really unhappy (they hate Tea Tree oil).

Le voila! The best result would have been for him to have released his expectations of fleas, but failing that, the Aromatherapy worked, too, in the end. :-)

Safety First, It's Not Just for Kids!

2010-04-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

While I was visiting friends and family in Los Angeles over the Easter weekend, I heard a piece on talk radio which interested me. The radio segment was discussing a recent incident involving children who contracted the measles while traveling with their family in Europe. These children were unvaccinated. The radio show was focusing on the growing number of parents who choose not to vaccinate their children, or not to vaccinate according to the recommended vaccine schedule, and the issues and repercussions surrounding that choice.

I found it very interesting that the show mentioned that the majority of these people who are choosing to go against the grain of recommended vaccinations are not doing so because of lack of education or finances, or because of religious doctrine. The woman from a local health and disease authority who was handling those measles cases stated that a majority of parents who are choosing not to vaccinate are actually highly-educated.

As I have reached an age where many of my close friends (and now my wonderful Sister, as well) are having children and undertaking the colossal task of choosing what is best for their children in every aspect of their new life, I have become more and more aware of the heated debate on vaccine safety. Today I came across a video series in a newsletter from Dr. Joseph Mercola that also focuses on that hot topic. I have always personally enjoyed Dr. Mercola's newsletter for interesting, helpful, and timely articles which seem to present a multi-faceted perspective on their topics. His site is also ranked the number one most-visited natural health site by Alexa.com.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching this series of interview videos, and I feel that it gave one of the most comprehensive presentations of the complex core issues at play as more people begin to question the safety of currently available vaccines. These videos also shed some light on potential therapies for the mysterious and very serious health issue of autism. It takes about an hour to view the videos entirely, but I highly recommend them, especially if you are concerned about the health of children, and adults, all over the world. You can watch the videos here.

My Cup Runneth Over - My Bra Cup, That is...

2010-04-08T16:22:00.000-07:00

I was very happy with my pre-pregnancy bra measurement: 38D. I outdid my gene pool, that's for sure. My mother, who can barely fill a B cup even at her most hormonal, used to always say to me, "What the heck did I feed you?" I'm not really sure, but I guess it worked.

Now, though, I have busted out of all my bra sizes and am reluctant to measure myself for a new one, afraid of what I will find. Also, I'm paranoid about wearing underwire bras because of the blog Claire posted on this topic and also because of the warnings I've received from my holistic doctor (Dr. Kim Millman). So for now, I'm wearing camisoles and Bella bandeaux for that much-needed "support."

The first thing to hit the wall, were I to walk into one, would definitely be my tummy, but I'm sad to say that my boobs are not that far behind. And I'm also afraid that gravity will take hold and nothing will go back to the way it was before pregnancy. Oh well, that's one consequence of not getting pregnant until 37, I guess. Not that I wasn't actively trying to get pregnant from 32 to 36.

I think the extra weight in my front chest is also creating some strain in my back - Daniela always says that the pain in my rhomboids (those little knobbies between the spine and the shoulder blades) are because my chest muscles are understretched, leading the back muscles to be overstretched. Which is why, when I go in for a back massage, she always gives me a chest massage. Seems counter-intuitive, and also not as pleasurable as a back massage, until you get a Daniela massage and then bam! You feel good for 2 weeks straight.

Which is also why, as of April 10th, at 11:15am, I am doing a face-plant down onto her massage table for another Pregnancy Massage. Oh wait, can't lie on my stomach. Guess I will slither onto that coveted surface on my side, then. Nah, nanny boo-boo, you're so jealous!

Where Did My Feet Go?

2010-03-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

The question of "Where's My Belly?" has been definitively answered. If I went to the movies and sat in the back row, my belly would be in the front row. Now the question is, "Where are my feet?" 'Cause truly, I can't see them anymore when I look down.

Pregnancy has been good to me thus far. My skin is glowing and radiant like it was back in high school, minus the pimples. I haven't thrown up a single day, and my energy level is still pretty good (well, it's only 24 weeks, so we will see how long this lasts). The baby is healthy and behaving like a human octopus, kicking me in every possible place I can think of and amusing the heck out of my husband (who likes the sight of my tummy bouncing around from the inside).

The only issues I seem to have are a) trouble sleeping and b) these GOD-AWFUL leg cramps. Several nights now I have woken up with painful charley horses in the back of my calves, and all I can do is hold on for dear life and pray that it releases. I've read up on these leg cramps (the Internet is awesome), and they suggest a few remedies...one that really cracked me up was, "Stand on a cold floor or surface." Are you kidding? I can't even get out of bed during the cramp or suffer my husband to touch me during a cramp, let alone limp over to a cold floor/surface and stand a while.

The sites also give conflicting messages. BabyCenter.com says it's a lack of magnesium (this is what we have also learned during Herbalist training). My doctor says it's a lack of potassium. And still other web sites say it's a lack of calcium, though the more I read, the less support there seems to be for the lack-of-calcium theory.

Either way, I have started making changes. I started rotating my ankles while sitting, stretching my calves more frequently, and to test out the potassium theory, eating 2 bananas a day (sucks for me that I am one of those banana-haters in the world, their mushy texture just repulses me). I'll also start walking for 30 minutes each day (now that the move is done!), and keep my fingers crossed that I don't wake up to more unholy pain in the middle of the night. And you know, I think I am overdue for another Pregnancy Massage. Luckily, I know a GREAT place to get one. ;-)

Of Stroopwafel and Cellular Memory

2010-03-27T22:22:00.000-07:00

This week, I experienced my first deep tissue massage with the amazing Bettina Roether. As I mentioned in my blog about my massage with Chelsea, I have some “preeettyyy gnaarrrly” knots in my upper back and shoulders, which cry out for relief. Those areas certainly found some release with the assistance of Bettina's strong and skillful hands. The massage was both powerfully therapeutic and potently relaxing. Bettina's ability to identify and articulate what was happening with my muscles really impressed me as well. She told me how building some more muscle tone and strength in my body could cushion and buffer my joints, which I never knew. Hopefully, my yoga practice as well as my jazzercise class with Pavia client Mckenzie Ector will take care of that!

Bettina also commented on the fact that my left shoulder was actually more contracted than my right, which surprised me because I feel the most tightness and discomfort on my right side. As she worked deeply into the back of my left shoulder, gently and firmly coaxing the muscle fibers to expand out toward my left arm, I breathed deeply to assist my body in releasing. At that time, a very pleasant impression started to bubble up into my consciousness. As I let it take form, I realized that it was a memory of my trip to visit one of my very best friends in Amsterdam in April of 2007. I saw gentle sunlight falling on the charming 16th century row houses and cobble stone streets. I had the warm, delicious sensation of enjoying one of many stroopwafel cookies that I consumed on that journey as well.

Perhaps I was just having a nice memory as I entered a deeper state of relaxation. However, I have often wondered what the connection of such memories could be to certain movement in my body. Especially during yoga sessions with one of my former teachers in New York, I would have very sweet and enjoyable memories arise quite regularly. I particularly remember a very vivid recollection coming back during one class. It was as if I had been transported to the beautiful back yard of my grandparents' home in Richmond, Virginia. So much feeling came with that impression. I felt the pleasure of the sunlight, smelled the pungent, woody scent of the boxwoods, and remembered the feeling of being blissfully alone in a secret and magical place.

According to Wikipedia and other sources on the web, the notion of Cellular Memory takes life only in anecdotes and fiction. Apparently, it has never been scientifically tested or proven. Well, then, it hasn't been disproved either. Many psychologists recognize that traumas can be stored in the body, so why not other memories and experiences? Most energy workers that I know, such as Theresa Hatcher and Brian Rainie, experience Cellular Memory as an absolutely valid and real element of their practice. I don't know just what holds the answer to the mystery of these bright, vivid, and loving memories arising during body work for me—but I am so grateful for them nonetheless.

Purpose, Passion and Prosperity at Pavia with Life Coach Laura Rice

2010-03-19T15:29:00.000-07:00

For the past year Laura Rice has been first my life and love coach, and now my personal friend. I'm so excited to say that she will be teaching a class at Pavia on the 28th. Let me tell you a little bit about her! Laura's life story is an inspiring road map for following your passion and your intuition. Through her Life Purpose Coaching and Seminars for Women, she is helping her clients both design and live their own such unique plan. Just a few years ago, however, Laura was living in Oregon working as a high school teacher. Each day at the job, she was feeling her creativity and enthusiasm drain away. But as her desire to leave her unfulfiling job and live out a larger life purpose grew, so did her fears. She knew that she wanted to be a life coach, but didn't know exactly what that was. Laura also worried about how her husband and family would react to the news that she wanted to leave her financially stable but increasingly stifling position.

After gathering the courage to finally share her dreams and desires with her husband, she found a very pleasant surprise in his warm and supportive response. That one conversation then lead to a year of traveling the country and adventuring in an RV, getting life coaching herself, enrolling in the Life Purpose Institute of San Diego, and eventually moving to the warmer climes of the Santa Cruz coast.

Through her five step program 'Claim Your Purpose & Create Prosperity,' Laura helps women to have more clarity, less frustration, and more financial abundance in their lives. She describes a central function of this work as, "Helping women to find their own internal permission and make choices based on that." Sometimes that task begins with something as simple as reconnecting with your own personal preferences. Laura finds that women often lose sight of their own desires and get stuck in what she refers to as "Auto-Nurture." Fortunately, bringing more joy and excitement into your life seems to be the best catalyst for positive change. One client found that she experienced more synchronicity and enjoyment in her life after making the simple yet delicious decision to treat herself to a caramel latte once a week.

Laura's clients are reporting making more money and having more fun than they ever thought possible. I'm already noticing a positive upswing in my finances since completing a five week program with her. Results are very important to Laura. One client just fulfilled her dream of opening up an Adventure Boating business in Minnesota, another launched her Hypnotherapy for Weightloss Business and made more money in a day than she usually makes in a month. Committing to your passion, purpose and personal enjoyment--what could be more fun and rewarding?

Laura Rice is offering her class, 'Unlock Your Life Purpose & Make Money Living It' at Pavia on Sunday, March 28th at 6pm. To register, give us a call at 408-741-1555

Moving to Tranquility (Hopefully)

2010-03-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

With a baby on the way, our one-bedroom apartment is officially too small - we would have had to put the new addition to the family in the kitchen sink. My husband and I have therefore elected to move! The good news: we found a great duplex in Sunnyvale. The not-so-good news: we've lived in the same apartment for the last ten years and have accumulated, accordingly, ten years of crap.

We have been packing each and every night since March 1st. My schedule is: work, come home and pack, eat, pack, sleep, then go to work, come home, pack, etc. Rinse and repeat. The apartment looks like a disaster area, with exploded mounds and piles of junk and papers and knick knacks and whatnot lying about as hazards.

I recognize, of course, being the spiritual athlete that I am, that this is a great opportunity to release "old things which do not serve me anymore," serving as a metaphor on the physical plane for all of those unwanted belief systems, attitudes, and philosophies that I should probably also be trashing on the metaphysical plane. I know that an uncluttered home leads to an unfettered mind, that you can't allow new things to come in without releasing the old. Yup, I am exceedingly familiar with all the usual adages and aphorisms. It's just that doing the physical work is so durned hard.

I started out by putting things into two piles: Things-I-Want and Things-I-Don't-Want-For-Sure. I saw that the first pile was still much bigger than the second, and much bigger than I had originally envisioned. So then I divided the Things-I-Want pile into the Things-I-Really-Want-to-Keep, the Things-I-Have-To-Keep-for-Legal-Reasons, and the Things-I'm-Attached-To-But-Cannot-Articulate-Why. It was this third pile I started going through and examining inner attachments as to WHY I felt I had to hold onto them. An example: my old trophies from the days I used to compete in beauty pageants - I never outright won any beauty pageants, by the way, but I did earn Miss Talent in one and First Runner-Up in another. After much meditating, I realized I had entered those pageants in the first place to somehow prove to others that I was pretty - as if they couldn't decide for themselves upon looking at me. It was a way to strongarm their perception, as it were: "You don't think I'm pretty? Well, here's a TROPHY to prove you wrong." And since then, the years have marched on with inexorable precision, so those trophies are essentially ways to prove NOW that I was once beautiful, even if others disagree or can't otherwise tell today.

But at 37, my self-esteem is no longer in the hands of others the way it once was at 23, so guess what? Out with the trophies, the tiara, the dresses, the sashes, etc. etc. I have my photos and my memories, and that is good enough for me. I felt SO GOOD to throw those silly things in the dumpster, positively lighter and brighter. Now, if I could just convince my HUSBAND to take this same approach...........

Losing One's Home--Where We All Come From

2010-03-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

My Mother was planning to visit California for Easter. She was hashing out the complexities with my sister and I all last week. First, she would be in Portland for a business conference. Then, she would fly into San Jose to spend a week with me. Then, she and I would drive down to LA together to spend Easter at my Sister's home. Afterward, she would fly home to South Carolina.

With a dog-sitter in place, and United Airlines policies sussed out at last, it seemed that her visit was a go. But Wednesday, an email appeared unceremoniously in my inbox. Mom was telling my sister and I that she had finally gotten in to see her gynecologist, and it was decided that she needed a hysterectomy next month. Her California visit was canceled.

The news of her upcoming surgery was a shock to me and sent me straight into a spiral of fear and worry. Why did she need a hysterectomy? Couldn't something be done to stop this? Would she be okay? Who would care for her afterward? What was going on? My heart raced as I contemplated the possibility of the unspeakable "C" word...cancer.

I also had read recently about the very high percentage rate of post-menopausal women in America who had had their uterus removed. The source questioned whether the procedure was always necessary or just an outdated safe-bet for doctors. All these things ran through my mind. I kept returning to the vision of my mother, lying in a hospital bed, just waking up from the anesthesia after her emergency appendectomy and hernia surgery five years ago. I saw how pale and thin she looked, but she also had a fine, luminous beauty about her. I acutely felt the tenuous nature of our physical existence, and both our eyes filled with tears of relief and gratitude as I held her hand.

Another thought kept coming into my mind though, it seems selfish and almost too crass to repeat. I thought, "How can these people take away my home?" Not just my first home, but the place where I was actually created, and my sister as well. How can something so life-giving and sacred simply be removed, and cast aside? And what then? Where does it go? I shuddered to think.

In my studies of the energetic body and energy healing, I came to firmly believe that every part of your body not only has a physical purpose, but a conscious and energetic purpose and place. I do not believe that we can open our bodies and remove something without losing more than just cells and tissue. So, I worried for my mother's healing process, not just in her physical body but the many other layers involved.

Thankfully, I was able to speak to my Mother on the phone that evening. She told me that she had a prolapsed uterus. This condition occurs when the muscles, tissue, and ligaments that hold the uterus in place fail, and the uterus begins to collapse. I had never heard of such a thing, and it did not seem right or fair that it was possible. It sounded like another monster emerging from the hidden vaults of female being, along with all the scary child-birth stories girls begin to hear in their 20s and 30s. I wished for any way to save her from the physical discomfort and emotional strain she was facing. But I was comforted knowing that her trusted gynecologist and another specialist will be performing the surgery.

The following day my sister sent mom and I this article from Dr. Oz. I scanned his words in vain for any alternative process for a prolapsed uterus. It looks like I won't be able to save my home. But this experience has given me a renewed commitment to my own female health and body awareness. And I hope to be there for my Mom during this difficult aspect of womanhood to assist in both physical and energetic healing.

What's Tantra Got To Do, Got To Do With It?

2010-03-05T20:40:00.000-08:00

Last week my boyfriend performed the ultimate act of coolness.
Camouflage in downtown Santa Cruz was holding an Introduction to Tantra class, and he actually came with me, willingly. As you can imagine, this greatly impressed his general awesomeness upon me. I thought, "It takes a real man to Tantra, whatever that means!"

Before the class we both confessed that attending such a thing took us both out of our comfort zones. I knew from the flier for the class that there would be "no nudity or explicit activity in the class." I knew that Tantra was an ancient practice related to yoga that used the essential and elemental energies of masculine and feminine to build and release ecstatic energy. I knew that it could create more pleasure in your life and more intimacy with your partner. That's about all I knew, but I wanted to get in on that--even if it required some touchy-feeliness that elicited awkward giggling.

Fourteen attendees gathered in the front room of Camouflage, singles and couples alike. We sat in a circle on yoga mats and blankets. The workshop was being taught by a man named Luke who runs the business Tantric Joy with his partner Jan. You can see their website and read more about Tantra here. Luke was a handsome fellow in his 30's with a straight forward and knowledgeable attitude but a great dry sense of humor. No overly-thin, ponytailed instructor in tie-dye with ooglie eyes and an exaggerated smile. I was more comfortable already.

Luke gave us an overview of the history and different practices of Tantra. He lead us through some breathing exercises and reviewed the body's seven primary chakras as well as the sound to activate them. At one point the class lined up in two rows facing one another. We broke away from the partner we had previously pared up with. We moved down the line, spending a few minutes just gazing into the eyes of someone who was a total stranger. We attempted to truly see them as a whole individual and send love to them. I would have thought that this exercise would be extremely difficult for me. But I actually found it to be such a beautiful and profound experience that I just wanted to hug these strange women whom I had been both staring into and opening myself to for only a few moments.

The class finished up the evening by returning to or original partner or "buddy." My boyfriend and I stood facing each other. Luke instructed us to put our right hands out to touch the other's heart. We then covered our partner's hand with our own hand, and gazed into their eyes. We stayed like that. I felt a powerful flow of energy between us. I also felt surprisingly shy. I thought, "Wow...look at the way he's looking at me... I think this guy really does love me... I think I really love HIM!..."

I had to suppress an awkward giggle.

It was a powerful evening, and a meaningful introduction to this ancient philosophy and practice that many have heard of, but few have experienced.

It's a GIRL!...and other musings...

2010-03-03T15:50:00.000-08:00

Yay, we found out we're having a baby girl and we are just over the moon. Somehow knowing the sex of the baby makes her more real to me...rather than referring to her as "the baby" or "the cub," I've been using her name and for some reason I have not examined, it crystallizes it a lot for me ("It's really happening!").

I also attended our "What's Your Real Age" health seminar given at Pavia by Dr. Kim Millman, MD, PhD, this past weekend and have now been motivated - no, galvanized! - into changing my diet and exercise patterns. As a vegetarian for the last 13 years, my diet consisted of carbs, carbs, carbs. I figured, hey, bread is vegetarian! Cake is vegetarian! Cookies are vegetarian! And when I got pregnant, I used it as an excuse to eat even more of those items ("Hey! I'm eating for two!"). As for exercise, what exercise? I get no exercise unless you count taking the 3 flights of stairs to my cubicle 4 days a week (at my consulting job). So, diet was bad, exercise was nil.

This is all going to change as a result of the Bio-Impedance Analysis that Dr. Kim gave me. I was so mortified at the results that I don't know if I can share them. Well, first of all, I am 31.8% body fat. Are you kidding me? I am almost one-third fat? I think that qualifies me as obese. None of my other measurements - phase angle, ECM/BCM ratio, fat mass, etc.- are where they "should be" either. That little slip of paper has really served as a kick in the pants for me. No longer will I put my own health or that of my daughter's at risk.

Dr. Kim recommended that I up my protein intake (eggs or tofu, since I don't eat meat), my intake of category 1 veggies, and take more EPA/DHA (fish oil). She also wants me to make sure I get my daily supplement of nuts (so I raided Trader Joe's and bought out their inventory of walnuts, pecans, and almonds), fruits, and category 2 veggies (the veggies that are waxy and convert directly to sugar). I also started an exercise regimen last night, with the hubby calling out the number of reps I have to do. I was amazed at how quickly I got winded (yes, I was deep in self-denial), and so I feel really grateful to have this chance to change my health and my life!

It's just like what I've been saying about getting pregnant at 37: Better late than never, right?

Hot Stone History and Technique by Sarah Woods

2010-02-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

Hot stone massage is a treatment that is both powerful and healing. When performed correctly, and in a fluid manner, this type of massage can allow for the release of muscles that seemed as though they would never be able to let go. Hot stone massages in the western world include an array of techniques, however, the working tools are usually the same. These include: a set of stones that accommodate every nook and cranny on your body, a heated pot similar to a crock pot to heat the stones, and a sheet to create a barrier between the recipient and the stones, in case the client is too heat-sensitive. Of course, the client will be properly draped and laying down in a comfortable and supported position. Other than that, it is just the client, the therapist, and the stones.

Each stone is unique--just as each person is unique. Every stone is placed on the person receiving the service in a way that fits their body, and will give them the most comfortable and therapeutic experience. The rocks range in size from tiny toe stones that infuse heat into your littlest pinkie, to a large moon-shaped rock that cradles and comforts your aching neck. With stones to custom fit each client, your experience with westernized hot stone massage should certainly be a pleasant one.

Western hot stone massage is performed as every typical massage is performed. It is usually a full body treatment, excluding the obvious personal areas. Facial and abdominal massage techniques performed with heated rocks are absolutely out of this world, and will surprise those who are open to receiving such a treat. Of course, if there is any area that you as a client are concerned about, you should always share any feelings of reserve with your therapist. It is their first and foremost goal to make your massage experience utterly enjoyable. We never take offense to you sharing your feelings; it makes us happy to know that you are comfortable.

Hot stone massage is relatively well-known in the West (thanks to Mary Nelson the founder of Lastone Therapy), however the history of it is not. When you look into the background of this amazing technique you find that it has existed for thousands and thousands of years. More recently, it has morphed into a labeled technique, but ancient cultures have been using hot stones for medical and spiritual practices for a very long time. Native Americans, peoples of India, Asia, Hawaiians and indigenous people in South America had this idea of using stones to heal many, many years ago.

Native Americans have been performing sweat lodges for spiritual enlightenment and health purposes for thousands of years. They would build a tent-like structure with a pit in the very center to place the hot stones in. Heated for days, these high metal content stones retain and maintain such high temperatures that can stay hot for hours. In a sweat lodge session water would be poured over the stones and the steam from the hot rocks would wash over you in a blast of heat. I actually experienced a traditional Cherokee sweat lodge once, and I must say that the heat is stifling. Therapeutic! but stifling. A session can range in length but it is usually over only when the spiritual ceremony or goal has been attained. Heated rocks have been key aids in guiding one’s body and mind throughout time.

In indigenous traditions, hot stones have been used to alleviate pain from muscle or even menstrual aches. But, the purpose of a warm stone on one’s body is not only to comfort, it increases circulation and is truly beneficial to the overall balance of energy within the body. Digestion issues can literally melt away, and a deep feeling of true relaxation follows a treatment with hot stones. I highly recommend experiencing it for yourself! The results are utter bliss.

One of Life's Great Mysteries: Relaxation Vs. Deep Tissue

2010-02-20T16:13:00.000-08:00

One of the questions that comes up the most for us at the front desk is, "What is the difference between Relaxation and Deep Tissue?" These are our two most popular massages, but many clients who are relatively new to the service aren't sure which one is right for them. My typical response is that a Relaxation is a basic Swedish massage with a light to medium pressure, and a deep tissue provides a medium to deep pressure. But recently, when I had the extreme pleasure of having my first massage with Pavia's lovely and talented therapist Chelsea Boyer, I got some valuable insight.

I opted for a relaxation massage, but asked Chelsea to help me identify the difference between Swedish and deep tissue techniques. She told me that deep tissue involves putting strong concentrated pressure into the hot-spots--where a client has the most tightness. The therapist holds the pressure on the muscle fibers until they feel them release. This process can be used in just about any area but is needed most frequently on the back, shoulders and legs.

I knew that massage itself is very detoxifying for recipients, because it moves impurities from your muscles and tissues and assists the lymphatic system in carrying away toxins. (This is part of why we always recommend that clients drink lots of water after a massage, to help their body cleanse). But Chelsea let me know that using deep tissue techniques on a client's entire body could flush out impurities TOO quickly and cause discomfort. So the Relaxation massage and the Deep Tissue both contain elements of the other, depending on our guest's individual needs and preferences.

For me, I have some crazy knots in my back, between my shoulders. I refer to them as my "hazelnuts." Unfortunately, hazelnuts go much better with chocolate than with scapula. But Chelsea blended her stellar deep tissue techniques into my relaxing massage and really got those knots to give it a rest. All evening I couldn't stop saying,"I LOVE massage!"

Thanks again, Chelsea!

Getting on my Soapbox: Holistic Kids

2010-02-17T22:57:00.000-08:00

I've got babies on the brain, that's for sure. Since becoming pregnant, all I have eyes for are babies and toddlers. At 17.5 weeks, I have suddenly started thinking about how, exactly, I want to raise my kid, and what I want to show him/her about the world. Especially about the world of plants and herbs, and nature's wonderful medicine chest.

This train of thought brings me to a little digression...during my Herbalism studies, I had a classmate, Amy V., who owned an herb store in Florida. One day Amy was keeping shop, standing on the sidewalk outside her storefront when an older woman stopped, gazed at her sign and then at her, and asked pointedly, "Do you really think these plants can heal us?" Amy said, "Absolutely!" The woman shook her head and said, "No, you're wrong. Only God can heal us." Whereupon Amy gently remonstrated, "And whom do you think put these plants here?" Haha! I LOVE that story. Touche, Amy.

Back to my stream of consciousness. A babbling brook, really. I want to basically immerse my son or daughter in the world of healing herbs and plants immediately, and I started putting down remedies about how I was going to deal with everyday mishaps. Like, how I'll poultice bee stings with crushed plaintain leaf, or apply lavender oil to first degree burns, or rub calendula ointment into chapped fingers. For colds, I'll give the kid an infusion of sage, elderflower, ginger, yarrow, and thyme, and for coughs, I'll make the kid a syrupy candy from horehound and peppermint. For cuts and scrapes, I'll apply calendula - unless there's an infection, in which case I'll use Hypercal (St. John's Wort and Calendula). Instead of spraying the kitchen with RAID to get rid of ants, I'll sprinkle peppermint oil in the corners. Instead of spraying the kid with OFF, I'll slather him/her in natural insect repellents, like a mixture of catnip, lavender, and peppermint. Intestinal worms? No problem, kid, eat some pumpkin seeds. Diaper rash? Massage the kid in apricot kernel oil plus ointment of marshmallow. Colicky? No issues, I'll just Aromatherapy the room with some dill and chamomile in a candle diffuser. (Yes, I really did just use "Aromatherapy" as a verb.)

This is going to be one holistic baby. Probably even slightly disgustingly so, but it's important to me that my child learns what an abundantly fragrant pharmacy we were given, and how joyful it can be to use remedies from our own little green planet, and how sometimes, the most useful things in life are also the most common. A great lesson, wouldn't you agree?

Pregnancy Brain...and How to Make Toners

2010-02-11T13:59:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's true that you lose your mind when you're pregnant. Now I know why my mother is so forgetful...she had three kids. Two months ago in late December, I left my apartment without my keys. So I could neither get back into the apartment, nor get into my car. It was wintery cold and I had nowhere to go - standing outside with nothing but a laptop while pregnant is not what I consider responsible behavior. I went to the apartment manager's office, but their place was completely cleaned out. My poor husband had to drive 35 miles home from work to let me back in.

Then, this past weekend, I drove up to Sacramento to see my new baby niece, Madeleine. Well, given that I am still pregnant, and the baby is still sucking out my brains, I forgot my lovely Eminence toner (I love their Stone Crop Hydrating Mist), a centerpiece of my skin care regime. Ah duh duh duh duh duh.

Good news is, you can easily make your own toners at home in a pinch. Sometimes I even do this on purpose just to switch things up. All you need are the following:

A glass bottle (preferably cobalt or amber, not clear) - 4oz
An atomizer (a spray top, basically)
2 oz of distilled water
2 oz of witch hazel extract (I would not buy the drugstore kind though, those are more alcohol than witch hazel)
45-60 drops of your favorite essential oils (ones that are good for skin)

So, here is what went into my makeshift toner:

20 drops of Geranium (great for hormone balancing, which I am definitely in need of at this point)
20 drops of Ylang ylang (great for uplifting the mood, again something which a pregnant woman sometimes needs)
20 drops of Rose (very expensive, but great for overall feminine balancing)
I added the 2 ounces of distilled water and 2 ounces of witch hazel extract (the latter I bought from an organic bulk herbs and spices company, and it is 14% alcohol and 86% Witch Hazel Extract)
Shook it up, and started spraying! Yum yum yum. Very nice, lovely floral notes. And my skin looks soft and glowing.

If you have favorite recipes for homemade toners and mists, please share them with us here!

Is the Superbowl Bad for Your Skin?

2010-02-07T10:19:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are, Superbowl Sunday. Cue the hilarious commercials, the everflowing booze, and fun parties at friends' houses. But for me, Superbowl Sunday has also frequently meant bad skin. Yup, Monday morning quarterbacking is not just reserved for whether or not Peyton Manning should have thrown that screen pass, but also for what I should and should *not* have stuffed my face with. We are what we eat, after all, and our skin is evidence of that. The largest organ in our bodies is also part of our all-important elimination systems, purging us of toxins and impurities.

So, what CAN we do to stay beautiful this Sunday? Here are MY tips:

1. Don't drink alcohol. Have a seltzer water with a twist of lime instead.
2. Stay away from that soda. I must admit, this is hard for me, too, especially since about all that I've been craving since my pregnancy is Coca Cola. But the high acidic content (yes, it can melt the gunk off battery terminals) translates into indigestion, which translates into poor skin.
3. Stay away from that cheese pizza. Or it might show up in your pores about a week later.
4. Ditto on the cheese puffs and corn chips and chocolate chip cookies. Why not try this recipe for a yummy guacamole dip instead, courtesy of a vendor of mine at the spa?

Ole, Guacamole!
3 avocados – seeded, halved and scooped
2 limes – juice from
1 medium yellow onion diced
1 teaspoon kosher salt + more to taste
½ teaspoon chili powder + more to taste
½ teaspoon ground cumin + more to taste
1 ½ cloves garlic minced
2 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
2 roma tomatoes seeded and diced

In a large bowl, lightly mash avocados and cover with lime juice – lightly mix with spoon (keeps avocados from turning brown)
Add onions, salt, chili powder, cumin, Garlic and mix
Next add the fresh cilantro and tomatoes and mix well.
Taste and then add additional salt, chili powder or cumin to taste -- if necessary

Cover bowl and let set and chill for about 30 minutes, then serve!

Have a happy Superbowl Sunday!

Important Breast Health Info.

2010-02-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

I have known for a while now that the typical underwire bra was not a healthy choice for several reasons. But I recently learned of another very serious reason to take a long, hard look at the type of bra you wear each day. A friend who works at the gorgeous lingerie shop Amoreuse in Santa Cruz recently told me of a class action law suit that Victoria's Secret is involved in. It turns out that they were sued by a group of women who suffered chemical burns on their breasts and torsos from wearing Victoria's Secret molded bras. They discovered that the reason for this is that Victoria's Secret uses formaldehyde in the fabrication of their bras, which has caused chemical burns on many women who wear those bras regularly.

My friend let me know that Victoria's Secret has worked very hard and paid a lot of money to cover up this scandal. However, I found it easily by googling "Victoria's Secret Class Action Law Suit." This important topic was even covered by ABC news. You can read their article here. I've been told that they will give you a refund for ANY bra purchased there at any time because of this appalling scandal, and I plan to return my own uncomfortable molded VS bra. Then I won't own any more under wire, and let me tell you, it is so comfortable that I never plan to go back.

Breast health has been brought into the spotlight by the very disturbing rise in breast cancer rates. A healthy diet low in processed foods and sugars, exercise, and a chemical free body-care regimen are crucial to all types of cancer prevention. But one factor in breast health that I feel is often over-looked is your lymphatic system. The lymph is the "sewer system" of the body. Waste and toxins are sequestered from the rest of your body and moved out through a vast connected network of little sacks called lymph nodes. However, unlike our circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have a wonderful pump like the heart to move it. The lymph requires muscular movement to do its job.

The breasts contain a large concentration of lymph nodes. Bras in general, but especially constricting bras and those with under wire, prevent the breast's lymph nodes from draining with normal healthy breast movement. This can cause toxic build up in the breasts and contribute to issues like breast soreness, breast cysts, or even cancer. One book that draws a link between bras and breast cancer is called, "Dressed to Kill." If you are interested, take a moment to check out the Amazon.com page.

You may end up doing yourself and your breasts a big favor. If you are concerned about your body's lymph flow in general, please give us a call at Pavia to inquire about Daniela's Lymphatic Drainage service. That extremely gentle and light form of massage is both relaxing and very detoxifying!

The Belly Has ARRIVED...

2010-02-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

...seemingly overnight. This past Saturday I was still sporting the "food baby," but by Sunday, I had to run out to Target and get my first maternity outfits. They're very cute, although I am not sure how useful they will be post-pregnancy.

And along with the belly, some other things have also arrived that I wasn't quite ready for. First of all, my knockers are SO BIG now that the necklines of my blouses don't quite touch my skin...which means that whenever I eat, food drops into my clothes and trickles down into my bra and finally migrates into the waistline of my pants. Which, in turn, means that whenever my husband goes to do my laundry, he always has access to an inventory of what I ate: "I see you had Pop Tarts and Hot Tamales this week..." Can't hide anything from him anymore.

Second of all, the flatulence! Oh my goodness. I am passing more gas than a high school football team and a row of fraternities and a zoo full of elephants combined. Maybe I should start a fumigation service, as I am sure nothing and no one would survive the kind of intestinal radioactivity I am emitting. Sorry to gross you out, but it is what it is: the truth.

One thing I've been a bit annoyed about is that in Master Herbalist classes, we were taught to recommend Peach Leaf tea and zinc, but NOT Ginger, for morning sickness. Well, I kid you not, I have done a gazillion on-line searches, visited a gazillion health food stores, and found zero peach leaf tea. Ginger, on the other hand, is prevalent everywhere, and cheap. I never threw up even once throughout my first trimester, but I did sometimes feel like I was on the deck of a ship, and could have used a little nausea alleviation. I think I am going to make it my quest to find a way to bring peach leaf tea to pregnant women everywhere (and not just peach-FLAVORED tea).

Lastly, I had my Pregnancy Massage last week - it was divine. It WAS a bit interesting to have the massage on my side, especially because I was never quite able to find a comfortable position for the arm that was squeezed against the bed. But, it did put me to sleep in a way that no other massage ever has, so I am looking forward to more!

Where's My Belly?

2010-01-27T19:47:00.000-08:00

14.5 weeks pregnant today. I can't wait to have a big belly, because right now I am just walking around looking like I had a big lunch. "No, I didn't just overeat today. I'm actually pregnant..." Already busting out of my normal clothes, but still doing the backstroke in maternity clothes, so the wardrobe is in a bit of purgatory as well. Each week I run out of clothes that fit by Wednesday, and have to start over with Monday's outfit on Thursday.

I *am* very excited that I can finally have a Juno Motherhood Massage at Pavia, now that I am safely in my second trimester. Yup, treating myself to that little slice of heaven this coming Friday with Barbara, our certified Pre-Natal Therapist. We do pre-natal massage using the side-lying method at Pavia, where you clutch a pregnancy pillow and lie comfortably on your side. Many professionals, midwives, and massage therapists consider this to be the safest position for pregnant women.

We do it this way because those one-size-fits-all tables with the hole cutouts in the middle are very sub-optimal for pregnancy massage. Why? Because one size does NOT fit all. If your abdomen is too large for the cutout, it'll apply pressure to your stomach and baby. If the hole cutout is too large, it can allow your abdomen to dangle, which can cause uncomfortable stretching of the uterine ligaments. Bottom line: listen to the experts and never receive a massage lying face down or face up while pregnant.

Holistic Medicine Works: After All, I'm Pregnant

2010-01-20T11:46:00.000-08:00

For several years now, my husband and I have desperately wanted to have a child. After 4 years of "working on it," we went to see doctors who told us that our sperm count was low, that my ovulation was irregular ("your ovaries are a little sad and inactive-looking"), and that without intervention, our chances of getting pregnant naturally were less than 2%. We were asked to start the process of assisted fertility by me first getting an HSG (hysterosalpingogram), wherein they inject dye into my uterus to test for fibroids and obstructions of the fallopian tubes. When I heard that I had to take antibiotics for 3 to 9 days prior to this (to prevent infection from the dye), I balked and decided not to go the assisted route. My husband, being a devout Roman Catholic, also had serious issues of his own, as assisted fertility (especially IVF) ran contra to his deeply held beliefs.

So, this past June, I decided to see an ND, Dr. Connie Hernandez, of Palo Alto. She had me take a full blood panel, whereupon she gave me the advice that a) my Vitamin D levels were "out-of-sight" low, and b) that we can use herbs and natural supplements to greatly strengthen the communication between my brain and my ovaries (to get myself to ovulate). I started taking 5000 IUs of vitamin D daily, and a regimen of herbs and pills that ranged from inoffensive to downright nasty (especially the maca root - that was vile). Then, in October, I started seeing Dr. Kim Millman, MD/PhD, who supplemented my regimen from Dr. Connie with additional aids like calcium lactate (to normalize my thyroid). Dr. Kim also theorized that a large scar on my right leg was impeding a few of the fertility meridians that women have, and helped me by using laser therapy and other natural oils to re-activate those meridians.

And voila, by early November, I was pregnant! For me, who thought I could not have children naturally and was looking down the road of adoption, this was a true miracle. I know in my heart that it was seeing the two holistic physicians that made a difference for me...why else would it be 4 years with no results, and then 5 months after seeing them, poof, I'm pregnant? In any case, I am truly ecstatic, overjoyed, and ready to proclaim to the world that natural medicine can work. What can it hurt, anyway? If you've been trying for a while to get pregnant, and traditional methods aren't working for you, I would suggest taking a look at alternatives from the holistic world. In the meantime, I'm happy happy happy!

Pavia Prayers for Haiti--and Ways to Help

2010-01-19T18:33:00.000-08:00

At Pavia we believe consciously caring for yourself is the first step to having the most to offer the world. But as we all watch the magnitude of devastation in Haiti unfold on our television and computer screens, it's easy to fall into feelings of despair and helplessness. It is important, however, not to underestimate the power of sending healing energy and prayers to everyone effected by this disaster. When you want to translate your prayer into material assistance, there are many wonderful ways to help get aid to the Haitian people. This excellent link from the Huffington Post gives a list of top charities and organizations prepared to give assistance in the form of volunteers, food, clean water, sanitation, and much-needed medical assistance. See the article on ways you can help here.

I especially love the easy and innovative option provided by Yele Haiti. Yele Haiti is a charity founded by the hip-hop artist Wyclef Jean. Their site, Yele.org describes the organizations focus: "Projects are designed to make a difference in the fields of education, health, environment and community development." You can donate five dollars to Yele Haiti for earthquake relief just by texting "Haiti" to 501501 on your cell phone. The five dolllar charge will be added to your cell phone bill. You can donate up to six times from your phone, or go to their site to give larger amounts.

An expert in emergency response, the International Rescue Committee offers the same text donation service. Simply text "Haiti" to 25383 on your phone, or donate here. Call the San Jose chapter of IRC for more information at (408) 453-3536. I love to see technology used in the service of making it so easy for people to help one another all over the world.

"Eat, Pray, Love" author has a new book on marriage!

2010-01-05T10:52:00.000-08:00

I am so excited that Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of the best-selling and truly wonderful book, "Eat, Pray, Love," has a new book out! "Committed," follows her challenging personal journey from confirmed divorcee to happily married (again). It also contains a great deal of research into the institution of marriage from cultural and historical perspectives. If this book is anything like her first one, it will provide some seriously fun laughing-out-loud moments as well. I can't wait to read it.

I found this great interview with Gilbert about "Committed," on CNN.com:
http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/01/05/elizabeth.gilbert.marriage.book/index.html?eref=rss_latest&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+rss%2Fcnn_latest+%28RSS%3A+Most+Recent%29

Happy Thanksgiving and Angel Gifts

2009-11-25T08:46:00.000-08:00

I wish all of you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Give the gift of "your time" to YOU this wonderful season. What I mean is create quiet time .. meditative time for this season and all seasons of your life.

Then the next step is to give of your time to others. Shopping for someone that is house bound or have a situation that makes it hard to get shopping done (kids, elderly parents, etc.), walking a pet, cooking a meal, or reading a book to someone that cannot read or may be ill. Angel gifts of "your" time does not have to be every week. If you do not know who or how to help, just go "WITHIN", and your heart will reveal the answer.

Be an ANGEL and love yourself, and GIFT your time to others.

Many Blessings

ASTROLOGY EMPOWERMENT - Part 1

2009-11-21T00:05:00.001-08:00

This is the first blog addressing where the planets are “NOW”, and what affect they have on all of us. You will be amazed at what the planets are lining up for you now and in the future. Have fun as I navigate and educate you on some of the interesting planetary alignments, signs and aspects. This information is even more powerful when compared to the planetary alignments within your “birth astrology chart”. Empower yourself with the information, and use it to your advantage.

Before I list what the planets are doing now, I want to give you the basics of Astrology. The following information is important to help you “know” what you are reading. I encourage you to print out each fact sheet for future reference.

PLANETS

Sun - On the first page of Genesis it says, "God made the Sun to rule the day and the Moon to rule the night and to be for signs and wonders." To the ancients, the Sun was known as Shamash, Ra, Apollo "breaker of family curses" and Tonatiuh, "dispenser of fate". The Sun gives you light and life. It also represents how and where you shine. The Sun is the star of self-expression, ego-identity, leadership, honor, glory and pride.

Moon - is an instinctual force. It is an ever-changing symbol of your emotional life including such things as home, family, mother, dreams, feelings, the public, women and your early childhood. The Moon represents your environment, the one you were born into and the one you create for yourself. It also talks about your support system, and your "involuntary nervous system." More than that, the Moon symbolizes your unconscious life. The Moon represents what happens while you're sleeping. The Moon is the intermediary between the Earth and the universe, and you're somewhere in the middle. Because of this positioning, understanding how the Moon figures in your life is essential for happiness and personal growth. One thing that was very striking to the astronauts on the moon was that they were able to look back and view the Earth.

Mercury - is the conceptual force. It is a symbol of your mental life and such things as your mind, ideas, analytical abilities, as well as your sense and style of communication. Mercury describes patterns of thought, of learning and of assessing reality. Consequently it affects your self image and the force of your thought. Mercury also represents the respiratory system. Mercury is youthful and it is the symbol of wit and levity.

Venus - is the force of affinity. Venus represents a good part of what you attract, cherish, enjoy and are receptive to. Venus describes much of what makes your life worth living: love, civilized sex, seduction and creativity. Venus is also an indicator for many of the qualities you look for in a mate and your sense of femininity. More than a symbol of your values, Venus represents beauty, devotion to pleasure, appreciation of art and romantic longings. Venus rules such things as skin, hair & kidneys.

Mars - is the force of motivation and mobilization. It is a symbol of your drive, action and energy. The placement of Mars in your chart influences the condition of your muscular system. Mars is associated with a lot of "A" words: aggression, anger, arousal, ardor, and appropriate assertiveness. Mars also represents things that are urgent, things that trigger your temper, and things that you furiously pursue. Mars indicates many of your issues with men and the "male ego."

Jupiter - is the force of encouragement and expansion. Jupiter is the biggest planet and possibly a sun in the making. No matter what, Jupiter measures up big. It is a symbol of your success, luck, optimism, generosity, blessings, good fortune, adventure and opportunities for growth. Life is a bowl of cherries and more is never enough for Jupiter. In its expansive sense, Jupiter also represents how you can become over-inflated, hot, greedy, over-zealous, righteous and extravagant.

Saturn - is the force of discipline and boundarys. Saturn defines your duties, responsibilities and the structure of your life. Saturn also represents the heavy hand of authority, fear, inhibitions, constrictions, restrictions, reservations, anxiety and limits imposed. It is a symbol for the force of gravity. Words like "must" and "can't" relate to Saturn.

Uranus - is the force of liberation. It's no accident that Uranus was rediscovered in the period between the American and French revolutions with their emphasis upon liberty. Uranus is where you change unexpectedly and are surprised. It's where you are unusual, eccentric and extraordinary. Uranus represents the new ideas that you are open to and where you are disinclined toward cohesion.

Neptune - represents fads, impressionability, style, glamor, imagination and inspiration. Neptune, Poseidon, "The Artful Creator" also represents your charisma, creativity, and your spiritual life. Neptune is a symbol of your immune system, parts of your aura and subtle body. Neptune is the force of deep space and the force of consciousness expansion.

Pluto - is a symbol of what the ancients used to call the "secret parts," including reproductive and elimination systems. Pluto is the force of cleansing. Pluto represents trust and violation of trust, control, obsessions and power struggles. Pluto is the force of intense transformation.

Have a Hedonist Holiday!

2009-11-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

For a lot of people the word Hedonism seems to conjure up images of
wild Bacchanals with toga-clad guests swilling giant chalices of wine and
engaging in shocking behavior. Sometimes the word has a more commonplace but negative connotation that brings to mind a person who pursues their own enjoyment heedless of the repercussions or effects on those around them.

Browsing through a local bookshop recently, I caught sight of a bright red compact volume called The Hedonism Handbook, Mastering the Lost Arts of Leisure and Pleasure by Michael Flocker. The cover of the book bore vintage illustrations of a cluster of grapes and a flapper-esque lady luxuriating on a chaise lounge in a nightie and enjoying a cigarette in a long elegant holder. Though I have asthma and generally revile smoking, the fact that she was so brazenly savoring her glamorous and carefree repose really appealed to me.

In this smart and very funny book Flocker takes on the American pandemic more perilous than Swine Flu: Workaholism. He points out how so many of us are running so hard in the hamster wheel of all our duties and responsibilities and the pursuit of success, that we never notice that there's no end in sight. You may have heard that one before, but truly, the time to stop and smell those proverbial roses is today, and every day. Just deliberately adding a little personal pleasure into your daily life can lead to more fun, less stress, a happier outlook, and generally being more of a joy to be around. The book takes it a step further with factoids (who knew that those hyper-productive Japanese have 15 days of paid vacation required by law while the US has none!) and practical tips and to help bring out the inner hedonist in everyone.

There is no better time to spice up your life with a little Hedonism than the holiday season. When I think about all the hustle, the hassle, the shopping, the traveling, and entertaining that comes along with "the most wonderful" time of year, I can feel the knots in my back having a family gathering of their own. So this year I'm prescribing myself some pleasure and a pinch of indulgence when I start to hyperventilate with humbug. I'm going to slow down, take a deep breath, take a long walk, get a massage, and offer myself a glass of red wine...and a bon bon or two.

Random Acts of Kindness

2009-11-20T19:37:00.000-08:00

From Angela Passarelli, Pavia Esthetician:

At a recent staff meeting, I had an idea for a great way for Pavia to show how much we LOVE and APPRECIATE our clients. It's a new program at the spa that we're calling, "Random Acts of Kindness". Starting December 1st, each time you visit Pavia for a service, you can put your name in our fish bowl for a chance to win a FREE service with us the following month. What better way to get into the spirit of giving (and receiving!) for the holidays?

Each month we will feature a different service for Random Acts of Kindness, including: an hour long facial, a 45 minute upper body massage, acupuncture, tarot reading and a custom aromatherapy blend. These are just a FEW of the great services that will be offered. The more times you visit - the better chance you have of winning.

Who said there's no such thing as a free lunch?

BIRTHDAY COMING UP

2009-11-11T13:18:00.000-08:00

Well it has been quite a year, and with my birthday coming up on November 13 (Friday the 13th), I am examining the past, present and future. I call it visiting the "basement" or "trap doors" of myself. I do this through meditation, self hypnosis, and following my dreams. My intention is to process the changes since my last birthday. A health issue, relationships going sideways and how I do my work in the world. There is more, but for the sake of the length of this blog post, I will leave it at that.

Basements represent "storing" stuff ... usually a lot of stuff. How often do we really go into a basement and look at everything stored there to determine what you want to keep and what you want to release? The basement holds past and present behaviors, judgments, attitudes, hurts, hopes and dreams not fulfilled, etc. Basements are usually dark places we do not like to go to ... especially if there are scary steps to reach the bottom. Scorpio's love scary steps!!

Trap Doors represent the situations or experiences that come out of the blue. Events that drop the floor out from under you ... are we prepared for these trap door experiences? I actually imagine myself walking on a floor, usually without a rug, and all of a sudden the floor gives way revealing a trap door I did not see. I allow myself to feel the fear of falling, and then once I "land", I face the "unknown" and history that reveals itself within me ....contributing to my unconscious behaviors.

The basement and trap door experiences are to bring the above mentioned information about myself to "conscious awareness". Once this occurs, I can start examining the way to heal, find pattern opportunities, and to be happy and free.

One does not have to wait for their birthday to visit their "basement" and "trap door". Ask yourself, what am I doing to expand awareness and consciousness in my life? So turn on the light to illuminate the way to the basement, and when the trap door opens, enjoy the fall. These are the adventures of finding out what is hidden within you.

Pavia Manivestation Party--Part Two!

2009-11-01T14:09:00.000-08:00

On Sunday October 18th, I had the pleasure of attending Pavia's first Manifestation Party! The gathering was hosted by Pavia's illustrious owner, Mare Yu, and the magical Ms. Theresa Hatcher. As one of Pavia's Spa Coordinators, I have the pleasure of knowing both ladies personally for over a year now. After witnessing the wonderful things conscious manifestation has brought into their lives, naturally I was just a bit overzealous to get in on the fun.

An intimate group of six came to share the excitement. We nibbled on delectable refreshments and made ourselves some organic, local beverages from the tea bar before getting started around 6pm. First, Mare covered some manifestation basics with us, then Theresa led us in a grounding meditation to prepare and center ourselves to access our hopes and dreams. Each of us worked out what we hoped to manifest on paper, and the group helped us fine tune our desires to be both specific and energetically aligned with our own excitement and positive expectation. Mare guided the six of us individually through a manifestation visualization for our personal desire.

There was a palpable feeling of love and support in our circle the entire night, and a lot of laughter. I found that having such a fun and open group to witness your intentions and desires really brings another dimension of hope, and a certainty that your dreams are coming through into reality.

Our next manifestation party will be held at Pavia on Sunday November 15th at 6:00pm. Whether you are a complete newbie to the concept, or a seasoned manifester, we hope that you will join us! To make a reservation, please contact the front desk at 408-741-1555 or email us at info@paviadayspa.com to save your place, as seats are limited. Compensation for the event is on an at-will basis, so you can give whatever you feel is best.

Angels Amongst US - Part 2

2009-10-15T11:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found feather after feather in different places within a short time frame? Have you ever found a feather in an unlikely place such as a pocket, shoe, purse, closet or your car? Most drawings and paintings depict Angels with wings. Have I piqued your interest in where this article is heading? I hope so.

There is a deity in Greek and Roman mythology named Hermes (Greek) or Mercury (Roman). I will refer to him as Mercury. In astrology, Mercury is the planet of communication and messages. Mercury is depicted as a man, wearing a hat with wings and winged sandals (Talaria). Mercury is running - leaping forward to bring you messages. One of Mercury's jobs is to bring messages about "commerce." He can be the Angel of help with money and career issues.

I remember years ago while "channeling" for a client, I heard a sweet voice in my head whispering, "One of the ways you know we are here is by seeing feathers in places where birds do not reside." This message brought comfort to my client as she was grieving over a friend that had just died. She called me days after with her story of finding a feather in a pair of shoes - one feather for each shoe. Another day she found a feather on the driver's seat of her car. She said when the feathers are found, it brings a big smile to her face and a sense of peace. She also said that the belief in Angels was always with her, but she now "knew" that they existed.

So when feather(s) come your way in those unexpected places, know that Angels are reminding you that they do exist and are waiting for you to ask for help, guidance and comfort. Angels are amongst us - let them know that you believe in them too. Ask the Angels for proof they exist ... and collect the feathers they will send your way.

Theresa Hatcher
Soul Therapist

We're Starting Acupuncture at Pavia!

2009-10-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday, we announced that we will be starting to offer Acupuncture at Pavia. Anne R. Dugan, a licensed acupuncturist with 22 years of experience, will be joining us on Friday evenings, from 5:30 to 8pm, to perform acupuncture either with or without needles on clients (YES! SHE CAN DO IT NEEDLE-LESSLY!).

Here is the story of how I met Anne: I walked into the now-out-of-business San Jose Metaphysical Book Shop, and had a reading with an intuitive, Michael Berry. I talked to him about my strong desire to have children (my husband and I have been trying for years now), and he suggested that I contact his former Acupuncture teacher, who practiced out of Sunnyvale. So I called Anne and took her out to lunch, then started to see her privately for "fertility boosts."

Anne has a wonderful, unique energy. She reminds me of an eccentric, loving aunt that you can never wait to visit because she always has a surprise in store for you and because she understands just what you need. We did all kinds of fun things - acupuncture, Korean hand treatments, moxibustion. I was very surprised at just how relaxed I was - I had thought with great trepidation that sticking a bunch of needles in me would cause pain, stress, anguish, etc. But once she put them in me, I was out like a light and always enjoyed so much sleep during the treatments that I was groggy afterwards. So I highly recommend Anne and am super-excited that she is joining us at Pavia. I'm already on her calendar for this Friday!!

Angels Amongst US

2009-10-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

The word "Angel" comes from the Ancient Greek word angelos meaning "messenger."Angelos was the translation of a Hebrew word mal-ak, also meaning messenger.

I believe in Angels and have seen, felt and heard them. I could write forever about Angels and the blessings that come due to their existence. This is the first blog of many blogs to come regarding Angels, and I will share some of my own experiences with you. I hope my blogs about Angels will help open you up to their LOVE for you. Angels wait for you to ask for help, carry your wishes into form, as well as comfort you in grief. There are Angels that intervene both in spirit and morph into physical form to prevent a tragedy (if it is not your time to leave your physical body).

There are many books on the market regarding Angels. Some of them say that Angels are pure spirit, free from matter or the physical world (never existing as a human being). I don't fully agree with this statement, because I believe that people we have known in our physical life that now reside on the "other side" come to us as Angels.

For example, my mother died in 1983 of a brain tumor (age 62). My father died in 1988 (age 60) of a brain tumor. Now what are the odds of this happening? After 1988, I thought I would probably die of a brain tumor too. This thought was not daily, but enough over time that in 1999, I had an Angel visit me - my mother.

I smelled the fragrance of perfume my mother loved, which brought me to memories of her, then a whisper in my ear saying I was going to live many years past her, and when it is my time she will be there to meet me, and the message she brought was that I will not have a brain tumor. The love I felt was enormous, and the worry of "Well, I guess I will have a brain tumor too" left me. When the "message" was complete, I felt a physical kiss on my lips. I am not kidding, a "physical kiss" on my lips! Wow, what an experience. I will turn 63 years old next month, about the ages of my parents when they died, and because of the "message" I received long ago, I have not wasted a thought on how I will die. My thoughts are on "LIVING" a full life.

Have you noticed the fragrance of a flower, perfume, pipe tobacco, or hear music that you associate with a person not living, etc.? These are some of the ways that the ones we love who are not in body come to us. Clear your mind and be still, so you too can receive the "message" from one of your Angels.

Many blessings,

Theresa Hatcher
Soul Therapist

BACK TO SCHOOL: RECYCLING 101 by Claire Stringer

2009-10-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

Every body's talking about being "Green" these days. But how much do we really know about what that even means? Sometimes it just looks like a big smoke screen hiding a fad that every company is jumping in on to boost profit. And often the troubles that we hear mounting for Mother Earth and all of her inhabitants seem too great to touch with our busy daily lives.

I personally believe the green movement is so much more than a trend. At its best it contains a holistic vision for healing our bodies, our minds, our one and only Earth, and the imperiled future of hundreds of thousands of species--including homo sapiens. I'm very passionate about the movement to preserve the quality of our home planet. In fact, I think it's really interesting how we commonly distance ourselves from "nature" or "the environment," when without it, we wouldn't exist at all. To say "I care about the envirnment," actually is about the same as saying, "Yea, I like to breathe." But taking our exquisite earth for granted is such an ingrained practice that we often don't make that connection.

For me, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to go green is still recycling. Oh sure, right, recycle, recycle, recycle, bla, bla, bla, we've heard it a million times. But are you doing it? Are you doing it properly? Are you really recycling everything you can? Do you know what a huge positive impact it can have both environmentally and economically? Recycling ignorance doesn't have to be your dirty little secret anymore. Make sure your coworkers aren't looking over your shoulder and read closely! (Then forward this blog to them, with a note insinuating that you knew this stuff all along, however THEY might benefit from a lil recycling brush-up).

So, you know the basics, you can recycle glass bottles and jars. You can recycle plastic bottles and containers. Got it. But, remember that not all plastics are created equal. That little number inside the recycling symbol denotes what kind of plastic you've got in your hand. Different areas do or do not recycle certain numbers, but most of Santa Clara County recycles numbers one through seven. Remove all caps and lids from plastic bottles, jugs and spray bottles, unless they too have a recycling symbol on them. Most of those items are made from a different type of plastic which is non-recyclable.

Metal soda cans, soup cans, metal lids, can be recycled, as well as clean aluminum foil. Okay, here's where it gets really fun: paper and cardboard. I love to constantly challenge myself to recycle everything I can, and watch the recycling bin grow full while the regular trash stays a blissfully pathetic little pile. You may know that you can recycle all of your scrap computer paper, post-its, newspapers, and magazines, but I often see cardboard get overlooked. Of course you can recycle all corrugated cardboard boxes, but what about all those boxes and pieces that our foodstuffs and countless other items come with? You can break them down and recycle them! Pasta box, granola bar box, cereal box, band aid box... toilet paper tube, paper towel tube, and all that paper junk mail--recycle them!

It's also important to know what can not be recycled to save precious time and resources and to potentially amend your buying habits accordingly. Bubble wrap and styrofoam packing peanuts can not be recycled. So save and reuse these whenever possible. Tissue paper, paper towels, and napkins are made of fibers that are too flimsy to recycle. Paper and cardboard items that are coated in plastic or wax are also non-recyclable.

Until just today even I did not know that aseptic cartons (such as the ones soy milk and soups come in) CAN be recycled. This is a tricky one, because most do not have a recycle symbol! There is always more to learn about how to reduce, reuse, and recycle, but that's the fun part. Recycling not only reduces what goes into landfills, it creates jobs and encourages innovation. All you need to start today is a container separate from your trash. To learn more about what you can and can not recycle and what an amazing impact recycling is having on California's economy go here to the site for the Center for the Development of Recycling here: http://www.recyclestuff.org/index.php.

Teri and Mare Throw a Manifestation Party 10-18-2009!

2009-10-05T13:44:00.000-07:00

So excited about our Manifestation Party two Sundays from now, October 18, 2009. Many people have asked me what a Manifestation Party is...well, in short, it is when human beings come together to help each other get what they really want. Each of us, as a collection of vibrating atoms, is really an energetic entity, and a group of energetic entities creates more energy to draw upon and helps to carry each other to higher levels of vibration and manifestation.

I have used manifestation successfully in my own personal life. One week, my husband complained about always getting bills in the mail. I said to him, "No honey, we don't get bills in the mail. We get checks in the mail. Every day!" And I kid you not, the following week, we got 5 days in a row of checks. On Monday, we got a small refund on our tax return from the IRS. About $254 or so. On Tuesday, we got a $20 rebate from Samsung. On Wednesday, we got a check larger than $2,000 as a dividend on an investment we had made in a business long ago (that we never thought would go anywhere, frankly). Thursday we got an almost-$10,000 check from a class-action lawsuit (my husband was not paid overtime in the 2 years he worked for a company), and on Friday, we got my regular paycheck. What a wonderful and lovely validation that our words and thoughts are reflected in our reality!

So then, I decided to throw a manifestation party on July 19, 2009, just for my friends and Mastermind Group. Well, that turned out its own share of successes as well. One participant asked for a car that she could afford, and within 3 weeks, she got one. It was even the same color and model as some of us had envisioned in our minds (a blue BMW). It was also less expensive than a used car she bought 10 years ago. Another participant was trying to sell her house and move to Colorado. She asked the Universe to sell her house within 30 days, and for a price she loved, so that she could be ensconced in Pueblo by 9/5/09. Well, 5 days after putting her house on the market, she got multiple offers, got a great price, and was in Colorado by the last week of August.

I felt so alive and vitally joyful the night of the party. I felt a true sense of communion and community with my fellow humans. I've never in my life wanted others to have what they truly wanted as I did that night. So, I decided to continue the experience and invited Theresa Hatcher to co-host another one with me for Sunday, October 18, 2009, at Pavia from 6pm to 9pm. We've got half our slots filled already, and I am so excited, I just can't wait. I love this work, I love this work, I love this work.

Part II: HOW TO RECEIVE A SHIATSU MASSAGE

2009-09-29T20:40:00.001-07:00

When receiving Shiatsu, you keep your clothes on for the duration of the massage, and no oils or lotions are involved. We use a floor mat wherein both you and your massage therapist remove your shoes, heavy jewelry, and any belts. The massage itself contains softening, stretching, point work, joint rotation, and percussion. These styles are rhythmically performed over the entire body to restore and revitalize you. The full sequence of Shiatsu starts with you lying face down (prone) and ends with you lying face up (supine). At the end of this Shiatsu sequence, your entire body is restored from the top of your head to your smallest toe.

Shiatsu massage has many benefits, the most common being increased energy and circulation, a relaxed body and mind, and a feeling of overall balance. What drew me to this type of massage modality above all others was its effectiveness in helping and healing all body types, no matter the physical condition or state (unless extremely terminally ill or suffering from a disease that would be negatively enhanced due to this type of massage). It is a non-invasive, energizing, or relaxing massage, which leaves you satisfied whether you are in optimal health or ill health. Shiatsu helps you heal yourself with the aid of a massage therapist, and more than anything in the world, I enjoy being that aid.

Part 1: INTRODUCING ZEN FLOOR SHIATSU MASSAGE

2009-09-28T23:36:00.000-07:00

The very first modality that I learned in massage school was Shiatsu, and I immediately fell in love with it. The innermost intention of this form of massage is to balance the body’s “chi,” or energetic life force. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, this type of healing taught us how to optimize our clients’ intake and utilization of energy, as well as prevent any reduction or imbalance.

In Shiatsu, we create this energy balance by using acupressure along the meridian lines and tsubo points on your body. Meridian lines are invisible. Each one has a certain number of points and is linked to a major organ in your body. For example, the urinary bladder meridian line starts right above the corner of your eye, wraps around the back of your head, down your back, and ends on the right side of your little toenail. There are twelve main meridian lines that flow throughout everyone’s bodies! They flow every day, all the time.

This style of massage also incorporates the Yin and Yang and Five Elements Theories. These theories emphasize even more the importance of balance in the body. For me, the concept of Yin and Yang used to enter my mind as simply a black and white hippie logo, so prominently seen on tie dyed T-shirts and yoga tank tops. However, when you look into the meaning of this theory, you see that those T-shirts are really displaying a powerful symbol. Yin means the dark side of the mountain (the black) and yang represents the side facing the sun (the white). The yang meridians on the body are on the side that is normally in the sun (your back) and the yin meridians are on the darker side (your front). Yin tends to be more feminine while yang tends to be more masculine. Every yin organ relates to a yang organ with a similar function. The yin organs are: lung, spleen, kidney, heart, and liver, while the yang organs are the large intestine, stomach, bladder, small intestine and gallbladder.

The Five Elements Theory, like Yin and Yang, also corresponds to a specific part of the body. In the Five Elements Theory, each element (water, wood, fire, earth, and metal) corresponds to a vital organ. For example, the element of water is associated with the kidneys, and the element of wood is associated with the liver. There are two cycles within the Five Elements Theory: the cycle of generation and the cycle of regulation. The first cycle occurs naturally, for example the water element (kidneys) supports the wood element (your liver), and the liver then supports the heart, which corresponds to the element of fire. This relationship continues in a cycle involving all five elements. Each element, corresponding to a certain body part, takes care of and balances another. You cannot have one without the other. When one body part is out of balance, the regulating cycle kicks in, where one body part or organ controls another. For example, the kidney (water element) controls the heart (fire element), and the heart (fire element) controls the lungs (metal element).

Shiatsu is a powerful form of massage that harnesses the Yin-Yang and Five Elements Theory with incredible intention. The benefits of receiving Shiatsu are endless, for the body is always changing, and sometimes needs a hand - a massage therapist’s hand! J - to help obtain and maintain that balance. I am excited to bring this form of massage to Pavia – and think I have finally convinced Mare to let me do it.

Fall into Pavia was a great time!

2009-09-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

We had another one of our fun quarterly spa parties on Sunday, September 20, 2009. I had so much fun it should be illegal. Our guests enjoyed some whimsically-named services - I had a great time naming these: "Stick-Me" for Acupuncture, "Peel-Me" for the mini-facial, "Read-Me" for the mini-Tarot reading, "Wrap-Me" for the mini-Pumpkin Cream Body Wrap, "Me-Dogs-Are-Barking" for the mini-foot treatment, and "Forget-Me-Knots" for the mini-massage. I don't know how I'm supposed to top those names for the next party, although our delightful partygoers said to me, "Don't bother with new names. We won't remember the old ones!" Hee hee, our clients are so sweet.

Speaking of the next party, their suggestion is to do a post-holidays detox party in early to mid-January, and to have it be a "pajama party." Meaning, the guests wear pajamas, not the staff (right? That would be weird if we wore pajamas, too). I don't know, I may have too much of a stick up my butt about looking professional. Anyway, I have already come up with some fun detox mini-services, like a mini-weight loss hypnotherapy session, a mini-steam inhalation immunity massage treatment, and a detoxifying acupunture treatment. I am sure I will come up with more as time gets closer. If anyone has any ideas for names and/or treatments and/or future party themes, I am open to hearing them!

Welcome to the Pav Blog!

2009-09-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

"You can't do everything by yourself."

How true that is, and I realized that it even applies to blogging. By blogging about Pavia all by myself, our readers are not getting a full picture of who we are, what we stand for, and what we're about - all they're doing is reading my musings, ravings, rantings, and stream-of-consciousness.

So I've asked my staff to join me in sending their thoughts and feelings out into the Ether, and I am pretty excited to read what they have to say myself. Stay tuned!