The Heartland Spa
Here are some ideas which may help you cope when the going gets tough:

1. At work find a few minutes several times each day to simply get up and move and stretch. Mobilize those muscles and joints involved with repetitive movement and remember to grasp, roll and squeeze the trapezius muscle along your shoulders.

2. For tension headaches try two tennis balls wrapped in a sock. Lay on a firm surface and position the balls under the occipital just beneath the shelf of the skull. Close your eyes and breath deeply, then gradually reposition the balls further down the neck.

3. You may also use a tennis ball to provide acupressure for eliminating trigger points in the back or hips. This may be accomplished by lying on the floor or backing up against a wall and positioning the ball where you find intense soreness, Exercise caution until you define your pressure limits.

4. For back pain try rolling up a bath towel and positioning it horizontally across the spine while lying supine on a firm surface or the floor. As you feel the back muscles release, move the roll to a new position along the spine. Remember to focus on your breath.

5. At home add a few drops of peppermint oil to your bath water. It will leave your skin refreshed and "tingly". Following your bath is an ideal time to treat yourself to a foot massage using your favorite foot balm or creme.

6. The effects of massage are accumulative. Schedule regularly with your favorite therapist. Make time for you.

Remember to reach out and touch those you love with a massage or a hug. This can be the most precious gift of all, for it is in giving that we receive.