Tired Hands but No Energy?

After a long day at the office and your hands are tired from keyboarding or blackberrying or whatever, here is a simple way to rejuvenate your hands. Simple take a hand held vibrating wand and simply hold it between your two hands. This is a simple way to break up the pattern of stress that forms in your hands over a long day. Remember introducing a new signal helps the body reset it's stress mechanism. so the relaxation effect doesn't just stop with the hands. Kevin Kunz

High Heels

We were once doing a health show demonstration. A young woman sat down in the chair and said,"My feet always hurt me. What do you think is my problem?" I picked up her 4 inch stiletto heels and declared that "I think I found your problem." I wasn't trying to be mean but this was the obvious source of her problem. One year Newsweek declared that it was going to be a great year for reflexologists as heels had gone to lofty heights once again. And there have been actual deaths blamed on high heels. (CBS) Two California women were killed in a freak train accident. Police believe the high heel shoes they were wearing may have hindered their escape from a car stuck on the tracks, the Los Angeles Times reports. http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/11/01/national/main3441224.shtml And the ever recurring fad of platform shoes can be dangerous as well. A client's daughter asked me what I thought of some fashionable high platform shoes. I said,"Well you know these type of shoes are illegal in Japan." She didn't believe me. I said well they found women driving in them often found their foot stuck to the accelerator so they outlawed them while driving. But I learned a long time a go a woman and her heels are not easily parted even with potential lethal effects possible. Just like the old cowboy who wants to die with his boots on some women apparently are ready to die with their high heels on. Try googling high heel accidents. There are some interesting stories. There is even one report that over 7000 visits a year to the emergency room in the UK are attributable to high heels. But if you must wear high heels and love the sense of danger they bring to your life try a few simple tips. 1) Take a pair of practical shoes with you for driving or walking to work. 2) Take your high heels off whenever you can. Even a few minutes when you are sitting at your desk can be helpful. 3) Rub your feet or get someone else to do it. High heels put too much weight on the forward part of the foot. The toes get all scrunched together causing corns and callouses. 4) Do calf stretches to try to compensate for wearing them. The tendons and muscles in the back of your leg will shorten. This will most likely cause problems not just with legs, knees and hips but also with your back and even your neck. 5) Be aware that high heels can inhibit safety. We once met a New York editor that not only could not run from her mugger but sprained her ankle as well. 6) Try to limit yourself to a two inch heel or lower. Try "Looking after your feet" in Complete Reflexology for Life pg. 58. There is more information on shoes. What do you like or dislike about high heels? Have you ever injuried yourself in them? Kevin Kunz

Reflexology for Brides & Grooms!

I ran into a blog that was talking about de-stressing brides. One of the suggestions was reflexology. It brought up a lot of memories. A few years ago I was dragged quite literally into working on brides. An overly critical future mother-in-law had sent the bride into a form of panic attack. My cousin dragged me into the bride's dressing room to work on her feet. I was able to bring the bride back to the moment. I received a special hug for my work and the wedding went off without any further incident. What a nice moment to be able to calm a troubled bride. It reminds me of a quote for Complete Reflexology for Life. "Reflexology for Life speaks to reflexology applications for different times in our lives. On a personal note, it seems that reflexology has been there with us to calm or to cope, to ease and to help. From on bride's pre-wedding jitters to another's post-wedding tired feet; from one niece's pregnancy to another's sports injury, reflexology has soothed the way, lending a helping hand to people special to us." Complete Reflexology for Life, page 6 After my first bridal success story got out, I ended up working on several more brides and grooms. It really seemed to help. And I felt a little more a part of the ceremony in a special way. Kevin Kunz

Running Into Trouble

We call them "sidewalk runners". You know those people who run on sidewalks and then wonder why their feet, legs and back hurt so much.

Concrete simply does not have any give. You are better running on asphalt as it has a slight give. The best surface is obviously the ground.

Running shoes help somewhat but aren't the full answer. The high tech ones are designed specifically to cut down on what is referred to as heel shock.

Heel shock is the shock wave generated every time your foot hits the ground. It generates a shock wave that goes up your body at two hundred miles an hour. Heel shock can actually break bone along the way causing micro-fractures along the tibia or leg bone. The micro-fractures heal over only to be fractured again.

The shock wave effects knees, hips, low backs and can even shake the brain in it's casing. There is some evidence connecting it to wrinkles. And that is while you are walking. Running can increase those forces.

Here are some hints:

1) Think about the surfaces you run on. Sidewalks may seem convenient but the results may be shocking to your body. 2) Buy a good running shoe. It is worth the investment like a good set of tires. Runner's World has shoe buying guides. 3) Stretch before you run. You warm up your car before driving off. Do the same for your body.

4) Consider walking. If you are continually running into trouble walking is a great exercise.

Kevin Kunz

Always Be True to Yourself and Your Dreams!

Be true to your dreams, and keep them alive. Never let anyone change your mind about what you feel you can achieve. Always believe in yourself!

Be true to the light that is deep within you. Hold on to your faith, hope, and joy for life. Keep good thoughts in your mind and good feelings in your heart. Keep love in your life, and you will find the love and light in everyone!

Be giving, forgiving patient, and kind. Have faith in yourself. Be your own best friend, and listen to the voice that tells you to be your best self!

Be true to yourself in the paths that you choose. Follow your talents and passions; don't take the roads others say you must follow because they are the most popular. take the paths where your talents will thrive - the ones that will keep your spirits alive with entusiasm and everlasting joy!

Most of all, never forget that there is no brighter light than the one within you. Keep on being true to yourself!

-Jacqueline Schiff

Shalom to the Woman's Shabbat Retreat!

I want to personally thank each and every woman who attended my workshop on Saturday, March 29, 2008! It was a pleasure to meet each and everyone of you and I want you to know that my life was enriched in ways that I am also grateful for.

As promised, I am posting some Questions & Answers from our workshop for the benefit of all attendees. If you have personal and individual questions please feel free to contact me privately by phone or e-mail which are both located on my business card that you received in your lavender sachet and which are also printed on your handouts.

As soon as I can learn how to post word, publisher and pdf files on my blog site, I will be adding copies of the handouts which you received as well as additional handouts that you can share with your family and friends. If you prefer to have them faster, please call me and I would be more than happy to mail out a packet directly to you. I will also make available the reflexology golf ball hand routine that I was unable to demonstrate for concern that some of you may have become ill right after lunch, plus the room was warmer than expected and most importantly there was no water available to to to help flush out the toxins from your system. As a practitioner, it would have been irresponsible for me to have you work on areas of your digestive system as any one of you could have become lightheaded, dizzy, nauseated, just from working on those areas. Since you still had additional sessions that afternoon I wanted to leave you safe rather than feeling ill. I only had your best interest at heart.

Question: Why are certain organs primarily on one foot or hand and not show on the other foot or hand according to the charts we saw in class and received in our handouts?

Answer: Great question! The reason for this is the charts are according to where our organs are located in our body. For example, our liver is located on the right side of our body thus is represented on our right foot and right hand. This applies to all other organs. When organs are split down our mid line they are shared by both our right and left hands and feet.

Question: What are your rates?

Answer: I typically refer individuals to my website as I have very detailed information available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. In addition, I offer three different session times 30, 60 and 90 minutes and a variety of rates depending on if you are coming for an initial consultation, regular sessions or are a part of my Foot of the Month Club. Here is the link to my services page http://www.aquietsole.com/services.htm to answer all of your questions. I also offer spa foot soaks and hot stone massage for longer sessions.

Question: Where are you located?

Answer: I am located in North Overland Park in the area of Shawnee Mission Parkway & Lamar. Since I work out of my home, I will only give clients my actual address upon booking an appointment with me. This prevents walk-in clients, which I do not accept and protects the confidentiality of my family and privacy for clients as well.

Question: What's the difference between massage and reflexology?

Answer: Massage is where you remove your clothing so the therapist can massage the actual area that is expressing pain and discomfort. With reflexology, the only clothing you are required to removed are your shoes, socks and jewelry from your hands so that the therapists can apply pressure to specific "pressure sensors" on your hands and feet that correspond to your particular organ. In addition, Reflexology is a completely separate modality and specialty apart from massage. It has its own local, national and international organizations and is making great progress and recognition in the complement and alternative therapy community. Also, mainstream medicine has begun to start paying attention to the many health benefits of reflexology.

Question: What does breast cancer have to with reflexology?

Answer: My Jewish aunt is a breast cancer survivor which I am so thankful for as she is one special friend and woman in my life. That is why the golf balls have the word 'hope' on them along with the breast cancer ribbon and you have a handout on how to perform a breast self exam each month. In addition, the benefits of reflexology on oncology patients have been brought to the forefront and as a result there will be the first International Symposium on Reflexology & Cancer on October 29-31 in Kibbutz Shefayim, Israel. This is an very exciting time for Reflexologists and the reflexology profession!

Thank you again for the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful woman's event!

Follow Your Destiny, Wherever It Leads You

There comes a time in your life when you realize that if you stand still, you will remain at this point forever. You realize that if you fall and stay down, life will pass you by. Life's circumstances are not always what you might wish them to be. The pattern of life does not necessarily go as you plan. beyond any understanding, you may at time be led in different directions that you never imagined, dreamed, or designed. yet if you had never put any effort into choosing a path, or tried to carry out your dream, then perhaps you would have no direction at all. Rather than wondering about or questioning the direction your life has taken, accept the fact the direction your life has taken, accept that there is a path before you now. Shake off the "whys" and "what ifs", and rid yourself of confusion. Whatever was--is in the past. Whatever is --is what's important. The past is a brief reflection. The future is yet to be realized. Today is here. Walk your path one step at a time--with courage, faith, and determination. Keep your head up and cast your dreams to the stars. Soon your steps will become firm and your footing will be solid again. A path that you never imagined will become the most comfortable direction you could have ever hoped to follow. Keep your belief in yourself and walk into your new journey. You will find it magnificent, spectacular, and beyond your wildest imaginings. By Vicki Silvers

New Website Updates!

I am proud to announce there are new updates on the A Quiet Sole Reflexology website at www.aquietsole.com. While some are minor changes, the best improvement is my new pricing structure. Please be sure to take the time to read the introduction at the top of the Services Page as it explains everything in detail about Initial Consultations to how the Foot of the Month Club works. However, if you still have questions please feel free to contact me. I look forward to working with you towards a new relaxed, rejuvenated and healthier you!

Essential Lavender Oil: What are its benefits? by Kerris Samson

Here is an interesting article by expert Kerris Samson about benefits of essential lavender oil: Many people are now finding the use of essential lavender oil whilst at work, helps them to handle the stress of the workplace as well as helping them to relax under pressure and also making them focus better on the tasks at hand. In studies undertaken it was found that participants relaxed considerably better when using lavender aromatherapy and were able to focus better on problems which needed solving. However, although they seemed to be slower in carry out a math’s calculation, there were fewer errors in the answers provided. By placing a sprig of lavender or a bowl of potpourri on even a few drops of essential lavender oil when placed near a heat source will help the person to relax, become focused and thus more productive at their job. So if you should happen to work in a hectic office environment then either a lavender body mist or a small vial of lavender essential oil that you are able to keep close by may just help you. Although lavender is not a cure or even an effective treatment for depression, it has been discovered that pain, poor sleep, anxiety and often chronic pain which are often associated with depression can be relieved by the use of this plant. As lavender helps to bring on a natural relaxed state it helps people to cope better with the aggravations that life often throws at us. In a study it was shown that in a normal healthy person the aroma of the lavender oil often has the ability to gently elevate their moods. It does not matter whether you are either currently suffering from depression or just feeling down; remember that the person to discuss about your treatment of your depression is your doctor. Although by taking herbal tea baths and burning lavender candles is part of the regime of taking care of yourself which does not require a prescription, or even cost a great deal of money, a lavender infused bath or lavender body products are able to provide a natural stress reducer, which can not only lift mild depression and clear the mind, which enable us to work through the problems we are experiencing more effectively. Another good use for lavender is to help fight against insomnia. Many people find that if they suffer from insomnia or are frequently awake during the night, that they have difficulty coping with the following day to day matters. Lavender scent not only helps to promote relaxation in a person, but it also helps them to sleep better. In studies carried out at hospitals and nursing homes it was that patients who were exposed to the smell of lavender fell asleep, not only quicker but stayed asleep for longer and slept much more deeply. Certainly, it is know that poor sleep is one of the causes that many people wake up with a headache in the morning and in some cases can even initiate a migraine attack. You will find that the common causes related to a morning headache are the grinding of teeth and the muscles tensing around the face and neck. By keeping a small bowl of lavender in your bedroom and a light misting on your pillow, you find that this will help you to relax easier before you fall asleep each night. Another suitable use for lavender is to help relieve anxiety which many people are now suffering from. Anxiety is usually found to express itself as racing thoughts and a pounding heartbeat, but one of the first signs of any form of anxiety is for the person not to be able to think clearly. The mental stress that many people are feeling now days inevitably causes the mind to become cloudy and people find it difficult to solve life’s little problems, which in turn only increases the anxiety the person is feeling. A by using essential lavender oil, you are helping yourself to relax and take away the pressures that you are feeling and thus alleviating the feeling of anxiety. Finally you can use essential lavender oil to help alleviate the causes that trigger such things as headaches or even chronic pain, which usually are caused by poor sleep, muscle tension, depression, dehydration, poor nutrition, imbalance of hormones, immune deficiency or even just poor coping skills with every day life. Kerris Samson a work from home mum now residing in Spain and who has spent a vast amount of researching the different ways for relieving pain. If you would like to know more please visit http://www.relievepainfast.com/. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kerris_Samson

Everything Lavender

Lavender has a great history that stretches back to Ancient Roman times. It was a treasured plant used to make perfumes, incense, ans was revered for its medicinal properties and used as a deodorizer and disinfectant. Today, lavender is best recognized by its beautiful blue/purple flowers and its fresh, sweet aroma. the enticing scent of lavender is know for its balancing, soothing, calming, relaxing and healing properties. It is said to soothe and heal insect bites as well as ward them off. When applied to the temples, lavender has bee reported to even relieve headaches. It continues to be used today as an antiseptic and support for inflammation. You can find lavender in just about everything! Commonly added to lotions, bath salts, colognes, massage oils, facial and body care, room sprays, as a pure aromatherapy oil and even in household cleaners! Relax and rejuvenate with Everything Lavender!

A HUGE THANK YOU!!!

I want to personally thank each and every person who stopped by my booth #37 at the UMKC Wholistic Health Fair held on Sunday, March 16, 2008. It was a pleasure to meet those of who who had a chance to take advantage of my free demonstrations and speak with you one on one about your concerns. However, due to time constraints I sincerely apologize to those folks who I had to turn away after 6:15 and 6:30 pm as the fair ended at 6 pm. In addition, I'm personally sorry I didn't get a chance to speak with all who came by my booth as I was constantly doing demonstrations all afternoon. As a single business owner I hope you understand and please feel free to contact me by phone or e-mail with any questions or concerns you may have regarding reflexology in general or A Quiet Sole Reflexology or to schedule an appointment. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you on improving your health and well being.

May All Your Dreams Come True

Lean against a tree and dream your world of dreams Work hard at what you like to do and try to overcome all obstacles Laugh at your mistakes and praise yourself for learning from them Pick some flowers and appreciate the beauty of nature Be honest with people and enjoy the good in them Don't be afraid to show your emotions Laughing and crying make you feel better Love your friends and family with your entire being They are the most important part of your life Feel the calmness on a quiet sunny day And plan what you want to accomplish in life Find a rainbow and live your world of dreams -Susan Polis Schutz

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose

I am proud to report that my mother and I will be taking part in this special Oprah Book Club & Webcast Special Event beginning Monday, March 3rd, 2008 with Oprah & Eckhart Tolle. From what I understand this book is life changing. I look forward to reading it and finding out all it has to offer and if it truly delivers what all the hype has been building up for the past month! This is a 10 weeks course as there are 10 chapters and "homework" in the form of a few questions that you have to answer before each class. Plus they would like for you to keep track of your favorite quotes. I believe they are called "flowers". Life is definately a journey so let us press forward!

UMKC Communiversity Wholistic Health Fair

It's time for the Spring Wholistic Health Fair at UMKC to be held on Sunday March 16, 2008 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm in the University Center Building at 50th & Rockhill Road. There will be alot of vendors there to visit with as well as great workshops going on all day long starting at 12 noon and ending at 5:45 pm. The fair is free, however, the workshops are $3.00 or when you come in for a relaxation session before the Fair I will give you a FREE WORKSHOP COUPON! Please stop by Booth # 37 to pick up information, to chat or to say hello! See you all then!

You CAN do Anything!

Don't look at where you are; just see how far you've come. We all make mistake sometimes, but don't stop now. The dawn is closer than you think. Yesterday will soon fade away, and every day is a brand-new beginning. Open your heart and receive all the love and hope so many people feel for you, as well as all their prayers. Never let go. never give up. the future is yours to decide. the pattern of your life is your for the making. Let your promise shine through. Give everything to you dreams; give luck a chance. You are stronger than you realize, brave than you may think... and loved more than you will ever know. Written by Linda E. Knight

This just in from Gobbler's Knob...

Phil's official forecast as read 2/2/08 at sunrise at Gobbler's Knob: Here Ye! Here Ye! Here Ye! On Gobbler's Knob on this fabolous Groundhog Day, February 2nd, 2008Punxsutawney Phil, the Seer of Seers, Prognosticator of all Prognosticators,Rose to the call of President Bill Cooper and greeted his handlers, Ben Hughes and John Griffiths. After casting a weathered eye toward thousands of his faithful followers,Phil consulted with President Cooper and directed him to the appropriate scroll, which proclaimed: "As I look around me, a bright sky I see, and a shadow beside me.Six more weeks of winter it will be!"

Happy Groundhog's Day!

Will Phill the groundhog see his shadow today? Only time will tell... While we are waiting to find out if we will have 6 more weeks of winter, I thought it would be fitting to throw out some foot trivia. Did you know that your feet mirror your general health? Conditions such as arthtitis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet - so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems. This is an even better reason to come and see your reflexologist on a regular basis. Patiently awaiting Phil's arrival, Your Relaxation Professional, Kristie

What to Expect at A Quiet Sole session.

At your first session you will be warmly welcomed and asked to complete a health history form. This will help me understand your current and past health, which is important in determining what type of treatment might be appropriate and which methods of reflexology may be required for your individual needs. You will be invited to the treatment room where you will remove only your footwear (shoes and socks). A relaxing foot bath is offered for clients choosing a 60 or 90 minute session. For all sessions I will prepare your feet with antibacterial gel and/or an alcohol wipe prior to beginning reflexology treatments on any area including feet, hands, ears and face. As not only a client, but also a guest in my home, I want you to be most comfortable during treatment as our time is all about YOU! I will give you the choice of selecting the music that you prefer to relax to and if you prefer to have your treatment in a reclining Lafuma reflexology chair or on the comfortable stationary massage table during treatment. In addition, depending on what area I will be working on and what treatment plan we have co-developed I may use a small amount of scented cream, lavender oil or other aromatherapy scented oil, or cornstarch. I am a firm believer in open and honest communication, communication, communication so if you have any particular allergies or preferences on what you would like for me to use on your skin please inform me prior to the start of our session so these situations can be avoided. During our session you are welcome to voice your concerns during treatment (in fact I encourage it), relax quietly, or take a short nap. You are always welcome to ask any questions you may have before, during or after the session. I am your co-partner in your health and believe in having an open and ongoing dialogue regarding your sessions so that we can tailor your treatments based on your specific needs at any given time.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to specific points on the hands, feet and ears to influence the health of corresponding parts of the body.

"Pressure sensors" on the hands and the feet connect with different parts of the body, and as reflexology techniques stimulate these sensors, the body becomes relaxed, refreshed and rejuvenated.

Reflexology treatments break up patterns of repeated stress, for example, by treating the body to new experiences. One treatment interrupts stress; further sessions condition change to take place; and ongoing relaxation sessions teaches the body to operate more effectively.

Valentines Day's is 25 days away! What are you waiting for? Give the perfect gift now by surprising your loved one with a unique gift of health, relaxation and rejuvenation of A Quiet Sole Reflexology spa treatment. Contact me today to purchase your gift certificate. I accept cash, check and credit cards. Make this their most memorable Valentine's Day ever!

Keep Believing in Yourself & Your Dreams!

Every goal that has ever been reached began with just one step--and the belief that it could be attained.

Dreams really can come true but they are most often the result of hard work, determination, and persistence.

When the end of the journey seems impossible to reach, remember that all you need to do is take one more step. Stay focused on your goal and remember...each small step will bring you a little closer.

When the road becomes hard to travel and it feels as if you'll never reach the end...look deep inside your heart and you will find strength you never knew you had.

Jason Blume once said, "Believe in yourself - and remember that so many others believe in you, too."