Body Remedy Massage

19/09/2023

Think mind body connection. Take care of the body to take care of the mind.
-
This quote embodies the holistic philosophy of Plato. Here, "the part" can be seen as an individual element of a system or entity, and "the whole" refers to the system or entity in its entirety. It underscores the interdependence of components within a system — a concept that is evident in both the micro and macro perspectives of the universe.
-
In a health or wellness context, this could be seen as a reminder that individual well-being is interconnected with the health of the entire organism (or community or society). For a person to be healthy, it's not enough to just focus on one aspect of health; a balanced approach considering physical, mental, emotional, and social health is necessary.
-
Furthermore, in a societal or communal context, it can mean that the welfare of an individual is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the entire community. In other words, a society can not truly flourish if parts of it (certain groups or communities) are suffering or neglected.
-
In a broader philosophical or cosmological context, it might even speak to the interconnectedness of all elements in the universe, a staple idea in Platonic philosophy which holds that everything in existence is interconnected in a complex web of relationships and interdependencies.
-
This quote reflects a profound understanding of the unity and interconnectedness of all things, urging us to consider the broader picture and to strive for a harmony that encompasses all components of a system, whether it be an individual mind & body, a society, or the universe itself.
-
Take care of your body, and your mind will thank you. How? Well, if you are in the Gold Coast, just make a booking and I'll take care of you.
-
-
-

15/09/2023

This quote encapsulate a perspective where life is seen as a rich tapestry of experiences, a work of art in progress, where the self is both the artist and the masterpiece, constantly evolving through engagements with life's diverse dimensions. It's a profound affirmation of self-value and the intricate journey of life.
-
-
-
Do you see yourself as a work of art? Are you aware of your journey of self creation?
-
-
-
Read poetry, its good for the soul. 'Echos' by Audre Lorde if you need to start somewhere. A tender poem about love, desire, but also voicelessness and suffering in darkness. A strange poem, but beautiful.
-
-
-

09/09/2023

This quote is a mantra of mine, from Seneca's "On the shortness of life", I repeat it often, not always with success. It seems so simple, yet the message can be lost quite easily with all the distractions life throws our way.

In essence, Seneca's quote serves as a poignant reminder to live a life of substance, quality, and purpose, to avoid the tragedy of reaching life's end with regrets about wasted time and unfulfilled potential. Encouraging individuals to live a life rich with meaningful experiences, rather than frittering away precious time on inconsequential matters.

A rich life is measured in moments, not years. A long life is not a good life. We would rather one enriched with beauty than one merely existed. Time is the key.

What are you wasting your time on? Is a question I try to ask myself regularly, and there are always too many answers to this question. Time is the most important thing we give away, that we trade, but can never be given back.

There is a value I have of time that is growing and shifting, Instead of lamenting the brevity of life, one should focus on maximizing the quality of the time one has. It's a perspective grounded in the philosophy of Stoicism, which emphasizes living in accordance with virtue and wisdom.

Seneca criticizes the common tendencies to squander time on trivial pursuits, unfulfilling work, or empty pleasures. This wastage, according to him, substantially shortens the effective span of one's life. We should be focusing on the effective use of time rather than how much time we have.

One hour immersed in authentic experience outvalues one year squandered on distractions and trivialities. Time is something precious to be measured in quality and not quantity.

Pursue endeavours that help you utilise time at its fullest, take care of your body, take care of your mind, strengthen your spirit, nurture beautiful friendships, and understand the forces that move you into siphoning away your most invaluable of assets: Time.

30/08/2023

Having moved here a couple of months ago, the final steps of this new beginning are upon me. It's incredibly exciting!

I've been actively searching for the right place to set up a clinic space here on the Gold Coast. I've inspected quite a few spaces over the past months, and until today, not one has truly felt right. This quote speaks to how I managed to stay resilient and patient. My persistence and values have paid off. To rush is to not value a beginning, a most important part of any process.

So keep an eye out, as I'll soon be set up in Tweed right by Coolangatta. I'll still offer Mobile services, but it will be reserved for only a couple days a week. Coolangatta is incredibly beautiful, the people are amazing, and the lifestyle here calls to me.

---------

The intriguing thing about quoting Plato is that many of his most famous quotes you see online you will struggle to find in his texts. They're not entirely fabricated, as Plato covered a vast array of topics. His writings encompass themes and ideas spanning ethics, politics, metaphysics, epistemology, language, aesthetics, nature, just to name a few.

"All of philosophy is but a footnote to Plato." - Whitehead.

It's truly impressive and wild to consider the depth of this persons thinking. Therefore, the quotes generally ring true with his philosophical ideas, if not his words. This quote is commonly found all over the web as "The beginning is the most important part of the work," but in my copy, I came across it as "the beginning of any process is most important." So, I've chosen this version, recognising that directly quoting Plato is an impossible and irrelevant task due to the many translators translating translations over time. We inherit the ideas more than the words, the idea is what matters, and it's the idea that speaks to me. For Plato also may have said "Ideas are the source of all things"

I recommend you read Plato, he's dope!

28/08/2023

Did you know that massage can be a game-changer for your sleep?

Dive deeper into how remedial massage can enhance your nightly rest in our latest article found on the Body Remedy website. Link in bio! (also you can book a massage via bio link)✨

💤 Promotes Relaxation: Dive into a state of calm with massage, activating that relaxation mode.
🌿 Eases Muscle Tension: Say goodbye to stiffness and hello to comfy sleep.
🌟 Feel-Good Vibes: Massage releases those endorphins for an elevated mood and better zzz's.
🌊 Wash Away Stress: Lower cortisol levels mean deeper, uninterrupted dreams.
❤️ Boosted Blood Flow: Nourish your body as you sleep with improved circulation.
🌙 Balanced Sleep Rhythms: Regular massages lead to consistent, dreamy nights.
🔮 Deep REM Sleep: Experience the magic of restorative sleep with massage.
💪 Immunity Boost: Strengthen your defenses with quality sleep.
🌈 Ease Anxiety & Lift Spirits: Alleviate those blues and anxious thoughts for peaceful nights.

‐------ --- --- - - - --- - - -- -- -- - - -

(This is one of my favourite self portraits from back when i used to shoot a lot, shot on B&W film. Figured it fits for the topic.)

16/08/2023

I've been captivated by Pablo Neruda's poetry. My god! He is so good. At the same time I've been reading a lot of existentialists, and this resonates well with where my head has been at.

I've discovered that "Finding oneself" is a journey often misunderstood, a quest thought to require distant travels or relegated to some moments of epiphany that come from some grand act. I feel like this is quite far from the truth. Travel, in its essence, strips away daily distractions, often allowing for deep reflection, often for the first time. Reaching the point where the mirror turns and you see the unfamiliar visage that is you. But this is the beginning, not the destination. The "finding oneself" doesn’t stop here, it never stops, its always moving, it flows never ending, this is just the first time you notice there is a self to find. But also to lose.

As Kierkegaard, the OG existentialist, profoundly unpacked the concept of the self, he revealed its multifaceted and ongoing nature. Continual self-discovery isn't about isolated introspection. We don't exist in a vacuum. Rather, true self-awareness arises from an understanding of our place within the vast tapestry of the world, its rich history, and the connections we share with those around us.

Nerudas words resonate with my discoveries: "Someday, somewhere - anywhere, unfailingly, you'll find yourself, and that, and only that, can be the happiest or bitterest hour of your life." Neruda is conveying the idea that at some point in our lives, we will confront our true selves. He speaks to the universal human experience of seeking identity, understanding oneself, and the profound emotional impact that self-realisation can have.

I make sense of it as the start is the most shocking part, where we realise there even is a self to discover, and that self has been moulded by un-noticed forces of the world. Happiness will come if you are ready to face yourself, and start the process of reflection, realisation, and balance. Bitterness will come for those not ready to face that there is a self to realise, one lost, to fight against the reality they can no longer avoid, those focused on blaming the past for being.

09/08/2023

Business has been picking up. Its a slow burn here in the GC, but it burns brightly. I love it.
Book a mobile remedial massage?
Go on, why not?

28/07/2023

I'm loving going through my favourite texts and gleaning for quotes I love most, and then making sense of them and the thoughts they inspire for me. Adding to my collection today with a powerful slice of wisdom from Marcus Aurelius once more. His eloquent quote, 'The soul becomes dyed with the colour of its thoughts,' seamlessly blends profound meaning with beautiful articulation. I love it so much! It's not just the sentiment here; it's the way it's written. I find the word choice just so beautiful and sweet, yet still heavy with wisdom.

Despite being penned millennia ago, Aurelius' wisdom reverberates in today's mindfulness discourse. It serves as a poignant reminder that our thoughts are not inconsequential but are, in fact, the hues that paint our existence.

This quote emphasises that our lives mirror our thoughts. It urges us to safeguard our thoughts diligently - they are the painters of our souls. In a world teeming with distractions, we must be vigilant of the thoughts we nurture, as they influence our well-being and our interactions with the world.

Examine your thoughts, simply observe them rather than just internalise them. This process, for me, has calmed everything and made it easier to let go of the discordant colours in my mind that corrupt the palette.

To colour an angry, judgemental, regretful, or just a bad thought, all you have to do is observe it rather than internalise it. This is the power of mindfulness; this is the power of colouring your thoughts and working to create a masterpiece.

26/07/2023

Venturing once again into my reserve of quotes, I choose yet another existentialist today. I'm sharing a potent call-to-action from a figure I admire, the French feminist and existentialist philosopher Simone de Beauvoir: "Change your life today. Don't gamble on the future, act now, without delay." I have a personal goal that beautifully resonates with this quote, aiming to read her works in their original French once I've honed my French language skills. J'ai hâte de ce moment-là !

This simple wisdom resonates with an almost tangible sense of urgency and empowerment. It serves as a timeless mantra that exquisitely encapsulates her philosophy of existentialism, emphasising our freedom and responsibility in crafting our destiny.

At first glance, this quote may seem direct, yet it holds a deep reminder. It conveys that the power to shape our lives is within us, and it's not about idly waiting to see what the future might hold. Instead, it's about acting determinedly in the here and now. She's communicating the existentialist concept of living authentically, seizing the moment, and taking responsibility for creating the life we seek. This is intricately tied to her discussions on existential ethics, in which she postulates that we are not merely beings in the world, but that we are free and responsible for our actions. Consequently, we should not speculate on the future, but act decisively and without hesitation to create the change we desire in our lives.

I aspire to hold these words in reserve for those moments of hesitation, for those times when I find myself anticipating change to simply materialise. They encourage me to seize control, to take command of this singular life I possess. They remind me that my life, too precious to be left to the whims of chance, must be intentionally shaped by my conscious, decisive actions.

Beauvoir's directive, 'Change your life today,' addresses each one of us. It's not a suggestion; it's a call for agency. Let's not speculate on the uncertainties of the future but act with intention now, without delay.

17/07/2023

I've noticed a curious trend in my world - the repeated mention of a name, a spiritual guru known as Ram Dass. His name has popped up a lot in the things I read and listen to, as well as discussions with likeminded individuals, his name echoes again and again. Yet, I've never truly dived into his work.

I stumbled upon an un-credited quote, and assumed it was going to come from some ancient stoic. To my surprise, the wisdom was credited to none other than Ram Dass. The quote was, "It is important to expect nothing, to take every experience, including the negative ones, as merely steps on the path, and to proceed."

The sentiment it conveyed - the surrender to the journey, the acceptance of every step, positive or negative, as merely part of the path - resonated with my own mental orientation. I try to perceive the world not as a rigid set of 'shoulds' or 'should nots', but as a fluid interplay of moments, each contributing to the intricate whole of existence. And in doing so, I strive to greet each instance with equanimity and proceed calmly, unswayed by the expected or the unexpected.

Yet another encounter with Ram Dass's wisdom has sparked an urge within me to explore his teachings in depth. I think I am surely ready to plunge into the spiritual depths of Ram Dass's mind.

I find myself eager for recommendations. If you are familiar with his work and have a suggestion for where I should begin my journey, please do share it.

Here's to the unexpected wisdom that life tosses our way and the myriad paths that unfurl before us, guiding us towards growth and understanding. Let us move with open minds and accepting hearts.

17/07/2023

We all know there is a physical toll that our desk jobs can have on our bodies. In our modern work culture, it's crucial we take proactive measures to ensure our wellbeing.

With this in mind, I've written an in-depth article exploring the role of remedial massage as a means to counterbalance the effects of prolonged sitting and desk work. Remedial massage, much like an active lifestyle, offers a comprehensive approach to maintaining a healthy body.

Here's a preview: "It's a bitter reality that the cost of our labour is often borne by our bodies. The burden of work is substantial, and our bodies bear the cost. In essence, we trade our physical well-being to our workplaces, and then it is left up to us to reclaim and care for our health. The harsh truth is, your workplace may not prioritise this for you. This necessitates that we must take the reins and find solutions to this pressing issue."

If you'd like to delve deeper into this topic, find the full article on my website https://tinyurl.com/bdhk2ap2.

Feel free to DM me for more info or to book a session, or tag anyone who might be interested in this subject.

Let's take control of our health together.

14/07/2023

Here, you see me performing trigger point therapy on the Sternocleidomastoid (SCM). As a tender warning, this technique involves a bit of discomfort. Yet, you breathe through it knowing that relief is right around the corner. Trigger point therapy zeroes in on constricted areas in muscles, often responsible for pain elsewhere in the body. The SCM muscle is a typical example. When it tightens, it can lead to several discomforts.
Our modern lifestyle, particularly our excessive use of screens, from smartphones to laptops, often causes a tight SCM. Symptoms include a forward-leaning head posture, headaches, and tightness or restricted movement in the neck. It can even contribute to a feeling of a 'heavy head', a common complaint in our screen-dominated age.
Trigger point therapy for the SCM can provide immediate relief and improve posture. I usually wrap up most sessions focusing on the head and neck. Why? Because I love how it feels when I'm on the receiving end: ending with a head as light as a feather and a smile noticeably wider.
Remember to take care of your body, and it will take care of you. Feel free to DM me to organise an in home massage, to bring this relief to you.

13/07/2023

Navigating what many would consider a significant change, one typically riddled with stress, I've found solace in stolen moments with Marcus Aurelius 'Meditations.' Amidst constant interruptions and unpredictability, this book is a treasure trove of wisdom to dip into. I previously highlighted line in my copy that caught my attention during a recent reading: "Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking." It reminding me of its profound resonance the first time I read it and its relevance now, amidst immense change and challenges.

His journal 'Meditations' has been a cornerstone in shaping my outlook on life and my practice. It's remarkable how the thoughts of a man carrying the weight of an empire on his shoulders centuries ago, remain relevant even today. Each reading uncovers new wisdom, shedding light on the humble pursuit of self-love amidst adversities. To anyone seeking a timeless guide to inner peace and contentment, 'Meditations' tops my list of recommendations.

Even in my remedial practice, the ethos of Stoicism finds its echo. I aim to foster a harmonious connection between the body and mind through healing touch, reminding that relief, peace, and happiness bloom from our internal landscape.

As a remedial massage therapist, I hold myself to a certain standard where it is essential to avoid the trap of stress and rumination - it's not just detrimental to oneself, but can inadvertently affect clients. Stress can be contagious, subtly communicated through touch and unconscious emotional exchange. While I can't control my surroundings, the people, or the places around me, I do hold the reins to my thoughts and their interaction with the world.

In this, I find tranquillity in these temporarily turbulent times. By appreciating life itself, If I can experience timult well that means I can experience, and that is incredible. The opportunity to experience its spectrum, even amidst tumult, I've unearthed a deeper sense of peace, and a mind at peace can weather any storm.

13/07/2023

Since moving here to the Gold Coast, I decided to endeavour on a journey into yoga. Being who I am, I naturally yearned to delve deeper and get the most out of my practice. It's a simple and seemingly unremarkable quote from a book that has most influenced my life: "Whatever you do, do it as well as you possibly can." - Marcus Aurelius. But I try my best to embody this simple message that has stuck with me, so I got quite deep as I embarked on a bit of research to see how I could intertwine my profession, remedial massage, with my newfound love for yoga. The synergy I discovered was illuminating and it inspired me to pen down my thoughts and findings.

In this piece, I delve into how yogis at any stage, whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced, can harness the power of remedial massage to deepen their yoga practice. Through mindful attention to our bodies and strategic communication with a skilled remedial practitioner, we can develop a personalized approach that maximizes the benefits of both yoga and remedial massage. I've found this combination incredibly rewarding and I'm excited to share my experience with you all.

Here's a little extract from my article: "Remedial massage and yoga make a fantastic duo when it comes to holistic wellness. When you blend breath, mindfulness, and body awareness, they create a powerful synergy, boosting the physical and mental benefits of each practice. Research is now backing these benefits, so let's delve into how weaving remedial massage into your yoga routine can boost your wellness journey."

If this piques your interest, I invite you to read the full article on my blog. Perhaps you, too, will discover the rewarding synergy between yoga and remedial massage. [Link to article]

Feel free to DM me if you are a yoga practitioner or yoga teacher and you want to learn more, or organise a treatment with your own yoga journey in mind. Or tag anyone who you might think would be interested.

Let's continue to explore, learn, and grow together in our wellness journeys.

12/07/2023

I have recently been getting back into yoga big time. It's now a daily practice and aim to keep it that way for as long as i can. Despite the fact that my remedial practice improves flexibilty and range of motion for my clients, I am in fact remarkably inflexible. So I did some research and penned a quick article about the benefits of including remedial massage into your yoga routine and have started to have my remedial massage therapist tailor the treatment with this in mind.
As i hold poses i concentrate on my body and take note of what it is trying to tell me is the core of my limitations, where the short muscles present most. Then when it comes to meeting with my remedial massage therapist, we focus the treatment on these areas. As of my third session i can feel the difference now from the day before and the days after my treatment. It allows me to reach deeper and breath easier into the stretch for many poses. I am now commited to this synthesis of practices to benifit my yoga journey and take me further than i would have without it. So click ahead and take a quick read of my short article if this might interest you too.

Discover the potent combination of remedial massage and yoga in this insightful article. Learn how these practices can enhance each other for better flexibility, strength, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Detailed examination of specific yoga poses and the benefits of integrating remedial massag

11/07/2023

11/07/2023

In the midst of change and uncertainty, I find solace and guidance in the wisdom of the Stoics. From my teenage years, they have been my guiding lights, leading me towards a life that I am fortunate to describe as truly happy. But let's not mistake happiness for ease. My recent move, this complete change of life onto new, fertile soil, is fraught with unpredictability, expectations, and the task of building from scratch without a certain outcome. However, persisting through errors, breathing in serenity, and exhaling doubts are the cornerstones of strength in such transformative moments.

I take pride in my ability to accept changes and move forward without needless strife. Although I have not read Cleanthes extensively, I came across this quote that beautifully encapsulates a philosophy I hold dear: "Happiness grows in direct proportion to acceptance and in inverse proportion to expectations."

This sentiment is not always easily achieved, but it is a conscious endeavor to fuel every step with acceptance, and to relinquish burdensome expectations.

Now, here I am in a brand-new city, eager to uncover its mysteries. I am excited to witness the treasures the oceans and rivers may unveil, and what the sunshine may highlight in this vibrant, new chapter. Here's to the unwritten pages of this journey, coloured by the hues of resilience, acceptance, and unending exploration.

11/07/2023

I'm working on a soft tissue release for the pectoralis minor in this shot.
Soft tissue release is a brilliant massage technique that targets specific areas of tension in the muscles. It involves applying precise pressure, pinning or pincer gripping the muscles, and using active and passive movements to stretch the muscle, helping to increase flexibility and promote better circulation. On some muscles, like the pec minor, soft tissue release can initially feel intense, lightening flickering through your muscles. Yet, once administered, it leaves you with a profound sense of relief and ease, the tranquil silence following a storm.

Why the pec minor, you ask? This little powerhouse can cause big issues when it's tense - think rounded shoulders, aches, and even breathing troubles. Releasing it can improve posture, ease discomfort, and make breathing easier.

In our modern society, structured as it is around the rigid demands of a work-centric lifestyle, we often find ourselves confined to a single position or engaging in repetitive movements five days a week. Think hunched at a desk or behind the wheel all day. This system, which prioritises productivity over individual well-being, inevitably takes a toll on our bodies. Certain areas bear the brunt of this imbalance, with the low back, hips, neck, and shoulders holding onto dysfunction more than others. The wellness and longevity of our bodies should be integral to our lifestyle, not an afterthought in the face of ceaseless productivity.

Here's a quick tip: Try a doorway stretch. Stand in an open doorway, hands at shoulder height on the frame. Step forward until you feel a stretch across your chest. Hold for 20-30 seconds, repeat a few times daily. It's simple yet effective for maintaining posture and easing pec tension.

It's incredible how a focused massage technique can make a significant difference. Here's to optimal health and balance!