I have learned a lot about Spondolylosthesis and how to manage my back flare ups over the years. Sometimes I  get that little twinge, you may know the feeling… when you think “uh oh, I have to be careful so I don’t have a back blow out”. Here are some simple steps I find helpful when that occurs for me. I stop what I am doing, pause, breathe deep a couple of times, and talk to my body and mind. I say to myself “it’s okay dear back, you don’t have to blow out on me, I am okay, and can take care of my emotional and physical self”. Once I get my fear of a Spondolylosthesis blow out under control, then I do a couple of things to help relax my back. I find laying on the floor and relaxing helpful. I enjoy doing a good stretch by bringing my knee up towards my chest for 15 sec. I do this on both sides, a couple of times with each leg. It feels so good…. Gets a good stretch in the low back and down the buttock. Try it, it may be helpful for you.

I would love your feedback and see your comments.
With your comfort in mind, Lisa

Wow, I am going out of my comfort zone this weekend. I will be camping at the Walton Raceway, where hundreds of dirt bike racers will be. I have been invited to attend as a massage therapist, working alongside the emergency services volunteers.
The event is a family affair with racers ranging in age from 3 to 80. I must admit I am curious to find out more! As a precaution I will pack my ipod and headphones, not for the clients, but for me... in case the sound of the motors are too loud for my sensitive ears :) I will be sure to bring lots of Biofreeze, a fantastic analgesic rub with menthol and camphor that works great on sore muscles. I expect a few people may have bumps and bruises this weekend! The weather looks good, I am happy to be packing up for this event, and prepared to offer many massages over the next couple of days!

Start your day off energized!
When you rush out the door in the morning without having something to eat, consider that skipping breakfast can set you up for overeating later in the day. A nutritious morning meal, on the other hand, can give you energy, satisfy your appetite, and start you off to a good start physically and emotionally.

You want to have a balanced breakfast that combines good carbs and fiber with some protein. There are plenty of options. Here’s a look at some favorite breakfast foods, and some suggestions on food combining.

Oatmeal, on its own, or top with some blueberries or strawberries.
Cream of rice cereal, with some sliced banana, and another option is to add some hemp seeds for a good source of protein. They have almost double the protein of flax seeds. You’ll get 5g in one tablespoon of hemp seeds.
Greek yogurt, plain, mixed with some fresh fruit and sprinkled with granola will offer much nutrition. If you like it a bit sweeter add a touch of honey or agave.
Almond butter, on rice cake, or spelt toast. Add a hard boiled egg, and a slice or two of fresh melon and you are doing well for some balanced food choices.

I would love your feedback and see your comments.
With your comfort in mind, Lisa