On Target - Massage & Bodywork

Tranquil Saturday morning

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 11:04:00 +0000

Naomi's Inn & Wellness Center

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:25:00 +0000

Just across from Baystate is a wonderful B&B. Naomi's Inn is quite possibly the most charming place in Springfield. Marci Webber, myself, and other area MTs, reiki practitioners, among others are working to create a Wellness center.
The center will focus on recovery stays as well as serving oncology patients. Stay tuned as this exciting project unfolds.

If you are a practitioner in or around the Springfield area and would be interested in seeing what the center may offer you Please contact jvaughn@massagetherapy.com

Blogger mobile?

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:31:00 +0000

Is there much need to Blog on the go?
I'm not in front of the computer often.enough
Will this work

Multimedia message

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:20:00 +0000

JT @ Tanglewood

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 11:41:00 +0000

JT- James Taylor - was great this year. There were not a whole lot of people getting in our chairs, rain can have that impact. The sky did clear a bit and JT played a great set. Tanglewood is such a great venue, although driving in and out can be slow like molasses. I was able to get my Dad a t-shirt. I tried to take a picture with my phone, but it came out a bit fuzzy. I should have gone closer for another attempt but it didn't work out.

I saw my prom date. Blast from the past seems only appropriate at a JT concert. She now has a beautiful little girl - and a husband. I didn't get a chance to go say Hi to her mom. It was so great to see her and have my memory jogged like that. I imagine there were other connections like this throughout the venue.
It's fun to hit the rewind button for a bit, but going back?, I'll stay right here thanks.

Saving a Robin's Egg

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 11:34:00 +0000

On my way into my office today I found a lone Robin's Egg in the driveway. I wasn't sure what to do, so I picked it up and took it inside. Figuring that the mother would have a heck of a time getting it back into the nest herself.

I consulted with Robin - who works for the chiropractors downstairs hoping that because it was her namesake she would know what to do. Evidently, I wasn't supposed to have touched it , although, it's fate was pretty much sealed being so far from the nest in the first place.

I've made a nest and put it on the front porch as it does tend to be the warmest place in the building, sunny too.

I'll try to post a picture and hopefully, the poor thing will be okay, although the outlook is not too good.

I tried - Do you know how to save a robin's egg?

Pain - cycles and timeframes

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:30:00 +0000

It's often the big question "How long will I have to deal with this pain?"

The truth is expectations of results vary depending on condition, no matter how large or small.

Other factors include - age, activity level, treatment schedule, and on and on.

Active participation in treatment is important - from noticing when and how pain comes about to ACTUALLY doing any stretches and "homework"

Also, it's important to report when you are not getting results or even negative results. At times, things seem to point in one direction but with a little work suddenly the focus can shift. This happens at times with the deeper muscles and especially those muscles that counter each other, the body is a delicate balance of tensegrity not Lego blocks(cool pic).

The effect of mercury - beyond (temp) control

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:30:00 +0000

have you noticed strange things happening? Forgetfulness, things mysteriously disappearing?

Mercury is in Retrograde and whether the impact of the universe is something you believe in or not, you may be seeing things or experiencing things just a bit out of the ordinary.

I have one friend who can not seem to stop rhyming, other glitches include schedule mix-ups, misplacing things, going out to deliver literature and leaving it on the desk at home.

Situation Normal - during this astronomic event - be kind to yourself and others caught in the clutches of our universe's gremlin.

"screws fall out all the time, the world is a very imperfect place."

Tennis, Golf, and Gardening - OH MY knees, shoulders, and elbows,

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:33:00 +0000

The summer is in full swing. And along come those minor aches that can build up into big pain. The same thing you add to your drinks to make them a little more refreshing can be applied to your body. ICE is NICE - I can't stress (haha) how important ICE can be to help ease the aches and pains that come with prolonged activity.

If you didn't play golf throughout the winter - and we're in New England so if you did what's your secret then your body can have a bit of a hard time getting back into the swing of things. Be mindful of the signals your body is trying to give you. Some of us get a little reluctant, and dare I say stubborn, about the way the body seems to change overnight. "i've never had this pain before" we can ignore these changes or work with them.

Find what works for you, if you make an effort to listen to your body you may be able to avoid serious injury.

Hey Jude

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:06:00 +0000

Today, I was pleased to donate massage sessions to help KIX 97.9 raise money for St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital.

I am sorry that I couldn't make it to meet the Kix crew over at the Holyoke mall, the spa called, I was very pleased when I heard that the donations totalled - $1200, thanks so much to those who gave and contributed to the Grand Total of nearly $90,000. There are so many worthy charities out there, I make every effort to donate my time and anyhting I can to those related to research. The more we learn the more we can change.

Some to none - none to many

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:23:00 +0000

Schedules changes sometimes by the day, sometimes by the minute.

At one moment cancellations and rescheduling were happening one after another. Then it changed at some point to bookings. My book changing from full to nearly empty to full again. A flutter of emotions came but throughout I was able to resolve them by reminding myself that sometimes this is the way things happen.

Life is change. If we could absolutely predict the future then where would the fun be.

Hot Yoga?

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:01:00 +0000

I unintentionally tried a Bikram class last night. The AC was down at my yoga studio - yikes. I have to admit I didn't last very long in the conditions - I heard it was in the hundreds. Being a naturally warm person it was not too long before it felt like it might be raining in the studio. All things considered my headstand is coming along nicely. So, there was something redeeming as there typically is. It was one class where I had to listen to my body and be resolute with the fact that there were some things to leave undone as the risk of fainting seemed somewhat likely. WATER _ WATER - WATER -

Katelynn's Ride

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 22:33:00 +0000

It was another great year for Katelynn's Ride. The weather was somewhat the reverse of last year. Dehydration was the Hot Topic - "have some water" get some Gatorade Most riders appeared to be prepared and well aware of their water levels. The sun was shining, the pedals were pushing, and Katelynn's RIde had another successful year. I was sorry to have to leave so soon. I was on.ly able to stay until two or so as I had a Hot Stone Session - no kidding - but their is AC in Paradise.

We Can Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 00:28:00 +0000

For a small portion of the weekend I was able to donate my time to some very deserving people. The American Cancer Society puts on many of these weekend retreat/workshops for those diagnosed with cancer, their friends and family. They provide a great amount of information and an excellent forum for all to talk about just what kind of impact cancer can have in all of it's forms .

Want to help someone get to a place where they can talk about their cancer?

There were people from all over New England in attendance. A group was on hand providing Reiki sessions and there was me, one therapist providing a brief bit of respite for these great people. Next year I'll be sure to have a couple more Massage Therapists with me as the line was pretty long and I'm sure the more the merrier. One great pair of friends was using the weekend as a way to both get together and help others at the same time.

Officially Licensed

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:28:00 +0000

Previously I posted about the recent changes in Massage Therapy licensure in Massachusetts. I recieved my official document in the mail today. Although, I have to admit I was expecting something a bit larger, you know, frameworthy, instead it's more along the lines of wallet size. I'm hoping that maybe the board can make some changes and the next time around give plaques.

Day for ME

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:48:00 +0000

Self-employment can be tricky. On the outside it appears that there is a bit of freedom and the ability to make your own schedule and free time. However, it can be more difficult to give yourself time off or schedule things just for you. Many times the prospect of generating more, whether that be clients, money, or contacts, is more pressing than taking time to recouperate from the long hours that oneputs in to their own business.
It is a constant struggle, but the rewards, while not always visible or tactile can be great. Taking time for oneself, not matter what your occupation, domestic engineer, nine to fiver, business owner, is incredibly important. I have to put it in my calendar, and make sure that throughout the day I remind myself that a day to recover is just as critical as any appointment or meeting. It is equally if not more important to take a certain amount of time each day to just be. There are many options - it is entirely up to you to choose and seek out what is right for you.

Special Olympics turns 40

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 13:07:00 +0000

Click here for a Wonderful speech given at the 40th anniversary gala.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

The transitive property of laundry

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:36:00 +0000

I have to admit that laundry is definitely not one of the perks of being a massage therapist. Wash - Dry - Fold - repeat. Occasionally, I splurge and have the laundromat do the works, it's really nice and I have to admit I think they make folding an artform. This, as many complaints, is one of those that is equally positive and negative. More laundry means more sessions and more sessions mean more money - so more laundry means more money. I don't like this fact but it holds - algebra says so.

It makes me wonder how many things have this dual negative and positive in life. Can everything be looked at in this way?

summers off

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Tue, 13 May 2008 12:34:00 +0000

It was time to say goodbye to the Maroon Platoon for the summer. Here's hoping that they are all well, and off to great summer experiences. It was great to work with the athletic trainers and students. They are all amazing and truly inspiring. I can't wait to see them again in the fall.

Happy Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Mon, 12 May 2008 12:43:00 +0000

If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands? ~Milton Berle

M is for

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sun, 11 May 2008 12:16:00 +0000

ME time! Many mother's feel pulled in several directions. At-home Moms, working moms, single moms, they all have similar fears and worries. It can be difficult to allay fears and worries, and most often a mother's biggest struggle is taking care of herself. It's easy to put everyone ahead of yourself, however, it is also very draining. There is no magic cure - the cure is to be attentive to mom, just as you are to the rest of your family. Stop and listen. These may be words that any mom finds herself saying over and over. Is it do as I say not as I do? Take time to check in with yourself. It can also be very valuable to communicate with your family what it is you are doing. While moms can be tempted to keep the schedule full to the brim for whatever reason. Many studies show that kids want and even need quality time. It's fine to do nothing, have a family nap time. Watch clouds together. Quiet or stillness contests can yield great results for everyone involved. Make it a habit, start small, and the rewards will pour in.

Speaking Publicly

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:04:00 +0000

I am a member of a networking organization, one that actually covers the globe. Weekly we get together and have a meeting to discuss our respective businesses and one member, presents something about their business for ten minutes. Originally, I was under the impression that my presentation would happen next week, I stood corrected. I had prepared in my head but had nothing on paper. Now, these are twenty people that I'm fairly familiar with, and whether that makes it easier or more difficult is a point of debate.

However, I think the key for me was knowing my subject. I make an effort to educate myself on massage and also be attentive to what questions people have - they are limitless and range from serious to hilarious, however, there is no such thing as a bad or even silly question. Especially, when it concerns your body, have you seen Doctor Oz?, people have questions and they are all good questions, and surpising or not many people have similar questions but are often afraid to ask.

The 60/hr. myth. - For aspiring MTs

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Wed, 07 May 2008 13:39:00 +0000

I know many MTs that enter the profession with the hyped up "You can make sixty dollars an hour as a massage therapist!" That's exciting I know, however, the reality is that it takes some time and also their are costs involved in getting that sixty dollars. When you have your own business their will be costs. When you work for someone else they will not pay you the full amount that the client pays - they have costs too. The other side is that in this profession it is physically impossible to do 40 hours of massage consistently. I imagine the body could take it for a few weeks or so, after that, good luck using your arms or hands for anything. The work is physical labor in the utmost form.
The massage schools - even my alma mater - throw the number out because it sounds exciting. It is, who could deny that. However, the business of massage is not as simple as hanging a sign or simply telling friends who tell friends or even working at a spa or in a salon. Like anything, you have to work for your money. It is a rewarding field don't get me wrong. The money should not be your only drive - again true with anything - you have to be willing to put some effort in.
If you look deeper into the statistics the average massage therapist "salary" is a little over 32,000 per year. This works out to about 10 hours per week - which is pretty good by some standards. There will be great weeks and there will be terrible weeks. I'm sure I will post more on this at a later date as whenever I hear that a school is selling themselves with the "60 dollar per hour myth" It really gets under my skin - hahaha. Another statistic - 80 percent of MTs leave the field after two years or less. (note: this is proof that the sales pitch works)

Yoga-riffic

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Wed, 07 May 2008 00:43:00 +0000

I had such a great yoga class today. I'd love to pinpoint exactly what made it feel so great. I think for the most part I was pretty open. I actually started the class with pretty low expectations. My practice has been in the background of my life lately. This class though, everything felt so great. I had my moments sure, but my backbends and just the feeling that every pose brought on was absolutely fantastic. I wanted the class to keep going. It's funny that sometimes even when you expect less of yourself your body can surprise you in the end.

the price of success

noreply@blogger.com (JVaughnLMT) — Sun, 04 May 2008 14:52:00 +0000

I know the price of success: dedication, hard work, and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen.

-Frank Lloyd Wright