Bikram Yoga

I've done yoga on and off for years. Mostly home practice or before/after exercise but recently I've started going to the Bikram studio here in Athens.  I cannot begin to tell you the improvements I have felt in my body.  Massage is a very rewarding but strenuous job and we must take great care of our bodies.  I get regular exercise, massage and eat well.  Bikram was a new step in my personal wellness.  I highly recommend trying it. Especially if you have chronic pain issues.  The poses are simple and always the same.  The room is heated..it's hot!  You will sweat but it's worth the discomfort in the end.  The heat allows for better mobility in the joints and ligaments.   The peace and clarity I experience after has amazed me. Read more about it and give it a shot.

click here for more info

Casey Brown

Verdae Peppermint Sugar Scrub

Happy Holidays!

We have added a wonderful peppermint scrub, made by Suzanne @ Verdae Skin Therapy, to selected services this season.

The peppermint scrub has many benefits...

*Exfoliating during the winter is important since our skin gets dry quicker from the cold weather. The exfoliation removes the dry, dead skin uncovering the new softer skin.

*The ultra moisturizing shea butter in the scrub immediately provides a nourishing protective layer to the new skin, shielding it from the dry cold air.

*The light peppermint scent is the perfect amount of aromatherapy. Invigorating just enough to get the day going, but mild enough that relaxation continues.

*Lastly, but certainly not least, Verdae uses local, eco-friendly ingredients which supports our community. They also donate a portion of their sales to local outreach agencies.

Getting a Peppermint Sugar Scrub Package would be a perfect last minute gift for anyone, including yourself!

Best Wishes for the Season,

Jennifer

Japanese Restorative Therapy

We are offering a new service! JRT (Japanese Restorative Therapy) has been used for more than 5000 years with origins in Jujitsu schools.  Its a full body treatment used to balance the systems of the body and to release damaged soft tissues.  The deep, rocking motions and use of the crux of the elbow give JRT a distinctive feel.  We will be offering this massage as a 60 min stand alone or 75 min with various stretches. 

Check out his article to learn more and book online to try it out for yourself.

Casey Brown

Winter Skin

WInter time is great for cuddling up by the fire and spending time indoors with the ones you love, but it is also a time of distress for those with dry, winter skin.  During these cold months switch to a cream cleanser, avoid hot water, stay hydrated, keep a humidifier running while you're indoors, don't forget the sunscreen and above all moisturize!!  

Check out this article for more helpful tips

Winter Skin

Casey

Massage for the Elderly

As we have an increasingly larger elderly population and people living longer, it is important to not overlook care for ourselves and our loved ones.  Pain management for the elderly is usually treated with pharmaceuticals.  As an alternative or complementary treatment for seniors, massage is a great way to manage pain, but there are also many more benefits associated with massage and the elderly population:

• According to the Touch Research Institute, elderly massage is very useful in the treatment of Alzheimer’s patients. It has shown to facilitate relaxation and communication.
• It can greatly assist in arthritic pain management.
• Massage for elderly citizens helps to increase their range of motion.
• Also promotes natural joint lubrication, which is extremely important for arthritis sufferers.
• Helps to increase strength and muscle coordination.
• Boosts natural energy levels and mental awareness.
• Can also greatly improve posture by reducing muscle tension. This has the added benefit of assisting seniors with a higher quality of rest, and helps them to sleep deeper and longer which can have a significant effect on their general health and well- being.
• Can also have a profound calming effect which in turn helps them to deal with medical interventions they may need to experience in dealing with various conditions.

Our office is conveniently located on the Eastside of Athens and equipped with handicap parking, a ramp for easy access, and happy, well-trained and willing therapists to help with the wellness of everyone. 

Best,

Lacy Parish

For references and more information:

http://eldercareabcblog.com/benefits-of-therapeutic-massage-for-elderly-people/ 

Microdermabrasion Athens GA

I will be offering diamond tip microdermabrasion starting in February. This is a safe and effective way to remove the surface level of dead skin cells, smooth imperfections, and reveal glowing skin. The diamond tip method is much safer than the traditional crystal microderm, allowing a more controlled and detailed treatment around the eyes and mouth, without fear of inhalation or eye damage.  This service will be offered on it's own as a 30 minute mini treatment or as the exfoliation portion of your regular facial at an additional cost.  This service is not for everyone and a skin analysis is recomended before booking.  I look forward to helping you with your skin care goals.

best,

Casey Brown

Basic Yoga and Your Health

Practicing basic yoga increases flexibility, range of motion, balance and muscular strength.  Flexibility and increased range of motion help with balance, which helps insure fewer injuries and falls.  Not only does yoga have a positive benefit to the body, but it is also great for mental health.  Practicing basic yoga may improve sleep, help manage stress, and help manage depression and anxiety.  Attached are thirteen basic yoga poses for beginners and older adults.  As always, please do not push to the point of pain or injury and remember to breathe through the poses.  If you have any questions, please feel free to ask Casey, Jenn, or myself. 

http://www.aarp.org/health/fitness/info-01-2011/yoga_poses.html

Best,

Lacy Parish

Benefits of Massage

Most of you know the basic benefits of massage, such as relaxation and increased circulation.  Here are some other not so well known benefits:

Massage can help manage anxiety and depression by reducing the levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Massage can improve sleep by the affect that it has on delta waves

Massage can ease pain, but can also help with stiffness and better range of motion

Massage can boost immunity by increasing disease-fighting white blood cells and by decreasing stress

Massage can help with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), by helping with bloating, aches and pains, and mood swings

Massage can help raise your alertness

Massage can help curb headaches, such as migraines or tension headaches

Massage can help ease cancer treatment by reducing the fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression and nausea that cancer patients endure (Note:  consult your doctor to ensure massage therapy is safe with your cancer treatment).

We are always available if you have questions and/or would like to schedule a session to get started toward better health and a better you. 

Best,

Lacy Parish

Massage and Diabetes

As most of you know, I am a Type 1 Diabetic and I truly believe in massage as a part of my healthcare regimen.  One of the best benefits of massage is that it increases blood circulation and for those fighting the disease or those caring for someone with the disease, we all know how important this aspect is.  Other benefits of massage for diabetes include:  Relaxation, better sleep, loosening of muscles and fascia, and massage tends to lower blood glucose levels.  Please note that massage therapy should not be seen as sole treatment for diabetes, but rather complimentary to eating a healthy diet, regular exercise routines, keeping regular appointments with your doctor, checking your blood glucose levels frequently, and drinking plenty of water.  I found this wonderful article by a massage therapist explaining the basics of diabetes and the benefits.  Please feel free to e-mail or call with any questions and as always you can book appointments at:  www.driftwellnessstudio.com

Article by Kathleen Rose

http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/96/Diabetes

Best,

Lacy

Massage and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder or the “winter blues” may cause some to sleep too much, too little, to feel depressed or to have little energy.  Often weight gain or cravings for sweets or carbohydrates as well as fatigue, irritability or anti-social behaviors are experienced.  Massage is a great way to help with depression, stress, anxiety, circulation, energy levels, and sleep disturbances that occur with SAD.  Along with regular massage, a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, regular exercise, along with getting plenty of sunshine can help prevent and also help treat SAD.  In most cases, the effects of massage can be felt immediately, but in order to receive the full benefits, massage on a regular basis during the fall and winter seasons is recommended.   Schedule today and let us help you to better health during the fall and winter seasons. 

Japanese Zen Facial Massage

I just finished a Japanese Zen Facial massage class by Wolfgang Luckman.  We learned a holistic approach to treating the skin..from the inside...out, starting with our "life force" or "Qi".  This services begins at the feet and works upward. Balancing Qi and clearing out meridians is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  By combining these acupressure techniques with specific essential oils we can bring the body, spirit, mind into the present moment and away from worry, grief, stress, fear and anger....which can cause premature aging and break outs. Using Japanese massage strokes we can reduce fine lines, clear up blemishes, and tighten skin. You can enjoy this 30 min service on it's own or combine it with a PHYT's facial for a 75 min session. Which ever you choose..you will leave feeling balanced and beautiful!

best,

Casey Brown

Benefits of Refloxogy

One of the best benefits of reflexology is stress reduction.  Reflexology is deeply relaxing and by reducing stress our bodies are less susceptible to illness.  Other benefits include improved circulation, stimulated nerve function, increased energy, and an improved immune system.  There are many conditions that reflexology can assist with, such as allergies, arthritis, blood pressure, constipation, muscle tension, and stress disorders.   Depending on your specific concerns and conditions, aromatherapy may be used to heighten the treatment.  Come in a try a half hour reflexology foot treatment from now until December 31^st and receive $5.00 off. 

Best,

Lacy

The Lisa White Spiering Legacy Scholarship Program

I'm proud to announce that I am a winner of this years Lisa White Legacy Scholorship program from the International Dermal Institiute.   This means I get tons of free education from some of the best in the skin care industry.. I have just completed a class on peels and exfoliations and will be taking speed waxing next week! :)  I chose this path of massage and skincare, because I love it. I am passionate about it on so many levels.  I want to push myself to be the best I can be for all of you.  I look forward to seeing all of you and sharing all of my new found skills. 

read more about it here

International Dermal Institiute 

best,

Casey Brown

Organic skincare

Our product line is one of the best in the organic industry.  Please take some time to read about their standards.  Phyt's has been around over 30 years and is the most gentle yet effective products I have ever worked with.  Drift is the only spa in GA to offer these products, so come on in and experience something not only unique..but also a line you can trust.  CLick the link below to learn more

Phyt's Orgnaic skincare

best,

Casey Brown 

We are adding another therapist, Jennifer Holihan-Collazo

We are so thankful for our busy schedules and we decided to bring in another massage therapists for the weekends.  I know many of our clients have a hard time finding a opening so this will help a lot.  She is moving here form Alpharetta and I she is a perfect fit for Drift. Jennifer has been a massage therapist for almost 3 years, but graduated from ASHA, whose graduates are typically 5 years ahead of graduates from most 
other schools. She specializes in integrated massage which uses neuromuscular therapy, swedish and sports massage and myofascial release taylored to each client. As well, she is certified in prenatal massage and will soon be studying Reiki. Healing and educating clients about their bodies is her passion.  She will start the first weekend in July.  So go ahead and schedule online :)

Best,

Casey Warner Brown

Nopalea wellness challenge

I took the Nopalea wellness challenge 2 months ago after a wonderful client gave me a month supply as a gift.  She had been telling me about it for over a year, but I never took the leap on my own.  I took 6 oz a day for 30 days and within 2 weeks my shoulder and neck pain drastically improved and I definately had more energy. I now order it every month. I'm not a sales person as anyone who has ever met me knows, but I really love this product so I want to share.  If you have chronic pain you should  at least try it for a month.  It could be just what you need.  The company Trivita has lot of products.  I've only tried the Nopalea and the B-12,  so far I've been very impressed.  Click on the picture below to see all of their products.

 

best,

Casey Warner Brown

Aromatherapy

I use aromatherapy in all of my services. Pure essential oils can aid in pain relief, anxiety reduction, stimulation of brain function, and so much more.  The use of oils topically can sooth dry skin, clear blemishes, or calm sensitivity.  These oils are very powerful and must be handled with care.  I suggest choosing one oil at a time and building your collection from there.  It is important to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation. Here is a website with lots of great info to help you get started and if you ever have any questions give me a call. :)

http://www.aromaweb.com

best,

Casey Warner Brown

Reiki, Athens GA

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is focused on the alignment of chakras.  Each chakra represents different emotions, when one or more of these are unbalanced it can lead to physical and spiritual ailments. 

A treatment is done with the use of hand positions and light touch that feels like a wonderful glowing radiance that flows through and around you. Reiki treats the whole person including body, emotions, mind and spirit creating many beneficial effects that include relaxation and feelings of peace, security and wellbeing.  

Learn more about your chakras..check out this link below

http://www.chakraenergy.com/

Come try a 45 minute session with me :)

best,

Casey Warner

massage therapy Athens, GA

I've recently taken on many weekly clients.  I have decided to offer their services at $10 off, so $35 for an hour massage.  The difference I have seen and they have felt, is remakable.  It's the best feeling in the world to know I make a positive difference in peoples lives.  Many have been able to cut back or completly get off pain medications. I hope this becomes a trend and more people take this amazing, natural route to pain relief.  

Best,

Casey Warner

Facials Athens, GA

Facials Athens GA!

Ok Athens...It's time!  I'm ready to start doing facials and waxing.  I will be doing a deal mobs on October 13th. My PHYT's organic facials will be offered for only $22!  A great way to try a new services with me.  I look forward to seeing you all soon.

best,

Casey Warner