I prefer weekly massages. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with frozen shoulder. Physical therapy, osteopathic manipulation therapy and massage were all essential components to restoring the range of motion. However, massage was what brought my recovery from partial range of motion to full movement. My therapist was able to release the adhesions over time and we likened it to peeling an onion. After noticing that she made much more progress with frequent visits, I put myself on a weekly schedule. I can go longer now without backsliding, but my neck and shoulder area is the first place I feel the stress when I am unable to make a regular appointment.

When the business shutdowns put a halt to my massage visits, I found myself looking for ways to relieve the growing knots. “Foam rollers and tennis balls are great tools that can assist in lengthening muscle tissue and releasing sore muscles, much the same as a massage does,” explains Julie Peterson in Home Care Tips Between Massages. I am hopeful that using some at home techniques will help my therapist make quicker progress when we are back on a regular schedule.

This month we reached out to local experts to share their knowledge on massage, intravenous therapy vitamin drips, and thermography. You’ll get a taste of what they shared in this issue and can watch the video interviews on our website or YouTube channel. Our feature article, Transformative Staycations, explores ideas for adventures you can find close to home. Find six way to boost blood flow to the brain so you feel energized and clear-headed. Enjoy sweet recipes for healthy snacking including five-minute chocolate truffles and banana ice cream. And after enjoying those healthy snacks, implement some tips to get fit without a gym. We hope you’ll reach out and connect with us digitally. Just visit our website to sign up for our newsletter and find links to subscribe to our video series on YouTube and like us on Facebook.

Be Well. Stay Connected.

Kris Urquhart, Publisher