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Aromatherapy & Massage Articles
4 Simple Tips to Manage Stress at Work
These days everyone talks a lot about how stress at work is effecting them. We tend to do this in a rather casual way, after all: "its only a bit of stress". We feel lucky to have our health and learn to live with fact that most days you we leave work feeling like we have been hit by a ten ton lorry. Unfortunately too many people fail to understand that stress can cause many physical ailments and that its much greater problem than many realise.
In 2011 the Health and Safety Executive published some rather eye-opening figures about just what job related stress is doing to working Britons. Some of the 'lowlights' included:
- Approximately 1 in 6 Britons consider their work to be very or extremely stressful.
- The average stress related case lasts just over 30 working days and is the single biggest factor contributing to work-related ill-health.
- Stress is the second most commonly reported reason for work related ill-health, just behind musculoskeletal issues (usually caused by all that time spent sitting at a desk.)
None of this is good news for the average employer but it is even worse news for the employees themselves. These statistics and other reports show that stress at work is not something to be ignored or simply 'dealt with'.
There is no magic pill or potion for getting rid of stress (whatever you may have read) and for most of us giving up work and going to live on a beach is not an option. However, there are some things that you can do to help better manage the daily stresses of work, therefore improving your overall health and well-being:
Managing Stress At Work – Some Simple Tips
Identify Stress Triggers – Everyone has certain things that 'set them off' turning what might have been a pleasant day at work into a stress filled nightmare. It could be a boss who never seems to understand that sixteen hours of work cannot be fitted into eight; or a particularly difficult coworker; It might be the continuous worry that you are not performing 'up to standard.' Or it could be any one of a hundred other things.
The important thing is that you try to identify just what the most stressful parts of your day really are. Once you do this you can start working on each problem individually.
- Take a Break – Working through your breaks is not productive. The longer you go between actually getting away from it all for a few minutes, the more frustrated you will become.
- Have and energising smoothie, or fruit jiuce: The Pub is Not the Answer – Many people feel that if they can just have a pint, or a glass of wine or two at the end of the day everything will be OK (until tomorrow) Alcohol is not a good way to manage stress though and neither is running out for a cigarette to 'calm you down' when things get just a bit too much at work.
- Regular Exercise – Exercise is not just good for your physical health but its a big boost for your mental well-being too. If you don't usually do it you might be very surprised just how much better you feel after something as simple as a ten minute walk at lunchtime.
- Have a Massage – Study after study has shown the significant mental and physical benefits to be gained from a massage, and stress relief is a big part of that.
Some employers have been savvy enough to realise that massage is indeed a stress buster. By offering massage in the workplace they can actually increase employee productivity by decreasing stress (as well as the nagging musculoskeletal issues that cause so much absence).
If you are not lucky enough to have an enlightened boss, take the initiative and find a good massage therapist yourself. It's an investment in your health and good health is priceless.
How Aromatherapy Massage can Help To Treat Depression
Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing techniques used to naturally improve mood and sleep patterns. Regular massage therapy sessions play an important role in the management of stress, anxiety and depression. Stress manifests as both emotional and physical symptoms requiring and is best treated with an holistic approach. Depression can cause a debilitating change to an individual's emotional and physical health.
Symptoms of depression include emotional turmoil, insomnia, chronic pain, low energy and difficulty in concentrating. The specific causes of depression can be difficult to identify so a holistic treatment plan is beneficial in achieving relief from the symptoms. Massage therapy provides a safe and nurturing treatment for individuals living with depression.
A massage provides a safe environment for the mind and body to connect. Human touch is soothing and promotes emotional healing. A massage raises self-awareness by providing an opportunity to consciously identify stress and tension. This enhances the ability of the body to pro-actively release tension before it manifests in negative ways. Self-awareness promotes confidence and emotional stability. Massage creates a sense of euphoria by releasing stress and relaxing the body.
Massage stimulates skin causing the body to release the mood enhancing chemicals. Dopamine and serotonin create a sense of wellbeing and euphoria. Additionally, massage reduces the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, further promoting relaxation. Massage also stimulates organ systems to provide optimal functioning of the body. Invigorating the body boosts energy and concentration whilst simultaneously releasing endorphins that relieve symptoms of pain and depression. Massage enhances physical health as well as reducing the negative impact of depression on emotional well-being.
Massage therapy provides a holistic treatment for depression. Addressing the health of both the mind and body is a natural and effective way to reduce the effects of depression. Massage provides a relaxing environment that enhances the well being of the individual and provides symptom relief from the physical and emotional impact of depression.
How to Make Aromatherapy Candles
Aromatherapy candles are a great way to make your house smell wonderful. They can also benefit your health and well-being in many ways, depending on the scent you choose. Unfortunately the aromatherapy candles found in most stores are not very budget-friendly. Luckily it is possible to create your own aromatherapy candles right at home. This not only saves you money, but allows you to create customized scents and colours. If you are wondering how to make home-made aromatherapy candles, the following tips can help.
Gather Your Supplies
The first step in making aromatherapy candles is gathering the materials you need. You will need wax, coloring, and most importantly fragrance oils. You will also need containers and wicks for your aromatherapy candles. Wax comes primarily in three types: paraffin, soy, and beeswax. Paraffin is the least expensive of the three, but emits more carbon than the others. Soy wax is becoming increasingly popular because it burns fairly clean. It costs a bit more than paraffin, but is not incredibly pricey. Beeswax is the cleanest burning wax of the three and is also the most expensive. It all depends on what your needs are and what your budget will allow. You can also use old candles that have been cut into pieces.
Next, you will need some colouring for your candles. Wax chips are available in many colours and are pretty reasonable in price. If you are using old candles, you will not necessarily have to worry about colouring. Fragrance oils are the most important part of your aromatherapy candles, as this is what gives them their scent. Essential oils are perfect because they mix well with wax and are very concentrated. Choose whichever scents you prefer. Each essential oil has different benefits so doing a little research is probably a good idea. Lavender, vanilla, peppermint, and orange oils are all popular choices for aromatherapy candles. As far as containers go, you can purchase candle molds at a craft store or use old holders that have been emptied out. Candle wicks come pre-cut at craft stores as well. It is also advisable to have some super glue and a pencil on hand to help keep your wicks in place.
Make Your Candles
You should make your candles in an area that is free of clutter. Cover your work space with newspaper to protect it from spills. Place your candle molds on the newspaper so they are in place when it comes time to pour your wax. You will also want to get your wicks in place. Place a drop of super glue on the bottom of your molds or holders and stick the wick to the drop. Tie the other end of the wick to a pencil and balance the pencil on top of the mold or holder. This will keep your wicks in place.
To make your candles, you will need a double boiler to melt your wax, a metal stirring object, and a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature of your wax. You can easily create a double boiler by placing a smaller pot or metal bowl in a larger pot of water. A pound of wax is a good amount to start with, as it will make one large candle or a few smaller ones. It all depends on the size of your molds or holders. If your wax is not already broken into pieces, you will want to do so. This allows the wax to melt more evenly and quickly.
Place the wax pieces in the small pot or bowl of the double boiler, making sure the water inside the large pot does not come in contact with the wax. Gradually bring the water in the large pot to a boil over medium heat. Stir the wax occasionally with your metal stirring object. Check the temperature of the wax every so often as well, making sure it does not go over 175 degrees. As soon as the wax is melted thoroughly, turn the heat to low. You will now add your color chips and fragrance oils. Stir the color chips in first, stirring until your desired color is achieved. Next, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Essential oils are very strong, so be careful not to overdo it. When everything is combined and uniform in appearance, turn off your heat source. You are now ready to pour your aromatherapy candles into their molds or holders.
Using caution to keep your wicks in place, pour the melted wax from the smaller pot or bowl of the double boiler into your candle molds or holders. Pouring slowly will minimize the chance of air bubbles forming in your candles, so try not to pour the wax too quickly. After your candles are poured, you can tap on the sides of the molds or holders to release any air bubbles that may be trapped inside. Allow your aromatherapy candles to cool and set for at least 6 hours before removing them from their molds or burning them in their holders. It is a good idea to trim your wicks to 1/2" before lighting them, as this ensures even burning. Once lit, you will quickly realize the benefits of your aromatherapy candles. They will fill your home with a wonderful, soothing scent that you are sure to enjoy.
If you're looking for a more detailed guide you should check out the 'Candle Making for You' website.
Even though making aromatherapy candles may seem like quite a process, it is really not that difficult once you get the hang of it. The multiple benefits of aromatherapy combined with the money you save will make it totally worth your time.
Aromatherapy: Massage with a difference.
Introducing Aromatherapy Massage
Frantic schedules in a fast pace of life may leave you with pent-up stress and enormous strain consequently affecting your health. If you are yearning for a solution to alleviate this fatigue, then massaging with therapeutic oils will help rebalanced your mind and body. Many essential oils serve as a perfect stress antidote. Massage oils in the market that offer you rejuvenation are plentiful in the market.
Aromatherapy Massage
Massage is both emotionally and physically stimulating for the body, mind and the spirit. When this is supplemented with therapeutic oils like aromatherapy massage oil, a person gains a calm mind along with a radiant skin. Touching all levels of wellness, aromatherapy oils have resulted in a complete breakthrough in the market today due to numerous benefits. One of the notable kinds of aromatherapy is undeniably the massage oil, due to the wide-ranging uses to target particular issues. These oils have the aroma that provides relaxation to just perk you up instantaneously.
How is Aromatherapy Done?
The magic of aromatherapy is a combination of the massage itself and the unique oils used. Simply applying the oil to your body would not do the work. When aromatic oils are rubbed into the skin, they penetrates the epidermis through hair follicles and sweat glands. Then, the oils are carried through the bloodstream, ultimately reaching the specific organ for healing.
It is expected that when you undergo an Aromatherapy session, you go bare just like when you go for spa massages. The therapist can apply various massage techniques, such as Swedish or Thai massage, whichever is suitable for the treatment. But, before you undergo any aromatherapy massage, you must have a thorough and professional consultation. A physician's recommendation may also be required for those who have health complications such as high blood pressure, stroke, and osteoporosis.
How Often Do You Need Aromatherapy?
There is no set duration as to how long you should undertake aromatherapy. The treatment lasts based on how severe your condition is. Nonetheless, for simple illnesses such as migraine or stomach aches, three to five sessions are required to see the full benefits. Depending on your therapist, you may be required to visit twice a month for follow-up massages after the initial therapy.
What are Oils Used in Aromatherapy Massage?
There are different types of oils used for different reasons. Some oils are used to cure insomnia while others are used to cure fatigue, some relax your muscles and others reenergize you. You need to discuss with the masseur what actually you are suffering from and what you need to get cured, and they will help you in deciding what oil is to be used for the best results. People suffering from anxiety, depression and other such problems feel relieved through aromatherapy.
What are The Benefits of using the Different oils in Therapy?
· Lavender is one of the most common scents used in aromatherapy. It relieves stress and brings peace to mind and body.
· Jasmine oil is used to cure stress and anxiety. It helps you to relax and sooth uptightness.
· Essential oils like chamomile, tea tree oil and juniper help in reducing pain resulting from inflammation. Chamomile is also effective in promoting healthy sleep.
· Lemongrass is very effective pain reliever.
· Pungent quality of pepper mint, black pepper and ginger produce heat and circulation in the body which can relieve acute pains. They also have energizing properties to awaken your senses.
· Other fragrant oils like rose and sandalwood help in instantly changing your mood and make you feel fresh and happy.
How will you Benefit from Aromatherapy massage more than any other massage?
- There are several benefits of aromatherapy massage. It can be an effective way of inducing relaxation, getting rid of stress, all while ensuing a clean and healthy lifestyle. As with any other massage you may receive, it is going to affect the entire body as a whole while particularly focusing on the circulatory, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems.
- People who are normally stressed out from work will find this type of massage helpful given it can assist them soothe their mental and physical fatigue. Massage therapists are professionals in terms of mixing up oil blends so that greater relaxation and also restoration will be given to their customers. For this reason, it is no longer surprising that majority of those who have been through the aromatherapy massage session feel relaxed after. A number of the oils which are typically preferred by the customers are chamomile, blossom, lavender as well as vanilla.
- It is the essential oils that separate any other massage from an aromatherapy massage. By inhaling and absorbing the oils, you will be able to relax completely and eliminate any bottled up stress you may have. From there, you will also have the physical stress eliminated with the regular massage. After an hour session you will be on your way feeling far better than you were before.
- Aromatherapy massage normally makes use of gentle massage strokes, and this is among the best approaches to relieve pain. The blood circulation will also improve throughout the massage session. It will also help once the essential oils get absorbed into the bloodstream. Damaged tissues and also inflammation are restored and healed throughout the entire process.
- This massage has helped those individuals who have problems in correcting their abnormal sleeping pattern. Insomnia is a typical condition that could be healed simply today. Some of the herbs that serve as anti-depressants and had help people to be relaxed and get a sound sleep are grapefruit, sweet orange as well as English lavender. Insomnia is normally caused by stress and also fatigue. With aromatherapy massage, getting a restful sleep is feasible.
- Getting your body revitalized is important so that you'll have the energy you'll need to do all of your daily activities. Through the use of essential oils, hydration becomes feasible especially when they get absorbed in the skin. When these oils get to the bloodstream, transmission to all parts of the body such as the joints and also mind is possible. The best essential oils that can rejuvenate the body are mint, lemon, orange blossom and also grapefruit. This is because they've got uplifting properties which can help increase your mood. By combining these oils, it can help you become energetic and alive.
Are there side effects to Aromatherapy Massage?
There are no major side effects expected from aromatherapy. Allergic reactions from oils may occur though. Therefore, if it is your first time, it is advisable to come early for a skin testing. Before each massage session starts, the oils will be diluted in small amounts. Allergic reactions may take a few minutes to emerge, so it is best to come to the session a few minutes earlier than your appointment time.
When performed correctly, aromatherapy massage will provide you with many health benefits. By taking a whole body approach, aromatherapy massage works on both your mind and body, which is something we all need in this busy world.
Recognising the Early Symptoms of Stress
Unless you're a hardcore spiritual seeker, it's highly unlikely that you can break away from the normal storyline of your life and retreat to a Himalayan meditation oasis.
Therefore, you're probably frequently overwhelmed by the deadlines, demands and frustrations of modern routine; even though you may not realise it, you probably suffer from the symptoms of being overstressed.
At InstantCalmer we have the answer to effectively dealing with the hassles of modern day living: Aromatherapy.
Small doses of stress are actually beneficial.
tress is the body's natural physical response to any perceived threat. Today of course, this is rarely a ravenous wild beast and more often a predatory beast of a boss or deadline. Regardless of whether you face physical or emotional danger, your body's reaction is identical a torrent of stress hormones, such as adrenalin and cortisol, flood the body. These hormones elevate your pulse and blood pressure, quicken your breathing, and sharpen your senses. This is your body's way of providing extra strength and stamina; giving you a faster reaction time and the ability to focus better when necessary, thus improving your overall short-term performance.
However, it's true that too much of anything a bad thing, and too much stress certainly stops being helpful. Serious cognitive, emotional, physical and behavioural symptoms often manifest in people overburdened by stress. If your brain feels frazzled, leaving you powerless to remember things, lacking in concentration and making terrible judgements, you could be suffering from stress. If you're an emotional tempest, snapping like a crocodile, then you could also be afflicted by stress. An aching body, chest discomfort, and loss of libido are all physical symptoms of stress, as are habitual changes in appetite and sleep patterns.
We cannot eliminate stress from our lives entirely, nor should we wish to, but it is important to manage it before our health is seriously affected.
Unfortunately, one other common symptom of stress seems to be that sufferers may not even realise that they are afflicted by it. If you see a loved one struggling to cope with the pressures of their daily routine, one of our InstantCalmer massage vouchers is the perfect persuasive and tactful gift. At InstantCalmer we offer a range of massage therapies, including Aromatherapy massage, which is an excellent treatment for catering specifically to individual needs, and Hot Lava Shell Massage or Warm Bamboo Massage which are both excellent stress busters. The comforting sensation of heat provides ultimate relaxation, stilling the mind and easing the cognitive and emotional symptoms of stress. Add this to the benefits of traditional massage, which stimulates blood circulation and relieves muscular tension, and you have a perfect holistic treatments for relieving the symptoms of stress.
Massage Can Help with Chronic Pain Relief
Nagging pain can really disturb your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Chronic Pain is pain which lasts longer than the expected healing time for an injury or illness. Chronic pain can get worse with time and can impact every aspect of a sufferers life. Medication usually works on the symptoms alone, doing little or nothing to address the real cause of the problem. Sufferers often turn to complementary therapies to lessen their dependency on medication.
There are several ways to get relief from chronic pain. Medical advice is usually the best "first step" to find the right type of pain relief. Therapeutic massage, yoga and exercise are popular alternative methods for dealing with chronic pain. Many people look to therapeutic massage to help manage pain symptoms, improve general well-being and to overcome insomnia.
Massage is a great way of managing pain as it helps to reduce inflammation and swelling by relaxing muscles, it is one of the most effective complementary techniques for providing relief from long term pain.
Massage promotes internal healing by relieving muscle spasms. There are a variety of massage techniques that can help to relieve pain. Aromatherapy Massage, Warm Bamboo Massage and Hot Lava Shells Massage are a few of the most popular treatments at InstantCalmer in Hull.
Deep tissue massage, such as Warm Bamboo Massage can help with pain caused from scar tissue, muscle knots and muscle spasms. This treatment applies pressure on the deep muscles and tissues of the body to help to relieve pain and discomfort.
Apart from offering relief from chronic pain, massage can be beneficial in improving length and quality of sleep, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting overall health. Massage is the best way of managing chronic pain for all those people who are looking for natural techniques for pain relief and management.
InstantCalmer Aromatherapy Massage provides relaxing therapeutic massage treatments near The Avenues in Hull. For more information call us on 01482 778385.
Why Massage + Essential Oils is a Winning Combo
InstantCalmer Aromatherapy Massage (Hull, UK) provides holistic massage treatments, healing the mind and body. The benefits of massage are significant. Massage promotes stress and pain relief, whilst essential oils stimulate the body's natural immunity through skin absorption and scent.
By using specific essential oils InstantCalmer can tailor the therapeutic benefits to the mind and body. There are many benefits of massage with essential oils: naturally increasing oxygen circulation, easing muscle pain, lifting emotions and lowering fatigue. A raise in levels of endorphins created by aromatherapy massage establishes well being and mild sense of euphoria!
Aromatherapy massage allows essential oils to be absorbed into the skin and blood stream by being applied where they are needed the most. Massage with essential oils provides the benefit of topical application with the stress and pain reducing benefits of a massage.
Topical application allows essential oils to easily penetrate the skin to pass into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues. Massage with essential oils targets specific areas to enhance wellness. As a qualified aromatherapist (certified by the International federation of Professional Aromatherapists) Beccy will develop a special blend of essential oils tailored to you requirements.
Massage with essential oils provides benefits from the inhalation of scent. Inhalation provides a method for scents to pass the olfactory nerves in the nose en route to the Limbic System, the sections of the brain responsible for mood, memory and learning. Stimulating the Limbic System releases endorphins and neurotransmitters resulting in feelings of happines and reduced stress.
Not only do essential oils enhance the therapeutic benefits of massage, they further enhance natural immunity to provide a holistic approach to treatment. A massage with essential oils can target specific concerns whilst providing holistic benefits, promoting physical and emotional wellness.
The benefits of massage and aromatherapy are clear, they can help to balance heart rate, control hunger and reduce stress all thanks to its inter-relationship with the Limbic System.
How to Use Essential Oils in the Home
Essential oils can be used at home to promote holistic wellness through aromatherapy massage. They are derived directly from plants and, unlike fragranced oils, are not artificially created. Essential oils provide aromatherapy through the sense of smell as well through the skin. Oils have many uses in the home but be careful! Essential oils are highly concentrated and need to be diluted for use as: air fresheners, antiseptics, cleaners, and insect/pest repellents.
Any essential oil can be used as an air freshener. Diffusers and oil burners project essential oils into the air to provide a fresh scent and promote the benefits provided by the particular essential oil. By adding essential oils to a vaporising bottle filled with distilled water you can creates an aroma-therapeutic air freshener. In addition to creating a pleasant smell, the therapeutic qualities of the essential oils are dispersed through the air. Lavender, chamomile and rose are popular essential oils that promote calmness and relaxation. Eucalyptus and lemon extracts are general deodorizers while cedar wood and tea tree oils are specifically used as pet deodorizers.
Some essential oils can be mixed with water to create a natural antiseptic spray. Tea tree oil and Oregano oil are often used for their antiseptic qualities. Clove and Cinnamon bark oils also have exceptionally high antioxidant levels. Using an antiseptic spray throughout your home will fight against bacteria and can help to keep your family healthy.
Essential oils can be used in cleaning products to enhance aromatherapy benefits. You can easily create your own cleaning products, or simply add essential oils to your cleaning supplies. Wash liquid, floor/carpet cleaners, fabric fresheners and window cleaners can all be enhanced with essential oils. Lemon, grapefruit, rosemary, lavender and cinnamon oils are all popular oils to use in cleaning.
Another great way to use essential oils in your home is to harness the pest control qualities of certain scents. Insects and small rodents can be repelled by the use of certain oils: Peppermint, lavender, cedar wood and thyme are just some of the oils that can be diluted with water to provide natural pest control.
How can aromatherapy be used to combat stress?
The term stress was originally coined by the Endocrinologist Hans Sayle in 1936 during his research for the publication 'A Syndrome Produced by Diverse Nocuous Agents'.
He defined stress as follows:
"Stress is the non-specific response of the body to any demand, whether it is caused by, or results in, pleasant or unpleasant conditions"
His experiments on mice and their reaction to various physical and emotional stimuli lead him to conclude that all the different stimuli produced the same reaction and he named this 'General Adaptation Syndrome' (GAS). Within this syndrome he identified three stages of adaptation the body goes through when reacting to stress.
- Alarm
- Resistance
- Exhaustion
In the first stage of GAS, alarm, the body recognises a threat (this can be real or imagined) and releases the hormone adrenaline. Along with this there are several physical responses, the muscles tense, the heart rate, breathing and perspiration increases, the pupils dilate and the stomach muscles clench.
These are all symptoms of the fight or flight response (a term first used by the physiologist and neurologist Walter Cannon) and are performed by the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) which operates below the level of consciousness. If the stressor (the stimulus causing the stress reaction) is removed then the body returns to normal by means of the relaxation response. This response is controlled by the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS) and it reverses what has been instigated by the SNS so the muscles begin to relax and the heart rate decreases and so on.
If the stressor is not removed then the body enters the second stage of GAS, resistance.
During this stage of adaptation the body attempts to cope with the stressor by secreting hormones that will sustain energy by increasing blood sugar levels. Blood pressure is raised and the adrenal cortex releases corticosteroids, hormones that will enable the body to sustain this heightened state of resistance. If the stressor is not removed and the body is not able to rest and relax then it enters the third stage of adaptation, exhaustion.
In this stage the body has depleted its reserves and becomes worn out. Blood sugar levels drop and the body can no longer cope physically or mentally. The immune system becomes impaired and severe illness can strike. If stress continues then total collapse is likely.
Everyone gets stressed at some points in their lives and if it is short lived and we only enter stage one of GAS it can be helpful, giving the much needed boost to get the job done, finish the assignment or deal with the dangerous situation. It is when the stress reaction continues that we head for trouble and this can be manifested physically, mentally and emotionally.
Using the previously mentioned SNS and PNS the body has an innate ability to regulate its internal environment in order to keep physical stability and balance, any deviation from the norm is corrected using a process called negative feedback. This is the constant monitoring of all bodily systems by receptors and the use of effectors to correct any divergence from the most favourable conditions for equilibrium. This whole process is known as homeostasis and it allows us to survive when external and internal conditions change to our detriment.
However impressive this process is it can only work effectively when conditions permit. When a person becomes very stressed it can adversely affect the negative feedback system to the point where it no longer can accurately maintain homeostasis. During the stress response the body has diverted the blood supply from many of the bodily functions deemed unnecessary and increased the functions of other parts of the body. This, along with the constant high production of stress hormones adrenaline, noradrenalin and cortisol, can have a massive physical effect in the body.
We may develop problems with our digestive system as the stress response brings on diarrhoea or constipation, this often progresses to stomach cramps and irritable bowel syndrome. Our musculoskeletal system is greatly affected and the constant tension in our muscles can cause muscle cramps and chronic pain throughout the body. Our immune system is compromised and we lose the ability to fight off infections and illnesses. This added to the lack of blood flow to our skin can lead to skin conditions such as spots, acne, psoriasis and eczema. The changes to our breathing patterns due to stress can be the cause of asthma and other breathing difficulties. One of the most dangerous side effects of chronic stress is the effect it can have on our cardiovascular system. Hypertension or the high blood pressure that is synonymous with chronic stress can lead to coronary artery disease, strokes and heart attacks.
Mentally stress can take its toll too. Memory problems and the loss of ability to concentrate are common symptoms of chronic stress. Our judgement can suffer and we are no longer able to solve problems. Exactly the opposite of what the stress reaction is intended for.
The emotional impact of stress can be soul destroying for the sufferer. Anxiety can take over and lead to panic attacks. They may also experience overwhelming feelings of sadness and vulnerability, culminating in low self esteem and perhaps depression.
There are also many behavioural issues that might arise. Insomnia or over sleeping may occur, the person may become irritable or aggressive or maybe withdrawn and isolated from others. Addictive behaviour could result in alcoholism, drug dependency and obesity.
Many of the above symptoms perpetuate the stress response. Physical pain, discontent over appearance, inability to achieve goals and lack of sleep are all themselves stressors. Without a resolution to these problems the stress will continue until there's nothing left to give. Stress can be and is a killer.
Taking all of these problems into consideration, aromatherapy is an excellent way to combat the symptoms of stress and to promote the relaxation response needed for our bodies to return to homeostasis. There are several ways in which the therapy can assist in dealing with the physical, mental, emotional and behavioural symptoms.
Initially there is the response activated by the olfactory-limbic system. Whenever we smell anything the olfactory receptors send a message directly to the limbic system, the most ancient and primitive part of our brain. The limbic system includes the olfactory bulb, the hypothalamus and the hippocampus amongst other structures and is responsible for emotion, instinct and memory. Most importantly the limbic system, in particular the hypothalamus, controls the autonomic nervous system of which the SNS and PNS are components. As we know the PNS is responsible for initiating the relaxation response and therefore it is clear to see how the mere scent of a calming and soothing aroma can automatically relax us without any conscious intent.
The pharmalogical effect of the essential oils used is paramount to the use of this therapy for stress relief. Although the term aromatherapy can lead to the conclusion that it's all about smell and the olfactory-limbic system mentioned above, the chemical constituents of the oils and the biological effects those chemicals have on certain areas of the body are essential in bringing the state of homeostasis back.
When the treatment includes a massage this allows for a combination of three key aspects of aromatherapy: the pharmalogical effect as the oil and its chemical constituents are absorbed through the skin, the olfactory-limbic response as we smell the oils as they are applied and the soothing and relaxing massage. It is almost impossible to not fall into a state of relaxation when on the receiving end of a highly trained professional masseuses massage technique. Added to this there is the physical effect of manipulation of the soft tissue which could relieve any muscular symptoms that may be present. Finally, the fact that through the consultation process the client will have spoken about the reasons for seeking the assistance of an aromatherapist. This is equally important in the fight against stress as talking about the causes of stress can be seen as therapy in itself.
There are many essential oils that are renowned for their stress relieving actions. These include:
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
- Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)
- Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
- Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)
- Jasmine (Jasmine officinalis)
- Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia)
- Sweet Marjoram (Origanum marjorana)
- Neroli (Citrus aurantium)
- Rose (Rosa damascena)
- Vetivert (Vetiveria zizanioides)
Although this list is extensive it is not exhaustive, there are plenty of other oils that will help with stress. Although aromatherapists are convinced of the benefits of essential oils when treating stress as they can look back at their own experiences of using the oils to great effect on stressed out clients. There is a need for clinical research to confirm this so that the therapy may move forward into more mainstream, conventional settings such as hospitals and hospices.
Such a study was undertaken at the Royal Berkshire Hospital NHS Trust to ascertain the benefits of using either massage without essential oil, Lavender oil (L. Angustifolia) applied by a massage or simple rest to alleviate the anxiety and stress caused by confinement to an intensive care unit. One hundred and twenty two patients were selected at random to receive either the massage, the aromatherapy treatment or plain bed rest. Before the sessions the patients were tested for psychological stress indicators and they gave subjective evaluations of their levels of anxiety, their mood and their ability to cope. After the massage/therapy/bed rest was completed although there was only a very small difference in the psychological stress indicators the group that had received the full aromatherapy treatment reported much lowered levels of stress and anxiety.
The term 'stressed out' is frequently used in our society to describe feelings of slight anxiety. Some examples are getting stuck in a traffic jam, the kids not doing as they're told or the dinner gets burnt. Now it's true these feelings may be the initial feelings of the stress response but chronic stress is a much more serious issue. It can affect every aspect of a person's life, dismantling any feelings of wellbeing, disturbing the patterns of the daily routine and creating problems in coping with life's demands. There are invariably physical conditions that can cause pain and discomfort, some of which are life threatening.
On the bright side, stress can be effectively dealt with. With the correct information and support a person dealing with chronic stress can take the steps necessary to kick in the relaxation response. Stress management is all about taking charge of your life, American Sociologist and Psychologist Dr Jeanne Segal says:
"The simple realisation that you are in control of your life is the foundation of stress management"
If you can identify the cause of the stress reaction, the stressor, then you can begin to deal with it. Often the source is not apparent at first glance. A person may think the source to be their massive workload, causing them stress as they miss the deadline for completing tasks but on closer inspection it may be their procrastination that is the root of the problem. Keeping a stress diary is a good way of discovering what is really going on.
Dr Segal suggests once the situation has become more clear it is time to either change the situation or change the reaction. To help with this decision she suggests thinking of the four A's:
Avoid (the stressor)
- Say no when you know saying yes would lead to stress.
- Limit time spent with people who cause you stress.
- Don't strike up conversations about politics with your polar opposite if you don't like hearing their point of view.
Alter (the stressor)
- Manage your time more effectively.
- Explain your feelings to someone who causes you stress, they may not realise and will be willing to change the offending behaviour.
Adapt (to the stressor)
- Turn a negative into a positive, missing the bus and having to walk gives you some much needed exercise.
- Does it really matter? Think about how you will feel in a week/month/year from now. Is it really a problem?
Accept (the stressor)
- See the situation as a challenge that will make you stronger if you manage to overcome it.
- If it's not within your power to change it then it's within your power to change how you react to it.
- Talk to somebody about it. Sharing the problem whether with a friend or a counsellor can be cathartic even if the situation itself doesn't change.
Aside from using the four A's the person who suffers from stress can take additional steps towards living a stress free life. We've already looked at the many benefits of aromatherapy massage and ensuring this is a regular occurrence in their lives will go a long way towards reducing both stress levels and the symptoms of stress.
A healthy work life balance is essential. Taking some time out, however small, to concentrate on something as simple as a relaxing bath, a good book, a relaxing massage, a spot of gardening or whatever activity is enjoyable to the person will boost resilience to stressors.
Physical health is paramount to resisting the pressures of a stressful life. Eating healthily, avoiding alcohol or other addictive substances, sleeping well and exercising regularly are all equally important.
Learning to induce the relaxation response through deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi or other relaxation techniques is a simple but effective way of protecting oneself against the body's natural reaction to stressors. These are all things that can be learnt from books, the internet or specialised classes, whatever suits the person's lifestyle the most.
Stress can affect every one of us and we all have to face it at some point in our lives. We can use it to our advantage during its initial stages and utilise the boost it gives us to keep control of any situation we find ourselves in. We can also see that despite the potential dangers of chronic stress it is possible to manage the symptoms and eliminate, adjust or accept the cause through the use of aromatherapy and stress management techniques.
Helping to Manage Chronic Pain with Aromatherapy Massage
Chronic pain is an invisible malady that severely impairs the quality of life of billions of people around the world. It is a condition that affects both the physical and mental health of an individual and it is difficult to treat. Chronic pain is a complex disease with multiple sources and manifestations, and rarely does one treatment alone provide an individual complete relief. Invasive procedures are often recommended prematurely and have the potential of causing unnecessary harm to the individual.
Address Wellbeing
Research suggests that treatment plans should begin with non-invasive therapies that address the wellbeing of the whole individual as opposed to constantly seeking to relieve a specific cause of pain.
Massage is Safe and Natural
Massage provides a safe and natural addition to any chronic pain management treatment plan. At InstantCalmer in Hull, we use a variety of techniques to provide pain and stress relief. There are many types of massage, allowing a tailored treatment plan to be created. Each approach provides a relaxing therapy focused on treating the entire body system in addition to targeting pain in a specific area. Massage therapy uses the soft tissue of the entire body to provide a holistic approach to treatment for chronic pain.
Helps You to Cope with Pain
In addition to the physical benefit, massage promotes an individual's ability to cope with pain. Endorphins released during massages raises the pain threshold of the patient while promoting a feeling of wellbeing. Massage also relieves stress and builds self-awareness enhancing the overall health of individuals. Regular massage therapy familiarises individuals with their body so they can better understand their chronic pain. Research has also shown that the human touch provided during traditional massage techniques has a therapeutic benefit further enhancing the holistic approach necessary for adequate chronic pain management.
Four Easy Ways to Improve Your Wellbeing
Everyone wants to be as healthy – mentally as well as physically – as they possibly can. Given the stress filled, busy world we live in that is not always easy though. Some people think that a magic answer lies with something that their doctor can prescribe. A pill to reduce stress or a medicine to cheer them up. There really isn't though.
The term 'overall well-being' relates to both the mental and the physical. There are some rather simple ways you can quickly and easily improve your overall well-being. They do not involve a trip to the doctor or spending a lot of money. Here are five great ways to Improve Your Overall Well-being:
Take a Fitness Class – The biggest reason why most people do not stick to their commitment to use a gym membership (even if they have paid for it) is that it gets boring. Stair-climbers and elliptical machines might provide a physical good workout but they are so mind numbingly repetitive!
A better alternative is to find a fitness class that interests you that offers benefits for both your body and your mind. Yoga is a great choice as is pilates. In both disciplines relaxation plays a big part and the variation offered means that a class is rarely boring.
Take Your Breaks – People do tend to think that if they work through their lunch break their boss will think that they are the best thing since sliced bread and that they will be much more productive. The reality is though that the boss probably won't notice (because they went to lunch) and you will be so frazzled because you have been doing the same thing for hours that you will make more mistakes than you normally would and everything will take longer to get done.
Reconnect with People – These days we think we are being social because we check our email/Facebook every day and make the occasional comment or send a quick message because it is so much quicker than actually picking up the phone.
Real social relationships are crucial to your overall well-being though and these online interactions are beginning to take all of that away. However busy you are take the time to stop inviting your friends to play a game with you on Facebook and actually invite them over to your house – or out for dinner – instead. If they live far away actually pick up a phone and call them, talking is so much nicer sometimes than typing!
Get a Mid Week Massage – Massage offers all kinds of physical and mental health benefits and more and more people are actually beginning to realise that. They still however limit their visit to a massage therapist to special occasions or when they are on holiday because they think massage is a luxury or something to be reserved for a special treat. But it really isn't.
Booking a massage in the middle of a busy week really can work wonders and because the benefits last for days you will be able to go into the weekend feeling good instead of feeling like you want to crawl into bed until Monday comes around again.
Benefits of Massage with Essential Oils
Ancient Chinese medical texts, dating back 4,000 years, refer to the therapeutic benefits of massage. The Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks and Romans all considered massage a powerful means of promoting well-being. At InstantCalmer in Hull, we regard massage as one of the most effective treatments for relaxation and the reduction of modern day stress. Our professional massages benefit the body's muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems. We understand that everyone is unique, and we do everything we can to adapt our treatments to suit the individual. Aromatherapy massage is the perfect way to achieve this because the treatment combines all of the beneficial qualities of massage with the power of nature, in the form of specially blended essential oils.
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils can be extracted from bark, flowers, roots, seeds, fruit, nuts or other parts of plants by a variety of processes, such as distillation and pressing. They are highly concentrated and are believed to contain the plants' 'life force'. The aromas belonging to these oils can then be released with the use of oil burners, incense, candles or other methods. Because these oils are so highly concentrated, they will normally have to be expertly blended with other carrier oils or lotions before they can be safely applied directly to the skin.
How Do Essential Oils Work?
The main principle behind aromatherapy is exactly as its name suggests, aromatic essential oils are used to deliver therapeutic benefits, through the sense of smell. The nasal passage is crammed with extremely sensitive receptor cells. The cells detect the essential oils, and then send signals to the brain for interpretation. Our sense of smell is very closely related to our emotional being, and specific smells have the ability to evoke a range of emotions, such as happiness, melancholy and even sexual desire. During aromatherapy, molecules of essential oils enter the nostrils and can cause direct physical responses, including a change in pulse rate, blood pressure and breathing. Continued therapy sessions over a period of time have been proven to help improve memory, digestion and boost the immune system.
When you receive an aromatherapy massage at InstantCalmer, you get the added benefit of essential oils that have been expertly blended into a form where they can safely penetrate the skin, enter the bloodstream and promote whole body healing.
Your Own Personal Blend
The addition of essential oils to a massage has the added benefit of allowing the therapist and the client to tailor the treatment exactly to suit individual requirements. Healing, cleansing or relaxing blends can be created exactly as needed to restore harmony to the body. Each particular essential oil has a widely accepted mood property associated with it. For example, Bergamot and Cedar Wood are well known anxiety busters, and Jasmine is universally praised as being an effective libido enhancer as well as helpful in easing depression. Furthermore, there are well-known blends or 'recipes' which combine the power of several different essential oils to create a mood blend that will obliterate fatigue, feelings of isolation or low self esteem, for instance.
Because of the powerful influence of aromas over moods, aromatherapy is also used to treat emotionally related conditions, such as insomnia, headaches, digestive disorders, PMS, and back pain.
Consult with us at InstantCalmer, and we will create a unique aromatherapy blend to use during your massage, which specifically targets personal requirements and leaves you feeling balanced, energized, or tranquil, according to your wishes. An aromatherapy massage voucher is also the perfect personalised gift that any receiver is certain to love since the treatment is tailor made just for them.
Aromatherapy Winter Colds and Sniffles Buster – essential oil blend
The immune system stimulating Lemon and the antibacterial / antiviral action of all the ingredients make this blend an aromatherapy force to be reckoned with! Beat winter at its own game by booking an indulgent Hot Stone Massage at InstantCalmer in Hull.
- 50mls Sweet Almond Oil (or any good carrier oil)
- 8 drops Palma Rosa (Cymbopagon martini)
- 8 drops Lemon (Citrus limon)
- 5 drops Thyme (Thymus vugaris)
- 5 drops Elemi (Canarium luzonicum)
- 4 drops Myrtle (Myrtus communis)
Perfect to help you through winter colds and sniffles.
- Aromatherapy Massage Blend
- Chest rub before bed
- Bath oil
Omit the carrier oil to make a blend for an oil burner or diffuser. Use around 10 drops at a time.
Preparation method
- Measure out the carrier oil in a glass measuring jug
- Add the essential oils one drop at a time
- Stir with glass stirring rod
- Pour into dark glass bottle with secure lid
- Label with ingredients, date blended and any safety data required
Aromatherapy: Note, Intensity and Therapeutic actions of ingredients (relevant to blend)
- Palma Rosa – Top (5) Antiseptic, Antiviral, Bactericide, Febrifuge, Hydrating, Tonic.
- Lemon – Top (5) Antimicrobial, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Bactericide, Diaphoretic, Febrifuge, Tonic, Stimulates white corpuscles.
- Thyme – Top (7) Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Bactericide, Bechic, Expectorant, Tonic.
- Elemi – Base (7) Analgesic, Antiseptic, Antiviral, Expectorant, Tonic.
- Myrtle – Mid (6) Anticatarrhal, Antiseptic, Bactericide, Expectorant.
Safety Data – Palma Rosa – none. Lemon – possible sensitizer, phototoxic. Thyme – Possible sensitizer especially to mucous membranes, avoid when pregnant, have diabetes, kidney or liver problems, high blood pressure. If you're not sure please consult an Aromatherapist.
Aromatherapy Stressless Christmas – essental oil blend
This beautiful blend will banish those feelings of stress we all get in the lead up to Christmas. The ancient oils of frankincense and myrrh not only give the blend that extra special festive feel they both have the power to calm and relax even the most frazzled of us. Don't forget, if you're lucky enough to live in Hull or the East Riding you can purchase InstantCalmer massage vouchers, the perfect stocking filler!
- 10mls Pure Coconut oil
- 1 drop Myrrh
- 2 drops Frankincense
- 2 drops Lemongrass
- 1 drop May Chang
- Dab onto pulse points when the stress levels rise!
Increase the amounts by five times, use sweet almond or grape seed oil instead of coconut oil and use as a massage or bath oil.
Preparation method
- Measure out the carrier oil in a glass measuring jug
- Add the essential oils one drop at a time
- Stir with glass stirring rod
- Pour into dark glass rollette bottle with a roller top and secure lid
- Label with ingredients, date blended and any safety data required
Aromatherapy: Note, Intensity and (relevant to blend) Therapeutic actions of ingredients
- Myrrh – Base (7) Sedative. Instils tranquillity and a sense of peace.
- Frankincense – Mid to Base (7) Sedative, perfect for alleviating stress and anxiety.
- Lemongrass – Top (6) Antidepressant, Nervine, sedative. Uplifting and promotes clarity.
- May Chang – Top (6) Antidepressant, stimulant
Safety Data – Myrrh – Avoid if pregnant. Frankincense – None. Lemongrass – a possible irritant and sensitizer for some. May Chang – possibly sensitizing in those with very sensitive skin.
Aromatherapy Female Friend – oil blend
This calming female friendly Aromatherapy Essential oil blend offers strength and support when hormones get the better of us. At InstantCalmer we create our own unique essential oil blends for use in a variety of relaxing massage treatments.
- 50mls Sweet Almond Oil (or any good carrier oil)
- 3 drops Geranium (Perlagonium graveolens)
- 2 drops Rose (Rosa demascena)
- 3 drops Palma Rosa (Cymbopagon martini)
- 2 drops Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
- 3 drops Neroli (Citrus aurantium)
- 3 drops Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
- 5 drops Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
- As a Massage Blend
- As a Body Oil
- As a Bath Oil
Omit the carrier oil to make a blend for an oil burner or diffuser. Use around 10 drops at a time.
Preparation method – OIL BLENDS
- Measure out the carrier oil in a glass measuring jug
- Add the essential oils one drop at a time
- Stir with glass stirring rod
- Pour into dark glass bottle with secure lid
- Label with ingredients, date blended and any safety data required
Aromatherapy: Note and (relevant to blend) Therapeutic actions of ingredients
- Geranium – Mid. Antidepressant, Diuretic, Adrenal Cortex Stimulant,Tonic, Vulnerary
- Rose – Mid to Base. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Emmenagogue, Sedative, Tonic for the Uterus
- Palma Rosa – Top. Stimulant, Tonic
- Clary Sage – Top to Mid. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Emmenagogue, Nervine, Sedative, Tonic, Uterine.
- Neroli – Mid. Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Stimulant, Tonic.
- Cypress – Mid to Base. Antispasmodic, Diuretic, Tonic
- Bergamot – Top. Analgesic, Antidepressant, Antispasmodic, Diuretic, Tonic, Sedative, Stimulant, Vulnerary.
Safety Data – Geranium – Avoid in first trimester of pregnancy, can be sensitising in hypersensitive individuals. Rose – Avoid in pregnancy. Palma Rosa – No issues. Clary Sage – Avoid in pregnancy, don't use when drinking alcohol. Neroli – No issues. Cypress – Avoid in first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Bergamot – Phototoxic (unless Bergaptene Free or FCF) and could be slight irritant.
Aromatherapy & Pregnancy Massage.
Pregnancy is an exciting time for women, but it can often bring some unwanted side effects. Backaches, headaches, swelling and muscular tension are all common complaints during pregnancy. Mums to beoften have concerns over the potential dangers of traditional pain treatments and medication.
The e-book Bump To Birth is brilliant resource to holistic therapies during pregnancy. You can check it out using this link.
Aromatherapy pregnancy massage is a natural, healthy and holistic alternative to pain relief and can be a beneficial addition to any pregnancy treatment plan.
Essential oils can be used during aromatherapy pre-natal massage. Essential oils are derived from plants and deliver natural benefits through topical application as well as inhalation. Pregnancy massage promotes circulation, providing relief from oedema (swelling / water retention). Aromatherapy massage relaxes muscles and reduces cramping and stiffness. Massage and aromatherapy create a sense of well being by lowering anxiety and helping to combat depression whilst promoting restful sleep.
At InstantCalmer we practice pregnancy massage techniques that are totally safe and that provide genuine relief from the uncomfortable symptoms that occur in pregnancy. As a member of the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) you can be assured that we're well trained and that you're in safe hands. An aromatherapy pregnancy massage uses a customised blend of safe essential oils that concentrate on the specific needs of a pregnant woman. Pillows and padding are used to provide a comfortable and safe experience for women in any trimester of their pregnancy. Aromatherapy pregnancy massage during the final months of pregnancy can help to promote relaxation and leave mums feeling refreshed and revived.
Most essential oils provide safe and therapeutic benefits to women during their pregnancy. However certain essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy so it is important that any treatment is provided by a qualified aromatherapy massage therapist. Women that are experiencing sensitivity to strong scents, particularly during their first trimester, may prefer to enjoy a relaxing pregnancy massage without essential oils.
A Brief History of Aromatherapy.
Aromatherapy is the therpeutic use of plant oils (Essential Oils) for healing, well-being and preventative care. Aromatherapy is practiced worldwide and helps people to manage a whole range of symptoms and health issues. Although the term is new the History of Aromatherapy is along one. Aromatherapy has been used since ancient Egyptian times – one of the oldest preserved medical documents dates back to 1552BC and details many recognisable Aromatherapy formulas, along side the names, characteristics and therapeutic uses of many plants.
The ancient Greeks expanded Egyptian Aromatherapy practices and Hippocrates recorded the benefits of treating the body as a whole when he used Aromatherapy Massage and baths in treatments in 460BC.
By 900AD Aromatherapy was in regular use in Britain.
As time passed the medical establishment began to frown upon the use of herbs and plants by aromatherapists and a division was created between the two disciplines, the use of essential oils for medicinal purposes declined and they began to be mainly used in perfumes.
At the beginning of the 20th Century there was a renewed interest in the therapeutic actions of essential oils. Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, a chemist who manufactured perfume, became interested after finding his badly burned hand healed very quickly after he plunged it into lavender oil.
His main interest lay in the chemical components of the essential oils, although as a perfumer he understood the 'feel good factor' that aromas could have, and he then went on to investigate the therapeutic actions of other essential oils.
More recently there have been scientific investigations in order to validate the use of essential oils to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. Studies to show the calming effect of lavender and sandalwood, a study at Manhattan's Sloan-Kettering Hospital show the cases of anxiety and stress related to claustrophobia in MRI scanning machines dropped by 63% when patients were exposed to the scent of vanilla and many more.
Research continues to find links between the principles of aromatherapy and scientific fact. As many users of Aromatherapy can testify, Aromatherapy works; regular and proper use of essential oils relieves their symptoms and helps to improve their lives.
Westfield Health reimbursement for treatments
Treatment rebates for Westfield Health clients in Hull.
Great news! Our massage therapy centre in Hull is registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). That means that some Westfield Health customers may be entitled to reimbursements for treatments.
"Westfield Health recognises CNHC registration for reimbursement on a limited number of corporate paid plans provided by specific employers forAromatherapy, Hypnotherapy, Nutritional Therapy, Reflexology and also for those CNHC registered Massage Therapists who practise Indian Head Massage and Sports Massage. Westfield Health will also reimburse for Sports Massage provided by CNHC registered Sports Therapists who are qualified in Sports Massage. Clients who wish to seek reimbursement through Westfield Health will need to check that their employer 's plan covers the treatments concerned."
So in the first instance you should speak to your employer, or call Westfield – you are normally required to pay for your own treatment, passing on our invoice to Westfield in order to receive a reimbursement.
HealthShield reimbursement for treatments
Treatment rebates for HealthShield clients in Hull.
Did you know that our Hull Massage clinic is registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). If you are a HealthShield customer you may be entitled to a refund for our massage treatments.
"HealthShield will reimburse for the following CNHC registered disciplines on specified corporate paid plans: the Alexander Technique, Aromatherapy, Bowen Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Naturopathy, Nutritional Therapy, Reflexology and Shiatsu. Health Shield will also reimburse for those CNHC registered Massage Therapists who use Chair Massage, Indian Head Massage, Remedial Massage or Sports Massage. HealthShield will also reimburse for Sports Massage provided by CNHC registered Sports Therapists who are qualified in Sports Massage. HealthShield policies do not cover any other CNHC registered disciplines at the current time. Clients who wish to seek reimbursement through Health Shield will need to check that their employer 's plan covers the treatments concerned. "
So in the first instance you should speak to your employer, you are normally required to pay for your own treatment, passing on our invoice to Healthshield in order to receive a reimbursement.
Massage in Hull
4 Simple Tips to Manage Stress at Work
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How Aromatherapy Massage can Help To Treat Depression
Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing techniques used to naturally improve mood and sleep patterns. Regular massage therapy sessions play an important role in the management of stress, anxiety and depression. Stress manifests as both emotional and physical...read more
How to Make Aromatherapy Candles
Aromatherapy candles are a great way to make your house smell wonderful. They can also benefit your health and well-being in many ways, depending on the scent you choose. Unfortunately the aromatherapy candles found in most stores are not very budget-friendly. Luckily...read more
Aromatherapy: Massage with a difference.
Introducing Aromatherapy Massage Frantic schedules in a fast pace of life may leave you with pent-up stress and enormous strain consequently affecting your health. If you are yearning for a solution to alleviate this fatigue, then massaging with therapeutic oils will...read more
Recognising the Early Symptoms of Stress
Unless you're a hardcore spiritual seeker, it's highly unlikely that you can break away from the normal storyline of your life and retreat to a Himalayan meditation oasis. Therefore, you're probably frequently overwhelmed by the deadlines, demands and frustrations of...read more
Massage Can Help with Chronic Pain Relief
Nagging pain can really disturb your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Chronic Pain is pain which lasts longer than the expected healing time for an injury or illness. Chronic pain can get worse with time and can impact every aspect of a sufferers life....read more


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Our PhD program in Applied Linguistics and Technology was developed to meet the needs of our rapidly changing profession in which computer technology has become integral to our work. We offer courses that allow students to learn new technology skills and use those skills to address important issues in the field. Students in our program can take courses on technology in language learning, language assessment, and analysis of language using computational and corpus linguistic methods.
The curriculum was designed to provide the foundational knowledge in applied linguistics and technology as well as advanced courses where you will learn research methods for transforming your ideas into research and practice that can contribute to the new era of English language learning and assessment. It consists of the following types of coursework: Pre-/Co-requisites (required prior to taking other classes); Technology & Language; Research Methods; Seminars; Electives; and Dissertation Research. The program consists of 72 credits.
Students are welcome to transfer in relevant courses from their MA degree. Depending on the number of courses transferred in, students typically finish their coursework in 2.5 to 3 years and completion of the degree is expected in no more than five years.
Prerequisites: These courses are typically considered as background for the degree, but students who have not studied any one of these subjects or want to update their knowledge can take the needed courses in our program.
- A course in descriptive English Grammar (ENGL/LING 220 or test-out)
- An introductory course in linguistics or applied linguistics (ENGL/LING 219 or 511 or equivalent)
- ENGL/LING 512 Second Language Acquisition
- ENGL/LING 516 Methods of Formal Linguistic Analysis (Introduces programming for linguistics)
- ENGL/LING 519 Second Language Assessment
Technology & Language (12 credits): These courses develop skills in the use of technologies for language teaching, assessment and analysis.
- ENGL/LING 510 Introduction to Computers in Applied Linguistics
- ENGL/LING 530 Technology and Oral Language
- ENGL/LING 520 Computational Analysis of English
- ENGL/LING 537 Corpus Approaches to Grammatical Analysis
Research Methods (12 credits): These courses teach students methods to draw from in designing their own applied linguistics and technology research.
- ENGL/LING 527 Discourse Analysis
- ENGL/LING 623 Research Methods in Applied Linguistics
- Quantitative research methods
- Qualitative research methods
Seminars in Applied Linguistics (12 Credits): ENGL/LING 630 Seminars in Technology and Applied Linguistics on topics in technology and language learning, assessment and analysis must be taken 4 times to fulfill this requirement. Specific topics vary, but seminars typically include the following:
- Development of Language Assessments
- Validation of Language Assessments
- Quantitative Methods for Applied Linguistics
- Psychometric Methods for Language Testing
- Advanced Pronunciation Seminar
- Automated Writing Evaluation
- Evaluation of Technology for Language Learning
- Corpus Linguistics Research Methods
- Corpus Linguistics for Teaching and Assessment
Electives (18 credits): A coherent group of courses that students have selected and that have been approved by the faculty includes the following courses offered in three areas: (1) Linguistic Analysis; (2) Language Pedagogy; and (3) Language Assessment.
- ENGL 500 Proseminar: Teaching Multimodal Composition (required if teaching ISUCom Foundation Courses)
- ENGL/LING 514 Sociolinguistics
- ENGL/LING 515 Statistical Natural Language Processing
- ENGL/LING 524 Literacy: Issues and Methods for Nonnative Speakers of English
- ENGL/LING 525 Methods in Teaching Listening and Speaking Skills to Nonnative Speakers of English
- ENGL/LING 526 Computer-Assisted Language Learning
- ENGL/LING 528 English for Specific Purposes
- ENGL/LING 626 Computer-Assisted Language Testing
- ENGL/LING 630 Seminars in Technology and Applied Linguistics (must be beyond the 4 courses/ 12 credits required in the Seminars in Applied Linguistics category above)
- ENGL/LING 688 Practicum in Technology and Applied Linguistics
Electives may also be selected from the applied linguistics seminars and from other disciplines including anthropology, computer science, education, English, psychology, rhetoric, statistics, and world languages.
Students are encouraged to consult with their program adviser about ideas for designing your individual program. You may transfer in elective credits only if they provide a strong complement to the other courses in your program of study.
Dissertation (18 credits)
The dissertation reports original, empirical research undertaken by the student in consultation with the major professor and program of study committee. Research topics are chosen by students with advice from faculty during the course of studies. Topics are developed and refined by learning in courses.
Assessment of Progress toward Degree
Assessment is at three points: a portfolio assessment, written and oral preliminary examinations, and a final oral examination.
In early April of each year, all PhD students submit an Annual Review form to report on their progress, plans/goals, and any concerns. This form as well as other important forms such as the Language Requirement Form and the Degree Planning Sheet can be found on the English Department Form's page.
Foreign Language Requirement
Given the international and intercultural nature of applied linguistics, holders of doctorates in the field should have personal experience learning a second language and be able to conduct some research or teaching activities in a language other than English. Students may, however, vary with respect to the focus they want to give to oral or written skills. All students are required to submit a Language Requirement Form indicating how this requirement is to be met from the following options to receive acknowledgement on your official academic record that this requirement has been met.
Students who are native speakers of English can satisfy the language requirement by
- passing an oral examination in a foreign language, conducted under the supervision of the student's POS committee, that ensures the student demonstrates language ability at the Advanced Level of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages proficiency scale or
- passing a reading/translation test, translating published work in applied linguistics from a foreign language into English or
- completing three years (or the equivalent) of college-level study in a single foreign language with grades of B or higher
Nonnative speakers of English from countries where English is not the medium of instruction do not need to satisfy one of the above criteria. The TOEFL/ IELTS/ PTE score submitted for admission and the ability to do doctoral-level work in English is considered evidence of a student's ability to use a second language for their scholarly activities.
However, to satisfy Iowa State University Graduate College language requirements, all nonnative speakers of English must pass the English Placement Test (EPT) as a graduate student or qualify for one of the EPT exemptions; if students fail the EPT, they will be required to take English classes.
Information for Applicants
PhD applicants must have completed a Master's degree prior to their first semester in the program. Minimum scores for PhD applicants who are nonnative speakers of English: 111 TOEFL iBT/ 640 TOEFL PBT/ 8.0 IELTS/ 79 PTE.
Financial Aid
The majority of our doctoral students are funded through teaching assistantships, which provide a full tuition waiver, stipend with the opportunity to teach courses, and health insurance benefits. Research assistantships fund some students as well. These become available when faculty are awarded research grants, and they are typically assigned on the basis of students' expertise in contributing to a particular project after they have had at least one year of courses. Applications for financial aid are part of the graduate admission application process.
Application Process
The only way to be considered for admission to the doctoral program is to complete an application according to the instructions provided. Before you apply for admission to the program read the detailed information on the PhD in Applied Linguistics and Technology (ALT) section of the English Department Graduate Program of Study Manual.
Application Deadline: January 5 (Fall entry only)

subset: commoncrawl


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Hair Crush Of The Week!
Hair Crush Of The Week: Ukrainian Model, Ekaterina!
Look at those gorgeous locks and that smile…sweet and stunning. Our hairstylist and makeup artist, Carlos Otero , did her hair and makeup for this shoot. She is an accomplished model with a bright future ahead of her.
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Let me tell you something: they said Edinburgh is beautiful. Completely wrong: Edinburgh is soooo beautiful! It was my first impression when I first landed and literally walking around the city, from the airport, across the city, and reached my "home", Richmond Place. It is a quiet place, surrounded by brownish building, with cute garden and apartment, and a church, an old one.
Edinburgh is not too small, or too big: just as they said. It is so appealing that I dropped my jaw the first time I did my shopping. I was only walking around the city centre, but I never expected to meet such beautiful streets, and medieval buildings are almost everywhere. Surprisingly, Edinburgh has everything people would love to see: valley, parks, castles, and sea!
So I did my tour and found out that each corner of this city is quite magical. Though it's surrounded by old buildings, it's so cute and beautiful at the same time. The other thing that I envy the most: each tourism sites are within reach. You can pop in for shopping, and be surprised by the old castle appearing before your eyes, or seeing the sea, within your sight while you were in the centre of the city. Even its shopping mall has medieval touch!
The thing I still find it hard to deal with is the weather. It's cold, no, it's freezing. It's windy and wet, but sometimes sunny. I came here during the summer, and it was 8 to 5 Celsius every day. I wore thick jackets, and dress by layers. I hid my hands inside my pockets a whole day. Another thing which is quite frustrating; Edinburgh is expensive! I lived in a standard building for students and need to pay 500pounds each month which is equal to 10 million rupiah! The prices of everything are quite depressing; I need to pay 5pounds for a set of meal (without drink) which is equal to one hundred thousand rupiah. So I decided to cook my own meals. I cooked everything with my very own basic skill: and it's painful. I don't think I can eat something decent during these times. But it's okay.
It is a small price, compared to where I'm living now; and for what I am going to get in the future. Here I am: trying to adjust my self, cure my heart (this is so bad: homesick level 90%), and begin to study. Now that I get a scholarship from Indonesia fund, I'm responsible for being a good student, and do something BIG and USEFUL for my country in the next 12 months.
(I know that His plans are always better than my dreams)


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Frequently Asked Questions
Select one of the above questions to find out it's answer.
There are springs inside the hinges and pivots that close the door to 90 degrees. If the door is open more than about 20 degrees it stays open. The door swings both ways unless a vinyl strike is used.
Once payment has been received, we will create and email you an order form for you to fill out your opening measurements and conditions. You send the completed order form back to us. You may email or fax it to us. We then take all information from your order form and create your detail sheets. These sheets include all information regarding your enclosure, detailed drawings, glass templates, sizes, clearances, part numbers, hardware finish, etc.. We send detail sheets to you for your review. Once you confirm the details and provide us with your approval, we will continue to the final stage of fabrication. Once fabrication is complete and your item is shipped, you will receive tracking information to track your shipment.
The majority of Euro Frameless shower doors are made from 3/8" glass and it is the thickness that we recommend you use. They will generally all look the same if you have them side by side. However, ¼" has strict limitations and can only be used for a small amount of designs.
Standard and all in-stock merchandise orders will generally ship within 24 to 36 hours(Custom merchandise will ship in approximately 5 to 30 working days. (Does not include transit time) Please keep in mind that the manufacturer does not guarantee a specific manufacturing time.
We are required to submit all designs to our hardware suppliers' CAD program. This insures that every enclosure is manufactured to the highest standards and meets or exceeds every safety requirement.
We ship to anywhere in the USA including Alaska, and Hawaii. We ship everything via prepaid freight, so that our customers may take advantage of our volume shipping discounts. Shipping costs are dependent on weight and destination. For shipping outside the USA we can ship to an export agent of your choice, who will then take care of the details of shipping the products to the final destination.
We do not sell the shower walls or inserts.
We provide our installation services to several locations throughout North & South Carolina. If you are located outside the areas that we service, there are a number of contractors throughout the country that we would be glad to refer you to. Please keep in mind that a majority of our customers save the money & install the enclosures themselves.
One of the reasons we are able to offer such incredibly low prices is by minimizing our overhead expense of showrooms, and relying on our website. We do have a showroom at our facility in Matthews, NC. Our enclosures and other products have been featured in several worldwide publications.
No. The holes and notches all have to be drilled and cut before the glass is tempered. Our manufacturer uses the latest CNC diamond sawing, drilling and edging machines.
Yes, but it is best if you back up the fiberglass with some wood support. If that is not possible, then you can use a header across the top and pivots, instead of hinges. This keeps the weight of the door off the walls, or you can use a slider enclosure.
No. Once the glass has been tempered, it cannot be altered in any way.
All of our frameless enclosures are custom made to order. Therefore, there are not any standard sizes. There are only average sizes that are commonly chosen. We can fabricate the order to any size you need, as long as the manufacturer limitations have not been exceeded. There are standard sizes for framed and semi-frameless enclosures. You are able to save money by choosing one of the standard sizes.
You may obtain an estimate via the following methods: Browse our website, which will include estimates of our most common designs. (You will need to contact us to obtain a shipping estimate, if needed) Call us at 704-821-6051 to speak with one of our helpful specialists. Email us at email@example.com. Please provide a description of what you are looking for (a sketch or picture would be ideal), as well as your hardware finish preference, glass thickness preference, contact information and zip code. Fax us at 704.821.6054. Please provide a description of what you are looking for (a sketch or picture would be ideal), as well as your hardware finish preference, glass thickness preference, contact information and zip code.


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I took a break from what has been a fairly solid week of of Guild Wars 2 playing, mixed in with some Tekkit Minecraft (lights! Mining turtles! omg so fun) playing and logged into WoW after the patch on Tuesday. I was on long enough for the graphical update, which I loved, and to decide that yes, I was going to server/faction change Thanion over to Alliance and Wyrmrest Accord. It was done with a pang, I have to admit, he's one of my favorite RP characters, but he wasn't getting played, and my RP partner for him doesn't play WoW any longer.
So now I have Thaeda, who will be undergoing a new transmog transformation soon, more then likely, since a Draenei female can wear a lot more armor and look GOOD in it then a Blood Elf male can.
Yesterday, however, I spent more time on WoW, and took to looking into all the changes that had happened and re-doing talent trees and glyphs and such.
Out of the changes to all my characters, I'm about 95% happy. I love the changes to warriors and rage that they've made, and that you don't have to be in certain stances to use certain abilities. One of the things that has always hindered me in eking out that last bit of DPS is how bad I am at stance dancing. I evidently will need to reforge and regem like Woah, however, as strength is no longer a fury warrior's first loved stat, but I'm not sure I can be bothered right before I go and replace all that shiny purple gear with greens in a month. With no more raiding going on, I am rather enjoying not having to frantically squeeze numbers out of my gear.
I love, love, love the shapeshift form changes for druids and of course the Glyph of the Stag was the very first one I grabbed. (Although I'd advise people to be cautious and shop around, the glyph prices are still fluctuating widely. I saw that one alone go from everything from 75 gold to 1000 yesterday. The mage changes have me a bit discombobulated, and I miss my flame orb already, but I'm planning on getting some time in some dungeons in the next few weeks to see how it works out.
I found this lovely set of 'quick start' guides to the class changes over on MMO Melting Pot, a site I've always found very helpful in providing succinct info at a glance. Enough to get me started in the right direction and not feeling quite so overwhelmed, anyways.
And then, finally, there was this:


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International Baccalaureate - CAS
Colonel By Secondary School International Baccalaureate Program 2018-2019
Standing for Creativity, Action, and Service, CAS is one of the core components of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. It is built around the idea that we learn as much outside of the classroom as we do inside, and that experiences in a variety of different areas helps enrich our lives and our learning. CAS is undertaken by IB Diploma Students in the 11th and 12th grade. Students are required to complete 50 hours in each of Creativity, Action, and Service while meeting various learning outcomes.
Please read the What Counts As CAS? guide to find out more about the CAS program and which activities are suitable for CAS.
CAS is now entirely online. Please login via your ManageBac ID to add or edit entries.


text: It's been 18 months since Tesla started building autopilot hardware into cars. I'm thinking about what to get next - I need another Tesla. My dilemma is a new Model S vs an October 2014 with miles on it - either one will be kept only a couple years until Gen 2 of autopilot hardware is released. But I'm speculating that 2016 cars may have improved sensor hardware in some way we don't know about which makes the data they feed to the brain more reliable (and thus perhaps less likely to make the car make a mistake on the road) - this is pure speculation on my part - no evidence to back it up. What do you think? Is there much of a chance that the sonar or radar hardware is more accurate/reliable in any way since the October 2014 cars? Maybe Tesla has learned techniques for better placement of the sensors in the 18 months they've been building? Any chance the camera has a more sensitive sensor which can feed higher quality data to the brain in difficult conditions such as glare or poorly marked lanes?


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Logoflex 3D
An advanced and exclusive technology.
A news in showing the brand name on your products.
This new technology featuring unbeatable quality identification provides 3D lettering, for easy adherence to any kind of product, adaptable to flat or rounded surfaces.
Wide choice of finishes, including chrome, gold, silver, brass, copper, wood look-alike.
Plus a vast variety of appearances, such as shiny, mat, brushed, antique finish, and any colour.


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The action thriller Bastille Day, starring Idris Elba, has been pulled from French cinemas following the Nice truck attack.
The film, in which Elba plays a CIA agent aiming to thwart a terrorist attack in Paris on the national holiday, was released in France on Wednesday.
The next day Mohamed Lahouaiej-Bouhlel ploughed a 19-tonne truck into a crowd of people who had been watching a fireworks display in Nice, killing 84 people and injuring more than 200 more.
Distributors StudioCanal had already decided to take down posters and adverts for the film, which had been marketed with the tagline "Cette Année, Le Feu d'Artifice C'est Eux" ("This year, they are the fireworks"). It was being shown in 230 cinemas and StudioCanal had originally left it to them to decide whether to show it.
But, on Saturday, Antoine Banet-Rivet, a spokesman for the distributors, said the film had been withdrawn from cinemas out of respect for the victims and their families.
The film's original planned release in the UK and Germany was postponed earlier this year, from February and March respectively, in light of the November attacks in Paris, which killed 130 people. It was eventually released in the UK in April and in Germany last month.
In March, Sky postponed the launch of the second series of its drama series The Tunnel after the attacks on Brussels airport and on the city's metro system, which killed 32 people. The opening episode of the second series, which sees the protagonists investigating a terror network, was pushed back by a week. In series one the terrorists caused a catastrophic crash of an airliner into the Channel.


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ETD promotes discussion on low-cost ICT initiatives for educational systems in developing countries. Read More
Become a part of the conversation. Contribute your ideas, strategies and expertise to our discussions. Join Now
Tags: Amazon, Amazon Kindle, David Risher, e-Books, e-reader, eBooks, Ghana, Kenya, kindle, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phones, Penguin, Random House, Reading, Roald Dahl, tablet devices, Textbooks, worldreader Posted in Reading Skills in Primary Schools | 4 Comments »
Tags: Android, assessment software, Carmen Strigel, continuous assessment, Cost-Benefit Analysis, data collection, Early Grade Reading Assessment, EGRA, Ethiopia, ipad, iProSurveyor, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile ICT Device, Mobile Phones, RTI International, Tablet Posted in Reading Skills in Primary Schools | 5 Comments »
Tags: Amazon, Community Radio, Curriculum, EDC, ICT4E, Interactive, Interactive Radio Instruction, IRI, Literacy Bridge, Mary Myers, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phones, Revi Sterling, WiFi Phones Posted in Open Discussion | Comments Off on Making Interactive Radio Instruction Truly Interactive with Community Radio and Mobile Phones
Tags: Facebook Zero, Gustav Praekelt, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phone, Mobile Phones, MXit, Please Call ME, Project Masiluleke, SMS, Social platforms, South Africa, Steve Vosloo, USSD, Voice, YoungAfricaLive, Yoza Posted in Affordable Technology | Comments Off on Mobile opportunity for learning in Africa
Tags: Apple, Asus, Asus EeePC, Classmare PC, Educational Ecosystem, Form Factor, Intel, ipad, Low Power Computers, Low-cost ICT, mEducation, mLearning, OLCP, One Laptop Per Child, Vital Wave Consulting Posted in Affordable Technology | 8 Comments »
Tags: Bas Hoefman, Corporate Social Responsibility, ICT Policy, Legal Framework, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Coverage, Mobile Phones, SMS, Text Messaing, Text to Change Posted in Affordable Technology | 12 Comments »
Tags: Africa, Agnes Kukulska-Hulme, Base of the Pyramid, Funders, ICT, John Traxler, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phones, Pilots, Policy Makers, South Africa Posted in Affordable Technology | 4 Comments »
Tags: Broadband, EMIS, GATHER, Ghana, GIS, ITU, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phone, Mobile Phones, Mobiles4Dev, PDA, Shem Bodo, SMS, Text Message, Uganda Posted in Education Management Information Systems | 11 Comments »
Tags: App Market, Battery Life, Consumption Device, Educational Device, eTextbooks, GarageBand, Instant On, ipad, iPad Usage, mEducation, mLearning, Mobile Phones, Sam Glicksman Posted in Tablet Computers in Education | 13 Comments »
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On the off chance that your apartments in high point are in a condition of decay, you ought to tell your landowner or letting agent at the earliest opportunity.
Read who is responsible for certain jobs and how to raise your protestation in the event that you have to.
Slight Repair Jobs
Regarding the matter of repairs, you'll generally be in charge of minor repair employments, unless they're brought on via deterioration or damp (which would be your landowner's obligation), or are because of typical wear and tear.
Write to your landowner
Complaining verbally to your proprietor or letting specialists that your apartment rentals in North Carolina are in deterioration ought to be sufficient.
Anyhow you may need to advise the landowner in writing. Verify that you have kept duplicates of all correspondence. On the off chance that you have to claim remuneration, it could be essential to show that your proprietor was mindful of the decay, so it's generally a decent thought to get the objection in writing. Once your proprietor or operator is mindful that the property is in decay, then remedial move ought to be made as fast as could be expected under the circumstances.
Usually a tenure consensus will give an authority for the proprietor to re-enter the premises to assess its condition and complete maintenance, given the landowner provides you at least 24 hours prior notice in writing.
Ecological Health Department
In the event that the dilapidation is making you sick then you could ask the committee's ecological health division to investigate the abode.
If the dilapidation is about some serious concern, the committee will serve your landowner with a legitimate notice to do the repairs.
Rebelliousness may prompt criminal indictment.
To make your case strong enough, ensure you have the following:
- Photos of the issues and any damage
- Receipts for anything you've needed to supplant (keep the damaged things as they are evidence)
- Medicinal reports, if the deterioration has harmed your well being
- A report from the board's natural health office
However, these health issues due to environment are very rare in NC apartments for rent. The environment there is pleasant and so health problems seldom occur.
Repair and Improvement
There's a noteworthy distinction between repair and improvement in the apartments for rent in high point nc. Under your proprietor's statutory repairing commitments, he is obligated to put your property into repair in specific circumstances, yet he is under no commitment to carry out improvements.
It's occasionally hard to say precisely where to draw the line. An undeniable illustration is windows. In the event that your property has rotting window frames then this is something the proprietor ought to put right. However, he's under no commitment to introduce twofold coating. That would obviously be seen as a change to the property. In the case where your landowner declines to complete repairs that are his responsibility, then you have different alternatives which are open to you.


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Once upon a time, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD to its pals) was focused on Cold War threats such as bombers or ICBMs that might make an unannounced and very unwelcome appearance in our skies. But perhaps to prove that a military agency with such a grim purpose could have a sense of fun, NORAD would take a break from its round-the-clock death watch to offer Santa-loving children everywhere a taste of Christmas excitement.
And here we are on Christmas Eve, and NORAD's got the news: Santa's on his way. (Currently, NORAD tracking shows he's visiting Finland. Next stop: Estonia.)
You can find out more at the agency's NORAD Tracks Santa website (also available in Chinese, German, Spanish, French, Italian, and Japanese).
Santa and all his California fans might be relieved to learn that our state bureaucracy has put out the official welcome mat for tonight's planned visit. To be more specific, the California Department of Food and Agriculture has waived the usual animal-inspection requirements for the nine reindeer widely believed to be conveying the legendary Right Jolly Old Elf on his rounds this evening. Here's the announcement:
California State Veterinarian Dr. Annette Whiteford has granted a 24-hour permit clearing all brand inspection and health requirements for nine reindeer slated to visit California on the evening of December 24 and in the early morning hours of December 25.
The permit application was filed by a rotund, jolly man with a red face and a white beard. The signature on the paperwork reads "K. Kringle."
Brand inspections and health requirements—which help veterinarians prevent the spread of animal disease—mandate that all animals entering California be individually identified. The nine reindeer named on the permit are: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen and Rudolph.
The permit was granted under two conditions: the nine reindeer may not co-mingle with other reindeer in the state of California, and the visiting reindeer may not be used for breeding purposes while in the state.
"We are pleased and honored to issue the permit to Mr. Kringle," said CDFA Secretary A.G. Kawamura. "As always, we wish him safe travels as he and his reindeer make deliveries to the good children of California."


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Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs), Guest Houses, Inns and Pubs in ULVERSTON, CUMBRIA
Planning a cycling holiday? In this section of our web site you will find friendly places to stay where cyclists are made welcome - and there's safe storage for your bike!
* Please read our Terms & Conditions and Disclaimer
Showing 1 - 2 of 2 Cyclist-friendly places in or near Ulverston, Cumbria, England
Any places with Bargain Breaks or Special Offers are shown first followed by others in hourly changing random order.
Virginia House
Ulverston, Cumbria, England [Google Map]
Restaurant with rooms
- Amenities: Non-smoking (throughout), Wedding services, Restaurant, Lock-up facility for bicycles, Ironing facilities, Bar, Internet access (wireless) in public areas, Beauty/Spa facilities, Baggage store,
- Parking: Long-term parking, Off-site parking, Free parking,
- Accessibility: Accessibility information is shown below
Quick facts...
8 rooms, with prices from £50
Virginia House is accessed from street level by 6 shallow steps with hand railings on both sides. Our restaurant and gents toilets are on the ground floor. Our ladies toilets and one guest bedroom are on the first floor accessed by a flight of shallow rise stairs with a landing midway handrails on both sides. Teh remaining 7 letting rooms are on the second floor accessed by a flight of standard rise stairs with hand rails on both sides and a landing midway. Virginia House is a period Georgian building of Grade II listed status and does not have a lift or disabled toilet facilities.
We are:
- Adults Only friendly
- Business Traveller Friendly
- Cyclist friendly
- Gay friendly
- Solo Traveller friendly
- Vegetarian & Diet-friendly
- Walker friendly
Low Hall Farm
Ulverston, Cumbria, England [Google Map]
- Amenities: Lounge, Ironing facilities, Internet access (wireless) in public areas,
- Parking: Free parking; On-site parking;
- Accessibility: Accessibility information is shown below
Quick facts...
3 rooms, with prices from £65
No Accessibility Information is available at this time.
We are:
- Adults Only friendly
- Biker Friendly
- Business Traveller Friendly
- Cyclist friendly
- Solo Traveller friendly
- Walker friendly