Gentle Wellness

THREE YEARS OLD AND FLYING

2012-01-27T16:00:00.000-08:00

ANDY was three when I first saw him in late November. He was so hyperactive that he'd touched every toy I had and bounced off the wall so much
I thought he might break a window on the glassed-in porch where I do my therapy."No", he said when he could verbalize. Otherwise, he just went right on with whatever he had in mind.
His presenting symptoms were many:poor balance and coordination, hyperactvity, limited eye-contact, allergies to food,problems knowing where his body is in space (He ran into walls and banged things a lot ), poor sequencing, no concept of potty training (wore diaper), auditory processing problems,dislike of new situations, objected to being touched.He was indeed flying.

The chiropractor/nutritionist, Dr. Richard Herbold felt that the med.s given mom to prevent premature labor were the cause.I thought it was going to be a long road him to have better focus

much less better balance and proprioception.

He has made quantums leaps in 2 months. He now plays quietly with Lego's and keeps trying different solutionswhere before he would be frustrated and move on to something else.He now wears"big boy" underpants, and wants to jump from furniture.He has careful, good hand control, balances and alternates his feet going up stairs, is more aware of others even to the point of being kind to that formerly ignored baby brother .

He is now flying forward into his life on a more normal trajectory. Mom and Dad are thrilled and no longer say "I just don't know what to do with him". There is more to work on but what fabulous progress and coming into a normal, self-directed life.

An Interesting Story-Evelyn

2011-11-30T18:46:00.000-08:00

She took a 3 hour car ride to come to reflex therapy. She was a little carsick when she entered my office. She blinked and stared up at me with big brown eyes.

Evelyn was having difficulties in many parts of her life but particularly in school. She felt school was too hard, had much difficulty with reading (comprehension, skipping lines, mystified by new words). She had a lot of anxiety.

Although she only came for reflex integration therapy 3 times, Evelyn made significant gains in her ability to enjoy life and function well. Her balance improved to the point where she snow skiied alone with good balance, no longer became car sick and stopped blinking all the time.Her anxiety was greatly lessened. Her parents were thrilled.

Emma got through the first reflex we work with, the Moro, and opened up the pathways which had blocked her ability to balance, fixate her eyes and endure motion in a moving vehicle.

I could have worked with her for several more months and we would have been able to open the pathways to good experiences in school with reading , writing and spelling. We often see changes,such as Evelyn's, which we weren't seeking but which are beneficial ,nonetheless.It was a good start to a better and more functional life for a lovely little girl.

2011-09-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Jimmy-Wonderful Gains Quickly Achieved

2011-09-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

He came to my office with his mom in mid-March, a sweet 6 year-old with huge blue eyes. He was easy to talk to and very attentive to directions.
After testing his for the 5 reflexes we currently work with, it looked as though it would be a long road we would be travelling. Jimmy was struggling in first grade , especially in reading. I could see that, although he was very attentive to me, it took every ounce of will and energy he had to keep focused on me.
Jimmy was 5 weeks premature, born with the cord around his neck, had torticollis, and turned blue right after birth (insufficient oxygen). He was intubated for 2 days and in the NICU for a total of 10 days.
Some of the many symptoms he exhibited were: motion sickness, poor balance, low muscle tone, body segments not working together, difficulties with copying from the board,letter reversal as well as the aforementioned reading. He had anxiety which extended into phobias such as fear of loud noises and fear of insects. He was often angry with mom and let her know in no uncertain terms.
The first break-through came after 2 weeks of daily exercises: he was able to use the school bathroom, something he could not do during the rest of the year. Somehow , this little guy was able avoid the need to relieve himself until he returned home, after 6-8 hours.
By May 9th, the first reflex, the Moro , was integrated. Jimmy laughed when I did the test; he had looked very alarmed during the test previously. Results were some of his anxieties were lessened, he read aloud to the class and got high grades in spelling.
Now, in early September, Jimmy has moved onto the fourth reflex because he has made further improvements in his functioning. He has learned to swim, has ridden on a roller coaster, is only occasionally upset by bugs and has played some informal tennis in his driveway with his sister.
It is so exciting to see this adorable guy liberated from the struggles caused by retained reflexes. Hooray for "The Pyramid of Potential" , giving a normal life to these kids and their families.

HERE'S THE DEAL: DON'T TOUCH ME--Howie Mandel Problem and Solution

2011-08-08T10:39:00.000-07:00

I just read Howie Mandel's book, Don't Touch Me, in which the renowned stand-up comedian discusses his struggles with "germophobia", ADHD and OCD. He catalogs his numerous fears and neuroses and shares entertaining, harrowing as well as sad stories from a lifetime of dealing with theses conditions. They affected his school years; he never finished high school because it was so difficult for him to focus in class and to concentrate on the work. It affected his relationships as he needed undivided attention and an outlet for his kinetic energy.
Fortunately for him, he found his passion in performing on-stage, in TV series, in movies and lately as host of "Deal or No Deal"
He has travelled extensively, performed at the White House, meeting the Clintons and also he was honored with a star on the walk at Graumann's Chinese Theater.
Many kids and with these problems aren't so lucky and suffer from childhood into an unsettled aduldhood. Drugs are often prescribed to relieve symptoms. However, there are drug-free ways to help a person to integrate and move beyond these disorders. One of these ways is "The Pyramid of Potential" program, a multi-faceted approach which takes into account nutrition, vision, reflexes,sensorimotor problems, hearing , speech and cognitive training (catch-up for phases a child has missed while in a dysfuncional state)
Our goal is not perfection but success in school, in relationships, in life in general.
Mandel very bravely delineated his struggles for us, not sparing himself. He is to be thanked for this and admired for his courage and his ability make a marriage,a life and a career from such unlikely raw material.

Advanced Craniosacral Therapy Training for Pediatrics

2011-03-14T18:08:00.000-07:00

I recently took a training for pediatric craniosacral therapy in Palm Beach Gardens , Florida. It was taught by Rebecca Flowers, OTR.,CST-D, an absolute wizard in CST for kids. We. the class of 21 people ,were there for 4 days, learning many interesting and advanced techniques designed for children but applicable to adults in many cases. It is always so exciting to go to those classes as one meets such interesting people as well as learning new and more subtle ways to get the work done.

CST with children is so wonderful because we get the dysfunction resolved early in life and enable the person "who's a person, no matter how small", to paraphrase Dr. Seuss, to have a healthy life, free from a myriad of problems. These problems can such things as torticollis, misshapen heads, colic (for little babies while for older souls it can become IBS) and learning disabilities to name a few.

My room-mate for the 4 days was Jackie Hand, a Laban/Bartenieff-New York City faculty member who will be coming to Saratoga this summer to teach a short class on fascia in this somatic discipline, pending approval. It will be a wonderfully enriching way to learn about fascia, one of the principal elements in CST, from a movement perspective. Personal history, beliefs and feelings appear in movement;....(one can) address holding and release of tissues..." by use of this technique. Quote is from the Laban/Bartenieff website.

WHAT DO THESE SYMPTOMS TELL US?

2010-12-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

SYMPTOMS:

Motion sickness

Poor balance

Poor coordination

Physically timid

Poor stamina

Hyperactivity followed by fatigue

Visual problems: with fixation, excessive blinking

Doesn't maintain eye contact

Light or auditory hypersensitivity

Allergies to food, environment , drugs

Strong reaction to sugary foods-hyperactive, poor concentration

Anxiety- test, separation

Emotionally sensitive, mood swings, dislike of change

Math difficulties-(Dyscalculia)

If a child has 3 or more of these symptoms, he/she has retained certain brain functions , left over from babyhood, which keep him/her from being successful in school.

With the Pyramid of Potential program, these difficulties can be remediated through a simple exercise repeated daily over a short period of time. The POP is a whole program addressing the whole child leading the way to success and achievement of goals.

Craniosacral Therapy

2010-12-06T13:17:00.000-08:00

WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY?

It is a very gentle , manual therapy using hand pressure of 5 grams (the weight of a nickel) which can assist your body to heal from myriad states of pain, dysfunction and imbalance without using drugs, surgery or appliances.
I am an advanced CST practitioner and have practiced CST for more than 9 years. I am also a NY state registered Occupational Therapist. I find that the manual therapies are a very helpful alternative to many medical practices. I also practice a form of acupressure developed by Aminah Raheem, PhD. which is based in part on Jin Shin Do and Zero Balancing. I often include EFT in my work with my clients.
People come to me who haven't found relief from traditional medical techniques or who prefer a more holistic approach. CST is very nurturing and private. Sessions are given one on one in a quiet room. The patient removes only their shoes and reclines on a massage table for slightly more than an hour.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY IS EFFECTIVE WITH:
* headaches (migraines, tension)
* neck and back pain
* post-accident pain (auto or falls)
* multiple sclerosis
* parkinson's disease
* stress
* some forms of depression ( post-partum, endogenous )
* learning disabilities
* anxiety
* sinus problems
* bell's palsy and tic douloureux
* Irritible bowel syndrome
****** and much more*******

HEALING WITH LIGHT WORKSHOP OCTOBER 2ND

2010-06-04T06:54:00.000-07:00

On October 2nd, we are pleased to present Deborah Lord, MA, Toltec Nagual who will lead a workshop from 10-4 in Patricia Blackburn's Greenfield Center studio. This unusually gifted healer and mystic teaches and heals nationally. Now we have a chance to learn from her in her first appearance in the Saratoga area.

Deborah brings East and West, earth and heaven impulses together teaching Toltec Dream Mastery and powerful Vedic Wisdom (derived from Yoga Sutras) to assist attendees to (further) open channels of expansive consciousness, gathering power for creating and expanding their dream .

Using a variety of techniques: sacred sound, meditations, chanting, therapeutic movement and expressive arts, we will align with our creative truth and authentic self .

This deeper spiritual growth work serves those who have worked deeply with a profound commitment to being a clear mirror, self-accepting, expanding their inner freedom.....Students will receive tools to heal wounds, recover personal energy and expand awareness.

Early -bird discount price of $75 by September 18th. Full price of $100 therafter. Drop-ins $125. Write check to Patricia Blackburn, PO Box 368, Greenfield Center, NY 12833 or use PayPal on this site or the Gentle-Wellness Website.

MEDITATION GROUP EXCEPTION

2010-04-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

During the week of May 3rd, we will attend the Budddhist meditation training at The Franklin Community Center in Saratoga Springs. This gathering is from 7-8:30 on Thursday, May 6th. There is a $10 fee. We members of the Wednesday night Greenfield Center meditation group will meet at The Franklin Community Center,10 Franklin Street, S.S. Join us for a new experience in meditation. The Wednesday night gathering will be cancelled on the 5th, resuming May 12th.

RELIEVE STRESS NATURALLY WITHOUT DRUGS

2010-04-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

There are many ways stress can affect you. From that feeling of unbearable tension, tightness and anxiety to migraine headaches and jaw pain. Even flu and bronchitis can be manifestations of stress. Stress undermines the ability of the immune system to keep you in good health.

Craniosacral therapy, a gentle mobilization of soft tissue, uses hand pressure no greater than the weight of a nickel(5 grams) to release tensions and allow the body to heal itself. Trained practitioners can read the body's signals and perceive underlying dysfunction.

WHAT PROBLEMS DOES CST TREAT?

Migraine and tension headaches

Chronic and Acute Neck and Back Pain;Whiplash

Post-Accident Pain from Auto or Falls

Digestive and Bowel Problems

Learning Disabilities

And Many More.........

50% DISCOUNT FOR FIRST TREATMENT THROUGH 5/31

OFFICE/STUDIO CHANGE OF VENUE

2010-04-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

Patricia is now offering meditation, craniosacral therapy and yoga training by appointment at her home location of 137 South Greenfield Road, Greenfield Center, just 10 minutes away from Saratoga Springs.

Meditation gatherings are on Wednesday nights from 7-8:30 PM. Sessions are offered in groups of 4. A payment of $20 for the 4 is required. The first gathering was on April 7 and the succeeding 3 will be in the remaining weeks of April. Further plans to be decided.

Craniosacral Therapy is offered on week-days by appointment. There are some evening appointments available.

Yoga lessons, private or small group, are available upon request. Fees to be determined. Regularly scheduled yoga classes will be offered in September 2010.

ACADEMIC DIFFICULTIES

2010-04-09T19:21:00.000-07:00

Dyslexia, math, writing,vision ,processing (auditory and otherwise) and cognitive skills can be remediated using a combination of techniques. Working with Kathy Johnson, Ms. Ed., and using the therapies she has combined to create "The Pyramid of Potential", Patricia adds her experience and training as an Occupational Therapist and also as a Craniosacral Therapy practitioner.

Through a series of (mostly) simple exercises, Patricia can help the child with academic difficulties resolve many aspects of brain dysfunction which are keeping the child from being successful in school. Craniosacral Therapy offers relief from stress and helps the child's body to be more balanced, moving away from flight, fight or freeze as well as offering another effective approach to brain dysfunction.

Patricia works with children in her home office on weekdays. The office is located at 137 South Greenfield Road, Greenfield Center, 12833.Phone: 488-2203

Call for an appointment today! Your child can have a satisfying school experience.

A Meditation for Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

Having a special day that reminds us to love and be loved is so important. However, by being love, we give expression to our divine nature at all times, acting and speaking in loving ways.

Divine love is its own reward for the more of this love we express, the more love we have to give. The more open we are to being loved, the more love we receive.

Being love in expression, we are patient and kind, considerate and thoughful. We communicate how much we care for others and how thankful we are that they are a part of our lives- not just on a special day but every day.

As we rejoice in letting our loving divine nature come forward more completely, we participate in a continual celebration of love.

Adapted from 2009 Daily Word

And from the Christian bible: Though I speak with the tongue of men and angels and have not love, I am as a sounding cymbal or clanging brass.....

Editor's note: This is always important , no matter your belief system, especially in such a difficult economic era with rampant unpredictability and insecurity.

Liberated from Polio's Effects

2010-02-07T20:51:00.000-08:00

" A fifty-two year old woman suffering the effects of polio came to see me. She had to walk on her tiptoes on one foot to compensate for the shorter leg.She had endured numerous surgeries throughout her life to try to lengthen the leg-and she had the scars on her calf and Achilles to prove it.

At the time I began the CranioSacral therapy session, I knew only that she had had polio, but I did not know the specifics."....As I worked,the tissue began to soften,particular bones in the skull moved into a better position and when working on her pelvis, that bony area began to move, as did her spine, like a rope that was untwisting...I worked on her right leg for about 20 minutes.

I felt restrictions in the tissue releasing and her leg lengthening. "I had goose bumps fom my head to my toes and continued to allow her body to reorganize...She was in a state of deep alpha and felt nothing , she said later."

Adapted from an Article featuring a story from the new Upledger book "Working Wonders"

To read the entire story , go to www.Upledger.com or purchase the book ($17.50) on that site.

Editor's note:CST does truly work wonders. I have had similar experiences and have worked with a post-polio person and was able to give her a great deal of relief from pain.

MORE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE NOT USUALLY BROUGHT TO OUR AWARENESS

2010-01-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

Other studies show that exercise...

*Lowers the risk of stroke by 27%

*Reduces the incidence of diabetes by approximately 50%

*Reduces the incidence of high-blood pressure by approximately 40%

*Can reduce mortality and the risk of recurrent breast cancer by approximately 50%

*Can lower the risk of colon cancer by over 60%

*Can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease ;by approximately 40%

*Can decrease depression as effectively as Prozac or behavior therapy.

Source:American College of Sports Medicine

Editor's Note: Yoga is a great exercise and known for many years to help with depression and high-blood pressure. Craniosacral Therapy enhances the immune system and can help immeasurably with certain types of depression and in healing from stroke.

THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF EXERCISE

2010-01-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

"Physical activity has long been known to bestow such benefits as helping to maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress, not to mention tightening those abs. Now a growing body of research is showing that regular exercise-as simple as a brisk 30-45 minute walk five times a week- can boost the body's immune system, increasing the circulation of natural killer cells that fight off viruses and bacteria. And exercise has been shown to improve the body's response to the influenza vaccine, making it more effective at keeping the virus at bay.

Medical experts say inactivity poses as great a health risk as smoking, contributing to heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, depression, arthritis and osteoporosis....Even lean men and women who are inactive are at higher risk of death and disease....

One study of 3,000 women being treated for breast cancer, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, showed that for those patients with hormone-responsive tumors, walking the equivalent of three to five hours per week at an average pace reduced the risk of dying from the disease by 50% compared with more sedentary women...."

All Street Journal, 1/5/10

Editor's note: How wonderful that we can help ourselves with such a simple technique which does nothing to alter our chemistry and raises our mood and conditions our muscles etc while healing/preventing disease.

JANUARY SPECIAL PRICE

2010-01-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

JANUARY SPECIAL: FOR NEWCOMERS TO SHANTHI STUDIO

$6 per class for each of 2 separate offerings (for example 1 on Friday at 12:30,

1 on Saturday at 8:45)

At this very moment, there are 4 classes to choose from, both Hatha and Full Figure classes.

Yoga classes taught in the French language, a gentle class and a specialty series will be in place very soon. Thursday intermediate hatha class at 5:30 PM is available if interest is shown. Please call 488-2203 or 884-9149 if interested

SHANTHI STUDIO SCHEDULE

2010-01-02T10:13:00.000-08:00

Come to

SHANTHI STUDIO

TWO FRANKLIN SQUARE,SARATOGA SPRINGS

See map on www.gentle-wellness.com

YOGA SCHEDULE

This is the most up to date schedule!!!

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FULL FIGURE YOGA WEDNESDAY 5 PM CLASS IS NO LONGER OFFERED. COME TO ONE OF OUR MANY CLASSES INCLUDING A MONDAY FFY

MONDAY 5:30PM Full Figure Yoga (Gentle) Patricia

WEDNESDAY 10AM Gentle Yoga Patricia

6:30 PM Yoga a la Francaise- 5 week series** pay in advance/starts 1/27

THURSDAY 5PM Hatha Yoga -Arthur*** 6 class series/drop-ins welcome

7PM Meditation

SATURDAY 9:30 AM Hatha Yoga ( Some experience required ) Staff

(Arthur or Patricia) To be scheduled at a later time 1/30

PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW OFFERINGS : YOGA A LA FRANCAISE and GENTLE YOGA. join us for these unique and beneficial approaches to your favorite form of exercise.

A meditation group will begin at Shanthi Studio February 4th at 7 PM. The format will be a work in progress with a projected agenda including some instruction, meditation time and discussion. No charge; donations welcomed.

An evening's presentation on alternative, drug-free techniques will be given in February. Some of the conditions we will address are as follows: dealing with migraines. bolstering the immune system, calming anxiety and dealing with stress, reducing fever, healing burns and reducing inflammation as well as some other common health concerns. Please call 488-2203 or e-mail pblakk1@hotmail.com if interested. Also see www.gentle-wellness.com for more info.

PRICES

** 5 week series $60

*** 6 week series $72 /Drop-ins welcome

Drop-in fee $15

SPECIAL thru 2/15 $6 for each of 2 classes with Patricia -can be in the same class.

PYRAMID OF POTENTIAL

2009-12-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

Kathy Johnson, M.S. Ed., a local educator for more than 20 years, has created a program to rid children of the dyscalcula, dysgraphia and dyslexia through specific exercises without Ritalin or other drugs. Her success rate is high. She has been sought out by a very reputable continuing education organization to bring this natural, holistic, drug-free method to children who are labelled and drugged in order to "help" them to "succeed" in the school system.

Her program is called The Pyramid of Potential and the rudiments of the system can be grasped in a day of lecture/demo by interested adults, educators, OT's, PT's and other professionals working in this field. The full systems can be easily mastered over time.

Editor's Note: What a wonderful answer to the difficulties many children face when presented with the demands of school which is their work. This proven approach is not expensive, does not alter chemistry and poses no risk of addiction for children . It also relieves them of damage of labelling. There are many alternative answers to the use of drugs; CST is one as well!!

HISTORIC HEALTH VOTE LOOMS

2009-12-21T18:23:00.000-08:00

We are at a turning point in terms of healthcare: its management by the government, its expansion to include many new groups of insurees and its funding by many new taxes. Although the 2100 page long-standing bill was bypassed by a shorter one, still many of the particulars of the bill,which is about to be passed, are unknown to the general public.

There are many good ways to maintain and redevelop good health than the present system which relies on drugs, surgery and appliances. And many of these ways are quite inexpensive and do not involve long waits for an appointment or at the doctors' office.

MOVEMENT-BASED THERAPIES: These help musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, and lower back pain. They work by strengthening muscles, supporting joints, improving alignment and releasing endorphins. An example of this is YOGA which benefits all the 7 bodily systems, increases bone density, can lower blood pressure, helps to restore balance and develops strength, endurance and flexibility.

MIND-BODY MEDICINE : This can help all types of chronic pain. By releasing all attention on thoughts for a time, MEDITATION can calm the body and retrain one's mental and emotional focus away from such things as panic and fear replacing them with positives. Meditation also helps you to allow certain thoughts or sensations to be observed but to pass through the mind. Focusing on breath or a word (mantra) are 2 ways to create a meditative state. N.B. In a previous article, it was noted that a 20 minute meditation can significantly increase stem cells in the blood thus leading to better physical health. This method is free!!

ENERGY HEALING : This can help pain that lingers after an injury has healed, as well as pain complicated by trauma, anxiety , or depression. In CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY training, it goes without saying that the energy and restrictions of injuries that occur when you are in a negative frame of mind ( fear, worry, sadness, anger) , remain in the body and can cause pain and dysfunction. By working with the body's energies as well as the fascia and the cranial bone, the emotion and the pain are released and you are freed of pain and can move on. ACUPRESSURE balances and stimulates the flow of energy along the meridians, freeing you from pain and dysfunction also.

LIFESTYLE CHANGES : Chronic pain can be reduced or eliminated by developing healthy habits at home and at work. Creating an optimal sleep environment to get deep, restorative rest by establishing a regular sleep schedule and minimizing light and noise. Having a positive work environment where one has control over one's activities as well as nurturing healthy relationships and getting regular exercise to reduce stress and build strength. This method can be totally free also!!!

Research shows these therapies can ease discomfort. These are a good way for you to guide your own treatment to a greater or lesser extent depending on what you choose or what is most appropriate for you. AND they are all readily available here in Saratoga Springs,NY at SHANTHI STUDIO , 2 Franklin Square. Tel. 488-2203 To research further, visit the website of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

WHY ARE RESTORATIVE YOGA POSES SO HELPFUL THIS TIME OF YEAR

2009-12-13T18:56:00.000-08:00

As Tiger Woods could attest, stress can really build up during the Christmas holidays. So much to do, family gatherings ,high expectations at "the most wonderful time of the year", many memories both good and bad are triggered by the familiar songs, colors, ceremonies, smells, and tastes.

"Restorative yoga poses are designed to give you the experience of being cradled and protected while providing the opportunity for deep relaxation and rejuvenation. When you're practicing them for the first time, it can be helpful to have a friend assist you in setting up the props"Or better yet, come to Shanthi Studio and request some restorative poses in your class.

"Warm up with a few rounds of Cat-Cow pose, or any other gentle poses that help you connect with your breath. Once you're propped and positioned, take the first few minutes in each pose to sense where you connect with the floor or the props. What part of your body rests most heavily on the support underneath you? Let this area be like an anchor rooting you to the earth. Slowly allow this sense of connection to spread to all the areas where you meet the

ground and the props.

When your body feels completely supported, let your attention turn toward your breath. Like and ocean wave, each breath will rise and fall on its own. Rest you mind on the tide of your breath.. Throughout each pose, let your attention move back and forth between the earthlike qualities of your body and the fluidlike qualities of your breath.

Stay in each pose for up to 15 minutes. Even a few minutes will make a difference. If you feel restless but want to stay in the pose, you can do small vinyasa movements with your hands to help yourself settle down: roll your open palms to the sky as you inhale;roll them back to the ground as you exhale."

Instructions for 2 poses: 1. Supported Child's Pose-Salamba Balasana. Put blocks under the 2 ends of a 3 blanket pile, if you do not have a bolster;adjust the blocks to allow the blankets to stretch between the blocks. Come into Child's Pose with torso on support. Slide arms into the gap under the support. Be sure elbows and arms are supported, releasing tension in upper back and neck. Place a blanket on sacrum to release tension in lower back. 5-10 nminutes.

2. Supported Supta Baddha Konasana- Variation of Supported Reclining Bound Angle Pose

Pile 2-3 blankets on each other . Put a block at end of blanket in case needed. Sit at end of piled blankets with back to blankets and sacrum touching them. Put soles of feet together. Lean back

onto blanket pile (or bolster), placing head on block or an extra blanket, if needed. Have arms extended wide to sides of body and supported on blocks. Wrap a blanket around feet to give a feeling of containment and place one across belly for warmth. This pose opens the whole front of the body, the area we instinctively protect and can shut down. It can begin to release some habitual physical/emotional tensions and opens the heart. 5-15 minutes.

Adapted from Yoga Journal article on Restorative Poses 12/2009

Pema Chodron's Thoughts on a Meaningful Life

2009-12-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

Pema Chodron, the American Buddhist nun, is very admired for her meditations and books on the Buddhist approach to life. Here are some excerpts:

As people who want to live a good, full, unrestricted, adventurous, real kind of life, there is concrete instruction we can follow: see what is. When you catch yourself grasping at beliefs or thoughts, just see what is. Without calling your belief right or wrong, acknowledge it. See it clearly without judgment and let it go. Come back to the present moment. From now until the moment of your death , you could do this.

****************************************************************************

Love. Buddha ( or Christ) nature. Courage. these are code words for things we don't know in our minds, but any of us could experience them. These are words that point to what life really is when we let things fall apart and let ourselves be nailed to the present moment.

****************************************************************************

In cultivating compassion we draw from the wholeness of our experience- our suffering, our empathy, as well as our cruelty and terror. It has to be that way. Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others.

At Shanthi Studio, Saratoga Springs,NY we will be considering the thoughts and meditations of Pema Chodron in our meditation gatherings starting in February 2010.

ON THE BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF MUSIC ON THE HUMAN BRAIN

2009-12-09T19:44:00.000-08:00

"Question: Does listening to music enhance the brains of 'normal, healthy' humans? I think it does. I am 65 and love to listen to music sitting at my desk, driving or riding my bike. Maybe just using one's mind makes one healthier. A week ago I returned to tutoring; I helped a 7th grade boy with his math..."

Answer: There's considerable evidence that listening to music-and making music- can help young children's brains, and the link between music and brain function seems to persist throughout adult life.

Because music involves many parts of the brain at the same time, it seems to aid the brain's plasticity, that is, its ability to form new ways of thinking and doing things. There's some evidence that listening to music can release endorphins, the brain's feel-good chemicals.

And even simpler forms of making music, such as participating in drumming circles, has been shown to help relieve stress, enhance mind-body coordination, focus attention and counteract loneliness. Some communities, and some companies, have sponsored drumming circles as a form of recreation and team-building....

A study from Ohio State University, published in the journal Heart and Lung in 2004 , found that when 33 men and women in a cardiac rehabilitation program listened to Vivaldi's 'The Four Seasons" while exercising on a treadmill, they not only reported feeling better but also performed much better on tests of verbal fluency than they had after working out without the music.

Editorial Comment: So that's why many of my yoga colleagues and I use music in our classes! I use music in my Craniosacral sessions as well; I had thought it was just for the calming aspect but apparently, there are far more benefits. This Q& A came in response to a November 17th article in the WSJ on how music therapy can help Alzheimer's patients with memory and more.

NEW MOON MEDITATION DECEMBER 16 AT SHANTHI STUDIO

2009-12-07T20:36:00.000-08:00

Join us for a very special meditation at 7 PM at Shanthi Studio. Meditating on and with the energies of the new moon effectuates manifestation of heart's desires and brings balance into your life ,especially at this wonderful, hectic, distracting time of year. We will be led in this gathering by the very capable Nini Gridley,MA and wellness leader. Tea and nibbles available after the meditation.

PATIENT,HEAL THYSELF

2009-12-06T20:33:00.000-08:00

"SUFFERING FROM HEADACHES AND DEPRESSION? DON'T LET YOUR DOCTOR PUT YOU ON PROZAC;INSTEAD, LOOK FOR UNDERLYING CAUSES.

Maybe there are problems at home or at work you can solve.

High cholesterol? Try the Mediterranean diet, with a glass of red wine a day. And if you really need to take statins, drink green tea to counteract the harmful side effects.

The best way to win the 'war on cancer'? eat healthy, exercise and develop an active social life.

An increasing number of physicians are realizing that this type if approach, geared to prevention and a conservative use of medications and technology- not only increases patients' vitality but saves lots of money. In the debate over health care reform, one group of doctors and researchers would like to change more than just how health care costs are covered. They believe - in the words of Dean Ornish, founder and chairman of the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in Sausalito,Ca.- that it is time to 'change not only who is covered but also what is covered" With that insight as a starting point, they hope to inspire President Obama to take a different approach to health care.

Ornish and other critics of the current system claim that a great deal of Western medicine is too often ineffective and sometimes even harmful. There is an overemphasis,they say, on treating symptoms and on the idea that caring for your health is primarily the responsibility of medical experts rather than of individuals themselves. 'We only treat the disease after it occurs", says the chairman of the American Association of Integrative Medicine.

Editorial comment: Well, well, well. It's so great to see a huge article on integrative medicine and more holistic approaches to health as well as empowerment of the patient . Craniosacral Therapy, which is my specialty, is an alternative and complimentary approach to healing and wellness, conveniently available here in Saratoga Springs.

ODE Magazine, November/December 2009

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: THE MYTH ABOUT EXERCISE," TIME MAGAZINE"

2009-12-04T19:55:00.000-08:00

"You've heard it for years: to lose weight, hit the gym. But,while physical activity is crucial for good health, it doesn't always melt away pounds- in fact, it can add them....More than 45 million Americans now belong to a health club,up from 23 million in 1993...And yet obesity figures have risen dramatically in the same period: a third of Americans are obese, and another third count as overweight by the Federal Government's definition...In short, it's what you eat, not how hard you try to work it off, that matters more in losing weight. You should exercise to improve your health, but be warned: fiery spurts of vigorous exercise could lead to weight gain." Time,8/09

Editorial Comment: Have these people ever observed the boot campers at the Saratoga County Y's at the end of their 6 weeks of torture or fun,depending upon your point of view? The campers,not only get significantly fit but definitely lose weight.

PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS

2009-11-30T18:44:00.000-08:00

After the new year, shanthi studio will have some new and unique offerings.

1)Yoga a la Francaise-Susannah Perillat will be teaching a weekly class in French .

Susannah taught yoga in Brussells for 14 years in the French language. Join us for an enriching yoga class: enjoy the physical and spiritual benefits of yoga and relax into a familiar language or enlarge your knowledge of French in a fun and painless manner.

2) Mommie and Me- Betsy Masters Cannon will bring her knowledge of yoga, dramatics and child development to a fun class for mother and child. Start date to be determined.

3) Alternative Toolbox for Your Health- Patricia Blackburn will teach a 1 evening workshop on methods to deal with stress, migraines, burns, fever and new(old) ways to bolster your immune system. She draws on her knowledge of Craniosacral Therapy, Yoga, Acupressure essential oils and more to give you unique,free (mostly) tools to help yourself and your family

4) Meditation Evenings: Twice a month, those interested will gather to meditate for about 2 hours. There will be some instruction . This is also a chance to get to know like-minded people.

SHANTHI STUDIO'S December 2009 Yoga Class Schedule

2009-11-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

SHANTHI STUDIO

2 Franklin Square, S.S.

Yoga Class Schedule: December 2009

Monday 5:30 pm Full Figure Yoga (gentle) Patricia
Wednesday 7:45 am Hatha Yoga (Call Susannah @944-1249)
5:30 pm Full Figure ( more adv.)
Thursday 9:30 am Hatha Patricia
5:30 pm Hatha Arthur
Saturday 8:45 am Hatha Staff

Last weekly class Saturday, 12/19/09. Classes resume Monday 1/4/10

SPECIAL EVENTS FOR DECEMBER

Wednesday 12/16/09 7-8:30 pm New Moon Meditation
Led by Nini Gridley- manifest your heart’s desire!

Sunday 12/20/09 3-5 pm Celtic Winter Solstice Ceremony
Based on an ancient earth-centered ritual, reviewing past 6 months

& planning for the next 6.

Monday 12/28/09 It's YOGATHON!

8:45-10 am Hatha
10:30-12noon Family yoga--Yes, bring your kids and enjoy yoga together
12:30-2pm Kundalini Yoga
2:15- 4pm* Sun Salutes

* or when the event ends

Tea and fruit provided. Come for one class or the entire Yogathon. You may drop in or out, at your convenience, during the Sun Salutation series. For all other classes, please come at the beginning and stay!!

All special events are supported by donation with a portion earmarked for yoga class scholarships for those unable to afford yoga. Call 488-2203 for more info.

Recent Research Suggests Meditation May Be Good for the Heart

2009-11-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

Findings from a recent study ..."were presented this week at an American Heart Association meeting in Orlando, Fla.They suggest that transcendental meditation may have real therapeutic value for high-risk people....with established coronary artery disease.
After following about 200 patients for an average of five years, researchers said, the high-risk patients who meditated cut their risk of heart attacks, strokes and deaths from all causes roughly in half compared with a group of similar patients who were given more conventional education about healthy diet and lifestyle.
Among the roughly 100 patients who meditated, there were 20 heart attacks,strokes and deaths; in the comparison group, there were 32. The meditators tended to remain disease-free longer and also reduced their systolic blood pressure by 5 millimeters of mercury, on average...
"Fortunately, it does not require any particular education and doesn't onflit with lifestyle, philosophy or beliefs; it's a straightforward technique for getting deep rest to the mind and body," he said, adding that he believes the technique "helps to rest the body's own self-repair and homeostatic mechanism' ".

Great news!!!! You can learn meditation in yoga classes at Shanthi Studio

From the New York Times: Can Meditation Curb Heart Attacks?

Phys Ed: Why Exercise Makes You Less Anxious

2009-11-22T20:09:00.000-08:00

Researchers at Princeton University recently made a remarkable discovery about the brains of rats that exercise. some of their neurons respond differently to stress than the neurons of slothful rats. Scientists have known for some time that exercise stimulates the creation of new brain cells (neurons) but not how, precisely, these neurons might be functionally different from other braincells.
In the experiment , preliminary results of which were presented last month at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience in Chicago, scientists allowed one group of rats to run. another set of rodents was not allowed to exercise. Then all of the rats swam in cold water, which they don't like to do. Afterward, the scientists examined the animals' brains.(The researchers could tell which neurons were activated because the cells expressed specific genes in response to the stress) But the youngest brain cells in the running rats, the cells that the scientists assumed were created by running , were less likely to express the genes. They generally remained" quiet. The cells born from running", the researchers concluded, appeared to have been "specifically buffered from exposure to a stressful experience". The rats had created, through running, a brain that seemed biochemically, molecularly, calm.
For years, both in popular imagination and in scientific circles, it has been a given that exercise enhances mood. But how...?Now... scientists are beginning to tease out how exercise remodels the brain, making it more resistant to stress....

From The New York Times//well.blogs,nytimes/2009/11/18 /phys-ed-why-exercise-makes-you-less-anxious/?em
Access this page for the complete article

One more convincing reason to put exercise in your plans for the week!!

Meditation Yields Large Increase in Stem Cell Creation

2009-11-16T07:37:00.000-08:00

"Speaking of Faith's host, Krista Tippett, interviewed leading stem cell researcher Dr. Doris Taylor about role of stem cells in healing the body....

Ms Tippett: Talk to me about the experiment you did with Matthieu Ricard, who is a famous French philosopher Buddhist who's worked with the Dalai Lama....

Dr. Taylor:...He and a number of his colleagues meditate,and as they meditate they measure differences in their brainwaves. ...And I basically said I wouold predict that those very same things, that when you meditate, and you have positive brainwave changes would also have effect on your stem cells. He very graciously, and this is an N of one, let us measure cells in his blood before and after meditation. And what we found was a huge increase in the number of positive stem cells in blood. Largest increase I've ever seen after 15 minutes of meditation....It's all about endogenous repair... nature's cues (with inflammation) say 'Send me cells'. Well, I would say that meditation is essentially doing that without the inflammation... to turn down the negative aspects of stress."!!!!!
See http:// stanford.wellsphere.com for complete transcript

BUDDHA BODY YOGA-Excerpt from Website

2009-11-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

This is a very interesting, encouraging website from the New York City -based yoga classes of Michael Hayes. It targets larger, heavier people,many of whom have felt excluded from yoga practice in the past. We have our own Full Figure Yoga here in Saratoga at Shanthi Studio, 2 Franklin Square. See schedule in this blog.

"Yoga increases flexibility, creates a feeling of well-being, changes movement and thought patterns, develps better proprioception (awareness of the body in space) but is... often beyond the ability of most physically large, overweight or rotund people, or people with injuries...the essence of Buddha Body Yoga:adjusting, modifying and adapting.....so that larger... or injured people are able to successfully practice. By using supportive yoga gear (bolsters, pillows, blocks, belts..."blankets and chairs" we allow people to gradually improve their alignment, tone, balance, and flexibility.

Large people tend to be out of touch with their bodies. They may hide from their size, or try to ignore or disconnect from a body that has grown heavy, stiff, uncomfortable and often less able. Buddha Body Yoga helps you connect to your body. We help people find where their body parts are:hips,pelvic bone, coccyx, ribs,shoulders, feet and, most important,lungs and breath. We help you become aware of how you hold your weight, and how this affects your posture and comfort."

See www.Buddhabodyoga.com to read complete article and to connect to an article in the New York Times called"Striking a Pose for Girth" (Unfortunate title but article has good info)

Guided Meditation----Living on the Edge

2009-11-09T19:26:00.000-08:00

"It's important to have a daily meditation practice, to have a developing ability to see thoughts clearly, and to reside in our bodily experience. But having deep experiences during meditation is not enough. If we want to know how we're doing in our practice, we have to examine our life. Unless we begin to connect it with the rest of our life, our practice-however strong,calm , or enjoyable-ultimately will not be satisfying.
The reason it won't be satisfying is that we're ignoring one of the three basic pillars of practice. The first pillar is a daily sitting practice, in which we slowly develop both the strength and the willingness to do what we've spent our whole lives avoiding: reside in the physical reality of the present moment." See YOGAJOURNAL.COM 10/2003 "Guided Meditation" to read this informative article

RARE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN FROM A LOCAL RESOURCE

2009-10-27T19:05:00.000-07:00

Learn from a local expert who teaches nationally and trains people in his field. Rob Bauer,LCSW and master teacher of RUBENFELD SYNERGY WORK, will be giving a one day lecture/demo of this very effective technique for enabling people to get past negative complexes and stuck places in their lives.
RUBENFELD SYNERGY WORK draws from craniosacral therapy, Qi Gong, T'ai Chi, the Alexander Technique,psychotherapy and other body-centered work.
The workshop will take place at SHANTHI STUDIO, 2 Franklin Square, in the heart of Saratoga Springs on Saturday 11/14 from 10-4 . The price is reasonable. The brief introduction will enrich the practice of all who attend.
Call 488-2203 (Patricia) or 854-7014( Rob) to reserve a spot.

From Paul Coelho,author of "The Alchemist"

2009-10-26T18:25:00.000-07:00

Nobody is courageous all the time. The unknown is a constant challenge, and being afraid is part of the journey. What to do? Talk to yourself. Talk alone. Talk to yourself even if others think you've gone crazy. As we talk, an inner force gives us the security to overcome the obstacles that need to be surmounted. We learn lessons from the defeats we're bound to suffer-and we prepare ourselves for the many victories that will be part of our life...........Excerpt of article in September/October 2009"Ode" magazine
For more on Coelho, Brazilian author,go to paulocoelhoblog.com

EDUCATION AND LIFE SPAN

2009-10-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

The spouses of educated women appear to live longer than the spouses of less-educated women, even when controllint for the spouse's own socioeconomic and education levels, according to a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health. The study compared the mortality risk for each partner of more than 75,000 Swedish couples. Men living with women who had not attended college or another form of post-secondary school were at least 10% more likely to die during the study's 12 year period than men living with women who had completed at least three years of post-secondary school. The researchers suggested that women having more influence over families' health habits could partly explain the findings.
CAVEAT Selection biases could have skewed the results. For instance, smarter women may avoid living with men who smoke or drink heavily. From The Wall Street Journal, 10/20/09
Editorial Comment: Interesting idea. It certainly goes along with the saying that "Knowledge is power". I'm not so sure more educated women can avoid men who drink heavily as that can become a problem over time and it's appearance isn't all that predictable.

New Class at Shanthi Studio

2009-10-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

A new Hatha Yoga class will begin soon at Shanthi Studio on Thursday nights at 5:30 and last for 1 1/2 hours or more. Arthur Smith, who presently co-teaches the Saturday 8:45 class will instruct. Arthur is highly trained in several styles of yoga:Ashtanga, Vinyasa and Therapeutic Yoga. He tailors his classes to those in attendance while still maintaining a good level of challenge. If interested in a Thursday 5:30 class, please call Art at 884-1949. You can also call Patricia at 488-2203 or e-mail her at Pblakk1@hotmail.com

ALTERNATIVE TOOL BOX FOR COMMON FAMILY HEALTH ISSUES

2009-10-12T18:33:00.000-07:00

Come to a 2 hour class Thursday 10/15 to learn self-empowering ways to deal with stress, anxiety, migraines, fever and rheumatoid arthritis. Learn also a simple way to heal certain skin conditions such as burns, puncture wounds and abrasions.
Bolster your immune system and give yourself a better chance against flu and colds this winter.

All this for only $15 . Class is from 7:30-9:30 at Shanthi Studio, 2 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs. Class will be taught by Patricia Blackburn, OTR/L .

Why use methods which have side-effects? Why not benefit the environment at the same time and treat yourself in ways that do not produce medical or other waste, further cluttering the planet?

Call 488-2203 to reserve your space.

Updated Yoga Schedule at Shanthi Studio

2009-10-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest schedule of yoga classes at SHANTHI STUDIO,2 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs, NY

Monday 5:30 PM Full Figure Yoga (Gentle) Patricia
Wed. 7:45AM Hatha Suzanne -call 944-1249 to reserve
5:30 PM FFY (more vigorous) Patricia
Thurs. 9:30 AM Hatha Patricia
5:30 PM Hatha Arthur
Friday 12:30PM Free Form Susan
Sat. 8:45AM Hatha Staff

Please note: Arthur Smith will be starting a hatha class on Thursdays at 5:30 PM. Arthur tailors his classes to the students in attendance, sometimes using more or less of his Ashtanga training and also using some of his recent therapeutic training.He is very knowledgeable,very gentle and he makes you sweat (usually) and that's a good thing.

YOGA HELPS WOMEN STAND TALLER

2009-10-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

....... (Older) "Women who spent nine weeks doing yoga gained an average of one centimeter in height because they stood more upright and crouched less. They also walked faster, used longer strides and could balance longer on one leg by the end of the program.

Jinsup Song, DPM,PhD. assistant professor, Temple University Philadelphia, Pa. as quoted in "Bottom Line Retirement" Periodical September 2009. See periodical for other interesting information on life after 50.

STRESS TEST

2009-10-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

This is such a stressful time in our nation. We are in a recession. Companies are downsizing. Life has speeded up etc. etc.
The following test can indicate to you the cumulative effect of the many aspects of your life which create your stress level . It can be useful in helping you realize whether you are at risk for a stress-related illness. This is a good,but partial, list. For a fuller list, go to www.cliving.org/lifestresstestscore.htm (Conscious Living Foundation).

100 _ Death of a spouse 73_ Divorce

36 _ Change to a different line of work 37_ Death of a close friend

65 _ Marital separation 53_ Personal injury or illness

63_ Death of a close family member 45_ Marital reconciliation
'
44_ Major change in health or family member 45_ Retirement

40_ Sexual difficulties 40_ Pregnancy

39_ Business readjustments 50_ Marriage

38_ Major change in finances 23_ Trouble with boss or superior

31_ Mortgage or loan for major purchase 29_ Son or daughter leaving home

20_ Change in work hours or responsibilities 16_ Change in sleeping habits

19_ Change in church/spiritual activities 28_ Outstanding personal achievement

24_ Revision/change of personal habits 20_ Change in school

ADD TOTAL SCORE

* 0-149 Low susceptibility to stress-related illness

* 150-299 Medium susceptibility to stress-related illness.

* 300 and over High susceptibloity to stress-related illness. Daily
practice of relaxation skills is very important for your wellness.
Take care of it now before serious illness erupts or a present condition
worsens.

PATRICIA'S BLOG EDITORIAL COMMENT: Yoga, meditation , craniosacral therapy and acupressure all address stress and stress-related illness. Take advantage of these offerings before you seek drugs or surgery or cannot sustain the stress in your life

8 WORDS THAT DON'T EXIST BUT SHOULD

2009-10-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

From The Daily Candy Lexicon :Words That Don't Exist....( Virgin Books) as featured in" Martha Stewart's Living" magazine,August 2008
This speaks for itself. After this selection, I think I'll have to get the book.

1) CRAPPUCINO n. A poorly made coffee beverage that costs upward of $4.

2) FEARRORS n. Dreaded dressing-room mirrors that exacerbate every flaw in your body.

3) HYBRIS n. Excessive pride based solely on one's hybrid car.

4 ) MAPQUESTIONABLE adj. word describing directions provided by MapQuest that somehow cause you to drive in an
enormous figure eight.

5) MATHZHEIMER'S n. The inability to calculate a foreign-exchange rate without elaborate financial or tech support.

6) MOUSE TRAP n. An Internet purchase that looks a lot different upon arrival than it did in the picture.

7) NONTOURAGE n. A group of undesirable sycophants.

8) YELLULAR n. the loudness adopted in response to a bad cell-phone connection in the misguided hope that talking louder will improve it

GREAT NEWS FOR MEDITATORS

2009-09-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

Due to the value ratio of the American versus the Canadian dollar (the teachers come from the London, Ontario Ishaya Center), the Ishaya Ascension training
will be only $350 (discount price) through October 10. The full price is $395 with reservations required before October 23, the first day of the week-end course. There is room for 12 people in this exclusive course which is being presented for the first time in the Northeast .

Those who are devotees of Eckhard Tolle and The Abraham Group will find this meditation an experiential extension of the ideas and practices coming from those two vantage points. Meditation is best learned by first hand experience with accomplished teachers who have been there and can facilitate one's learning. It's like learning a sport from a book; it can be done by some people and not others but is bestas learned with a teacher.

Move beyond chaos and the negativity of the mind. Transform your life from mundane to magical and learn to live in the now. This is a rare opportunity to experience the training and life-changes which have been so accepted and practiced all over the world. The Ishaya practices have taken hold in England,Spain and much of western Europe, Australia. Other places include Taiwan,Mexico and Brazil . The Roman Catholic church in many South American countries have sponsored it.

Call Patricia Blackburn at (518)488-2203 today for a reservation. You can mail your check to her at PO Box 368, Greenfield Center, NY 12833.

New Information on the Benefits of Omega 3 Oils

2009-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

"... omega 3s, a family of unsaturated fatty acids, have been shown to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. And now, the compounds are being studied by scientists around the world as potential treatments for a wide range of other serious conditions, ranging from Alzheimer's disease to epilepsy and rheumatoid arthritis. Further research also is being done on omega 3s' role in preventing heart disease to determine the full range of potential benefits...

Many scientists believe omega 3s provide health benefits in part by reducing inflammation, which can contribute to heart disease, arthritis and other ailments. But researchers are still attempting to understand how exactly omega 3s interact with the body. And studies for a number of medical conditions aren't far enough along to know whether the fatty acids could be beneficial."

For further information read the entire article here: Wall Street JournalSeptember 15,2009

LAUGHTER CAN SET PEOPLE FREE

2009-09-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

Here's the synopsis of an article from the August 2009 Ode Magazine,for Intelligent Optimists, which was devoted to laughter.
Laughter was defined as..."the sensation of feeling good all over and showing it principally in one place."

The article was the last in this issue. Some of the topics in the magazine devoted to laughter were as follows:1) In the Beginning Was the Joke 2) Laughter and Learning 3) Laughter and Meditation or How to Get in Touch with Your Inner Giggler 4) Making People Laugh for a Living 5) Grins and Giggles May Hold the Key to Our Social Evolution or I laugh therefore I Am 6) The Medicine of Mirth-Why a Laugh a Day Keeps the Doctor Away and more.

The last article spoke of the way laughter is a survival tactic for people under siege. The author, Ron Jenkins, a former med. student turned theater professor and clown argues that..." comedy has been used as a liberating tool for people, especially in oppressive regimes, to confront, ridicule and criticize the powerful".

He gives examples from his experiences in South Africa during apartheid and in Lithuania in the early 1990's when it became independent from the Soviet Union.

Laughter helps..."provide.. (the)...unstoppable energy of (a) movement against..." a particular oppressive regime . "Humor is more powerful in dire situations, but there there's oppression and disaster, too, in our modern societies." He cites doing stand-up routines in prison and in working with an autistic child who had not responded to anyone with words and eye contact, responded to his humor.

So many people are stressed in this uncertain era of post stock market drop and post 9/1/01 Treat your friends to a Blonde joke or to the one about the Divorced Barbie doll... President Barbie, Flight Attendant Barbie,Entrepreneur Barbie, Dancer Barbie were all less expensive than Divorced Barbie. When asked why that was, the toy store clerk said that it was because D.B. came with Ken's house, Ken's car, Ken's bank account, Ken's boat and Ken's best friend.
Telling a joke is less messy than eating an apple a day and quicker.

SATURDAY 8:45 YOGA CLASS AT SHANTHI STUDIO

2009-09-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

Beginning October 3rd, at SHANTHI STUDIO, 2 Franklin Square, we are now offering a multilevel yoga class at 8:45. Various members of the staff will teach it. It is an opportunity to do the yoga you love with different teachers, learning which one suits you best or even finding that the variety keeps you from getting stuck in one routine and one style. Teachers will be:Susannah Perillat, Arthur Smith and Patricia Blackburn with the possible addition of a 4th teacher. It will be a 1-1/2 hour class. $15 for drop-in and$60 for a 6 class card.

A Report from the College Front, An Rx for Student Health

2009-09-25T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here's an article for all you new college students as well as for parents of kids recently away at university. It's reassuring to know that this school, anyway, is on top of stereotypical, yet difficult, student issues, especially in the first year. This article covers basic personal issues with a different emphasis than "The Naked Room-mate" and "The College Survival Kit", both found in bookstores.

Wellness educator , Emily Nagoski,Ph.D. is heading up a new office at Smith College, Northampton , MA., one of the more competitive women's schools in the U.S.
Although she feels that her job is..." to help prepare students for when they're gone", she also offers strategies for well-being while on campus.
RE: STRESS :" Stress is the number one issue, because being 18 is hard. You've moved away from home for the first time; you're learning how to be a person; you're going through identity angst. That's hard." Students want to know "How do we not get wrapped up in each others' drama?" The students ..."are invested in their relationships, but they're conflicted about it.'
RE: PRESSURE TO PERFORM: "The atmosphere of competition has created a cultural sickness that is deeply entrenched at Smith. Students compete about who has the most work due tomorrow. How can I ask them not to worry about grades? Still, there's a difference between working hard and working to the point of self-destruction."
RE:DRINKING: Dangerous drinking at Smith has been climbing the past few years, but Smith is still below the benchmark standards set by colleges. At Smith, 70% of student either don't drink or drink responsibly. About 5% drink in ways that are a problem. ALCOHOL EDUCATION:Nagoski's goal is " to teach them harm-reduction strategies, like dring water at a party to pace yourself, and that for the average woman, 4 drinks over the course of the night is the limit.PRE-DRINKING:" It's the party before the party that causes problems. Drinking heavily and quickly to load up on alcohol before the party can shock the brain."
RE:SLEEP "It makes no sense for me to tell students to get eight hours of sleep or more a night, because it's just not reality. Instead, I tell students to get the sleep they can. Four hours of sleep is the bare minimum, but, they can fill in with naps.."
RE: GRADES AND SHUT-EYE ".NIX THE ALL NIGHTERS, Studies show that the number-one predictor of GPA is sleep. Number two was breakfast, no matter what they eat."

Adapted from The Smith Alumnae Quarterly, Summer 2009

THE ARTISTS' WAY

2009-09-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

Join the newly forming ARTISTS' WAY group which has its first gathering in early October Led by Chris Hazard, an experienced leader of this remarkable 12 week series, you will develop your creativity and gain confidence and awareness of your heart's desires and how to implement them. The class will be meeting at Shanthi Studio at 7:30PM for 2 hours. Cost is $20 per class. This richly inventive course , begun by Julia Cameron, a successful screen writer (Miami Vice scripts and many others), coalesces into a wonderful productive group process which nurtures your spirit and your life. Call Chris at 421-2091 to register.

HOW DO YOU STAY IN THE "NOW" ? ISHAYA ASCENSION TECHNIQUE

2009-09-01T18:49:00.000-07:00

Learn to get beyond mental chaos and negativity Life can be continuously joyful
and fluid. Learn the techniques to turn your life from mundane to magical
by using the principles of praise, gratitude,love and more. Our true essence is eternal
peace and inmost joy.It is closer than your next breath. Remove the barrier of your
addiction to thoughts. Find the stillness that is outside the mind.

There will be a First Sphere Course given at Shanthi Studio, 2 Franklin Square
October 23-25. Time to be announced.
On the 22nd an introductory evening will present the basics of The Ishaya
Way or The Bright Path. The introductory evening is free; the course is $415
with a discounted fee of $400 if paid in full to Patricia Blackburn by October 1.

"As someone who has practised yoga and meditation for decades, nothing I
have worked with before has given me such immediate and profound peace as
Ascension; the under-lying power at work in the attitudes unravels the
negative programming of our body/mind." Lorraine Newman, article on
Bright Path.ca website

" Life is meant to be lived in eternal joy, infinite freedon, unconditional
love and unbounded awareness. Any other life is utterly missing the point
of being born a humAN".
MAHARISHI SADASHIVA ISHAM

For further information, video, downloadable book , go to WWW. Brightpath.Ca.
ISHAYAS ASCENSION - "The healing of humanity through the expansion of consciousness.".
Saratoga Springs sponsor, Patricia Blackburn * Call her at 488-2203 for organizational details

YOGA SCHEDULE AT SHANTHI STUDIO

2009-09-01T18:19:00.000-07:00

SHANTHI STUDIO
2 Franklin Square, Saratoga Springs
Studio located at the corner of Division & Franklin, 2 blocks from Broadway (Border's)
We are pleased to offer a variety of classes for a variety of interests and abilities. A roster of excellent teachers gives you many choices with excellent instruction in each class. The Artist's WAy Study Group is a welcome addition to our roster, providing a way to gain insight and change in one's creative path.

MONDAY: 5:15 P.M. Full Figure Yoga-Patricia
TUESDAY: 7:30 P.M. Artist's Way Study Group
(starts 9/15) Chris
WEDNESDAY 7:45 A.M. Hatha Yoga - Susannah
(starts 9/9)
5:30 P.M. Full Figure Yoga- Patricia
THURSDAY 9:30 A.M. Hatha Yoga- Patricia
FRIDAY 12:30P.M. Free Form Yoga- Susan
(Begins 9/18)
SATURDAY 9:00 A.M. Active Flow
( Start date in October TBA)
11:30 A.M Therapeutic/Gentle Yoga
(Start date in October TBA )

FEES:
Drop-ins for any class: $15.00
FFY & Hatha with Patricia a 6 class card: $60 (for 8 weeks)
Hatha with Suzanne:$72 for 6 class card ( 8 weeks)
Free form with Susan by donation
Saturday classes TBA

Call Patricia at 488-2203 or Susannah at 944-1249 for more information .

Discover Sustainable Healthcare Techniques

2009-08-26T07:52:00.001-07:00

Have you been looking for ways to treat such things as tension headaches, migraines, and
stress without drugs,trying to avoid even aspirin or Advil? Do you want to bolster your immune system to make
you more resiliant during flu and cold season? Have you searched for body-friendly solutions to
heal you without side-effects?

If so , this workshop is for you. Using techniques derived from Craniosacral Therapy, Acupressure
Yoga, Reiki and more, you can help yourself and your family to better health with these
simple, proven techniques . There are no packages to throw away,no bottles to dispose of.Conscious people
can achieve better health without cluttering the environment. (2 important benefits in 1 solution)

In 2 hours you will learn a variety of ways to deal with such things as headaches, stress, anxiety, burns,
fever,T.I.A's, and to increase the strength of your immune system.

A class will be given in these methods at SHANTHI Studio, 2 Franklin Square, at the corner
of Division and Franklin, two blocks up Division from Border's on Broadway ,Thursday,October 15th,
7:30-9:30 Cost is $20.The workshop is experiential and hands-on

.
Please call or e-mail Patricia Blackburn, teacher, to reserve a spot as space is limited. Your payment
is your guarantee of a place in the workshop.
Call 488-2203 * e-mail:pblakk1@hotmail.com

SHANTHI STUDIO FOR YOGA AND CST OPENING 7/7

2009-06-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

SHANTHI STUDIO, located at 2 Frankin Square, Saratoga Springs at the corner of Division Street, is now open and giving yoga classes.

The yoga class schedule is as follows:
Mondays 5:15 pm Full Figure Yoga/Hatha Yoga(combo) Patricia
Wednesdays 5:15 pm Full Figure Yoga " "
Thursdays 9:30 am Multi-level Hatha Yoga " "

For August, the drop-in fee will be $10.For a 3 class care, the fee will be $24. Classes are 1/12 hours long
Call Patricia Blackburn for more information: 488-2203 or e-mail her at pblakk1@hotmail.com.

Full Figure Yoga is "yoga for the rest of us". Finally there is a class for people who thought they would never do yoga
or even feel comfortable in a yoga class. We treat ourselves with compassion and respect, as in all yoga classes, while working to gain flexibility, strength, better bone density, circulation and breathing. There is also meditation in the class which is a means of dealing with stress, as are the poses. Join us. We laugh as well as do the formal practice. No skinny -minnies here. See article from December 2008 on SaratogaToday.com website for pictures and article on this class

Hatha yoga classes involve warm up ,breathwork, meditation, vinyasas(flowing linked poses), and static poses. Emphasis is on alignment and feeling the lines of energy of the poses. Instructions are given for greatest success in doing the poses most beneficially. Adaptations are offered for different levels of experience. Yoga benefits all bodily systems: cardiorespiratory, skeletal, reproductive, endocrine as well as the mind and emotions. It is very helpful with various injuries, for example providing stretch for back injuries, helping to develop better breathing for those recovering from illnesses of the respiratory system etc. Patricia has studied with Kripalu, Iyengar (Erich Schiffmann), Anusara and Yin Yoga teachers. She is certified and experienced, having taught for 13 years.

Craniosacral therapy is available now by appointment at this centrally located studio. Help your body heal itself without drugs, surgery or appliances. You can feel better and find relief from pain and the effects of stress. If you wish to find another way to wellness, CST is an excellent one. It is very gentle, relaxing and does not apply either physical or verbal force to the individual. Sessions are 1 1/2 hour long; you remove only your shoes and lie on your back on the massage table The only downside is that you might fall asleep and not want to leave when the session is over

CST is a one on one, very focused interaction between practitioner and client. The price special for now is $50 per session. Call Patricia Blackburn today at 488-2203 to make an appointment.

Successful Retreat

2009-05-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 25th, La Mudita Marga, the Path
of Joy Retreat was held at The United Methodist
Church of Saratoga Springs from 8:30 to 3:30

Comments were:
"I loved the Soul Collage the best as it took me
out of my usual mind-set." " It was hard to choose
which class to take as I wanted to take them all".

"My favorite class was the partner yoga. I absolutely
loved it"

"I attended both retreats and liked this one better.
The (classical Indian) dancer was unique and
interesting".

"The food at this one was much,much better."
Lunch was catered by Little India and served both
those who eat meat and vegans.

We would like to publically thanks our
presenters:Mana Behan, Lin Murphy, Judy
Wyle, Edie Swensen and Gina Deimel. These
women each came from her own expertise and
made this event unique and excellent.

Susan and I continue to refine how we put
the retreat together and how we offer the
retreat experience. We have many ideas of ways to
make this an informative and satisfying day, away from
everyday stress and responsibilities.

There will be another retreat in October,
probably the 17th.
STAY TUNED

The Mosquitos Are Coming. The Bugs Are Coming!!!!

2009-05-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

Here in the northeast, we are blessed with beautiful greenery and lovely summers.
But , with the nice weather, we have mosquitos, ticks, wasps no-see'ums,ants, flies.
Sometimes we have fleas, if we have animals.And the animals definitely have fleas.

Commercially, you can find many formulations which repel these pests. The
formulations are made from modern chemicals and, in the case of long-term
repellents applied to dogs and cats, have very heavy concentrations of these chemicals
which could build up in an animal's system,causing harm.

Essential oils can have profound physiological and psychological
effects when inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Distilled from plants for their natural healing
properties, essential oils have been used therapeurically for centuries.

Elizabeth Essentials makes Bugz Be Gone for humans and Flea Be Gone
for animals. These formulations are a mixture of essential oils which
repel these critters and make being outside a pleasure instead of a
"dodge-bug" game.

The essential oil blends are totally without chemicals and therefore have
no side-effects. The mixture is of cedarwood, citronella,lemongrass and
eucalytus in both. They smell good too and are easy to apply.

For insect bites, when you have forgotten your Bugz Be Gone,
Lavender can be used to reduce swelling and itching.

Bugz Be Gone and Flea Be Gone can be purchased locally in
Saratoga Springs from Patricia Blackburn, the sole purveyor of these
wonderful products in the area. Buying them directly and locally saves you
money and time.

Call 488-2203 or e-mail a request and phone number to pblakk1@hotmail.com.

FULL FIGURE YOGA

2009-01-26T18:39:00.000-08:00

FULL FIGURE YOGA is now located at the Joy of Yoga studio in the Arcade Building,456 Broadway between Phila and Caroline on the right side of the street going north. Classes resume 1/28 at 4PM. The warm, inviting studio is on the basement level. There will be a $14 drop-in fee or a series of 6 classes can be purchased for $60,valid for a 10 week period. Call at 488-2203 or e-mail Patrica Blackburn, instructor for further information.

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL IS A HOUSEHOLD ESSENTIAL

2009-01-08T19:28:00.000-08:00

DID YOU KNOW LAVENDER OIL IS USED FOR:

Burns (cell renewal) * Indigestion
Sunburn (including lips) * Puncture wounds
Dandruff * Insomnia
Hair Loss * Menopausal conditions
Allergies Nausea
Nervous tension * Phlebitis
Respiratory infections * Tumors
Rheumatism * Scarring (minimizes scars)
Earaches * Throat infections
Depression * Stretch marks
Herpes * Insect bites
Headaches * Laryngitis
High blood pressure * Arthritis
Heart palpitations * Bronchitis
Hives * Asthma
Skin Conditions (acne, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rashes and general itching)
Premenstrual conditions

The French scientist, Rene Gatefosse, was the first to discover lavender's ability to promote tissue regeneration and speed wound healing in the modern era. He severely burned his arm is a laboratory accident , dipped the burned limb in a vat of lavender oil and was amazed at the rapid healing that ensued. Today, lavender is one of the few essential oils to be listed in British Pharmacopoeia.

ACTION: Lavender is antiseptic, anticonvulsant and analgesic. It combats tumors, spasms and inflammation. It is beneficial for cleansing cuts and wounds and is ideal for skin care, since it prevents build-up of excess sebum, a skin oil that bacteria feed on. It has been clinically evaluated for its relaxing and sedative effects.It may be used to cleanse cuts, bruises and skin irritations. As with all essential oils, there are no side effects. A high majority of people can use this versatile, effective plant extract; there are occasional people who are allergic to lavender.

FRAGRANT INFLUENCE: Calming, relaxing and balancing, both physically and emotionally.

APPLICATION: Diffuse or apply topically. Can be applied where you would use a deodorant. It is safe for use on small children. In it's food grade form, it may be added to food or water as a dietary supplement.

From Essential Oil Desk Reference,Second Edition, Essential Science Publishing

This oil and other single and combination oils are available in Saratoga Springs through Patricia Blackburn who exclusively stocks and sells the high grade essential oil mixtures and single oils created by Elizabeth Bloom, homeopath and naturopath under her label "Elizabeth Essentials".

FULL FIGURE YOGA

2009-01-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

After a wonderful beginning in the fall and the and delightful article in SARATOGA TODAY (see Saratoga Today weekly newspaper on the web), the size of this specially designed and tailored class has grown and will possibly double in size . Classes will resume during the week of January 26,2009, new venue to be announced . Stay tuned

YOGA RETREAT SCHEDULED SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2009

2009-01-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

        Building on the great success of our September yoga retreat, there will be a second retreat given by Patricia Blackburn, Susan Paschal and "company". We will be serving a light breakfast and an Indian luncheon meal, catered by Little India.
          The activity format will be very similar with two tracks of activities to choose from: a yoga track and a personal enrichment track. One could potentially do 3 yoga classes or 3 personal enrichment classes although we recommend a mix of the two for a balanced experience.
         The performance of a classical Indian dance and the opportunity to learn and practice some simple portions of the choreography will be among the special and varied offerings.
         There will be three workshops of personal enrichment,Mana Behan will give an in-depth class on the first chakra.
Lin Murphy will lead a class in the creation of a "soul collage".

Judy Wyle will give an introductory class on Ayurveda, traditional Indian medicine.
Yoga classes will include several levels of difficulty as well as a partner yoga class. Instructors will be Edithe Swenson (Anusara), Susan Paschal (Mandala ) and Patricia and Susan (a partner class)
The day will begin with breakfast and sign-in at 8:30. There will be 2 classes before and 1 class after lunch. Fees for the day will be as follows: a discount price of $60 until April 22, $75 April 23-24,$80 drop-in fee.We are very fortunate to be able to combine the talents of so many gifted local teachers under one aegis to bring you a fantasic experience of retreat and renewal.

November 5,2008 Update

2008-11-05T11:23:00.000-08:00

Everything is moving right along at Gentle-wellness.

The September 20th yoga retreat was a huge success. It was very well attended and appreciated by one and all: attendees,

teachers, workshop presenters, caterers,vendors and massage therapists. The sitar presentation was wonderful; Craig Philips

played outside, perched on a table with the sun shining down on him and those having lunch outside on that beautiful fall day.

The location was perfect, conveniently located 5 minutes from Broadway, Saratoga Springs. We offered three differing levels of

yoga class which was really pleasing to our "guests". All in all , a wonderful event. A second retreat is planned for March 14,2009

at the same location, The United Methodist Church of Saratoga Springs.

NEW OFFICE

I now have an office space at Dr. Buhac's Spa City Spa and Dermatology Center, 54 Seward Street,near The Saratoga

Hospital. This is an easy location to find and has the advantage over my home office in that the winter snow and ice aren't a

deterrent to being there. The parking lot is ample and well- groomed; the surfaces are level and entry is easy. I have

Craniosacral Therapy sessions there as well as private yoga sessions. The room is private and quiet, perfect for the wonderful

tissue mobilization that is Craniosacral Therapy.

TWO NEW YOGA CLASSES

FULL FIGURE YOGA
On September 3rd, a new yoga class began at 5 PM on Wednesdays at Transformation Yoga at the Spa City Spa location.

Plus sized women have begun to come to this gentle class, adapted particularly for them. We have a growing attendance and

those who have come appreciate the opportunity to exercise with other women seeking greater health, flexibility,balance and

privacy, away from the "skinny minnies" and competition to be a particular size. We work together with respect and

acceptance.We laugh a lot too. If this class is for you, please join us. The class is on-going.

MONDAY MORNING HATHA YOGA

This class brings together people from other yoga classes I have taught in the area. It is a class for experienced beginners and

low intermediates. The difficulty changes with the composition of each class. The yoga curriculum is eclectic, drawing from

my 7 years in Los Angeles, where I built on my Kripalu training with a teacher training with Eric Schiffmann. The workshops I

have taken in Rolfing and Yoga, Yin Yoga and Anusara Yoga not to mention the many classes in the Iyengar style contribute to

the mix. You will be immersed in an enjoyable class which always contains some new material and differing perspectives on

your being:physical, emotional and spiritual. There is still room for more students. If you are free at that hour, it's great way

to start your day.

Prices are reasonable. Purchase a class card for the best price in either class. Call 488-2203 or e-mail me at

pblakk1@hotmail.com for more information

In the Spirit of Yoga, Retreat for Mind, Body & Spirit

2008-09-01T18:37:00.000-07:00

The proposed yoga retreat is a reality. It will be held at the United Methodist Church of Saratoga Springs, 5th Ave. and Henning Road, across from the BOCES Myers Center. If coming from Broadway, turn east on Lake, going about 2 miles. Then turn south on Henning Road, go down about a quarter mile and turn right onto 5th Ave., the location of the church. Come into the back entry which will be adorned with various colors and images appropriate to our celebration and contemplation.

We are fast filling our quota of 44 places. Sign up now to be sure you will be able to be there.

Fees are as follows: $55 until September 17th; from the 17th and for walk-ins, it will be $75.

We are excited to offer you a way to personally design your day from a choice of 3 levels of yoga and 3 workshops designed to deepen your awareness of yourself and the life around you.

Payment may be sent by check to Patricia Blackburn, PO Box 368, Greenfield Center, NY 12833 or on Paypal for credit cards.

Looking forward to seeing you there.....Susan and Patricia

MEDITATION GROUP AUGUST 25th

2008-08-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

The semi-monthly meditation group will meet again August 25th at the home of Patricia Blackburn at 7:15. Call 488-2203 or e-mail pblakk1@hotmail.com for directions. A fine group of 4 met in Corinth in July. We approach meditation always with "beginner's mind", using meditations from many different traditions. Meditation in a group is very powerful and as we meditate together we know ourselves, the universe, and others in a new way. No experience required. Bring a pillow if you think you'll need one.

FULL FIGURE YOGA STARTS SEPTEMBER 3RD

2008-07-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Full Figure Yoga, a class especially tailored for plus size women, will begin September 3rd at 5PM.

Does size matter? Not in yoga. Yoga is for every body. In all yoga classes we strive to view our bodies with confidence, respect and acceptance. Everyone can learn and benefit from yoga's many aspects. Although this class has a few adaptations for "apple" and "hourglass" figure types, being a plus size woman does not mean you are not flexible, not able to balance well, not able to increase your strength. There are adaptations in many yoga classes depending on who is there; if you had a stiff neck or became dizzy easily in other yoga classes, your teacher would adapt poses for you.

Join us to enhance your life in many different ways:physically, emotionally and spiritiually. No "skinny-minnies" here, just sisters with the same physicality and the same goals.You will feel refreshed and relaxed after class.

Classes will be held at Spa City Spa, 54 Seward Street in the new Transformation Yoga space. Entry from the large parking lot. For further info, e-mail Patricia Blackburn, teacher of Full Figure Yoga @ Pblakk1@hotmail.com or call 488-2203.

Sitar Performance: Craig Phillips

2008-07-10T07:21:00.000-07:00

Craig Phillips, who has just returned from 3 years' study of the sitar in India will play during the lunch hour at "The Spirit of Yoga" yoga retreat, September 20th at The United Methodist Church of Saratoga Springs, 5th Ave. and Henning Road, just 2 miles from the intersection of Broadway and Lake. Yoga Retreat Brochure (PDF file).

Here, There and Beyond Essential Oils for Sale

2008-06-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

These oils were developed by Elizabeth Bloom, Naturopath, Homeopath, Holistic Practitioner for 30 year from her experience in both the US and Europe. The oil formulae are based on the European model which combines several oils and these combinations are effective for many conditions.

Patricia Blackburn is the sole purveyer of these wonderfully effective therapeutic mixes in the Saratoga/Albany area. There are oils for relief of pain, to combat colds and viri, to calm and aid in sleep just to name a few conditions treatable by these oils.

Here,There and Beyond is an organization dedicated to purity and availability of product. There is no loyalty or buying in to the company required, nor is there a pyramidal selling plan. The oils are quite reasonable in price,therefore they are available to more people, not just those who can afford a more expensive, exotic healing product.

Call (518) 488-2203 for further information or e-mail me at pblakk1@hotmail.com

Full Figure Yoga

2008-06-19T03:43:00.000-07:00

Announcing a new yoga class devoted solely to plus size women beginning mid to late September,Wednesday evenings at 5P.M. The health benefit of yoga are many. Poses and breathing techniques affect your body down to the cellular level. Yoga benefits all systems of the body: cardiovascular, musculo-skeletal, hormonal, reproductive, and the nervous system. Improved balance and strength, greater lung capacity and better sleep and digestion come with a yoga practice. It helps you to remain open to challenges such as tight hamstrings or the fear of going upside down,

Yoga also gives you tools for life, It is not just poses and breathing. You learn to tune into your body's signals and honor those tweaks and pains,developing greater flexibility and strength, never forcing the body to do what it can't do right now. There is a spectrum which has beneficial stretch at one end and pain at the other: you will find your "edge" or personal balance on that spectrum.

We work with yogic principles such as compassion, self-love and contentment. We do not regard the body with negativity but with acceptance.

"Full Figure Yoga" is based on the knowledge that size does not limit flexibility , balance and ability to do a great variety of poses. There are just a few adaptations, particularly for plus size people, which take into account whether you are an apple or and hourglass shape.

STAY TUNED.
Venue and time to be announced.

Coming Events

2008-06-04T13:42:00.001-07:00

THE SPIRIT OF YOGA-Yoga Retreat--September 20, 2008
Schedule: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. Includes a continental breakfast and a buffet lunch, in the garden or inside, depending on weather. This retreat will highlight yoga and meditation sessions for the full group as well as break out sessions for smaller groups exploring Self-Enlightenment through poetry, artwork or journalling and other topics. There will be a spiritual emphasis throughout.

The retreat will be led by Susan Paschal and Patricia Blackburn, both fully qualified, certified yoga instructors who will teach some of the classes. Other classes will be taught by other equally qualified
guest instructors.

The charge for the retreat is as follows: Early Bird Special of $55.00 if paid a month in advance; $65 fee from August 20th to September 17th. For walk-ins and those signing up after September 17th, the fee will be $75. Sign up as soon as you can as space is limited.

The location, which will be in Saratoga Springs, will be announced in the next week.

MEDITATION GROUP
The Monday night meditation group will meet again June 23rd at 7:15 PM at 137 South Greenfield Road, Greenfield Center, 12833.Call 488-2203 for directions.

Come, join us. We have a lovely group started. We draw from many different traditions:Buddhist, Hindu, Taoist, Christian, Jewish and 12 step. We will include more when we find them.

The schedule is as follows:
Coming together. Creating sacred space.
Meditation-about 20 minutes
Tea, stretching and attending to "needs."
Reading and focused discussion.
Meditation- about 20 minutes.
Closing

This format will change over time, depending on preferences, consensus and leader. The future schedule will be determined that evening.

The Craniosacral Therapy Song

2008-06-04T13:40:00.001-07:00

( sung to the tune of "I 've Got Rhythm)

You've got rhythm.
I've got magic fingers.
Craniosacral rhythm.
Who could ask for anything more?

You have a third rhythm,
Added to breath and circulation,
I work with that and other structures
Soon you won't feel so poor(ly).

Neck and back pain
And, post-op pain,
Even migraine
Out the door.

I can help you
Usually takes more than one visit
Call, let's talk about you
I've had successes by the score.

I can be reached at 488-2203 or through the blogsite.

Where can you find gentle wellness?

2008-06-04T13:31:00.000-07:00

Discover for yourself gentle ways to wellness used for thousands of years to promote health. These holistic techniques which are effective and respectful of body and mind, have been employed in many other countries for many years. They are now available, supported by an increasing number of practitioners and growing in popularity now in the United States.

Manual therapy (craniosacral therapy and acupressure), essential oils, and yoga are non-invasive, drug-free and without side- effects. They work with the whole person---body, mind and spirit in an manner tailored to individual need, psychology and physiology. Choose health that requires no recovery or loss of function from the cure.

Is There Trouble Afoot?

2008-06-04T13:29:00.000-07:00

So many of us take our feet for granted until they become so uncomfortable or painful that we have to notice them. Many conditions such as bunions, hammer toes, plantar fascitis and bone spurs limit our mobility and can cause pain.

Humans in prehistory, say 35,000 years ago, needed their feet to be sensitive in order to protect themselves and to learn about their environment. The many joints in the feet enabled them to balance, to feel the terrain to navigate it and, perhaps, to sense when a wooly mammoth herd was coming. (for dinner). Theses hominids had wide feet and strong toes.

Modern humans anesthetize their feet with shoes and are often unaware of subtle shifts in terrain. Not only are the feet not contributing to awareness of one's surroundings, they are often damaged by the narrow shoes we wear; and women develop more foot problems wearing fashionable pointed toed shoes as well as high heels which cause pain in the ball of the foot.

So, what can be done about this sad state of affairs? One helpful habit is to go barefoot as often as possible so that the muscles of the feet (more than in the hands) can develop strength and flexibility.

Another solution is to attend yoga classes. During May, I am celebrating what I call "National Toe Month" in my yoga classes. With every class there will be a few minutes of education on the feet and toes as well as exercises which help you to strengthen them and relieve your pain and discomfort.

So , join my classes at the "Y": Tu./Thu.@ 7:45 West Ave, Saratoga Springs,Tu. 10 am@ Corinth, Mon. 7:45 @ Yoga Mandali on Broadway. We have a lot of fun and our feet are getting more and more healthy. Your feet will thank you....Your toes too!!

Thinking About Yoga But Not Sure If It's For You?

2008-06-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

Yoga is an excellent practice for all ages and stages of people. Everyone with a body needs exercise, breathwork, relaxation, flexibility and to develop strength. There are classes tailored to the needs of certain groups .

Older people of whatever age can enjoy and benefit from yoga's many facets. This practice increases balance, can lower blood pressure, can increase bone density, help with breathing, mental clarity and relieve stress. A yoga practitioner can do the yoga practice totally or partially in a chair. Props, such as straps, blocks, bolsters, blankets and even the wall, enable willing students to have a full practice without ever getting on the floor.

People in wheelchairs, those with arthritis, those with life-threatening illnesses can benfit as well from a modified practice.

Often, plus-sized individuals are nervous about being in a class with all those "skinny-minnies." Those who have the "bodaceous", curvy body type can often do more than they think they can; size does not have much relationship with flexibility, balance or strength. Joint strength and movement are very much enhanced with a yoga practice. A teacher who knows and is trained to work with larger-bodied students can avoid the few pitfalls size brings. Many of the pitfalls come from lack of exercise and fear of looking foolish.

Mollie's Story

2008-06-04T13:19:00.001-07:00

I have taken yoga from Patricia for about 6 months here in Saratoga. When we sit in tailor position for meditation, breath work and some of the warm-ups, my feet and ankles will not settle into a comfortable position, no matter what I do. Recently, with some of the techniques Patricia has shown me I can sit in a relaxed position and I am fully able to enjoy that part of the practice .

Yoga

2008-06-03T06:51:00.001-07:00

Yoga is an ancient science of self-care. Some say it is 6,000 years old and the civilization from which it came pre-dated the Romans. Hatha yoga, or the yoga of physical postures, benefits all the bodily systems: cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, nervous, endocrine,musculo- skeletal, and lymphatic as well as the mind and emotions.

The postures them selves, combined with breathing , meditation and relaxation techniques bring about increased states of mental and emotional serenity, normalized blood pressure and relief from stress and certain physical problems.

I teach what is loosely called "Hatha" yoga in the United States. It is based on classical yoga where the postures are sustained for several breaths and which emphasizes alignment. I studied and was certified with Dani Riposo in a derivative of Kripalu yoga as well as with Erich Schiffmann with his more lyrical take on the Iyengar style of yoga. I also took many workshops while living in LA for 7 years including those with Shiva Rea, several Anusara yoga teachers Rolfer Mary Bond, Feldenkreis/yoga teacher Aston Porter. I continue to take workshops and to study yoga. My most recent interest has been Paul Grilley's Yin yoga which I have incorporated in my classes.

Success Story 2: Alice's Story

2008-06-02T15:10:00.001-07:00

Alice's Story: Relief from Shoulder and Neck Pain

My chiropractor referred me to Patricia several years ago after he was unable to adjust my neck and shoulder to relieve the pain there. After 2 sessions, I had no more pain. Occasionally, a small amount returns and Patricia is able to solve that problem.

I continue to work with Patricia "seasonally" for personal work. The craniosacral therapy is very helpful in keeping me integrated and in resolving old issues. A.O.

Success Story 1: Penny's Story

2008-06-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

Penny's Story: Recovery from Falling Through a Kitchen Floor into the Basement

I sustained several injuries from a bad fall (see above) One of them being a head injury which caused me to suffer post-concussive headaches. Patricia's CST treatments not only gave me relief from the headaches, but also resulted in my blood pressure dropping from 190/113 to 110/70 in a period of two months. Her treatments also helped with the other physical injuries that I sustained because they were very meditative and relaxing. They gave me healing and a feeling of well-being. Patricia is a very nurturing therapist and I found much comfort during my treatments....I will always highly recommend her. P.H.
(Name changed to protect privacy)