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Detox Spray
Chi Herbal Formulas

This formula is designed to penetrate all of the acupressure points of the feet to detoxify and rebalance the mind and body. This product contains dandelion, burdock, and licorice root to help strengthen the immune system, increase circulation, improve sleep, increase metabolism, and promote health.

Product Features

Detox Spray costs $10.00 for 2oz..

Chi Herbal Formulas
4901 Morena Blvd Ste. 1104 San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 373-1830
http://www.chiformulas.com

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Taking Care of Business

During a typical work day, have you ever thought to yourself, “I wish I were the one lying on this table right now”?

Early in my massage-therapy career, I didn’t think I could afford to pay for a massage, and I didn’t know many therapists who were willing to trade therapies. Working part time from an office in my home just wasn’t paying the bills. An opportunity presented itself and I began working in a massage clinic. I was the new kid on the block (at age 42) and struggling to keep up with the other, well-seasoned therapists. They made it look so easy to manage a weekly 30- to 40-hour massage schedule. I had little control of my client load or schedule. Each day was a gamble as to the number of appointments and if there would be time for a break in between. The financial reward was pleasing, and paying for a massage or bodywork was no longer an issue; however crossing off “Make Time for Self” from my "To-Do List" didn’t happen as frequently as it should have.

After several months at this pace, my body petitioned more and more requests for assistance. I continued to negotiate by ignoring the signs, not fully understanding that my ability to thoroughly serve my clients was compromised due to the neglect of my needs.   

The term “hands on” has since taken on a new meaning for me. While it is important to attend workshops to learn new skills and maintain the necessary foundation of massage, it is equally significant to practice what we preach and make time to refuel our own physical, mental and spiritual needs. This profession may appear simple and easy from an outsider's point of view, but to do it well requires discipline. I realize this concept is not headline news to the trained professionals using touch on a daily basis. And yet I do know how easy it is to lose sight of ourselves as we are drawn into the many tasks of each day.     

I’d like to share a few tips for maintaining a healthy balance.

• Start each day with a walk or some form of stretching (for example: Sun Salutation Yoga warm-up)
• Eat a healthy diet that complements your body’s needs
• Practice deep and even breathing to keep oxygen flowing throughout your body
• Frequently monitor your body mechanics
• Define your personal and professional boundaries. Know your limits and adhere to them
• Focus on your clients’ needs without taking on their issues
• Develop and practice holding a consistent healing space during each client session.

The next time you find yourself on the road to “Burn Out City” remember this: If you take great care of yourself, you’ll be able to take better care of your clients. Not all of your clients will consciously appreciate your efforts, but I believe the rewards will come in all shapes, sizes and forms of currency.

After 20 years in the corporate world, Julie K. Shirk, L.M.T., has learned anything is possible. When things don’t work out the way you think they might, it just means someone else has a better plan. Maintaining a private massage-therapy practice in Dayton, Ohio, has its challenges, but it is by far the best thing I have ever done.  

See past Self-care Tips

Create a Memorable Business Card

Two important components of creating a memorable and effective business card are to utilize eye-catching graphics and easy-to-read lettering. Keep it simple by using only simple typefaces. Script and Old English typefaces are difficult to read on business cards.

The paper quality is extremely important; you want to choose a sleek, smooth, high-quality card that feels good to touch. Be sure to include all important contact information on one side of your card. Such contact information includes your address, city, state, zip code, office phone number, cell phone number, Web site and e-mail address.

On the other side of your card, list the modalities at which you are truly proficient; for example, Swedish, deep tissue, hot-stone therapy and pregnancy massage. It is essential to proofread your business card carefully, and have several colleagues review it before you send it to the printers.

Once you have your cards, don't leave home without them. You never know when, where or how an opportunity for business connections may arise. To add an extra touch, you can get a cardholder and display your cards in your office and at on-site jobs. A well-designed, attractive business card can be your least expensive---and most effective---form of advertising.

Ariana Vincent, L.M.T., M.T.I., N.C.T.M.B., is a Nationally Certified Massage Therapy Instructor and workshop leader based in Austin, Texas. Learn more about her at www.arianavincent.com.

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