Let me start by saying I have nothing against conventional medicine for certain things. However, I'm someone whose body works best using alternative therapies not only for healing, but for prevention as well. As long as I can remember, I've sensed how my body responds best (and not best) to different things, so I take listening to my body seriously. I've never been one to surrender myself to a medical doctor without first questioning and then doing my investigation.
Contrary to most people, I don't choose to get vaccines or flu shots. Instead, I take daily supplements to keep my immune system strong.
These things work for me. Everyone is different.
I believe there is purpose and power in both conventional and alternative therapies. The choice is ours to use one or the other, or both.
The following are modalities I practice that support all aspects of my health.
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Sharing Positive Energy and Grace:
The first thing I do every morning before getting out of bed is set my intention for the day.
I am blessed in that I've been graced with tremendous wealth in my life. Things like: love, support, a job, food, clothing, a comfortable place to live, and the knowingness that I am being guided and directed for my highest good. I have never felt alone or lonely. I always feel as if I'm being held.
I am not a religious person in that I follow a specific dogma. However, I strongly believe in a Higher Power and have a personal relationship with it.
Every morning I place my hands over my heart and say, " Thank you for the abundant wealth in my life. And I share that wealth with others. As I move through my day, I intend that everyone I come in contact with receives whatever they need for their highest good, whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual."
If a family member or close friend is going through something challenging, I will focus on sending them positive energy. And it works because I've had people call or text and say that they could feel me thinking about them.
Stretching:
Every morning, I spend about 10 minutes stretching on the floor. It keeps my body flexible, strong, and mobile. Being that I live in a city, I also walk a great deal and take stairs. One thing I've learned about the aging process is to keep the body moving.
This is a practice I've been doing for about six months and love it. As you know, I am very much into Asian skincare products. Gua Sha (gwah-shah) originated in ancient China. It’s one of the oldest forms of traditional Chinese medicine ever recorded, with historical records dating back to the Stone Age. Besides the skincare and lymphatic benefits, it is incredibly relaxing. I use my Gua Sha stones (jade and rose quartz) at night on a clean face. And I will often feel myself falling asleep by the end of the session.
Benefits-
-Brightens Complexion
-Relieves Facial Tension
-Reduces Puffiness
-Decreases Dark Circles
-Increases Collagen Production
-Improves Skin Vitality
-Improves Lymphatic Drainage
-Improves Blood Circulation
Reiki:
I have been a certified Reiki practitioner since 1997 and use it on myself several times a week. Reiki is a powerful form of "energy work" that addresses the whole - body, mind, and spirit.
"We live in a world of energy that nourishes and maintains all living things. When this energy flows uninterrupted, there is balance and harmony within and around us, and we experience a sense of well-being."
Not only do I use Reiki on myself, but I've also used it as a volunteer, offering my service to HIV and hospice patients. Reiki taught me that healing doesn't always mean a physical healing. It can be the healing of someone who is at the end of their life and accepting the transition peacefully.
Foot Reflexology:
I am also a certified Foot Reflexologist (since 2000). I can't tell you enough how much this practice helps me. Reflexology is like getting a "tune-up" on my body. I don't do a full session on my feet every day. I sometimes focus on specific areas of concern. Examples: 1) if my allergies are bothering me, I will focus on the sinus, head, and lung areas. 2) if I have a heavy meal (such as pasta), I will focus on the stomach and intestine areas to help with digestion.
Lymphatic Drainage:
The lymphatic system plays an important role in keeping the body healthy by draining excess fluid from tissues and helping to fight infection and disease.
Every morning (in the shower), I do this quick and easy lymphatic drainage routine. It is amazing how effective it's been in my overall health.
This is a practice I do every day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
I quietly say to myself,
"Thank you for this food and the means to have it and enjoy it. May this food balance in complete harmony with my body. Arigato! (Japanese for thank you.)"
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Oh, wait! And one more thing...
I get my daily dose of an antioxidant (which is good for the immune system) every night by drinking a glass of red wine. LOL!
Cheers! 🍷
Wishing you all abundant heath!💖
This is so ironic because I too am a Reiki Practitioner, Ron!! I only took Level 1, but one day plan on taking Level 2. Perhaps even Level 3. Are you a Reiki Master? Isn't Reiki great? I've had a Reflexology session about a year ago from my massage therapist at the time. That's another modality I found powerful.
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed reading about your daily practices. Gua Sha is something that I want to try one day because my girlfriend said her skin improved a lot after she started doing it. Thanks for sharing the links because I'll definitely check out the tutorial and maybe even order Gua Sha stones from Amazon.
Thanks you very much for sharing this today, Ron. Really, really enjoyed this!
Have a great day! xo
Morning, Candice!
ReplyDeleteYou too?!?! That is so cool! It's funny how I'll meet people at times and as we're talking, the topic of Reiki comes up and we discover that we both have that in common! No, I'm not a Reiki Master because I never wanted to teach and attune others. I'm a Level 2. I wanted about a year before I had my second attunement and it done from two different Reiki Masters. After my second attunement, that's when I went to school for Reflexology to get certified. The combination of Reiki and Reflexology I found to be very powerful.
When I first heard about Gua Sha YEARS ago, I thought it was such a silly concept. However, I don't know what made me try it, but when I did, I immediately thought, "Why did I ever think this was silly? It's awesome!"
I purchased my Qua Sha stones from different retailers. I broke two of them the first month I had them by dropping them on the floor. That's why I now how FOUR. Just in case. LOL!
Thanks so much for stopping by, Candice. Have a great day too!
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" Reiki taught me that healing doesn't always mean a physical healing. It can be the healing of someone who is at the end of their life and accepting the transition peacefully." --- Wow Ron, that's powerful! I got a bit emotional just reading that.
ReplyDeleteHow did you get interested in alternative modalities? Did someone introduce you to them, or did you discover them on your own? I'm curious.
I've see those Gua Sha stones in various stores, but never knew what they were or what they were for. Very interesting.
I really like your idea of setting an intention. I bet it sets your day off to a wonderful start.
When I get home from work today, or even on my lunch break, I'm going to check out the links you shared because I'm very interesting in learning more.
I have red wine at night too. Glad to know it's GOOD for you. LOL!
Good morning, Daniel!
ReplyDeleteThe time I spent volunteering at hospice taught me so much about healing. It was an honor to be with those who were dying because they taught me so much about LIVING.
I was always interested in alternative modalities and more "natural" methods of healing and prevention. And what was really interesting was that as I started my journey of investigation, each thing I studied led me to the next thing. As I shared, I have nothing against conventional medicine whatsoever. However for me, I will always use alternatives first. And there have been times in life when I used them together.
At first, I didn't think using a Gua Sha would have any effect. Boy, was I wrong. More so than the skincare benefits, I can really feel the difference in my overall health because it's great for lymphatic drainage.
Isn't red wine the BOMB? I only red though. White is way too sweet. I like my wine dark and dry.
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a great rest of your week!
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Ron, I admire the way you know what's best for you and follow it. I believe there are many alternative therapies that can/will support health. So, why not use them alone or in conjunction with conventional? Not all things work for all people.
ReplyDelete"One thing I've learned about the aging process is to keep the body moving." --- You got that right!
Thanks for sharing, Ron!
One thing I really love about you is how positive you are, Ron. I enjoyed learning about all of your daily practices. Amen to moving every day. I try to take a daily walk or two when the weather allows it. I am fortunate that this neighborhood has a lot of hills. Like you, I also try to take the stairs if it’s feasible. One thing I’ve been practicing since I learned I have osteoporosis is balance. I work on balance exercises every day, plus adding exercises that have impact on my bones.
ReplyDeleteThat’s so interesting about the stones. As I think you know, my daughter-in-law is Chinese, and I know she uses a lot of Asian skin care products and techniques.
That’s awesome that you do the Reiki techniques on hospice and HIV patients. What a wonderful way to give it back. And I love that you bless your food before you eat. Gratitude can be healing in itself. My husband is always thanking Jesus for his glass of red wine every night. LOL!
Great post, Ron! I really needed that this week. I’m going through a lot with my mother right now which I will eventually post about. I actually thought about taking a blogging break for the rest of the summer, but then decided that it was more important for me to maintain these online connections as they nourish my soul. So, thank you. XO
Ron, you and I do many of the same things to take care of ourselves (like that Attitude of Gratitude, stretching and moving, and sharing positive energy). Well done! However, I can't see myself drinking a glass of red wine ... period. It's just not my thing (with my IBS and all). Still, good for you, that it works for you!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to go back and read that about the lymphatic drainage. I'm not familiar with that practice. The Reiki healing and the Gua Sha stones fascinate me -- I'm sure you chose Jade and Rose Quartz for their particular healing benefits, right?
Another interesting post, my friend. I hope you're staying cool in all this mugginess! xx
Greetings, Clair!
ReplyDeleteThank you. And I love what you said..."I believe there are many alternative therapies that can/will support health. So, why not use them alone or in conjunction with conventional? Not all things work for all people."
A-MEN! For as long as I can remember, I was always drawn to alternative therapies. Back in the 80s is when I started investigating supplements and taking them. My father used to laugh at me and say, "Why do you take those things? They don't work." And I was like, "How do you know they don't work because you don't take them." LOL! My father was much more conventional medicine.
As I've aged, I've seen how important it is to keep my body moving. Active.
Thanks for stopping by, my friend. Have a most excellent rest of your week!
X
" Amen to moving every day. I try to take a daily walk or two when the weather allows it. I am fortunate that this neighborhood has a lot of hills. Like you, I also try to take the stairs if it’s feasible. "
ReplyDeleteThat's freaking AWESOME! You and I are MAJOR walkers! I don't know if you've ever seen the stairs at the Philadelphia Art Museum (the ones that Rocky Balboa ran up in the movie, Rocky) here's a photo. Sometimes I will walk over to the museum and walk up and down those stairs a few times, just for the exercise. HA!
"I work on balance exercises every day, plus adding exercises that have impact on my bones."
Me as well. That's where yoga comes in. I do a little bit of that when I stretch in the morning.
Ask your daughter-in-law if she knows about Gua Sha because I bet she does. I love all things ASIAN!
" Gratitude can be healing in itself. My husband is always thanking Jesus for his glass of red wine every night. LOL!"
OMG, that CRACKED ME UP!!!! And you're right, gratitude can be healing in itself! I think (particularly during this time in our history) it's so important (and healthy) to focus on all the things we have to be grateful for.
"I really needed that this week. I’m going through a lot with my mother right now which I will eventually post about. I actually thought about taking a blogging break for the rest of the summer, but then decided that it was more important for me to maintain these online connections as they nourish my soul."
Yes, I know exactly what you mean. Blogging with people who you really enjoy can be so helpful and nourishing; particularly when we are going through challenging experiences. That's how I felt when my mother passed away back in 2012.
And please know that when I do my Reiki meditation in the mornings, you are always in my thoughts, sending you LOTS of love and positive energy!
((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((( YOU )))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Have a faaaaaabulous rest of your week!
X
Helloooooooooooooooooo there, Debbie!
ReplyDelete"Ron, you and I do many of the same things to take care of ourselves (like that Attitude of Gratitude, stretching and moving, and sharing positive energy)"
That's AWESOME!!!! And I knew you were into these things from the Sunday posts you shared on gemstones and their balancing and healing abilities. And I truly believe that.
"I'm going to go back and read that about the lymphatic drainage. I'm not familiar with that practice. The Reiki healing and the Gua Sha stones fascinate me -- I'm sure you chose Jade and Rose Quartz for their particular healing benefits, right?"
RIGHT! I have both. And I have FOUR of them because when I first got them, I dropped (and broke) TWO in one week. UGH! So now I have four as a backup. LOL!
Lymphatic drainage is something I've been doing for about 8-9 months. I discovered that link on YouTube and have been following her. She is a medical practitioner who works with cancer patients, teaching the importance of lymphatic drainage. I do it as a way to stay healthy. And I have to say, it works.
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend! And I wanted to let you know that I read your blog post this morning on my feed. Sending you lots of positive vibes!
And yes, the humidity right now is HORRENDOUS. I just got home from walking to and from Trader Joe's, dripping in sweat. It's supposed to reach 94 degrees here today.
X
Ron, thank you for responding to my question. So interesting to hear that each modality led you to the next one. It sounds to me that you were destine to discover these things because you were going to use them for a purpose. I admire your confidence in knowing what's right for you and doing it.
ReplyDeleteI like my wine dark and red too. Cabs are my favorite!
You are so welcome, Daniel. I like that you ask me questions. That's one of the reasons I love blogging above all other social media. For its discussion.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I do feel like I was guided to these things for a purpose. I remember when I was doing a lot of theater and acting onstage. I would use things like meditation and breathing exercises before I'd go onstage to calm my nerves. After I took a break from acting, I started investigating different modalities and studying them.
Cabs are my favorite too. I also like Pinto Noir during the warmer summer months.
Ron, you have opened my eyes to many things I didn't know of or heard about. I knew about Gua Sha because my bestie uses those stones and has told me to try it. She, like you, said it's pretty amazing. She said that she can see a huge difference in one side of her face compared to the other because she'll one side and then the other. I'm going to check out the link you left on the Gua Sha stones.
ReplyDeleteNever knew about Reiki or lymphatic drainage, so I'm going to check out those links as well.
Reflexology I knew about because I had a massage once when I was on vacation at a spa. The woman who did my massage asked me if I wanted to try it during the massage and I said, "Sure!" Oh my god it was soooooooooooo relaxing. At first I thought I'd be ticklish, but it wasn't. She did my feet AND my hands.
How wonderful that you've shared these things at hospice. Did working with those who were dying ever depress you? I don't know if I could do that without getting very emotional.
As always, your posts are a bright light of either humor, reflection, or informative. Or All of the above.
Thank you kind sir! xoxo
Hola, Denise!
ReplyDelete" She, like you, said it's pretty amazing. She said that she can see a huge difference in one side of her face compared to the other because she'll one side and then the other."
YES, she is absolutely right, you can see a difference! It's pretty impressive too. And the more you do it, the longer you see the results. I use my stones every night after I take a shower. I sometimes do short sessions, and then other times I'll do longer ones. Like I shared, it's so relaxing that I actually feel like I'm going to fall asleep!
Do check out those links because they will give you more detailed information about them.
"Oh my god it was soooooooooooo relaxing. At first I thought I'd be ticklish, but it wasn't. She did my feet AND my hands."
HA! Meeeeeeeeee too! But it's not ticklish at all. I used to have a massage in Orlando, Florida who I ask to spend the most time on my feet, hands, and head because those are the areas that feel the best to me.
No, it was never depressing to me. My father had died at a hospice in Florida in 1993. So when I got back to Orlando, I looked up Hospice and volunteered with them. I always felt as though the patients were giving more to me than me to them because I felt so honored to be with them. They would talk about their lives and what they would do over again if they could. So I learned about living more than dying from them.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Denise! And thanks for you sweet words. Have a faaaaaaaabulous rest of your week!
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Ron, the longer I read you the more things I discover about you that I never knew. And I've been reading your blog for YEARS! You are a man of many interests and I like that you share them with us because you inspire me to try new things and look at life from a different perspective.
ReplyDeleteI'm very much into "ENERGY" so I shall have to look into more about Reiki. Those Gua Sha stones look cool too. That Foot Reflexology diagram of the feet is so intriguing to me. I kept looking at the difference spots on the feet that connect to different organs in our body. WOW! It's like a body map on the feet!
My girlfriend and I have taken yoga classes in the past and really enjoyed them. In fact, I never felt better when we were taking them regularly. You're right, it's so important to our health to keep our body flexible, strong, and mobile.
Thanks for sharing, dude! I'll be back later this week to check out the links.
Hiya Matt!
ReplyDeleteHa! I know, my mother use to say that I had too many interests in too many things. I've also have many different careers/jobs in my life and she would ask me, "What are you going to be when you grow up, Ronnie?" And I would respond, "I haven't grown up yet, but I'll let you know when I do. LOL!
But it's true, many things interest me. So I dabble in them all.
The amazing the about Reiki is that it's very subtle, but very powerful. Reiki literally means 'life force." So when you practice it, it balances the life force that's within us, affecting the body, mind, and spirit.
I used to take a Hatha yoga class when I lived in Florida. Now, however, I just do it on my own.
Thanks so much for stopping by, Matt! And thanks for your kind words. Have a terrific rest of your week!
X
God, I got emotional just reading your response about working at hospice. I think it's wonderful that you could do that kind of volunteer work and not become emotionally attached to the patients.
ReplyDeleteYou could write a book about your life experiences, Ron! xxxx
🙏😘
ReplyDeleteThese are all fantastic suggestions, Ron!
ReplyDeleteI only started doing yoga a few weeks ago, but my body is already feeling different.
I, too, love my Gua Sha tool. I want to make it a habit to use it on a regular basis, rather than just when I have a headache or sinus pressure.
I'd like to become a Reiki practitioner! I love the fact that you are one!
You are a true inspiration. I've had a challenging month and needed to see this post.
Thank you for sharing. 😘❤️
Have a wonderful weekend, friend!
Ron,
ReplyDeleteI agree that alternative and conventional methods are the cure-alls for everyone. I do try to stretch every day and take several OTC vitamins and minerals, but nothing else. Walking is a daily activity whether outdoors, in the halls in this large mill building or on the gym treadmill.
What you said about the "wealth" in your life -- love, support, job, food, clothing, a place to live and that you have never felt alone or lonely spoke volumes. Far too many people overlook the important things in pursuit of material things, money, or recognition.
I had remembered that you spoke of Reiki and Reflexology in previous posts. Thanks for the links, I also plan to follow them and learn more.
yes, good to know that red wine is a part of your wellness regime as well!🍷
Gooood morning, Kari!
ReplyDeleteIsn't yoga fabulous? And I what I especially like about it is that it touches on all parts of us - body, mind, and spirit. I do Hatha yoga. I never got into hot yoga (such as Bikram) because I just can take being hot. But many people love it.
"I, too, love my Gua Sha tool. I want to make it a habit to use it on a regular basis, rather than just when I have a headache or sinus pressure."
I got in the habit of using it every evening after I take my shower. Some nights I do a long session, other nights just a quickie. And sometimes I even use it in the morning.
You would LOVE Reiki! It's been such an incredibly valuable tool for me; especially during those challenging times in my life because it seems to ground and center me.
Thanks so much for stopping by, my friend. Have a faaaaaaabulous weekend!
X
Gooooooooooooooood morning, D!
ReplyDelete"I do try to stretch every day and take several OTC vitamins and minerals, but nothing else. Walking is a daily activity whether outdoors, in the halls in this large mill building or on the gym treadmill."
That's AWESOME! Even doing those things a little bit everyday seems to help my body stay flexible and strong. As we age, things just naturally change. And I find that do those things supports the aging processes.
"Far too many people overlook the important things in pursuit of material things, money, or recognition."
You are so right about that. For me, living my life "simply" allows me to enjoy the simple (but important) things in my life.
I am so glad that I took time to lean both Reiki and Reflexology because they've been such valuables tools in my life. I don't know what I'd do without them.
"yes, good to know that red wine is a part of your wellness regime as well!🍷"
LOL! Cheers!
Thanks so much for stopping by, D. Have a fantabulous weekend!
x
Ron, what an interesting post about your daily practices! You are so right about as we age, how important it is to keep our bodies moving. This is one of the reasons why I prefer city life. We do more walking. We very rarely take our car. Not unless we are traveling somewhere in which we can get there with public transportation.
ReplyDeleteI experienced Reiki severl years ago when I attended a holisitic seminar with a friend of mine who is a massage therapist. I couldn't get over how powerful the experience was for me. I didn't realize something so simple could be so affective. I was so surprised. How did you first get into Reiki?
I want to look more into some of the other things you listed here. Like lymphatic drainage and Qua Sha.
Thanks so much for sharing, Ron. And yes, being Italian, a glass of red wine at night is something I do as well. Both me AND my hubby.
Happy Monday, Ron! I won't even mention the humidity in my comment, but I know you're hating it. Like ME! LOL! xox
Greetings, Elaine!
ReplyDeleteMe too! I feel just as you do about living in a city. I don't own a car, so if I can't take public transportation, I walk. And I walk far.
" I couldn't get over how powerful the experience was for me. I didn't realize something so simple could be so affective. I was so surprised."
Isn't it surprising and amazing just how powerful Reiki is? I know, I thought the same thing. So subtle, yet so evident. I first got interested in Reiki when I spotted a business card in a book store I used to go to in Orlando. As soon as I saw the card and the word REIKI, I just knew I needed to try it. My first experience was so incredibly moving. Several weeks later, I decided to find a teacher and get attuned.
Yes, so check out Qua Sha and Lymphatic drainage. I find them so effective in keeping my body healthy.
OMG, the humidity the past few weeks has been BEYOND horrendous. Can't wait for AUTUMN!!!! LOL!
Have a fabulous week, my friend. And thanks so much for stopping by!
X
Hey Ron, wanted to let you know that I order a Gua Sha (rose quartz) from Amazon and it arrived yesterday. Can't wait to use it while watching the video tutorial. Thanks for the recommendation!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping back to let me know, Candice! As you know, I have both the rose quartz and jade. But I tend to use the rose quartz more. There is just something about the energy that I like. She has a lot of really helpful tutorials, so check them out too. X
ReplyDeleteI admire that you're so deeply connected to life and your health and wellness!! I've done a variety of things, both conventional and alternative, over the years. I believe each can help. And when it's conventional medicine one might need, or a surgery, etc... many holistic modalities easily go along side them.
ReplyDeleteIt's been a bit difficult for me to find a good balance lately though... my dreams have been weird, my mood has been a bit more down than up, etc. So I recognize that I need to spend more time with some of the things that have brought me comfort in the past. Reiki is always good!!! I got out of the habit of doing it at bedtime, so maybe the dreams would improve if I slept better. LOL Ron is home a lot more now so I don't have enough of a regular routine and that might be causing my energy to be a bit scattered. I like the idea of setting an intention for the day. I do sometimes start off with gratitude, and a yummy cup of hot coffee, but might need a bit more. My angels/guides are probably waiting to do more but I need to let them know a few details. Freewill and all. :)
I accept any and all good thoughts, Reiki energy, and love sent my way and I know you do that for many of us!!
Have a wonderful weekend, Ron. xo
" And when it's conventional medicine one might need, or a surgery, etc... many holistic modalities easily go along side them."
ReplyDeleteYes! I totally agree! Using both, I feel, makes for a more "whole" healing.
" I like the idea of setting an intention for the day. I do sometimes start off with gratitude, and a yummy cup of hot coffee, but might need a bit more. My angels/guides are probably waiting to do more but I need to let them know a few details. Freewill and all. :)"
For me, doing that sets my whole mood for the day. And being that I work with the public, and interact with a lot of people in one day, it really helps me to stay calm and balanced because it can get quite stressful.
"I accept any and all good thoughts, Reiki energy, and love sent my way and I know you do that for many of us!!"
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