I feel the need to address something that I obviously think is very important.
TOUCH.
Skin to skin. Any kind of POSITIVE healthy touch. 
One look at the world right now and you could probably get behind me on the fact that people are not being touched as often (in some cases that is actually a good thing, but I’m referring to healthy touch here).
Children are being deprived of healthy touch and studies have shown touch can decrease stress, allow the immune system to work the way it should, and can calm bodily organs such as blood pressure and heart rate. 
We’re seeing high cases of depression, anxiety, suicide rates, stress continually on the rise, because of what?! Exposure to things that are not healthy.
-Foods containing artificial ingredients.
-Screen time filled with artificial facts and information.
-Human connection which scary enough can contain artificial touch. Meaning harsh, selfish touch. And we all need real, loving, genuine, quality food, screen time, and touch. 
I have been struggling to even mention “touch” because I never want it to come off in the wrong way. I am definitely sensitive to the fact that there are a lot of negative connotations out there when it comes to touch, but I think that’s where the fear is seeping in. The fear of touching being inappropriate, the rise of sitting in front of screens and other technology and the need for busy-ness, is all putting a halt on healthy touch. HEALTHY being the key word. It is so important!

Any kind of touch; a handshake, pat on the back, high five, hug, all are recognized by the brain which then releases oxytocin. That’s the feel good, happy hormone. Who doesn't need more of this?
Touch is vital for mental, emotional, and physical health and I can’t shake the fact that it falls into the spiritual category as well. 
Our hearts, although aren’t literally touched, are touched in a sense of hearing a sweet story, seeing a kind gesture, feeling loved and a sense of belonging. Interestingly enough, after feeling moved emotionally, we use the phrase “well that just touched my heart.”
Touch is a positive thing. Naturally! And when it’s not, that’s when we need to change. We need to teach. We need to show those around us, and the next generation that safe touch is real, healthy and necessary. Safe touch exists. 

Tips from the massage therapist:

ASK PERMISSION
The next time you see a loved one in distress, ask if you can offer them a shoulder rub.
BE INTENTIONAL
Simply place your loving hands upon their shoulders as they sit in front of you.
Rest your hands comfortably and let the heat from your hands transfer to their shoulders. 
Hold for 1-3 minutes.
TRANSFER POSITIVE ENERGY
​Using light pressure, graze your hands from the neck, down and off the shoulders in a flowy motion. 
Go slow.
Repeat 3, 7, or 12 times. 


​

Over the years I've really had to retrain this mindset of "all or nothing" in multiple areas of my life. 

Here's some examples of what I mean by "all or nothing": 
Clean the WHOLE bathroom floor to ceiling, or nothing at all. 
Make FULL dinners, with 2 sides and a dessert, or nothing at all. 
Make some kind of connection with ALL my friends and family, or no-one at all. 
Get a FULL body workout, or nothing at all. 
Read the WHOLE book, or nothing at all. 

You get the point right?

The reason this was such a damper on my life was because there were very few times I would achieve the "ALL".
I'm human, it happens. But for some reason I had this BIG expectation for myself to get it ALL done or it wasn't even worth doing. 
What an unhealthy way to live! There's so much to be said about that 10% and how it's helpful overtime. 
Of course setting expectations are good, and having goals (long and short term) are exceptional! But real life sets in and we have to give ourselves a break or the "ALL" will eventually break us.

Leaving this old mindset behind has given me SUCH freedom just in the fact that nobody is marking my every move and saying "OPE, wrong, you missed this so it doesn't count"
OF COURSE IT COUNTS!
Even the little things that seem mundane because overtime, they will turn into long term things! 
 
Again, it may take time. 
It probably WILL take time. 

But in the end, that freedom of less judgement on yourself for not getting it perfect, is such a delight! 

Right now, I'm working on computer stuff and OHHHH let me tell you that is NOT where I love spending my time. It's so frustrating and as much as I'd like to RUN to get to my destination, I'm learning to find satisfaction in the walk.
Little by little I know I'll figure things out. Just like I figured out a good rhythm with other things in life. 
I did what I could and I allowed myself grace in the process and before you knew it, I was in a habit. 

Every day is different. That's why it's important to become self aware. We might have more energy one week, we might have more things on our plates the next. It's a good habit to get into cleaning, prepping, sorting, etc, but it's even more so, to understand ourselves and simply allow what is. Focus on what we can do instead of what we want to do.
Somedays I've surprised myself with setting expectations and then going above and beyond that! It's a great feeling. But there's also times where I've set expectations and haven't even gotten close to meeting them. But I valued the effort I put in! 

One last thing to end on: Find gratitude in what you can do and how far you've already come! You'll see such beauty in your intentional living and will have the momentum to keep going when gratitude is in your heart. 

Good luck with finding your way to that AMAZING middle ground between ALL and NOTHING. It's a great place to be. 



​

Since massage school in 2010, I have always loved the concept of being mindful of your body! That is what the essence of my whole business and work is all about. Being aware of your body. I have LOVED helping those who take time for themselves and understand that we work together as a team to find that beautiful awareness of your body and what you need to further your journey in wellness. 

It's been said, that a plumber's sink always has the leak. Meaning, whatever job/career you're in, you put everyone else first before taking care of yourself!
I remember thinking I was NOT going to be put into that category when I first heard that. I did not want to be one of those massage therapists that told people getting a monthly massage was good for them, and then not taking my own advice. I feel like I have done a pretty good job when it comes to that. I receive massages regularly as I know the benefits and I do my best at stretching, drinking water, taking note of what I put in my body, lowering my stress, and all the other things I tell my clients. 

Never at a time am I MORE in tune with my body as I am when pregnant. Each pregnancy for me, brings me closer to alignment with myself. I take even more precautions and strive a little extra to make sure I'm doing all that I can. I feel VERY grateful for my body's ability to do so as I have struggled with infertility and have worked with many who struggle with it also. 
As I enter into the 2nd trimester with baby number FOUR (that still is a bit of a shock but we're excited) I can't help but to think of how much is on my plate. 
Being a mom of 3, trying to keep the house functioning, taking time for massage clients,  all while still holding onto my dear motto of being body aware, is just a lot! Throughout all of my pregnancies, I've chosen to continue to provide massage to my wonderful clients. It's a bit more difficult (with belly in the way) but has been manageable. 
This time around, I have chosen to take a step back from doing massages while I focus on growing our little family. 
I LOVE contributing to helping those help themselves and connecting with clients is one of my favorite things to do, so making this decision was not easy! I am so grateful for the understanding and supportive group of dear clients, friends and family.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers as I focus on my wellness journey. PLEASE keep in touch and know that I am sending prayers for you as well. 

I have made a plan/theme for every day of the week.
Monday-Organize
Tuesday-Release
Wednesday-Body
Thursday-Gratitude
Friday-Home
Saturday-Presence
Sunday-Prepare

Obviously I have gone more in depth each day on what I do specifically but this is just a quick overview. I share, because it has been one of the greatest things I have done for myself. It keeps me on track, it fills me with purpose. 
Another thing, is that I give myself grace during my week. If something doesn't happen, I move on! I don't stew over it and I definitely don't get down on myself. 
I set goals, I have a plan, and I roll with it all while doing other things I have set for myself in the day that I do everyday. 
But really, it's all about intention. The night before, I look at the day ahead and I move forward with faith. I intently do the best that I can and when I feel lost, I simply come back to this plan and something sparks my creativity!

Today is Wednesday... (not the day that I write usually) but it's my health, and body day. I usually workout, intentionally eat healthier, go grocery shopping or prep for food/snacks for my family and think positively! 

But I really wanted to focus on my health here. Something that I tell people often is to keep a health journal. I understand it's easier said than done. I haven't done one since I was pregnant. BUT, it is SOO helpful and it something I will be incorporating again. It's as simple as writing down 4 things.
*Major things you ate. Morning, midday, evening.
*Overall mental feeling (clarity, foggy, depressed, overwhelmed, optimistic, cheerful, etc)
*Any exercise done. (intentional breathing, cardio, lifting, movement of ANY kind)
*Something you'd like to thank your body for. 

Taking time for your health doesn't have to be a hard thing, it doesn't even need to be a big thing. It just has to be a THING, especially if there is something that you want to improve. Body awareness has always been the root of massages when I receive them and give them. But it doesn't just happen when you get a massage. It happens when you THINK. 
Yes, when you THINK. Body, mind, spirit. It's all connected and thinking positively will effect how you physically perform your everyday tasks, and life in general! 

Take a moment here to think of all that your body has done for you. Consciously, and unconsciously.
Breathe in. 
Breathe out.
Smile.   

Out to eat, at the end of your meal, after salad, main meal, dessert, the dishes get stacked ready for bussing.
It gave me a clear visual. How our world has become "stacked". Stacked with sources upon sources. Our minds filled with people's leftovers and stuff we don't even really need or want. And we don't clear it because we've trained ourselves to not take care of it. Conveniences are becoming the normal. It's not convenient to take care of it, and eventually someone else will. Leaves us in a position of powerlessness. 
Our minds aren't connecting the dots, because MINDS aren't connecting. Our bodies aren't connecting to our minds because our bodies are in the world, while our minds are made up of... star stuff! Something more! We feel it and know it. The world brings us a small piece of mind- a thought- but our soul, that space we know as connection, brings us peace of mind. Whether that be connection to a higher power, to someone, to something. Nothing in this world however, no matter how much it bombards us, no matter how "stacked" our stuff gets, can block us from reaching, seeing, or listening to what we truly want. 
You've got to look through your own stack and see what's left, see what needs cleared.
Your body is moving forward.
Your mind is moving forward.
But your body can only do what your mind allows.
Did you not willingly come to the table to sync the two together?
Stack up the right things in your life, so that it can help you reach a higher level, instead of going with the flow and being served something you did not want. 

It's been a while since I gave an update. I've been adjusting to being a mom of 3! Happy to announce the birth of our son James Jared weighing in at 8 lbs 5 oz. He was born May 3rd and we are in love with our healthy chunky little man. I was successful in having a natural birth for the third time and only labored for about 6 hours! I believe fully that our bodies were made to do incredible things and I am reminded time and time again that each and every human being is a miracle!
We are doing well and I love being home raising my children.

As I have been experiencing soreness, muscle weakness, and fatigue in these last few weeks, I can't help but to think of my clients! I hope everyone is doing well and staying healthy especially at this time! In my last post I gave a referral and would love to hear from you. You can text or email to let me know the updates on YOU. 
I feel the pull to continue to give clients what I can at this time, and I hope gathering information will serve you in some form.​ I think what I will start doing is more blog posts giving helpful information, tips and tricks, thoughts and interesting facts on natural health concerning both mind and body. 
I also realize that reading something valuable, may not be AS valuable as putting in the effort to doing the work. So as I give tips throughout my blog posts, I encourage you to be consciously active! Be a conscious creator of the life you want. 

I sure am grateful for following my instincts to becoming a massage therapist. I want to share a beautiful written article that I have kept with me since massage school and I think there's something in it perhaps you can take into your own life.

All I really need to know I learned in Massage School
Be punctual, prepared, and keep good notes. Wash your hands. When you are ready, the perfect teacher will arrive. Knowledge of Greek and Latin prefixes is beneficial. Don’t panic, tests are for your own growth – if you falter you can, and will, repeat the lesson. Nurture your Self. Strength lies in balance. Receive massage. Eat your vegetables. Drink plenty of water. Be cheerful. Exercise daily. “Ohm,” “Aah,” or just be still. Wear comfortable shoes.

Create a peaceful environment. Nourish the senses: aromatic candles, meditative music, and cotton flannel sheets. Every body is sacred. Be reverent. Warm your hands. Warm the room. Warm your heart. Talk less, listen more. Live open-minded. Beware of your prejudices. Refuse gossip. Value confidentiality. Be honest. Presence and intention are paramount. Wholeheartedly attend the moment. The lightest touch can heal.

Transition with ease and grace. Spirit each move. Individual responses vary. Deep pressure. Gentle rocking. Embrace the difference. Stretch. Don’t pretend to be an expert on that which you are not. Never force. Never rush. “How’s the pressure?” Care. Pain is subjective. Laughter is healing, so are tears. The body remembers. It’s never too late to ice it. Forgive. Forgive yourself.

Practice. Practice. Practice. Challenge rules. Welcome possibilities. There is no routine. Let it flow. Create. Dance. Don’t forget to breathe. Deeply. Relax. Shoulders down. Knees loose. Move from your center. T rust intuition. The mind thinks, the heart knows. Believe in others. Believe in yourself and in your profession. Believe in a force greater than yourself.
Be gentle, be strong, be willing and the healing power of creation will flow through to benefit all you touch. From atom to universe, we are whole and all are connected. Honor all. Judge no one. Offer freely to those in need. Continue to learn. Share your knowledge. Respect. Expect respect. Strive to grow, every day. Be open to prosperity. Accept tips. Be grateful. Follow up and follow through. Success walks a determined step. Clarify aspirations. The path will clear. Dream specifics. Doors will open. Dream big. Thoughts manifest. Never give up. Never lose hope. And above all else, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE.
- Jo Sodona



Wish you all the best! Thanks for being apart of my journey. 
Keep in touch, 
Carlicia 

I am beyond grateful for my clients both new and that have been with me since 2011! That come regularly and that come every once in a while. I cannot thank you enough for your continued support and trust in my hands and knowledge. As you may all know, the birth of my 3rd child will be arriving soon and as much as I love my chosen career as a massage therapist, I can't help but to express that I love my family and my roll as a mother and wife more. 
I believe one day I will return to serve and aid in your pain and stress relief as I truly love the art of massage. However, I do not know when that time will be so please stay tuned through my texting service and feel free to text me personally for any questions/concerns/thoughts and just to say hi! I have developed a connection with each and every one of you and I am grateful to be apart of your busy lives! 




A few other tips:

• Drink water! ​This is extremely important especially at this time. You should be drinking half your body weight in ounces.
• Stretch! Such a simple and proven method to help keep muscles pliable and prevent injuries. At least 30 seconds hold in a stretch is all that is needed to get a good amount of blood flow to muscles. 
• Stay body aware! Get to know your body, how it functions, what makes it feel good or bad, keep a journal to figure out what helps and what doesn't. 
• Keep getting massages! As you are well aware, massage has MANY benefits and not only PHYSICALLY, but EMOTIONALLY, MENTALLY, and for some SPIRITUALLY. Continue to practice awareness in all of these aspects. 
• Stress less! Find the joy in this world! It's all around you and I hope and pray through continuous practice in your own life and circumstances, that you will see and feel the good. :)