Becoming a Certified Merciér Therapist

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It all stated in 2017 while I was still in massage school. I came across an introductory video about Merciér Therapy presented by Oak Works and hosted by Dr. Jennifer Merciér. I immediately researched all I could about Merciér Therapy and how I could become a certified practitioner of this amazing modality. The more I found out the more excited I became. I knew I had to get certified so I could offer help in an area that is often overlooked and misunderstood, pelvic pain and infertility. A year and a half later I was on my way traveling Chicago, and then to St Charles Il. A lovely suburb of Chicago right on the Fox River and freezing cold. It was in the single digits most of the time I was there. Me and four other therapists spent an amazing week at Jennifer Merciér office learning, sharing and working on each other. Dr. Merciér took the time we needed to understand the complexity of the female pelvis. Merciér Therapy addresses three unique aspects of female pelvic health. Pelvic pain, fertility, and C-section recovery. Each area has its own set of challenges. The commonality with each is first restoring mobility and blood flow to the organs in the pelvis. Merciér Therapy is preformed on the abdomen and back. The therapy is an external massage sequence that is non-invasive.

This was an experience I will always remember. We had time each day to enjoy a delightful lunch and sometimes dinner together. Each restraint offering their own wonderful creations. The entire experience was educational, enlightening, collaborative and fun. I am excited to bring this wonderful work to my practice. I gained new friends and a deeper understanding of the pelvis its structure and aliment. The pelvis is truly an amazing combination of complex structures comprising bones, tissues, muscles, organs and hormones. When these systems are working in harmony life is good, and you feel great. But when there is disharmony from injury, surgery, miss alignment, lack of blood flow, and pore posture life is a little harder and you feel out of sorts. Merciér Therapy helps to get your pelvis back into optimal alignment. By using beep and gentle visual massage I can break up facial adhesion in the abdomen and pelvis. Restore blood flow and promote lymph absorption.

I am so happy to be able to offer this amazing therapy in our practice. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have.

7 Habits for a Healthier Lifestyle

As health coaches and therapeutic body workers, we are constantly asked how to live a healthier lifestyle. We have put together this short video with some tips. Enjoy!

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

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What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a hands-on manual pumping and drainage technique used to keep the fluid levels of the body in balance while defending it against infection. The rhythmic touch activates lymph and fluid circulation, filters toxins, and stimulates the immune system.

It is a non-invasive approach that can be used to address local swelling or as a total body preventative healthcare approach for optimal wellness.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage assists the lymphatic system, as well as the cardiovascular, cerebrospinal, digestive, immune, musculoskeletal, and nervous systems.

Why is Lymphatic Drainage Massage Important?

The lymphatic system is an integral part of our immune system. It helps the body to defend against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The system supports immunity by making and storing lymphocytes that produce antibodies to defend the body against disease.

The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to our body's ability to detoxify and regenerate tissues. Lymph nodes function as cleansing stations to filter out germs and other harmful substances, and to recover crucial substances like water and proteins. It works tirelessly to remove waste products from our cells and to maintain the purity of the internal environment.

If the lymph circulation stagnates due to injury or infection, toxins accumulate and cellular metabolism is compromised. The result is an increase in acid and toxins within the tissues causing pain, tension, and edema. These need to be removed quickly from the interstitial fluid to promote proper tissue healing and restore pain-free movement.

Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage:

  • Stimulates the lymphatic system to work more efficiently

  • Promotes a healthy immune system

  • Removes stagnant fluid from tissues

  • Detoxifies the body

  • Reduces swelling & inflammation

  • Decreases acute and chronic pain

  • Decongests the body after surgery

  • Relieves fatigue

  • Decreases abnormal water retention

  • Induces deep relaxation to aid with insomnia and stress

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Symptom Relief For:

  • Acne

  • Auto-immune/chronic fatigue

  • Dental - tooth pain/TMJ

  • Edema/swelling

  • Headaches/migraines

  • IBS/digestion

  • Muscles spasms

  • Pre- and post-chemo

  • Pre- and post-surgery

  • Sinus congestion

  • Sprains & strains

  • Stress

What Should I Expect in an Appointment?

Lymphatic Drainage Massage will begin with an evaluation, which guides the treatment and helps to measure change and progress. The practitioner then uses gentle rhythmic mobilizations directly on the skin of the neck, head, arms, torso, and legs. These movements begin near the collar bones, where the lymphatic fluids return to the blood stream. From there, they move out to the extremities and back again along the lymphatic channels of the body located throughout the skin.

Sessions may vary from 30-90 minutes. Frequency of treatment is based upon the symptoms the client is experiencing. Clients will typically experience decreased pain and swelling along with an increase in relaxation, energy, and mobility.

Interview with Murray Area Chamber of Commerce

MACC and AJ Bodywork

I had the opportunity to sit down with Dave Hansen and Susan Bond from the Murray Area Chamber of Commerce to talk about what makes AJ Bodywork stand out from other massage businesses in the Salt Lake Valley. It was a lot of fun taping the interview, and Dave and Susan where great hosts. We spoke about CranioSacral therapy, lymphatic drainage, and health coaching. I hope you enjoy the interview. Thanks to MACC for providing such a great opportunity!

AJ Bodywork is dedicated to putting you first! We are not a “Massage Factory”. Right from the beginning you will notice we take our time with you and your appointment. We are not in a rush to get you in and out. Amy and Jeremy want to get to know you, and find out what combination of therapeutic bodywork will best address your needs and concerns. We listen, ask questions and make sure you get the individualized attention you need. Every therapeutic bodywork session is unique to the need of the client, not some pre-rehearsed oily flow massage that everyone gets. Our therapeutic bodywork focuses on the areas that you want worked on. Most of our therapies can be done while clothed and you can ask questions along the way or just rest your eyes and relax.

Here are some of the bodywork therapies that might benefit you.

  • CranioSacral Therapy

  • Lymphatic Drainage

  • Foot Zone Therapy

  • Myofascail Release

Juicing

Juicing is a part of the health journey we began together almost 5 years ago. We have been able to tell a difference in the way we feel and perform on days we drink juice and days we don’t. We are amazed by all the health benefits found in fruits and vegetables. Anti-aging, antibiotic, anti-cancer, anti-depressant, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and more. As we enjoyed a glass of freshly juiced produce this morning, we decided to start sharing some of our favorite recipes.

Self-Care Tips for your EYES

Eye conditions are often a reflection of the health of the body as a whole. We have had several clients come in this past month with concerns about eye strain and headaches. Here are some acupressure points found around the eye that can help alleviate the strain. You can practice them daily or use them when needed.

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We also recommend drinking lots of water, daily juicing, and managing your stress to help with eye strain.

Complimentary Massage

Complimentary massage with purchase at Athleta Fashion Place on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. Join AJ Bodywork in store from 10-12 and 2-4 each day. We can answer any questions you have about massage modalities as well.

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Still Point demonstration with Jack Canfield

CranioSacral Therapy for Longevity: Applications for the Treatment of Alzheimer's & Dementia

During one of Michael Morgan’s longevity classes, he demonstrates the application of the still point on Jack Canfield. The still point on the central nerves system is like rebooting your computer. The temporary build-up of cerebrospinal fluid then breaks free and is able to break up plaques and allow for freer movement in the brain.

Senior Expo - Oct 4th & 5th

Brighten Your Golden Years - Senior Expo

AJ Bodywork will be at booth #118 the the Senior Expo at Mountain America Expo Center located at 9575 S. State Street in Sandy, UT on Thursday Oct 4th & Friday Oct 5th from 9 am - 7 pm. We will be able to answer any questions on how CranioSacral Therapy, Lymphatic Drainage, and Foot Zone Therapy can help reduce pain, remove toxins, and balance your body. We will be offering massage by donation at the event, giving you a chance to win a free 60-minute massage in our raffle, and giving out free passes to try a Qigong class at our offices in Murray,

The Senior Expo will highlight Genealogy, Health Screenings, and Senior Care. You can get more information and register at www.seniorexpo.org. Health Screenings will include blood sugar, diabetes & sleep apnea pre-questionaries, bone density, dental & eye care, hearing & balance, skin sun damage check, and more.

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Fun Run & Yoga - Saturday Sept. 22

Fun Run & Yoga - It's Self-Care Awareness month. Join us for this free event Saturday Sept. 22 at 8am starting at The Clock Tower Building @ 308 E 4500 S in Murray, UT to walk/run to Murray Park. We will host a yoga class in the park. All ages welcome. Fun prizes.

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Self-Care Awareness Month

Self-Care whats in it for you?

Self-Care awareness month is a time to remind us to take care of ourselves. We tend to put others before ourselves, yet sometimes need to be reminded that we have more to offer when we take care of ourselves first. AJ Bodywork wants to help. We are offering 10% off first visit for bodywork all month. Try a new modality to see what it can do for you.

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10 Tips for Self Care from Evolve To Live

1. Put on your filter - don’t take everything in.
2. Don’t take ANYTHING personally.
3. Live in the moment - no regrets or expectations.
4. Perfect the art of saying “No.”
5. Give others an opportunity to grow (Butt Out!)
6. Practice BALANCE in all areas of your life.
7. Learn BOUNDARIES - strong fences make good neighbors.
8. Don’t let others or things define who you are.
9. Practice Clear & Direct Communication.
10. Have gratitude for ALL things - trust that everything is happening in Divine Order!

Four Generations attend Qigong Class

We have always said that there is something for everyone in Qigong. Qigong teaches us to notice the nuances of our body's energies. It can help at any age or shape. This week we had four generations of the Walker family (ages 17-95) join us for our class. Each move can be catered to what you are capable of. It assists with breath work, movement, and meditation. 

Qigong classes are taught at The Studio @ Cutting Edge every Tuesday at 6pm and every Wednesday at 2pm.

308 East 4500 South, Suite 210, Murray, UT  84107.

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