C U S T O M M A N D A L A P A I N T I N G S
b y R u t h i e C i s s e
The mandala is a map for
spiritual transformation.
- Tsultrim Allione
Each person's life is like a mandala -
a vast, limitless circle. We stand in the
center of our own circle, and
everything we see, hear, and think
forms the mandala of our life."
- Pema Chodron
I absolutely love it! I am taking it all in and will be processing and admiring it for years to come and throughout the rest of my life. I have to read all of the information in the blessing note again and again. There's so much to absorb. Thank you for the helpful tips and suggestions. You captured my essence in such a magnificent way, Ruthie! It inspires me greatly to pursue my dreams and passion and to be soft with myself in the adventure. Your work is exquisite, captivating, and absolutely gorgeous! The colors are amazing. I'm so grateful for this gift of yours.
Shiatsu Therapy
What is Shiatsu?
Meaning "finger pressure", Shiatsu is the art of holistically balancing body, mind, and spirit through a system of Japanese bodywork based on the same principles as acupuncture (although needles are not used). Gentle joint rotations and stretches are included along with recommendations to balance sleeping, breathing, digestion, joint/muscle health, and overall happiness and well-being.
How it Works
Shiatsu is based on ancient Eastern philosophies that view the body as having energy pathways, or rivers, called "meridians", that carry our vital life force, or "chi", throughout the body. Just as the 5 Elements of Metal, Water, Earth, Wood, and Fire make up the Earth around us, so too do they govern the make-up of our bodies; when in balance, the chi flows easily and we are in a state of good health physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. When symptoms arise, it can mean that there is a blockage, stagnation, or imbalance similar to a mudslide, flood, hurricane, or fire. A Shiatsu session can help bring these discomforts back into balance.
What to Expect in a Session
The practitioner asks questions to get a feel for the client's health in relation to overall happiness, sleeping, breathing, digestion, joint or muscle issues. The session is given on a floor futon with the practitioner diagnosing which meridans are full or empty and then customizing a unique session based on balancing the specific needs of each client. Applying gentle or firm pressure with 2 hands to alleviate the intense pressure often felt when only holding one point, this method of Shiatsu is based on the Ohashiatsu technique. By essentially blocking the flow through pressure, and then releasing, repeating along each meridian line, it in turn greatly increases the flow of chi, blood, and lymph through the body, flushing out toxins while allowing the nervous system to rest and recover. Using a push/pull technique for joint rotations and stretches, elements of ju-jitsu, crawling, thumbs, knees, and elbows, the practitioner moves through a session like a fluid, graceful dance. The client is always fully clothed in stretchable clothing, which can make those who are body conscious feel more comfortable. Essential oils may be applied to the neck. Avoiding caffeine and refraining from eating for 45 minutes prior to a session can make it more effective. Leaving 10 minutes to be still and rest after the session can integrate the session, along with drinking plenty of water.
Benefits
We live in a culture that is becoming increasingly isolated and technology-oriented. Human touch is vital for the health of a newborn to thrive, and we often forget how important it is for our well-being to maintain human connection as we age. Shiatsu provides a safe space to unwind, unplug, express thoughts and emotions freely, rest, rejuvenate, balance, release, detox, and replenish. Below are some specific imbalances that shiatsu can help alleviate:
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Neck and Shoulder Pain
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Lower Back and Sciatic Pain
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Muscle Cramps and Soreness
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Digestive and Bowel Issues
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PMS, Pre and Postnatal Symptoms
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Over-worry and Stress
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Joint Stiffness and Arthritis
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Insomnia
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Shallow Breathing
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Psychological Issues
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Emotional Wounding and Trauma
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Anxiety and Depression
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Eating Disorders