Ocean Safety Tips

Ocean Safely on the North Shore of Oahu

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The North Shore of Oahu is a world-renowned destination for surfers. With its stunning beaches and world-class waves, it's no wonder that surfers from all over the globe flock to this idyllic spot. However, surfing on the North Shore can be dangerous, even for experienced surfers. 

Here are a few tips to help you surf safely on the North Shore:

• Know the surf conditions. The waves on the North Shore can be huge and powerful, and they can change quickly. If you're not sure what the surf conditions are like, talk to a local surfer or check the surf report before you go out. 
• Surf with a buddy. It's always safer to surf with a friend or family member. If you get into trouble, they can help you get back to shore. 
• Be aware of the currents. The currents on the North Shore can be strong, and they can carry you away from shore. If you get caught in a current, don't try to fight it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you can get out of the current. 
• Wear a leash. A leash will help you stay connected to your board if you wipe out. 
• Be prepared for anything. Even if you're an experienced surfer, things can go wrong when you're out in the water. Be prepared for anything by bringing a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and a hat.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your surfing experience on the North Shore is a safe and enjoyable one.

Additional tips

• Stay hydrated. The sun can be very strong on the North Shore, so it's important to stay hydrated. Bring plenty of water with you, and drink it often.

• Wear sunscreen. The sun's rays are very strong on the North Shore, so it's important to wear sunscreen. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours.

• Wear a hat. A hat will help protect your face and neck from the sun.

• Be respectful of the locals. The North Shore is a popular destination for surfers, but it's also a home to many locals. Be respectful of the locals by following their rules and regulations.

• Don't litter. The North Shore is a beautiful place, so don't litter. Take your trash with you when you leave.

When swimming in Hawaii, remember the following safety tips

1. Swim only at beaches with lifeguards. The North Shore is home to some of the most dangerous beaches in the world, and even the most experienced swimmers can get into trouble. If you're not sure whether a beach is safe, ask a lifeguard.

2. Be aware of the surf conditions. The waves on the North Shore can be huge, and they can change quickly. If you're not comfortable swimming in big waves, stay out of the water.

3. Swim with a buddy. It's always safer to swim with a friend or family member. If you get into trouble, they can help you get back to shore.

4. Wear a life jacket. If you're not a strong swimmer, a life jacket can help you stay afloat.

5. Be aware of the currents. The currents on the North Shore can be strong, and they can carry you away from shore. If you get caught in a current, don't try to fight it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore until you can get out of the current.

6. Stay out of the water during high surf. The waves on the North Shore are especially dangerous during high surf. If you see a red flag flying, stay out of the water.

7. Listen to the lifeguards. The lifeguards on the North Shore are there to keep you safe. If they tell you to do something, do it.

8. Respect the ocean. The ocean is a powerful force, and it can be dangerous. Don't underestimate its power.

By following these tips, you can stay safe on the beaches on the North Shore of Oahu.

How to give a reflexology foot massage

 

Reflexology is a type of massage that uses pressure to stimulate specific points on the feet. These points correspond to different parts of the body, and when they are stimulated, they can help to relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation.

 

Image by Ryan Hoyme via Pixabay

If you're interested in giving a reflexology foot massage, there are a few things you'll need to do to prepare. First, you'll need to find a comfortable place to give the massage. A bed or a chair will work well. You'll also need to have some massage oil or lotion on hand.

 

Once you're prepared, you can start by massaging the soles of the feet. Use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure to the reflex points. You can also use your fingers to apply pressure. As you massage, be sure to focus on the areas around the toes, the arches, and the heels.

 

After you've massaged the soles of the feet, you can move on to the tops of the feet. Use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure to the reflex points on the top of the feet. You can also use your fingers to apply pressure. As you massage, be sure to focus on the areas around the ankles, the arches, and the toes.

 

Once you've massaged both the soles and the tops of the feet, you can finish by massaging the heels. Use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure to the reflex points on the heels. You can also use your fingers to apply pressure. As you massage, be sure to focus on the areas around the ankles, the arches, and the toes.

 

Here are the steps on how to give a reflexology massage:

1. Prepare your tools. You will need a comfortable chair or bench, a pillow, and a blanket. You may also want to use a massage oil or lotion.
2. Wash your hands. It is important to wash your hands before and after giving a reflexology massage.
3. Relax the recipient. Ask the recipient to sit in a comfortable position and close their eyes. You may want to play some calming music or dim the lights.
4. Start with the feet. Sit at the foot of the recipient's chair or bench and place your hands on the top of their feet. Use your thumbs to apply gentle pressure to the areas between the bones, known as the reflex points.
5. Work your way up the legs. Continue to apply pressure to the reflex points as you work your way up the legs. You can use your fingers or thumbs to apply pressure.
6. Work on the hands. When you reach the hands, apply pressure to the reflex points on the back of the hands. You can also use your fingers to apply pressure to the webs between the fingers.
7. Finish with the head. When you reach the head, apply pressure to the reflex points on the scalp. You can also use your fingers to apply pressure to the temples and forehead.
8. Ask the recipient how they feel. After you are finished, ask the recipient how they feel. They may feel relaxed and refreshed.
9. Clean up. After you are finished, clean up any oils or lotions that you may have used.

Here are some tips for giving a reflexology massage:

• Use gentle pressure. You should use gentle pressure when applying pressure to the reflex points. Too much pressure can be painful.
• Be patient. It may take some time for the recipient to feel the benefits of the massage. Be patient and continue to apply pressure to the reflex points.
• Listen to your body. If you feel tired or sore, take a break. You can always come back to the massage later.
• Have fun! Reflexology can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both you and the recipient.

 

After you've finished massaging the feet, you can ask the recipient how they feel. They may feel relaxed and refreshed. If you're interested in learning more about reflexology, there are many resources available online and in libraries.

 

Here are some benefits of reflexology foot massage:

• Relaxation: Reflexology can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Pain relief: Reflexology can help to relieve pain in the feet, legs, and back.
• Improved circulation: Reflexology can help to improve circulation throughout the body.
• Improved sleep: Reflexology can help to improve sleep quality.
• Increased energy: Reflexology can help to increase energy levels.
• Improved overall health: Reflexology can help to improve overall health and well-being.

 

If you're looking for a way to relax and improve your health, reflexology foot massage is a great option. With a little practice, you can learn to give a reflexology foot massage that will benefit both you and the recipient.

How to give your partner a massage

 

Image by mohamed_hassan via Pixabay

Giving a massage is a great way to show someone you care. It can also be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both you and the recipient.

If you're thinking about giving a massage, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you'll need to decide what kind of massage you want to give. There are many different types of massages, each with its own benefits.

Once you've decided on the type of massage, you'll need to gather some supplies. You'll need a massage table, massage oil, and a towel. You may also want to use a pillow or a rolled-up towel to support the recipient's head and neck.

Now it's time to start the massage. Start by warming up the muscles on the recipient's back. You can do this by gently rubbing the muscles in a circular motion.

Once the muscles are warmed up, you can start applying pressure. The amount of pressure you apply will depend on the recipient's preferences. Start with light pressure and gradually increase as needed.

As you massage, be sure to pay attention to the recipient's body language. If they seem to be in pain, stop and adjust the pressure.

After a few minutes, you can start to focus on the recipient's neck. The neck is a particularly sensitive area, so be gentle. Use your fingertips to apply light pressure, working your way around the hairline.

Finish with a light touch. Use your fingertips to gently massage the skin on the neck. This will help to relax the muscles and leave the skin feeling soft and smooth.

After the massage, ask the recipient how they are feeling. They may feel relaxed, refreshed, or even energized.

Giving a massage is a great way to show someone you care. It can also be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both you and the recipient. If you're thinking about giving a massage, be sure to follow these tips.

1. Types of massages

There are many different types of massages, each with its own benefits. Some popular types of massages include:

• Swedish massage: This is a general massage that is designed to relax the muscles and improve circulation.
• Deep tissue massage: This type of massage uses deeper pressure to release tension in the muscles and connective tissue.
• Sports massage: This type of massage is designed to help athletes recover from injuries and improve their performance.
• Prenatal massage: This type of massage is designed to help pregnant women relax and prepare for childbirth.
• Reflexology: This type of massage uses pressure on specific points on the feet to stimulate different areas of the body.

2. Supplies

When giving a massage, you will need the following supplies:

• A massage table
• Massage oil
• A towel
• A pillow or a rolled-up towel

3. How to give a massage

Here are the steps on how to give a massage:

1. Warm up the muscles. Start by warming up the muscles on the recipient's back. You can do this by gently rubbing the muscles in a circular motion.
2. Apply pressure. The amount of pressure you apply will depend on the recipient's preferences. Start with light pressure and gradually increase as needed.
3. Pay attention to the recipient's body language. If they seem to be in pain, stop and adjust the pressure.
4. Focus on the recipient's neck. The neck is a particularly sensitive area, so be gentle. Use your fingertips to apply light pressure, working your way around the hairline.
5. Finish with a light touch. Use your fingertips to gently massage the skin on the neck. This will help to relax the muscles and leave the skin feeling soft and smooth.

4. Benefits of massages

There are many benefits to receiving a massage, including:

• Relaxation
• Stress relief
• Pain relief
• Improved circulation
• Improved flexibility
• Improved sleep
• Increased energy levels
• Better skin health
• Improved mental health

5. Safety tips

When giving a massage, it is important to follow these safety tips:

• Always ask the recipient's permission before giving a massage.
• If the recipient is pregnant or has any health conditions, be sure to consult with a doctor before giving a massage.
• Be gentle when applying pressure.
• Avoid applying pressure to the spine or other sensitive areas.
• Stop the massage if the recipient feels any pain.

6. How to find a massage therapist

If you are looking for a professional massage therapist, you can find one by searching online or in the phone book. You can also ask your doctor or your friends for recommendations.

Breathwork Techniques: Alternate Nostril Breathing

 

Image by John Hain via Pixabay

The History of Alternate Nostril Breathing

Alternate nostril breathing (ANB), also known as nadi shodhana, is a yogic breathing technique that has been practiced for centuries. It is a simple yet powerful way to calm the mind and body, and it can be used to reduce stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

The history of ANB is long and winding. It has been used in ancient Indian texts such as the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, and it is also mentioned in the Bible. In the West, ANB first became popular in the 1960s, when it was introduced by Leonard Orr, a pioneer of rebirthing breathwork.

Orr discovered ANB while experimenting with different breathing patterns. He found that it helped to calm his mind and body, and he began to teach it to others. ANB quickly became popular among yogis and meditators, and it has since been adopted by people of all backgrounds.

The Benefits of Alternate Nostril Breathing

There are many benefits to ANB. It can help to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve sleep
• Boost energy levels
• Improve concentration
• Increase self-awareness
• Improve overall well-being

ANB works by balancing the energy in the body. When you breathe through alternate nostrils, you are essentially stimulating the two sides of your brain and the two hemispheres of your nervous system. This can help to improve your mood, reduce stress, and improve your overall health.

How to Do Alternate Nostril Breathing

There are many different ways to do ANB, but the basic technique is as follows:

1. Sit in a comfortable position with your legs crossed.
2. Place your right hand on your right knee.
3. Use your left thumb to close your left nostril.
4. Inhale slowly and deeply through your right nostril.
5. Exhale slowly and completely through your left nostril.
6. Repeat steps 3-5, but this time use your right thumb to close your right nostril.
7. Continue this pattern for 5-10 minutes, or until you feel relaxed and calm.

If you are new to ANB, you may find it helpful to use a timer to help you keep track of the time. You can also use a finger or a cotton ball to block your nostrils if you don't have a thumb.

Conclusion

Alternate nostril breathing is a simple yet powerful way to improve your health and well-being. If you are looking for a way to reduce stress, improve sleep, or boost your energy levels, ANB is a great option to try.

The Five Tibetan Exercises

The Five Tibetan Exercises are a series of five exercises that are said to be beneficial for the mind, body, and soul. The exercises are said to be easy to do and can be done anywhere. The Five Tibetan Exercises were popularized in America by Peter Kelder. 

Kelder was a student of Tibetan Buddhism and he learned the exercises from his teacher, Sogyal Rinpoche. Kelder wrote a book about the exercises called "The Five Tibetan Rites" and it became a bestseller, introducing this simple set of exercises to people around the world.

Photo by Laura Juarez via Pixbay

Kelder's book helped to introduce the Five Tibetan Exercises to a wider audience and they have become a popular form of exercise for people of all ages. The exercises are said to be beneficial for a variety of reasons, including improving flexibility, increasing strength, boosting energy levels, relieving stress, and improving circulation.

The Five Tibetan Rites

1. Spining

Stand with your feet together and your arms stretched horizontally at shoulder height. Spin clockwise, with your arms outstretched and your head held high. As you spin, visualize the energy in your body swirling around and becoming more vibrant.

2. Leg raises

Lie on your back with your arms at your sides, palms down. Raise your legs straight up into the air, keeping your knees straight. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower your legs back down.

3. Dynamic Camel

Come to a kneeling position. As you inhale, arch your spine, slide your hands down the back of your thighs and tip the head slightly back. Next, allow the body to come slowly down to a 'sagging' position. Bring the head up, causing it to be drawn as far back as possible.

4. Moving tabletop

Come into a seated position with your legs straight in front of you. Place your hands flat on the floor in front of your hips. As you inhale, lift your hips up off the floor, bringing your body into a straight line from your head to your heels. As you exhale, lower your hips back down to the floor.

5. Downward Dog to Upward Dog

Come into a Downward Facing Dog pose, pressing your hands into the floor and lifting your hips up and back. As you exhale, bend your knees and slowly lower your body down to the floor into a Push-up position. As you inhale, lift your body back up into a Downward Facing Dog pose.

The Five Tibetan Exercises are said to be beneficial for a variety of reasons, including:

• Improving flexibility

• Increasing strength

• Boosting energy levels

• Relieving stress

• Improving circulation

• Promoting overall well-being

If you are new to the Five Tibetan Exercises, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. You should also listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain.

Sources - Learn more

1. www.ekhartyoga.com/articles/practice/5-tibetan-rites

2. www.scribd.com/document/74748864/Eye-of-Revelation-The-1939-by-Peter-Kelder

3. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Tibetan_Rites

Breathwork Basics to Lower Blood Pressure

Breathwork is something that has helped me reduce stress and improve my overall health during hard times. Read on to learn more about the basics and stay tuned for more in-depth posts to come!

How to Use Breathwork to Lower Blood Pressure

Breathwork is a simple, yet powerful way to lower blood pressure. It can be done anywhere, anytime, and doesn't require any special equipment.

There are many different types of breathwork, but they all involve focusing on your breath and controlling your breathing pattern. Some common breathwork techniques include:

• Diaphragmatic breathing: This is the most common type of breathwork. It involves inhaling slowly and deeply through your nose, expanding your diaphragm (the muscle below your lungs) as you do so. As you exhale, relax your diaphragm and let your breath out slowly.
• Alternate nostril breathing: This technique involves inhaling through one nostril and exhaling through the other. You can do this by blocking one nostril with your finger or thumb.
• Breath counting: This technique involves counting your breaths as you inhale and exhale. You can start by counting to four, and gradually increase the number as you become more comfortable.

There are many benefits to practicing breathwork, including:

• Lower blood pressure: Breathwork can help to lower blood pressure by reducing stress and anxiety.
• Improved sleep: Breathwork can help to improve sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety.
• Increased energy levels: Breathwork can help to increase energy levels by improving circulation and oxygenation.
• Reduced pain: Breathwork can help to reduce pain by reducing stress and anxiety.
• Improved mood: Breathwork can help to improve mood by reducing stress and anxiety.

If you are looking for a simple and effective way to lower your blood pressure, breathwork is a great option. There are many different techniques that you can use, so find one that works for you and stick with it.

How to Start Breathwork

If you're new to breathwork, there are a few things you can do to get started:

1. Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. You can do breathwork anywhere, but it's helpful to find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed.
2. Close your eyes and relax your body. Take a few deep breaths to calm your mind and body.
3. Choose a breathwork technique. There are many different techniques that you can use, so find one that works for you.
4. Follow the instructions. Once you've chosen a technique, follow the instructions carefully.
5. Be patient. It takes time to learn breathwork and see results. Be patient and keep practicing.

Tips for Breathwork

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of breathwork:

• Practice regularly. The more you practice breathwork, the more benefits you will experience. Try to practice for at least 10 minutes each day.
• Find a technique that works for you. There are many different breathwork techniques, so find one that works for you and stick with it.
• Be patient. It takes time to learn breathwork and see results. Be patient and keep practicing.
• Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop practicing and take a break. You can always start again later.
• Enjoy the experience. Breathwork can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Relax and let the benefits flow.

Pan Fried Shoyu Sesame Salmon

This recipe is a family favorite and can be modified to be mild or spicy. The savory sauce can also be used to sauté vegetables such as bok choy or cabbage. The best thing about this dish is that it is quick and easy to prepare. Cut down on sodium by preparing a half-batch of sauce.

Shoyu Sesame Salmon

Ingredients

2-4 salmon filets

4 tbsp flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

For the sauce

8 cloves minced garlic

4 tbsp shoyu

4 tbsp rice wine

4 tbsp water

up to 2 tsp chili pepper flakes (or hot sauce to taste)

2 tsp sugar

2 tsp vinegar

2 tsp sesame oil

To prepare

• Remove salmon skin. (Optional: pan-fry in a separate skillet with oil, salt, and pepper until crisp).
• Pat dry filet and cover with salt and pepper.
• Coat each filet on all sides with flour.
• Mix sauce ingredients and set aside

To cook

• Heat oil and brown the filets for a few minutes on each side.
• Add the garlic and sauce mixture. Fry with lid on until well done.
• Optional: Add veggies to cook along side the salmon. The sauce will make them delicious!
• Serve hot with white rice. (Optional: garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onion).

Try this dish for your ohana! You won't regret it. This recipe has been a go-to for my family and works well with both fresh and frozen salmon. It is always worth the extra effort to fry up the salmon skin as well!

I hope you enjoy this recipe. 

Love,

Sonia

 

Home-based therapy

 We are now Achieve and Believe LLC

We offer home-based therapy by referral only. Updates will be coming soon!

Temporary schedule changes

 Aloha North Shore Ohana,

I am temporarily working a reduced schedule while I attend to personal issues and my family. I deeply appreciate your understanding and look forward to returning to work full-time as soon as possible.

In the meantime, consider booking with Priscilla at Mindful Massage Oahu. She is my office partner and gives amazing intuitive bodywork. You can find out more about her services at https://www.mindfulmassageoahu.com/.

Additionally, there are other spectacular therapists at Ka'ala Healing Arts. Visit our building's Facebook page or website for more information.

If you want to know when I return to work full-time, follow me on Facebook and Instagram. I will keep my pages updated with the latest information. Feel free to call or text me anytime as well. I am working on occasion and might be able to fit you in.

Mahalo for understanding!

Love,

Sonia

Safe access Oahu massage procedure

 Safe Access Oahu:

Starting September 13, 2021, the City and County of Honolulu's "Safe Access Oahu" program requires all guests 12 years of age and older to provide proof of an approved COVID-19 full vaccination or approved negative COVID-19 test taken within 48 hours of entry, along with valid picture identification, to enter businesses that offer recreational and entertainment commercial activities. 

Safe Access Oahu and Massage Therapy

We will need to verify proof of negative covid test or vaccination via text, email, QR code, or physical copy. Mahalo!

Although the language used in the mandate is vague, we are adopting this procedure along with many other massage therapists on Oahu. Once the state board of massage therapy and/or the Hawaii chapter of the AMTA makes an official statement, we may update our policy based on their assessment.

Sincerely,

Sonia Beauchamp

The Haleiwa Massage Muse

Tier 5: Oahu Massage Update

 Aloha everyone,

I've been getting a lot of anxious inquiries from excited clients regarding the One Oahu Tier 5 Reopening Strategy. However, Oahu has not quite reached the 70% vaccination threshold that is required to drop the mask mandate. It is speculated that this will happen soon, and once it does, massage clientele will no longer need to wear masks during services.

Stay tuned for more updates

Once the city and county of Honolulu reaches the 70% vaccine threshold, massage therapy will resume normal operations. 

Much love,

Sonia

The Haleiwa Massage Muse