Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

By Cathy McCauley, LMT, NCTMB

A woman experiences gradual yet profound changes during pregnancy and the postpartum months following the birth experience. Pulling Down the Moon now offers massage packages to accompany you on your journey during this special time.

Beginning in the second trimester, or week 14, the Moon’s certified prenatal massage therapists provide safe, nurturing and supportive massage focused on your specific needs.  Treatments can melt away pregnancy pain and discomfort, increase relaxation and promote health and wellness for mother and baby.

Numerous studies show the benefit to both mothers and babies who receive prenatal massage. According to a 2010 study, research shows that women who received prenatal massage reported decreased depression, anxiety, and leg and back pain. Cortisol levels decreased, which decreased excessive fetal activity; the rate of baby prematurity was also lower.  In a study of labor pain, women who received massage therapy experienced significantly less pain, and their labors were on average three hours shorter with less need for medication (Field 2010).

After you’ve given birth, your body slowly returns to its non-pregnant state, typically taking six weeks. Massage during this postpartum period supports your recovery from giving birth, reduces pain caused by structural and muscular changes and encourages relaxation and stress relief.  The postpartum time can be an emotional experience, filled with joys and challenges.  Postpartum massage may contribute to healthy family development and reduce the likelihood that excessive musculoskeletal pain will distract from the pleasure of motherhood (Field 1996).

Experience the benefits of maternity massage. Purchase a 60-minute prenatal or postpartum massage three-pack for $340 and save $10 per massage. Schedule an appointment with one of the Moon’s certified prenatal and postpartum massage therapist in the Chicago Area (312-321-0004) or the DC Metro area (301-610-7755).

We look forward to accompanying you on your journey!

References:

Field, T, Grizzle N, Scafidi F, Shanberg S. Massage and relaxation therapies’ effect on depressed adolescent mothers. Adolescence. (1996, 31:903-911).

Field, T. (2010). Pregnancy and labor massage therapy. Expert Review of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 5, 177-181.

Osborn, C. (2012). Pre- and Perinatal Massage Therapy, A Comprehensive Guide to Prenatal, Labor and Postpartum Practice. Baltimore, MD. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

by Cathy McCauley, LMT

Discomfort, pain, bloating, gas. While broaching the topic of constipation may be embarrassing, it’s a common side effect of many fertility medications. What can you do when you’ve become more than a bit irregular during a fertility cycle? Try receiving abdominal massage.

A review of research from 1999 to the present shows that abdominal massage can be effective in the treatment of constipation. The review, published in a recent issue of the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (Volume 15, Issue 4 , Oct. 2011), states that scientific evidence over the past 12 years has demonstrated that “…abdominal massage can stimulate peristalsis, decrease colonic transit time, increase the frequency of bowel movements in constipated patients, and decrease the feelings of discomfort and pain that accompany it.”

So what does that all mean? Basically, abdominal massage can help get things moving so you can go more frequently and easily.

Many clients have never received abdominal massage and voice concern that it might be painful. Some clients cringe at the thought of having anyone come near their tummies while undergoing fertility treatments. Others feel embarrassed because of how their bellies look and fear being judged.

These feelings are valid and heard. Therefore, one of my therapeutic goals is to work with a client’s comfort on whatever level necessary to create positive change. I approach abdominal massage slowly and with care. Additionally, I honor each and every client who receives massage, and I truly believe this makes an enormous difference in how the client experiences the treatment.

In the Hawaiian tradition of Lomi Lomi, the belly holds our energetic and authentic being. It is referred to as the bowl of light. As we go through life we collect stones that block the light. By having our bowls cleansed on occasion we allow the white light to shine through so it can continue to guide us on our path of authentic living.

I’m happy to discuss the benefits of abdominal massage as well as Pulling Down the Moon’s four-part Fertility Enhancing Massage (FEM) series. Please contact me at cathleen@pullingdownthemoon.com.  I look forward to meeting you along your journey.

References:

Sinclair M. The use of abdominal massage to treat chronic constipation. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2011 Oct; 15(4):436-45.

Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

By Cathleen McCauley, LMT

At Pulling Down the Moon, we often advise clients on ways to clear the body of toxicity. Detoxification helps eliminate harmful substances in your body, boosts your body’s systems to function properly and optimally, and enhances your body’s ability to handle the toxins of every day life.

Pulling Down the Moon’s Cleanse the Body massage session is one way to assist you in detoxification. The session incorporates lymph drainage massage to stimulate the lymphatic system, purify the body and build immunity. It helps prepare your body before attempting pregnancy or beginning fertility treatments. And in between treatments or after a miscarriage, lymph massage helps to clear your body of old medications and hormones.

The Lymphatic System

I like to describe the lymphatic system as your body’s garbage collector and filtration system. A network of organs, nodes, ducts, and vessels, the lymphatic system produces a substance called lymph and transports it from tissues to the bloodstream. As lymph circulates the body, it absorbs fluid, waste products, dead cells, bacteria, viruses, fats, and proteins and promotes the production of immune cells. Working closely with the circulatory system, it delivers nutrients, oxygen and hormones to the body’s tissue.

When a client experiences poor health or stress, eats a poor diet, takes medications or is surrounded by chemicals, pollution or free radicals, the lymph system may become overtaxed, sluggish or stagnant. As toxic buildup occurs in your body, it may become difficult for your body to balance hormones, build immunity and create energy.

Lymphatic Drainage Technique

Unlike the circulatory system, which uses the heart to pump blood through the arteries and veins, the lymph system does not have a central pump. It does, however, have minor contractile ability with a “pulse” of one to 30 beats per minute.  Muscle contraction─ through movement like exercise—and diaphragmatic or belly breathing are the key methods for pushing lymph through the body; light massage techniques also acts as a pump to stimulate the lymphatic system.

During the Cleanse the Body massage session, a series of light, repetitive movements are used to encourage lymph fluid to flow through the system. The technique kick-starts the removal of waste and toxicity and delivers nutritive substances and hormones to your body. By promoting lymph flow to the nodes, filtration and purification occurs enhancing liver function, building the immune system and increasing fluid movement to and from organs and tissues.

The Client Experience

Often, clients say they feel very little happening when they receive a lymphatic drainage, especially those clients who typically receive deep massage treatments.  But shortly after the session begins, clients are lulled into a deep state of relaxation by the light and rhythmic nature of the work.

Each client’s response to lymphatic drainage differs depending on the body’s individual toxicity levels. Some clients feel a deep sense of relaxation; others experience a burst of energy; and a handful of clients may experience fatigue or mild flu-like symptoms. These are normal responses that may last up to two days. Drinking extra water can help to eliminate toxins and flush the system.

For more information about the Cleanse the Body massage session or the benefits of lymph drainage, please contact me at cathleen@pullingdownthemoon.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

References

Osborn, K. (2005). Lymph Massage, Armoring the Immune System. Retrieved May 30, 2011 from http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/937/Lymph-Massage

Rattray, F; Ludwig, L. (2000). Clinical Massage Therapy: Understanding, Assessing and Treating Over 70 Conditions. Toronto, Talus Incorporated.

Shier, D.; Butler, J; Lewis R. (2007). Hole’s Human Anatomy and Physiology, 11th Ed. New York, McGraw-Hill.

West, Z. (2011). Massage, Manual Lymphatic Drainage. Retrieved May 30, 2011 from http://www.zitawest.com/area.php?section=14&item=88

by Cathleen McCauley, LMT

Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

Recently we held an open house at Pulling Down the Moon, and a perspective client asked me about the benefits of receiving fertility massage. I am happy she asked this question! I’d like to share with you some of the positive outcomes that clients experience from fertility massage.

Fertility Enhancing Massage (FEM) Protocol

At Pulling Down the Moon, we offer the Fertility Enhancing Massage (FEM) protocol. Exclusive to the center, the sequence is a series of four 60-minute fertility-specific massages designed to enhance the health and functioning of the pelvic and abdominal organs and promote mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Each FEM session has its own unique benefits. Below are just a few:

Cleanse the Body: The first session in the FEM protocol, this massage helps clear the body of toxins. A few of the benefits clients receive from this session include a heightened sense of relaxation aiding in stress and pain reduction; stimulation of the lymph system to detoxify, purify and balance the body; and a feeling of emotional and mental well-being.

Enhance the Blood: Focused on promoting circulation, the second massage in the FEM series offers numerous benefits to fertility clients. By increasing blood flow, tissue and organs are nourished, helping them to function properly. As blood is pumped to the ovaries and uterus, egg health is supported and the lining of the uterus may increase. The abdominal region relaxes, reducing stagnation and rigidity; scar tissue or adhesions may be released.

Open the Breath: To breathe is to be alive, and in the third FEM session, your body will benefit from increased oxygen intake. Sufficient air flow creates organ movement. When your diaphragm muscle functions correctly, fluids like blood are renewed and stagnation flushed.  You experience increased blood flow to the ovaries and uterus. Deep breathing creates tone and alignment in the pelvic muscles while reducing stress throughout the body.

Relax and Integrate: The final session in the series aims to calm your body. Benefits often include deep, restorative states of restfulness. Your heart rate and blood pressure decreases, muscular tension releases, breathing slows and pain decreases.

I hope this brief overview provides you with a little more insight about the benefits of fertility massage. If you’d like more information about any of the sessions, on Sunday, June 12, I will be offering a one-hour patient education seminar on the FEM protocol. It is free. I encourage you to attend or contact me. You may reach me at cathleen@pullingdownthemoon. I look forward to hearing from you!

Cathleen McCauley L.M.T.

By Cathleen McCauley LMT

Imagine for a moment that you feel completely healed. What does that feel like to you? Maybe you feel well, your reproductive system or other body parts functioning healthily. You may feel spiritually whole, filled with understanding and purpose. Or perhaps for you, feeling healed equates to emotional balance and ease.

As you focus your awareness on your personal healing, know in your heart that it is possible. During growth or crisis phases in life, healing takes courage and dedication as you sift through your feelings and sit with them. Oftentimes it requires outside assistance, a trusted companion to help you dig deep into the parts of you that need some attention.  Above all, it calls for gentleness with self and spirit.

Turning to the chakra system to help you find your way through your experiences can be a great first step. Let’s look at how the first and second chakras, known as the lower chakras, can bring healing awareness.

The Root Chakra

The first chakra, known as the Root Chakra or Muladhara in Sanskrit, spins from the base of the spine. It relates to procreation and Mother Earth as well as to birth, receiving unconditional love from your parents and the beginning of your life. Oftentimes it is described as the place where physical energy, instinct and vitality are born.  From the Root Chakra, your kundalini, or pure desire, rises.

Meditation on the first chakra can help you feel safe, secure, grounded and stable as you navigate the fertility journey. When you are rooted, you feel fully alive, joyful, curious and able to trust. This chakra teaches that all is one.

Working with this chakra allows you access to greater self-nourishment should you have healing to do from early childhood. When you spend time nurturing and supporting your inner child, your first chakra blooms.  Healing on this level also plants the seeds for the future. What you do now to heal yourself opens the way for your children to have fulfilling early experiences when they come into the world.

Being disconnected from Root Chakra energy can manifest as high levels of fear or stress, addictions, depression, obsessive disorders or an extreme need for control. Physically, this chakra relates to the spine, kidneys, adrenal glands, immune system, skeletal system and reproductive organs. Cold hands and feet, frequent urination, high-blood pressure, low back pain, difficulties in the feet, legs or hips, low sex drive, and infertility or impotence are common ailments associated with an unbalanced first chakra.

The Sacral Chakra

As the energy of the first chakra opens, it moves up to the lower abdomen two fingers below the navel to closely relate to Swadhisthana or the Sacral Chakra. The center for emotion, desire and passion, the second chakra brings creativity, empowerment, sincerity and sexual energy into your life. Its symbol is a crescent moon, representing femininity and the womb.

As you open awareness to Sacral Chakra energy, you begin to explore your true feminine nature. You embrace your compassionate and nurturing qualities; you trust your intuition. Creativity blossoms and your emotions feel in balance. Relationships, both casual and intimate, are satisfying. You experience and enjoy sensual sexual experiences. Your female reproductive organs function healthfully.

As a child, if you were unable to express your feelings, emotions or desires, your second chakra may need attention. Some characteristics of an unbalanced second chakra include fear of pleasure, being out of touch with your feelings, resistance to change, acting overly emotional or dramatic, sexual addiction or poor boundaries.

In her book Anatomy of the Spirit, The Seven Stages of Power and Healing (Three Rivers Press, 1996) author and medical intuitive Carolyn Myss, Ph.D., explains that many female health problems stem from second chakra issues. “Problems with menstruation, cramps and PMS are classic indications that she is in some kind of conflict with being a woman…,” writes Myss.  Problems with bleeding or irregular periods frequently occur due to emotional stress and the feeling that a woman doesn’t have control over her choices, she says.

Further, Myss’ writes that tubal problems and infertility are centered on a woman’s inner child. The flow of eggs, she writes, can be blocked because the woman’s inner being does not feel nurtured or mature enough to feel fertile.

The Journey

Opening awareness to the parts of you that may need healing attention can be difficult. Take small steps. Remember to treat yourself with gentle care and nurturing commitment. Honor yourself for where you are right now on your journey, and be well in knowing you are whole.

As you ground yourself and connect with your feminine energy, I encourage you to contact me for more information or to make an appointment for the Enhance the Blood massage session. This healing massage treatment focuses on opening circulatory pathways to bathe the reproductive organs in blood and bring regeneration and nourishment to your whole body.

I look forward to assisting you as you connect with the sacredness of your body. You may contact me at Cathleen@pullingdownthemoon.com.

We hope you will take the time to read this wonderful article by Jenny Rough from Bethesda Magazine.   In the article Jenny shares her personal journey, interviews Reproductive Endocrinologists and speaks to women who used techniques like yoga, nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine to support their fertility journey.

We’re also excited to share that Jenny will be offering a FREE writing workshop at Pulling Down the Moon in Rockville on Saturday March 26 from 1 to 4 p.m.  Read more about this event here.

When you walk into our new River Walk center you will see mehndi designs on the walls.  Mehndi is the name for the temporary henna tattoos that women from India and Pakistan wear on their hands and feet at weddings and other celebrations.  The mehndi tradition is synonymous with women, community and joy.  Our new River Walk center is “tattooed” with mehndi designs as a celebration of women, their beauty and their innate ability to support and heal each other through community.  We thought we’d share this video, from the movie “Monsoon Wedding” because it is filled with that kind of joy.

We will begin seeing patients at our new space on Sunday, January 23.  Call 312-321-0004 to book your fertility acupuncture, yoga for fertility, FEM protocol or nutrition consult.  We are Chicago’s specialists for the holistic care of women’s health, fertility and pregnancy.

Perhaps the most common question we get at the Moon is “where should I start?”  Women and couples are interested in doing everything they can to increase their odds of conceiving.  But among all the services available – nutrition counseling, acupuncture, yoga for fertility and massage – where to begin?  For the answer to this question, stay tuned to our blog this week as we discuss the different treatments we offer at Pulling Down the Moon and who will best benefit from these treatments.

The most important thing to recognize, though, is that using holistic treatment for fertility requires your participation.  Unlike a medical regimen, where you simply follow the directions your doctor provides, holistic treatment asks you to become involved in identifying and correcting physical, mental and emotional imbalances in your life.  In a sense, these treatments require you to be part of the treatment team.  This is true even if you are also using medical fertility treatments in addition to holistics.

The other point to make about holistic therapy is that it can take some time to work.  Treatments like acupuncture have shown short-term benefit (as few as two acupuncture treatments have been shown to increase IVF success rates), but studies using a longer treatment time frame actually have much more impressive results.  Nutrition changes can also be effective immediately, especially in terms of improving gut function, but other more long-term effects (potential improvement in egg or sperm quality, reduced inflammation, ovulation induction in PCOS) can take several months to achieve.   We feel great for a few hours after yoga or a massage – but longer term practice of these modalities actually leads to a lasting calm in which our body and mind can begin to heal themselves. 

So what’s right for you?  Stay tuned to our blog this week for a deeper exploration of what holistic fertility techniqes are right for you.   Also, feel free to post your questions.  We’ve got experts standing by. 

Be present, be positive!  Paige

The most recent issue of Body Sense Magazine features Pulling Down the Moon’s Massage Director Meredith Nathan on the topic of how massage can help you lose weight.  When we asked Meredith about this topic, she came up with three ways massage helps us meet our weight loss goals right off the bat: 

1.  Massage lowers stress hormone levels.  Stress hormones like cortisol can increase our appetite, especially for sweet foods, and make our body more prone to gain weight around the middle.  Reducing stress reduces “stress eating” and mindless munching.

2.  Massage helps to release the aches, pains and to heal chronic injuries so we are more apt to get up and move our bodies.

3.  For those of us who like to treat ourselves for good work and good behavior, massage is calorie free and ultimately makes us feel better about a job well done than a hot fudge sundae. 

So, if you’re struggling to attain/maintain a your fertile weight, massage may be the missing link!   Click here to read more about what the experts have to say…