Stiff Neck - Week 1

Let's see-the first week began on a low note on all 4 counts: physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Having been traveling for the best part of two weeks and then coming back to work for three days and traveling that weekend I felt unsettled to say the least. Like Catherine I have found it more productive to keep notes on each session. This way I can remember what I did, why I did it and if I tried any new points.

I've been reading the book by Marie-France Muller sporadically rather then front to back. I find it to be a good resource in that it's easy to understand and has loads of suggestions and info.

At the very least, I did the massage for stiff neck and cervical vert. in the AM and PM every day, most sessions 11/14 I did relaxation or toner and HA and right Knee. After 3 sessions I started doing relaxation at night and toner in the am before I did any others. Also, after 3 sessions I started trying to use a mirror whenever possible. On Sat. 10/16 I woke up at 3 am with a HA and stiff neck and found that when I tried the massage lying down it did not work, but when I sat up it truly helped. The muscles in my neck loosened up and the tension in my head diminished greatly. Once I added some heat the pain was gone.

I forgot to say that I've been using two, thin markers that have a rounded blunt end which seem to work better than my finger tips or knuckles. I am open to other suggestions.

This past weekend I was reading about facial massage for hotflashes. I decided to try it a couple of times. The massage did not get rid of the flash, but it did seem to be shorter and less intense. Am planning on further experimentation.

I also did share the Backache massage points with a coworker, but have not heard her results.

I do hope you all are having good results and enjoying this self treat. I didn't originally think I would, but I actually look forward to these self-induced breaks. Thank you Meg and Birgit