I have always loved using essential oils in my home, in my life. In the past I was always drawn to lavender or smells that reminded me of the forest. In the last few years I found having a regular massage has made my physical health stronger. In my massages my wonderful therapist started using dōTERRA essential oils and I was hooked.

Recently I have found so many uses for these wonderful oils that I decided to become a wellness advocate myself. I have also found them useful when creating a comforting atmosphere in my office with my diffuser. I most recently got the emotions blends pictured above and they are incredible. I had a friend say, "oh, those are so magical." I understand why she would say that, because they are powerful... but I wouldn't say magical. There is pure science behind them, check out more details HERE.

I wanted to share the power of this science in nature and my wonderful friend Erica Kessler. This weeks podcast is an organic dialogue of us talking about the oils and the wellness and science they bring into so many facets of life. I hope you enjoy it and my delightful friend Erica.
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http://www.ericakessler.com
PODCAST LINK

I have always wondered about the therapeutic benefits of floating. I love water, but I am not talking about swimming. I am talking about floating in a float tub designed specifically for sensory deprivation. I have talked to some people I who have had reactions that they would never be interested in the idea...that they would feel claustrophobic. Recently I reached out to the Float Shoppe in NW Portland. They responded quickly and were excited to share information, let me interview them AND float! In this podcast I explored the many ways floating can impact the 8 dimensions of wellness AND after I floated processed my experience with Dylan and Sandra Calm the owners of the Float Shoppe.

​From their website: 
"Floating is a way to pause the hectic, saturated world and enter a state of deep mental and physical relaxation. By giving yourself a break from the endless input of sensory experiences, your mind has a chance to recharge, rest, and emerge to face the world with renewed perspective and energy. Otherwise known as floatation-REST (restricted environmental stimulation technique) or sensory deprivation, floating is backed by research and offers immense potential for personal growth and healing. Whether you want a traditional enclosed tank or an open air, lidless experience, we have a float tank that’s perfect for you at The Float Shoppe."

It's true. They have many options for floating, so if you are worried about feeling closed in, there is an open air version they have created in a light and sound tight room. My tank had options for soothing light, tiny stars or complete darkness. I LOVED it. Listen to the podcast to hear about my experience and then take the plunge. As a clinician, I believe this would benefit many individuals. In my podcast, we explore the wide array of benefits and what got this couple into this business.

Dylan, Sandra and their super cute baby (see pictures below) have created an amazing wellness center including massage, acupuncture and counseling on-site in addition to the floating. Nestled on NW 23rd Ave, very close to my favorite massage therapist, the neighborhood is brimming with life and things to do. My personal experience with floating reinforced my meditation and mindfulness practice, and something Sandra said continues to resonate with me about wellness and creativity and the importance of noticing "the space in the moments in between." In our plugged in lifestyles we forget that space, filling it with lists...technology. My experience with floating reinforced the importance in my practice of mindfulness, being in my body and feeling grounded (or weightless in the tank). The salt/magnesium water makes it impossible to sink and I came out with super smooth skin. This practice continues to add to my own resiliency. I plan on trying it again, now that the veil of mystery behind it all has been lifted. I was excited to try another tank, but I think those stars are calling me.

​The Float Shoppe
1515 NW 23rd Avenue Portland, Oregon 97210
503-719-4743 / [email protected]
Hours:

• Tuesday: noon-10pm
• All Other Days: 8am-10pm