Gifting Fun with our Reflexology Clients

We've loaded the gifts on our "sleigh." Footsteps in Eden Reflexology is ready for some gift giving fun! Our clients are so special, and we would like to treat everyone of you who takes the time for reflexology between now and Christmas. Adding to the enjoyment, we've made it a game, too.

Think those little rubber duckies at the carnival. The children choose one and the number on the bottom corresponds to the prize. We'll be doing that with the ornaments on our Christmas Schefflera. Yep, that's what we're decorating! The cute and sparkly footprint ornament will be yours to keep. Each one will have a number on the back to indicate your special gift. We have a bunch!!! Their values? From a dollar or two to a Gift Certificate for a one hour reflexology session (value $65). And lots and lots in between. Like to know something even better? Every visit to Footsteps In Eden between now and Christmas means another gift for you. If you visit every week, you'll be taking home a lot more goodies, and we do have some wonderful gifts to share!

We've been saying in anticipation of the holidays, "Everyone's holiday stress level would be well served by weekly sessions. Schedule at least one for yourself during the holidays. You will be so thankful for the relaxation, respite, and oasis you allowed yourself in the midst of the hurried-ness of all the preparations -- a redirect of focus for the moment to ponder what's really important about the season."

We are looking forward to wishing you Holiday Blessings in person in the next few weeks! Memphis Friends, a simple phone call (901-674-3934) or an email will reserve your spot(s).

Holiday Stress Reduction Tips -- Reflexology: The Ultimate One

Several years ago I adapted these "Holiday Stress Reduction Tips" from an article by Dr. Dolores Digaetano, which appeared in the MEMPHIS COMMERCIAL APPEAL. Sharing them again here, along with more of my own. Praying at least one or two speak to you that you may find yourself in a more relaxed place throughout the busy days of December.

1. Try a new exercise routine (remember that there is no such thing as inappropriate weather for walking, riding a bike, etc., only inappropriate clothing.)

2. Limit social obligations to people you really like.

3. Spend no more than 1 percent of your annual income on gifts.

4. Pay cash.

5. Give of yourself (volunteer in some capacity).

6. Brighten someone's day.

7. If your current holiday traditions aren't enjoyable to you, then makke new ones.

8. Make a list of your blessings.

9. Spend More time in silence and nature.

10. Wonder

11. Rest

Additional suggestions from Footsteps In Eden Reflexology and Heaven Scent Essentials

12. Massage a few drops of Valor® essential oil blend on the feet each morning and evening. This may bring balance to the body. Add a drop of Joy® essential oil blend over the heart. Inhale deeply of the aromas.

13. Enjoy the treat of a PURE therapeutic grade essential oil bath. Mix several drops of Lavender or Peace & Calming® essential oil with 1/2 cup of epsom salts, baking soda, rock salt, mineral salts (or a combination of the above). Pour under running water as tub is filling. Relax and destress as you breathe in the pure aromas. Your body and your spirit may thank you.

14. Diffuse Peppermint essential oil in your vehicle. Place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball and place in the air vent. This may be quite uplifitng as well as calming in stressful situations like holiday traffic.

15. Keep the therapeutic effects of armatherapy around you all season long. Diffusers of many types are available for home and office. Diffusing the oils helps to oxygenate the air and the aromas may contribute to a wonderful sense of well-being. Frankincense, Myrrh, and Christmas Spirit® are all delightful fragrances of the season.

16. Diffusing Thieves® essential oil blend is not only reminiscent of the season because of the cinnamon and clove it contains, but may help to keep you and your family free of the cold and flue bugs circulating during the winter season as well.

17. My Best Suggestion -- :o) -- Give yourself permission to relax. Footsteps In Eden Reflexology offers a wonderful experience in relaxation, encouraging your body to greater health & wellness.

18. Take time to meditate and contemplate the birth of the Savior we celebrate!!!!

All pure therapeutic grade essential oils mentioned including the special blends are available at Heaven Scent Essentials.

Sparkling Gift of Reflexology and More

Our special Reflexology Gift Package is sparkling and bright! We're packing it with a few carefully selected items to make it super special for the special people in your life. Follow us on facebook (right side of the page link) as we unveil the contents one at a time over the next few days.

We are so excited. One of the items is being hand-crafted right here in Memphis... Love being able to support local business. And it's Small Business Saturday today so that's a cool thought for this post!!!

A limited number of these very special packs will be available. Watch, too, for our announcement of pre-orders with timely holiday delivery. A Reflexology Gift Certificate, of course, is one of the items included -- so, GREAT for those in the Memphis area or who will have guests visiting the area who may take advantage of our oasis of relaxation.

Value Priced, One size fits most.... & WAY, WAY BETTER THAN FRUITCAKE.... :O)

Reflexology Special Holiday Offers for November-December 2010

The fast approaching holidays, and the limited time available to be and do all we would like during the months of November and December, have had my mind in a spin. As moms and grandmothers and women in general, we take on the holidays with a vengeance. I'm not sure what we're looking for, except perhaps to recreate a memory or a dream we see in our hearts, and hope to experience too. I'm thinking of the ways to make our dreams realities while keeping our dispositions kind and our hearts loving. Anything less would spoil the effect. You're agreeing about now, right? :o)

Here are a few of my thoughts on destressing the holidays for a happier, healthier, joyful celebration for all:

1. We all have so much. So, do most of those on our gift giving lists. I see so many things I would love to purchase for my children and grandchildren. It's challenging, but one a pray I'm up to: limiting my purchases to one well-chosen gift for each person. Being able to purchase gifts that also benefit a cause makes them even more special.

2. Choosing simpler menus, and planning ahead. Tough one when everyone has their favs and expectations. Spreading the responsibilities among family and friends who will be joining you for the festive meals is a great help too.

3. Finding time for relaxation and destress in the midst of it all. This is so important in order to be at our best and for our bodies to be encouraged to maintain health and wellness.

This last one is so important to me personally because of what I do. Reflexology is such a great way to destress and relax and encourage your body toward greater health and wellness year round. Of course, it is an exceptional gift for yourself during the holidays as well. Our regular sessions are a beautiful experience in relaxation and are 75 minutes long. A fabulous treat (or perhaps a necessity) for yourself.

Time is, of course, at a premium during the holidays. During the months of November and December Footsteps In Eden will be offering some shorter sessions that may be a great fit for you. These are half-hour sessions for $40 each. We'll also offer a package of 2 one-hour sessions for $115. These offers are good only during November and December 2010. The 2 session package must be used by December 31, 2010.

We would love for you to help us bless the St. Jude kids living at Target House here in Memphis. During November and through the first week of December, we'll be collecting NEW GAMES for Santa's deliveries to each of these children. For your donation we will gift you with $5 Off on one single (75 Minute) reflexology session or $10 off the 3 (75 minute each) sessions package. Coupon expires Dec. 31, 2010. The three session package may be purchased and first session used by December 31, 2010 with remaining two sessions scheduled and used by March 15, 2011.

Savor the Moments

It's Friday afternoon just a few days before Christmas. My shopping is complete, the gifts wrapped, and the house is almost ready for our family's Christmas festivities. To have today and tomorrow to relax a little has been wonderful. My thoughts (as they have so often the last few weeks) continue to turn to exactly how it is we should be celebrating this season. JESUS IS THE VERY BEST GIFT EVER. My gifts can in no way compare -- and they aren't even handmade this year as they have been so often in the past. The momentary pleasures and joys -- they're memories worth keeping. Like the one yesterday when my 2 year old granddaughter and I visited the Enchanted Forest.

This exhibit of elves and forest creatures having fun in the snow while busy preparing all the toys and fun Santa will soon deliver, features old, old motorized animals and elfs. The animals were all waving to the children as we wandered our way through the exhibit which now finds its home at The Pink Palace Museum in Memphis. It's had a few homes over the years, and has thrilled children for decades. Mikah was no exception. What a delight it was to watch her move from one scene to the next waving and shouting, "hello" to each character that was waving to her. The surprise that she registered that these characters were not talking back was such a treat.

I believe that the celebration of Jesus birth through worship and praise and sharing His love is the obvious first consideration in this season, which holds so much promise of JOY unending! Spending time with Mikah yesterday -- that was a gift from her to me -- and a gift of time and love shared. I was so thankful that my life was not so rushed, I was able to take the time to make a memory, and I believe Jesus smiled on us and our adventure.

Reacting Like Mary

In my email box this morning . . . a devotional from one of the links we include on this blog . . . and dedicated to any of you reading this that are feeling the pressure of the season . . .


Super Mom Has Left the Building by Marybeth Whalen
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

Devotion:

I just have to insert something in the midst of this busy season we call Christmas:
“You can’t do it all.”And I don’t think I can say that enough.

I found this entry in my journal from years ago, and I thought you might like to read it…

Someday…
I’ll remember to order those cute Christmas return address labels for my cards.
I’ll bake real gingerbread houses like Martha Stewart instead of buying those cheap, cheesy kits.
I’ll finish my shopping early instead of waiting to the last minute.
I’ll hand make gifts for all our neighbors, teachers, postal carriers, and garbage men.
I’ll wrap presents that look like the ones in the magazines, not like a kindergartner did it.
I’ll actually do all those service projects that look like a worthy thing to do.
Someday… is not now.

Whatever season in life you are in this Christmas, embrace it. There will be other times to do all those things you want to do. Or not. Whatever your situation is, trust that God is sovereign and He ordained for you to be where you are at this time, for His purpose. There is something to be gained from every season in life. The trick is to find that piece of wisdom God has for you in the midst of each season.

When the angel appeared to Mary, he told her some pretty shocking news about what was going to happen to her. His message ushered her into a season in life that included confusion, rejection and some pretty extreme transition. And yet, her response was “May it be to me as you have said” (Luke 1:38).

I want Mary’s reaction to be my own reaction. I want my attitude to be one of complete surrender to God’s will, no matter what the circumstances. I want to be able to say with confidence “May it be to me as you have said” instead of whining to God, “Why did you let this happen to me?” like I usually do.

The first step in embracing every season is to let go of our own expectations—even when it means learning to love our limitations. Whether you are struggling with illness, or lack of energy, or a marriage situation, or money problems, or family issues—whatever it is, that is where God has you. Stop trying to be Super Mom or Super Woman and trust a super God instead.

Dear Lord, help me see You this Christmas. Help me keep my focus on You and not on my to-do list. And would you please remind me when I forget that You love me not because of what I accomplish but because I am, simply, Your child? In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A More Peaceful Season Ahead

Silver bells. Ring-a-ling, here them ring. It's Christmas time in the city!


Where were you on Black Friday? And Today? It's Cyber-Monday you know? The report is that businesses will lose over 4 million dollars of productivity in the workplace today, as employees use their work computers to shop online. Sales figures for this year's marathon weekend were higher than last years. That is a HUGE deal in the retail world, but it is rather unsettling when we face the music of the price we pay to celebrate Christmas this way. How do we destress? Is it possible to bring back the peace and joy of the birth of The Savior to this season that at its true heart is all about JESUS!

A local newspaper columnist introduced the following website in her writing yesterday. Jesus offers us the most wonderful relationship EVER with Him, and because of Him we celebrate with family and friends. Would you like ideas for keeping your holiday more of a relational celebration of Jesus, family and friends? This site may have some perfect answers for you. www.adventconspiracy.org

As you make plans for celebrations over the next month remember the words of the angels song to the shepherds that first Christmas in Bethelehem:

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Where will you find your peace this season? Please share your ideas.