Growing up in NYC, February always brought the harshest weather. The skies would remain a heavy, metallic grey perfectly echoing the city below. February marks a threshold, like the Celtic festival of St. Brigid's Day or Imbolc, celebrated on the first of the month. It is the halfway point between the Winter Solstice and the Spring equinox. It reminds us that even during the coldest days, the promise of Spring, the return of warm days, ignites us with hope and feeds the heart.
Hope is essential for our survival and well being. Which is why one of the first ways we can offer support to friends and family members who are ill or in pain is to fan the fire of hope. But the best way to do it is by helping the person experience relief from their suffering, even if only for a short while. he body can hold on to hope of a better tomorrow if it is reminded how it feels when it isn't hurting. It needs relief.
And this is why we write about practitioners and therapies. This month's article on Carol McDaniel spotlights Lymph Drainage Therapy which focuses on the network of lymph vessels throughout the body. With so many people dealing with cancer, which challenges the lymphatic system, it is important to know about this therapy and what it can offer.
Ultimately, integrative care disciplines offer support and comfort for the body. They provide relief, relaxation, stress reduction and helps rebuild strength. When the body experiences this, the sense of hope in the future ignites. And hope kindles growth.
So this February, explore how you can bring more healing and hope into your life or your loved ones. Make this your reconnaissance month and check out a couple of therapies. Maybe get a gift certificate and experience some of these with a friend or partner. It can be life altering and profound. And, after all, it is the month of love.
Happy Valentine's Day
