Many hospitals have taken notice of the benefit of massage therapy and are giving it a place in their treatment systems. For the first time since its inception in 1998, the annual survey of the American Hospital Association singled out massage therapy. The survey found that a large number of consumers and health care providers are using massage therapy and bodywork for pain management and for other important health issues. Massage is among the most popular complementary and alternative medicine therapies offered in hospitals. Of the 1,007 hospitals responding to the survey, 82 percent of the hospitals offering complementary and alternative medicine therapies included massage therapy among their health care options, more than 70 percent of which utilize it for pain management and pain relief. "Massage therapists are helping to heal patients, staff and the entire medical system by simply and profoundly reminding people, through touch, of the place of stillness and compassion within us all - the inner spark and connection with divinity from which all healing flows," said Laura Koch, founder and director of the Hospital Based Massage Network. Source: www.PacificCollege.edu

Although the American Psychological Association reports that 63 percent of Americans say they are taking action to reduce their stress levels, 43 percent suffer adverse health effects due to stress. Studies show that Chinese medicine can significantly help reduce stress. Our natural reactions to danger or challenge can be positive, but when we feel intense pressure these reactions become negative stress. The "fight or flight" response from the sympathetic nervous system occurs as we react to physical and mental changes in our equilibrium. Increased blood pressure and cortisol levels, as well as lowered immune system function, result when stress begins to affect the body. Symptoms can worsen to become hypertension, depression, headaches, stomach aches, ulcers and more. For those who harbor anxiety, the stress response does not turn off, and can lead to more serious health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes or thyroid dysfunction. Following trauma, it can develop into post-traumatic stress disorder which requires professional treatment. Chinese medicine can alleviate stress symptoms by releasing endorphins, the body's own natural painkillers, and improving the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids which brings fresh oxygen to body tissues. Chinese medicine also decreases the stress hormone cortisol which is associated with risk for heart attacks, lowers blood pressure, reduces heart rate, and relaxes muscle tissue. To learn more about how Chinese medicine can reduce stress, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Acupuncturist Lucinda M. Fecteau, MAOM, L.Ac., OT/L, call 603- 231-2478 or visit the Center.

Elizabeth Teeboom- Featured Employee of the Month By Cheri McDonough Elizabeth was here when the HSC Center opened in the summer 2005. She openly admits too that she never thought she would work for someone else but when she walked into the building for an interview to check the place out she realized that this was 'the place to be." The Center's Vision as a quality driven and respected wellness center, 'coincided with the journey I was taking. It was a good fit for me." Elizabeth was not always a therapist, even though she has studied holistic care, reflexology, and natural foods for many years. For twenty-five years she worked in quality electronics before going back to school to pursue her interests professionally. She has earned a Massage Therapy Certification from NH Community Technical College and will be graduating this spring with an Associates degree of General Studies, achieving honors. With admirable communication skills, Elizabeth acknowledges that her most important job at the center is 'to get to know the customer, and to provide the best service most appropriate for his or her needs or wants." Service specialties that Elizabeth provides include Swedish massage, neuromuscular therapy, reflexology, myofacial and trigger point therapy, ear coning, deep tissue massage, and she is also a Reiki practioner. Every other week she is also involved with couple's massages scheduled on weekend nights. Elizabeth believes that more people should take advantage of massages. She proudly states that many people who have never had a massage before have rebooked with her. Completely new or a regular, a call to schedule a massage with Elizabeth today may introduce you to a more healthy and relaxed you, you never knew existed.