On Hope and Growth | Imbolc 2024

from “Physical Training for Business Men”, 1917

Hi all,

It is February—the quiet beginnings of Spring, a celebration of returning light and fire and the sun, a shimmering reminder that what has been left fallow will be renewed and flourish again.

In Gaelic Pre-Christian tradition, Imbolc is the seasonal marker for the point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, being recognized from February 1st to the evening of the 2nd. The subtle terrestrial shifts that begin in the cold darkness are so hopeful and tender. It’s a place in time that requires taking careful stock of resources, leaning into support, and planning for future growth. An internal process becomes external for the sake of fruition.

Similarly in bodywork, the early stages of healing can feel really delicate and slow, but often it’s within this space of intentionality and fresh devotion to a goal where we can really root down and spread out and be sensitive to the changes needed. From a place of groundedness we can adapt and grow with a lot more ease.

The origin of the word Imbolc is uncertain, but a few argued etymologies include ‘in the belly’, ‘budding’, and ‘ewe’s milk’, all orbiting around the concept of fertility, nurturance, and perhaps more broadly, potential abundance. I’ve loved this symbolism since I first learned it 5 years ago, just before starting my practice, and it’s been the anchoring idea to my approach since. So grateful to be doing this work with you all—thank you for your ongoing trust in both me and your body’s individual processes. Here’s to springtime, both outside and in!

by @ai.momori

BIZ NOTES

SCHEDULE + TRAINING UPDATES
This April I will be doing a bit of nearby travel on the weekends, both for pleasure and continuing education. If your appointment falls on a Friday or Saturday that month, know that I may need to touch base with you in advance about rescheduling your session. I will be picking up some usual off-days to hopefully make up for the inconvenience.

Part of my training will be a cupping certification from the International Cupping Therapy Association. If you’re interested in booking a cupping therapy session for the month of April or beyond, I’d love to begin practicing right away! More details around technique and rates to come!

NEW RATES
Starting in January, I raised my rates for 60-120 minute sessions by $5. This increase excludes 30 min sessions and pediatric rates!

I appreciate everyone’s ongoing support of my work and really value your access to health care. Please ask me if you need to negotiate this rate to continue receiving care. I also want to offer the reminder that you can save 6.75% (that’s $6-10/visit!) by requesting and providing an annually updated prescription note for medical massage. Ask your DO, GP, chiropractor, or dentist (for intraoral work)!

I L L U M I N A T I O N S

T-Relief Arnica +12
Excellent homeopathic pain relief in the form of topical cream or oral tablets and drops. This remedy contains arnica and ruta graveolens, 2 potent herbs for joint and muscle pain, plus many other supportive plants which you can read more about in the linked item description.
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HARDCore Class with Terry Hempfling
For the month of February my friend Terry will be offering 2 core classes each week, held virtually on Zoom. These classes are an excellent support for your abs/core, which is also crucial for maintaining a healthy back! Terry is a professional dancer, personal trainer, and a natural at guiding others through movement. Registration includes a video recording if you can’t make it live! Go sign UP!
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community investment

Financial aid this season is going towards Jewish Voice For Peace, American Friends Service Committee, and Pro-Choice Ohio.

“May it come that all the radiances will be known as our own radiance”
—Tibetan Book of the Dead

yours in health,
Zoey Bryant, LMT