Debbie Blake-Knox Knows How to Fight Stress

I worked at Duke University Medical Center through the 1990’s in a variety of wellness settings such as aquatic therapy and exercise, personal training in the gym and pool, pre and post rehab clinics etc, before starting my own private practice. My works in the wellness industry progressed from the pool and the gym to studying Watsu, a form of aquatic bodywork, and then massage school. Both massage school curriculums were based on mind, body and spirit curriculums and my curiosity about holistic health, energy healing and emotional wellness continued to grow. Since moving to Columbus in 2003, I have had the chance to study Reiki energy work and Clinical Aromatherapy. I also instruct wellness classes at Continuing Education.

If there is one factor in one’s personal wellness plan that doesn’t get enough respect – it is STRESS! Everyone’s definition will vary and few people take it seriously! Most people are not consciously aware that when we are stressed we become less resistant to all kinds of illnesses that affect our bodies, emotions and minds. We don’t give ourselves “time” and “space” to nurture and look after ourselves. In my class, Circle of Grace, we will look at how to create the time and space to respect our physical and emotional self, even if it is a few moments at a time. Each individual needs to create their own unique circle using the resources available to them and to recognize that their circle will change as they do.

Everyone tries to seek stress-reducing activities that work for them such as exercise, quiet time, vacations or a long soak in the tub. If you pick up any health, fitness or women’s magazine you will find an article highlighting the benefits of the latest stress-reducing activity. I advocate a more direct approach; identify the root cause and seek a treatment that will target the cause. As a massage therapist, stress, stress related illnesses, and injuries are the number one reason that clients seek my services.

Aromatherapy is a very effective and affordable method of reducing stress. The use of essential oils for physical and emotional health has been practiced world-wide for centuries and is gaining in popularity here in the USA. Essential oils are effective because the “scent” is absorbed in to the limbic system of the body through the olfactory system in our nose, and in an instant, the scent will start to affect us physically and emotionally. Learning about essential oils is fun! Join us for Aromatherapy Bingo, a one night girl’s night out class that offers you a chance to learn more about essential oils. Sample a wide variety of essential oils and win great prizes! If you are curious to know more or have specific areas of interest, the two night introduction to aromatherapy class gives you a lot of information to work with and a chance to experiment with mixing and blending products for your own wellness!

For more information on upcoming stress-reducing classes call 706.507.8070 or visit ColumbusState.edu/CE

-Debbie Blake-Knox

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