Retreat Venue - Boggomsbaai

 

Boggomsbaai is a small tranquil seaside village located close to Mossel Bay on the Garden Route.  (65kms from George Airport)   A major drawcard to this village is the long sandy beach, quite remote with fantastic birdlife and providing endless hours of relaxation. 

The beach forms part of the famous Oyster Catcher Trail, (a five day very popular hiking trail renowned for the spectacular coastal views).    Boggomsbaai is environmentally conscious with many features in place to protect the plants and sand dunes of the area.  

Residents are mostly friendly and welcoming to visitors.  There are no shops in the village so visitors should ensure they are sufficiently stocked with refreshments for their trip.   

Fishing is a favourite past-time here and be sure to keep a look out for the little creatures that roam the village from tortoises to buck!  

Retreats and Peace and Quiet are also a part of the lifestyle here, village is surrounded by farms and coastline.

Whales can be spotted from the beach in season.

Elevation: 12 m
Area: 197 ha
Weather: Coastal - Mostly Cool and Sunny 
Population: 69 (2011)
Province: Western Cape
Municipality: Mossel Bay Local Municipality

OZONE THERAPY

(In my case I offer the very informal Sauna Tent)

Ozone easily enters the bloodstream during an ozone steam therapy session. This enables your congested tissues and organs to clear waste, toxic stores, viruses, bacteria, yeast, mold, fungal and parasites. These “wastes” leave the body mainly  through the skin.

U N B E L I E V E - able !!! 

​A usual and normal course of ozone therapy takes 6 – 10 treatments, given to a patient/person two times a week. Most patients start to feel better after the 2nd or 3rd treatment. This therapy does not have to be constantly repeated, as all nutritional and toxic factors are removed and replaced as well.  A ‘touch up’ treatment is recommended at least every 4 – 8 weeks, especially in the case of chronic illnesses or diseases.

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Ozone Sauna Therapy is a natural, effective way to promote overall health and wellness! Relaxes and loosens muscles by reducing the buildup of lactic acid and increasing muscle flexibility. Oxidizes toxins so they can be eliminated through the skin, lungs, kidneys and colon.

Advantages of Combining Ozone and Sauna Therapy

The use of a sauna should be an important part of any detoxification program. The sauna increases the eliminative, detoxifying and cleansing capacity of the skin by stimulation of the sweat glands and also promotes healthy skin tone and texture due to increased blood circulation. Using the steam sauna with ozone allows the steam to surround the body and ozone can be introduced through the skin. Humid heat opens the pores, which allows the ozone through the skin to the bloodstream, where it can travel to the fat and lymph tissue. It is very important to cleanse the lymph tissue of toxins and the ozone/steam sauna is the easiest and best way to accomplish this.

Artificially induced hyperthermia (rising body temperature results in the destruction of bacteria and viruses) combined with heavy sweating and a cleansing effect initiated by ozone will result in elimination of toxins accumulated mainly in the lymphatic system relieving the liver from the difficult task of dealing with them. Through the centuries, men and women have used steam to purify the skin, soothe sore muscles, boost circulation and to simply relax. The combined action of moist heat and ozone cleanse the lymphatic system, which carries 90% of the body’s fluids. Ozone brings oxygen to the tissues for enhanced health and vitality. The combination of steam and ozone is a natural, effective way to promote a refreshing sense of well-being. We believe that a an Ozone/Steam Sauna cabinet represents a pleasant and easy to follow form of body cleansing.

Ozone and Sauna Therapy Benefits List

• Dramatically increase oxygenation of the tissues and cells
• Burn 400-600 calories per session
• Stimulate the Immune System
• Increase the White Blood Cell count
• Increase circulation, oxygen and nutrient delivery within the body
• Increase the distensibility of the Red Blood Cell so that it can squeeze through your tiny blood vessels into tissues
• Boost cellular mediated immunity (part of the immune system)
• Increase 2,3-DPG: Responsible for the blood’s ability to release oxygen in your tissues
• Increase tumor necrosis factor by up to 500 times
• Purge the body of accumulated toxins such as pesticides, PCBs, drug residues, and acidic wastes
• Produce Interleukin II, Gamma interferon (anti-cancer substances)

Like the other methods of ozone delivery, the combination of Ozone and Sauna Therapy offers positive results. 

Conditions that may benefit from treatment with Ozone Therapy include:

• Cancer
• Meniscal tears and joint disorders
• Shingles (Herpes zoster) and Herpes Simplex
• Herniated Discs
• Diabetic ulcers and venous stasis
• Allergies & chronic sinusitis
• Lyme disease
• Alzheimer’s, senile dementia
• Arthritis
• Autoimmune diseases
• Colitis and Crohn’s
• Tinnitus
• Vaginal infections
• Chronic hepatitis
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Fibromyalgia
• Candidiasis and many more conditions

10 Major Effects Of Ozone

1. Ozone stimulates the production of white blood cells. These cells protect the body from viruses, bacteria, fungi and cancer. If, deprived of oxygen, these cells malfunction. They fail to eliminate invaders and even turn against normal, healthy cells (allergic reactions). Ozone significantly raises the oxygen levels in the blood for long periods after ozone administration; as a result, allergies have a tendency to become desensitized.

2. Interferon levels are significantly increased. Interferons are globular proteins. Interferons orchestrate every aspect of the immune system, inhibit viral replication.

3. Ozone stimulates the production of Tumor Necrosis Factor. TNF is produced by the body when a tumor is growing. Ozone stimulates the secretion of IL-2. Interluekin-2 is one of the cornerstones of the immune system. It is secreted by T-helpers. T-helper causes it to produce more IL-2. Ozone’s main duty is to induce Lymphocytes to differentiate and proliferate, yielding more T-helpers, T-suppressors, cytotoxic T’s, T-delayed’s and T-memory cells.

4. Ozone kills most bacteria at low concentrations. The metabolism of most bacteria is on average one-seventeenth as efficient as our own.

5. Ozone is effective against all types of fungi. This includes systemic candida albicans, athlete’s foot, molds, mildews, yeasts, and even mushrooms.

6. Ozone fights viruses in a variety of ways. As discussed above, ozone also goes after the viral particles directly.

7. Ozone is antineoplastic. This means that ozone inhibits the growth of new tissue because rapidly dividing cells shift their priorities away from producing the enzymes needed to protect themselves from the ozone. Cancer cells are rapidly-dividing cells and are inhibited by ozone.

8. Ozone oxidizes arterial plaque. It breaks down the plaque involved in both Arteriosclerosis and Arthrosclerosis.

9. This means ozone has a tendency to clear blockages of large and even smaller vessels. This allows for better tissue oxygenation in deficient organs.

10. Ozone increases the flexibility and elasticity of red blood cells.

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IF THAT IS NOT ENOUGH !!

Here is another ...

100 Benefits of Ozone Therapy

1. Improved circulation

2. Cell energizer

3. Vitality booster

4. Immune enhancer

5. Skin purifier

6. Oxygenates hemoglobin

7. Neutralizes acid

8. Liver cleanser

9. Kills parasites

10. Combats chronic fatigue syndrome

11. Corrects dizziness

12. Blood purifier

13. Relieves muscle aches

14. Builds muscle

15. Combats depression

16. Neutralizes stomach acid

17. Overcomes weakness

18. Corrects memory loss

19. Enhances immune system

20. Fights bronchial problems

21. Prevents tumors

22. Decomposes plague

23. Increases cellular vitality

24. Boosts energy

25. Fights flu

26. Releases tension

27. Burns fat

28. Protects against stroke

29. Kills virus

30. Blood booster

31. Speeds healing

32. Improves digestion

33. Clears out brain fog

34. Cleans mucus

35. Kills candida

36. Improves heart function

37. Fights infection

38. Prevents sudden heart attack

39. Kills bacteria

40. Relieves angina

41. Heightens alertness

42. Prevents colds

43. Stops cancer cells

44. Neutralizes chronic hostility

45. Calms nerves

46. Speeds recovery

47. Oxidizes poisons

48. Breaks up cholesterol

49. Eliminates lactic acid

50. Speeds athletic recovery

51. Improves mental quickness

52. Strengthens immune system

53. Improves vitamin uptake

54. Kills Candida

55. Improves mineral absorption

56. Destroys harmful microorganisms

57. Oxidizes morbific material

58. Balances acid/alkaline

59. Decreases stress

60. Improves amino acid utilization

61. Improves brain function

62. Oxygenates pancreas

63. Kills bad colon bacteria

64. Ignites carbohydrates

65. Help supplements to work better

66. Burns off excess sugar

67. Enhances mood

68. Purifies liver

69. Oxygenates spleen

70. Improves mental stability

71. Speeds up faulty metabolism

72. Clears out dirty fluids

73. Detoxifies the lymph system

74. Prevents degenerate diseases

75. Prevents premature aging

76. Prevents irregular heartbeat

77. Prevents gangrene

78. Prevents peripheral vascular disease

79. Fights herpes

80. Kills worms

81. Fights emphysema

82. Prevents angina pain

83. Prevents shingles

84. Prevents fever blister

85. Prevents asthma

86. Prevents lymes disease

87. Fights parasitic infection

88. Fights fibermayalgia

89. Prevents epsein barr

90. Prevents cluster headaches

91. Prevents cardiac arrhythmias

92. Disburses heavy metal toxicity

93. Prevents allergies

94. Neutralizes environmental toxicity

95. Prevents Alzheimer’s

96. Prevents constipation

97. Prevents nerve related diseases

98. Prevents gastro intestinal disorders

99. Prevents ms

100.Detoxifies every cell in the body

21 Day Retreat (Well, Naturally 21 Day Transformation Program)

Join our Well, Naturally Program in Mossel Bay for a rejuvenating retreat at the Southern tip of Africa. This detox & yoga retreat is designed for individuals who wish to cleanse and detox their body.  The unparalleled tranquility and natural beauty, as well as the temperate climate throughout the year makes Mossel Bay ideal to provide you with the space to journey inward, renew, and refresh your body, mind, and spirit. 

We all know what we should eat, we all really want to adjust our eating habits.  

But HOW ????  

Perhaps your physician has indicated a healthy lifestyle change but you just do not know how to get there from here where your comfort and familiar eating patterns and knowledge resides.   

When you expect Change in your life .... you HAVe to CHange something...

Life and work challenges continuously pile up while lack of time, lack of know how and lack of ideas to bring your body back to healthy living prevents you, along with most people from achieving goals.

Your daily meals are prepared for you and is also designed to include you in the process of change.  The Well, Naturally Transformation Program will assist you while detoxing and will teach you the process of change, and make the integration to your new lifestyle easy and comfortable, while resting away from your daily routine.  

Included in the 21 Day Retreat:

Daily Acupressure Reflexology Treatments(up to 18), 

Ozone Sauna sessions(up to 5), 

Breakfast and Lunch

Printout of Program including many recipes and guidance, also including facts for you to  fall back on and an abundance of supportive information, and value...for your body, mind and soul.

Not Included in the 21 Day Retreat price.

Massage therapy

Lymphatic Drainage Therapy

Reflexology

book your FREE consultation now ! 

(Skype(live:susan.smit_1), WHatsApp(083749040),Email (susan.smit@gmail.com)

ps.   Invest in your Body while you are healthy and able, you are worth it.

3 Day Detox Retreat at Boggomsbaai

3 DAY RETREAT DETAIL

Prior to arriving you will receive the pre-detox instructions.

Day 1
Arrive in the afternoon and settle in.  (Once we have your dates we will be able to add times of low tide for optimal beach walks)  We will take a walk to the beach and show you where the therapy rooms are on the way down before sunset.   Light Dinner is delivered to your house.

Day 2
Consultation times will be issued when Breakfast and lunch delivered to your house after that, therapy and beach walking tended to. Plenty of rest is encouraged.

Day 3 
Breakfast and lunch delivered to your house and therapy and beach walking tended to.  

The End. 👌

ps.  PlantBased, nutritionally rich and balanced meals are served.   These little houses are Cape Dutch style little gems and mostly have 2 en suite bedrooms. 

Boggoms Bay
Boggomsbaai is a small tranquil seaside village located close to Mossel Bay on the Garden Route.  (65kms from George Airport)   A major drawcard to this village is the long sandy beach, quite remote with fantastic birdlife and providing endless hours of relaxation.  The beach forms part of the Oyster Catcher Trail, a five day very popular hiking trail renowned for the spectacular coastal views.    Boggomsbaai is environmentally conscious with many features in place to protect the plants and sand dunes of the area.  Residents are friendly and welcoming to visitors.  There are no shops in the village so visitors should ensure they are sufficiently stocked with refreshments for their trip.   Fishing is a favourite past-time here and be sure to keep a look out for the little creatures that roam the village from tortoises to buck!  Whales can be spotted from the beach in season.

Elevation: 12 m
Area: 197 ha
Weather: Coastal - Mostly Cool and Sunny
Population: 69 (2011)
Province: Western Cape
Municipality: Mossel Bay Local Municipality

Lymphatic Drainage

Lymph drainage massage is not the typical massage of the skin and muscles, it is a very complex process. The pressure is very light / softer than the weight of a coin, just the opposite of a deep massage, using firm/continuous pressure. If the pressure is too hard, the lymphatic system will shift and not be affected, it is directly below the skin.

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What is the importance of regular lymph drainage?

Lymph drainage therapy helps to circulate body fluids, stimulates the functioning of the immune system, and promotes a state of relaxation and balance within the autonomic nervous system.  After any kind of surgery the lymph system is especially overloaded with eliminating excess fluids and toxic removal.

What to expect after a lymphatic drainage:

• Reduction in edema (swelling) and lymph-edema of various causes

• Detoxification of the body

• Repairs / renewal of tissue (e.g. burns and pre- and post surgical scars) and anti-aging effects

• Relief of chronic inflammation and conditions such as acne, eczema and allergies

• Immune system stimulation, for preventive and therapeutic effects

• Reduction in the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia

• Relief of chronic pain

• Deep relaxation relieves: insomnia, depression, tension, but cell energy increases and memory loss improves

• Anti-spastic response mechanisms that bring relief to conditions such as random or involuntary muscle hypertonicity

• Reduction of fat and cellulite tissue

• Contributes to weight loss 

How do you know if you are suffering from lymphatics congestion?

• stiffness, especially in the morning
• fatigue
• Itchy and dry skin
• bloating
• breast swelling with each cycle
• holding onto water
• Brain fog
• swollen glands
• stubborn weight gain
• chronic sinusitis, sore throats, colds, ear infections
• cold hands and feet

Opening up your lymphatic tunnels is also crucial / very supportive before you jump into any other type of cleansing program.

Take time and support your body.

Integrated Health and Natural Wellness, Mossel Bay

Meaning of Integrative Medicine

'Integrative (or integrated) medicine is the ‘deliberate practice of medicine that selectively incorporates concepts, values and practices of complementary, alternative and orthodox medicine into comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plans.’ It is not just an amalgam of orthodox medicine and complementary /alternative medicine (CAM). Rather, it emphasizes wellness and healing of the entire person as the primary outcome, rather than disease and therapy.  It regards the patient in his or her entirety, not only as a physical body, but with mental and spiritual dimensions as well.  All of these are recognized, and involved in diagnosis and treatment whenever appropriate. 

Furthermore, integrative medicine is concerned with encouraging individual responsibility for one’s own health, and tries to avoid the more authoritarian approach generally adopted in orthodox medicine. 

Finally, it accepts that the sources of good medical practice can arise from either orthodox medicine or CAM, or from both in combination. In short, integrative medicine is a partnership of equals, with the patient and the practitioner involved in the development and implementation of a comprehensive treatment plan, not just the patient’s immediate ailment.

Confusion can arise regarding the term ‘holistic health’.  How does integrative medicine square with ‘holistic health’, a term which is used extensively here in South Africa and elsewhere?  Holistic health is, according to the American Holistic Medical Association, ‘the state of well-being in which an individual’s body, mind, emotions and spirit are in tune with the natural, cosmic and social environment’. Holistic medicine therefore takes into account the physical, mental, spiritual and social factors in the patient’s illness, rather than just the disease which has been diagnosed. In other words, it has as its basic tenet the optimum health of the individual, not simply the absence of illness. Holism, therefore, is a central axiom of integrative medicine.'

Here in my practice I often say W(H)olistic - to emphasize the WHOLE (Body, Mind and Spirit) and including the whole story, the cause... it explains the effect clearly.

'One feature of integrative medicine is that it considers the origins of disease to be multi factorial in nature, possibly embracing genetic, physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual elements. An integrative medicine approach therefore seeks to identify multiple origins of a disease, and, ideally, address them all as necessary.'

As a result, the range of options in the practice of integrative medicine can go beyond standard orthodox therapeutic practice. It can transcend the patient’s spiritual life and social relationships, employ mind-body.  Often times, Spirituality exceeds in power over orthodox psychology.

Reflexology & Acupressure / Magnet Therapy

 A brief history of Reflexology

Throughout the history of humankind the feet have played an important part of healing practices. Reflexology goes back to 2500BC and evidence was found in Egypt in the tombs of Ankhmahor (highest official after the Pharaoh) at Saqqara, which is also known as the Physician's Tomb. Traces of the practice dating back to 690 AD were also found in the Physicians Temple in Nara, Japan.  As information is gathered it seems that variations of the modern practice of reflexology existed in all of the ancient healing cultures.

Modern history and the scientific basis of reflexology are rooted in research about the reflex in Europe and Russia 125 years ago. It was Dr William Fitzgerald who advanced and developed the initial practice of reflexology in our Western society in 1895.

The most powerful aspect of reflexology (incorporating the metaphysical aspects) is that it is a preventative health care method through dispersing and releasing blocked energy and crystals of calcium and uric acid (toxic wastes) that have built up within the body’s many  meridian lines, and unblocks the 7200 reflex points on the foot.  

This treatment stimulates and normalizes the three major systems (Circulation, Nervous and Endocrine) and therefore boosts and inspires the immune system which in turn  prevents illnesses and dis-eases from occurring. As the reflex zones on the feet are treated, the natural healing forces within the body are released and mobilised, restoring the body to harmony, producing a deep and unique feeling of balance, relaxation and well being.

Hippocrates defined health as a balanced state and diseases as an unbalanced state...
 reflexology aims to achieve this balance.

RELIEF IS FELT FROM

Stress

Back and other Chronic Pain

Allergies

High Blood Pressure

Sleep Disorders

Fibromyalgia

Gout

Migraine

Arthritis

Diabetes

Kidney and digestive Problems

Improves Blood Circulation

Immune Booster

Improves Lymphatic Drainage

Lifts your mood

Reduces `stiffness and improves Flexibility

Known to improve concentration and clarity of the mind.

Increases flow of energy

Increases nerve activity

I have combined the Ingham, Zone as well as incorporating the Thai and Jain Method to offer the optimum results and to fill the requirement of each client's unique needs.

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Trigger Point Therapy / Massage

What Is It? “Myofascial” Made Simple - The word myofascial means muscle tissue (myo) and the connective tissue in and around it (fascia). When stressed or injured muscles form trigger points, like contracted knots, which cause pain and tightness.Muscles have been an under-treated cause of pain. In fact, with a specialized area of medicine for almost every area of the body (heart, eyes, lungs, intestines, kidneys, etc), oddly, there is no muscle specialty in medicine. Myofascial pain from trigger points is often over-looked as a possible source of pain by those seeking relief. Unfortunately, common though the condition may be, the diagnoses and treatment of Myofascial Pain has yet to be included in most medical training. The majority of patients seeking relief from pain are still treated with the traditional approach of anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, anti depressant medications and/or strengthening programs. These prove ineffective if not detrimental as trigger points do not respond to them and may be aggravated by further straining (strengthening exercises). It is encouraging that myofascial trigger points are becoming more commonly considered when physicians diagnose their patients. Some primary care physicians, regularly administer trigger point injections. Some recognize the presence of trigger points and refer to Myofascial Trigger Point Therapists. Those that do, enjoy an enhanced success rate and grateful patients. 

Myofascial trigger points are an extremely common cause of pain. Trigger points are painful when pressed on, cause a shortening of the muscle fibers, and have the ability to refer pain to a different location. (a trigger point in one muscle can create pain in another area) For instance, when the muscle at the top of your shoulder (trapezius) has a trigger point it will refer pain up the side of your neck and head, and can cause a headache. Muscles make up between 36-42% of body weight, on average. They are a large percentage of our total weight and have a corresponding impact on our health. When all is in working order, muscles allow us to perform normal activities with ease. When our muscles harbor trigger points, we experience pain, physical limitation and loss of normal function. A diagnosis of Myofascial Pain Syndrome or Chronic Myofascial Pain means that the primary source of your symptoms are from these myofascial trigger points. Often, trigger points are present secondary to other sources of pain, such as arthritis or bulging discs. The trigger points may actually be causing the painful symptoms attributed to with these conditions. As such, they are often called “the great mimickers”. Symptoms include: 

•  Back pain 
•  Headaches 
•  Neck pain 
•  Rotator cuff (shoulder) pain 
•  Jaw pain (TMJD) 
•  Tennis elbow 
•  Carpal tunnel syndrome 
•  Hand and arm pain 
•  Repetitive Strain Injuries 
•  Pelvic pain 
•  Hip pain 
•  “Sciatic” pain (buttock pain) 
•  Leg and knee pain 
•  Plantar fascitis (foot) pain 
•  Tendinitis/tendinopathy 
•  Burstitis  
• Arthritis 
•  Disc pain (bulge/rupture/herniation) and radiculopathy 
•  Frozen shoulder 
•  Fibromyalgia 
•  Tinnitus

How Trigger Points Are Formed: The damage to muscle and connective tissue which results in trigger points can occur several ways.  It can happen as the result of: 

•  Repetitive overuse injuries (using the same body parts in the same way hundreds of times on a daily basis) from activities such as typing/mousing, handheld electronics, gardening, home improvement projects, work environments, etc. 
•  Sustained loading as with heavy lifting, carrying babies, briefcases, boxes, wearing body armor or lifting bedridden patients. 
•  Habitually poor posture due to our sedentary lifestyles, de-conditioning and poorly designed furniture 
•  Muscle clenching and tensing due to mental/emotional stress. 
•  Direct injury such as a blow, strain, break, twist or tear. Think car accidents, sports injuries, falling down stairs and the like. 
•  Surprisingly, trigger points can even develop due to inactivity such as prolonged bed rest or sitting. 

 Active Trigger Points Cause Pain After forming, trigger points have two phases, active and latent. The active, painful phase of the trigger point is the one which produces the unrelenting, debilitating pain symptoms and which motivates people to seek relief. The active trigger point hurts when pressed with a finger and causes pain around it and in other areas. It causes the muscle in which it’s located to be weak and due to the taut bands, to have limited flexibility. The active trigger point referral symptom may feel like a dull ache, deep, pressing pain, burning, or a sensation of numbness and fatigue. It can also cause sweating, tearing of eyes, goosebumps and dizziness. The affected dense, shortened muscles, laden with taut bands may even compress and entrap nerves, leading to another secondary set of symptoms. If unaddressed or ineffectively treated, eventually, other muscles around the dysfunctional one may be required to “take up the slack”, becoming stressed and developing secondary trigger points. It is not unusual for chronic pain patients to have multiple, overlapping referred pain patterns, making diagnosis and treatment more complex. It is easy to see why this widespread pain is often mistaken for Fibromyalgia - a related but separate diagnosis. 

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Latent Trigger Points Matter Too:  Trigger points can also lie quietly in muscles, sometimes for years. This type of trigger point is called latent. Latent trigger points are very common. Unless you press on the trigger point and feel the tenderness, you probably don’t know they are there. Most people have at least a few. Latent trigger points may persist for years after apparent recovery from injury. Latent trigger points cause: 

•  Restricted movement 
•  Distorted muscle movement patterns 
•  Stiffness and weakness of the affected muscle 

They generally do not cause pain unless compressed. Many things can cause a trigger point to become active. An old injury that periodically re-surfaces (that “trick knee” or low back “going out”) may very likely be due to latent trigger points “waking up” and becoming active when aggravated by muscle overload, a cold draft, fatigue, infection, illness, or stress. 

How Many Trigger Points Can I Have?   Since a trigger point is an abnormal spot in a muscle the number and exact location varies. All muscle tissue is potentially prone to developing trigger points. Sometimes people have one trigger point but more often they have many. Prolonged referral of pain and weakness from a one trigger point to another area of the body will generally cause other trigger points to develop in that area. These, in turn, if left untreated, can activate and also refer pain, creating multiple pain patterns. The more areas that have pain and the longer you have had the pain, the more trigger points you are likely to have. It is rare for someone with pain to only have one or two muscles with trigger points. Establishing if Trigger Points Are Present. A skilled practitioner who has been trained to recognize the symptoms of myofascial pain and palpate muscles for myofascial trigger points can assess whether myofascial trigger points are present. There are no commonly available lab tests or imaging studies that can confirm the diagnosis at this time. Myofascial trigger points can be seen on special MRI scans and special ultrasound but these are currently only used in research. Treating Myofascial Pain with Trigger Point Therapy Since a trigger point is the contraction mechanism of the muscle locked into a shortened position, the treatment of the trigger point involves unlocking that contraction mechanism (sarcomere). This can be achieved in several ways. Trigger Point Pressure Release (David Simons, MD and Janet Travell, MD) involves applying pressure with a finger or other instrument to the trigger point and increasing the pressure as the trigger point “releases” and softens. There are a number of variations on this technique and a skilled practitioner will choose which is right for each patient and muscle treated. Treating each trigger point is relatively simple. Treating the whole myofascial pain syndrome so that pain fully goes away is a more complicated process. Once trigger points are released the muscle needs to be moved throughout its full range. Simple limbering movements done by the patient at home are important in the retraining of the muscle. 

What to Expect from Treatment : Many people experience relief from pain during and after the first treatment. For others several treatments are needed before their pain starts to diminish. It is common for patients to experience some soreness for one to two days after treatment. This usually resolves after the first few treatments. You may experience fatigue as the chronically held musculature is allowed to relax and return to a normal tone, however some patients experience an increase in energy. As the work-load of the musculature shifts and returns to abnormal balance, pain patterns may change. This is a temporary and normal stage of recovery from chronic pain. It is not uncommon for people to experience relief from symptoms they were not seeking treatment for, such as chronic hand and forearm pain clearing up after being treated for a stiff neck. Returning to normal activities without pain is most often accelerated by adherence to the self-care program given to you by your therapist. 

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Minimizing stress, pacing your activities and avoidance of overexertion (as well as focusing on what you can do instead of your limitations) are of prime importance. Good communication, patience and a positive attitude are essential. 

Your rate of improvement depends on many conditions: 

•  Type and length of time injured 
•  Overall physical health 
•  Level of fitness 
•  Underlying skeletal abnormalities 
•  Nutrition 
•  Quality of sleep 
•  Depression or anxiety 
•  Patient compliance with self-care 
•  Other medical conditions (i.e. allergies, diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, etc.) 

 Along with hands-on treatment to release myofascial trigger points, your therapist will: 

•  Take a full medical and pain history 
•  Evaluate your pain map for referred pain patterns 
•  Assess the ergonomics of your work station and other regular activities. 
•  Assess and make suggestions to improve the quality of your sleep 
•  Make nutritional recommendations if required 
•  Teach you how to choose an appropriate exercise/movement program and help you to   incorporate it into your life. 
•  Teach you to do self-treatment on your trigger points. 

The goals are set cooperatively with you at the initial session and are periodically reassessed. Your input, insight and creativity are highly encouraged. 

This Touch Therapy offers a range of specialized techniques, using a combination of massage disciplines and healing practices to create a truly unique touch experience. With a holistic and integrative approach to massage, we understand that everyBODY is different and has differing healing needs. When massage is received on a regular basis, it helps to maintain a healthy, balanced body and mind. Optimum health is an essential ingredient to experiencing life at its best. Invest in the wellness of your body, it is the most powerful tool you have. Remember... You are not your body. Your body represents what you eat, what you think, what you feel... Pain is a way your body can communicate with you. Learn to LISTEN. 

Water Fasting Facts

Very few humans ever take a moment to learn about the basic functioning of the body, never mind the self healing abilities which makes it superior to any man made substance. When you buy a car, you get a users manual, and if something goes wrong, you flick through the index, find a solution and wha - lha...fix it...what about the extra-ordinary body and vehicle for our souls to travel in for this lifetime? Do you have a user manual ?? ... thing is in it's extra-ordinary design, it has a built in ability to heal itself, all you have to do is give it the opportunity (and some time). Early in this century, John Tilden, M.D. (1851-1940), built on the work of other pioneering physicions such as Jennings and devoted his life to teaching the public how to maintain health... he stated:   "nature returns to normal when innervating habits are given up. There are no cures in the sense generally understood... if has a tobacco heart.... What is the cure?   Remove the tobacco of course. What will cure? Drugs? No! Removing the cause. Every so-called disease is built within the mind and body by enervating habits. A fast, rest in bed and the giving up of enervating habits, mental and physical, will allow nature to eliminate the accumulated toxin; then if enervating habits are given up, and rational living habits adopted, health will come  back to stay. The medical world has been looking for a remedy to cure disease, not withstanding the obvious fact that nature needs no remedy – she only needs an opportunity to exercise her own prerogative to self healing" Herbert Shelton, D.C., N.D. 1895-1985 built on the works of the early medical doctors and wrote prolifically from the 1920s on, in his own self published magazines, and through the publication of 12 books on the subject of Health and Healing. Dr Shelton's Health School in San Antonio, Texas, improved and restored the health of more than 30 000 people through fasting and natural food diets. The body is simply designed to heal itself when the proper environment for healing is established and all obstacles to healing, or stressors are removed.Our bodies were designed to function from birth to an uneventful natural death. But our chance of living in our modern society and then dying from a natural aging process is close to zero.  Disease is so much a part of our way of life (and thinking) it is considered normal by most, and an expected result of Life. The thing to remember is that people do not develop chronic degenerative illnesses through bad luck. Disease is developed through years and years of nutritional and other stresses on the human system. When these causes are sufficiently removed, people can get well, throw away their medications, and avoid unnecessary, expensive, and invasive medical care.  It is not a aging that makes us sick; it is the insistant stressors we place on ourselves that continue their insidious work over the years and eventually cause damage to the body.    Degenerative or chronic disease is earned.  Our bodies follow strict biological laws of causation..  If we feed ourselves the wrong fuel, or are exposed to Toxic substances, if we do not get sufficient rest or sleep, are chronically unhappy or under chronic emotional stress, our body will inevitably express some malfunction called disease. (dis-ease)Of course, medications can be life-saving in emergencies and in case of serious infections, such as pneumonia or meningitis. However, the modern drug approaches to chronic, degenerative illnesses fail to offer a safe, effective solution for most chronic medical problems. With the exception of illness caused by direct injury, virulent poisoning or defects present prior to birth, internal physiology and cellular biochemistry determine an individual's level of health and capabilities. Four things which will make it easy to understand and prove why water fasting can lead to cellular rejuvenation and prolong the lifespan; (1-the Cellular-Congestion Theory of Aging. 2-The Free-Radical Theory of Aging. 3-The Cross-Linkage Theory of Aging. 4-Genetic-Code-Error Theory of Aging.) What these theories all have in common, is that we age prematurely, when we place our body under stress, and drive our cellular machinery to overwork,   attempting to process and eliminate essential waste. These theories, because they are based on modern scientific knowledge of cells, combined with experimental studies on both animals and humans, indicate that food intake is the most crucial factor that determines aging. When we contract a viral infection and lose our appetites., nature is telling us to fast.  It is a means the body has of powerfully exciting white blood cell activity and releasing more immune system modulators, such as interferon, thus enabling the body to more quickly and effectively recover. Our bodies follow the law of cause and effect. If you provide the cause of outstanding health, you get outstanding health.  If you provide the causes of disease, you get disease.  The general population is constantly and continuously bombarded by health information, generated by the health profession, drug companies and food manufacturers, whose intention is to maintain the status quo.  The holistic practitioners and alternative and complementary physician groups, and the suppliers of Vitamins and other Natural Remedies and supplements, add to the giant net of confusion. Unfortunately the average consumer becomes more confused than ever.    Everyone claims to have the 'Magic Cure'... The sobering facts are undeniable: 'the cure' doesn't actually exist, so long as the cause is permitted to continue unchecked.   In reality,  cure occurs only when the body has rid itself of disease-causing factors and has had a chance to recuperate from the ill effects.Optimal healthy goals for true healing requires commitment and responsibility to changes which cause dis-ease and illness.Through fasting, individuals are giving their body the opportunity to catch up on elimination of retained and excessive toxic waste, thus raising themselves to new levels of superior health.The laws of nature will never change it always has been and always will be more effective to remove calls and allow the body's self repairative powers to have their way and tried to add treatments while cause continues unchanged and removed.

Well, Naturally 's top 15 Alkaline foods..

Including more alkaline foods in your diet increases the alkaline content in the blood, which decreases the acid content which is a breeding ground for dis-ease. A more alkaline blood pH helps protect healthy cells and balance essential mineral levels. Alkaline diets protect bone density and muscle mass, lowering the risk of chronic pain and inflammation and improving immune function. Join me on a 21 Day, Well, Naturally Detox Program during which time your body changes old habits, you clean and rest your organs, and you learn how to eat and create a new lifestyle for yourself. (Contact me on susan.smit@gmail.com to get you booked) Eating a well-balanced diet and exercising on a regular basis is essential to good health. Many high-alkaline foods are a delicious contribution to a healthy body.

Here are a quick summary of some of my favourites. 1. Cucumbers Cucumbers are a high-alkaline vegetable that helps regulate blood pressure and plays a role in the structure of connective tissue within the body, including the muscles. Cucumbers are also a mild diuretic and can ease bloating or swelling. Their antioxidant qualities make them great for removing toxins from the body. Cucumbers are also high in B vitamins. 2. Seeded Watermelon Seeded watermelon is an excellent alkaline-forming food. This melon has high fiber and water content, which lets it flush acids out of the body. Incorporating seeded watermelon into the diet not only increases fiber intake but also helps balance alkaline content. Watermelon is rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene and contains plenty of arginine, magnesium, and potassium, which helps reduce blood pressure. 3. Avocado In addition to balancing pH, this creamy fruit (did you know it is a fruit??) contains antioxidants that do wonders for the skin. Essential antioxidants make avocados a powerful, nutrient-dense food. They are also high in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce cardiovascular disease and balance blood sugar and offer plenty of potassium, which reduces blood pressure. 4. Cayenne Peppers Another surprising high-alkaline food is cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper is one of the most alkalizing foods, filled with antioxidants and anti-inflammation benefits. This combination makes them handy for fighting off toxins. Cayenne aids in digestion and metabolic function and has mood-boosting properties thanks to its ability to increase endorphins in the body. 5. Bell Peppers Bell peppers can enhance almost any meal raw, grilled, or roasted. This fruit (yes also a fruit) is packed with antioxidants that decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and inflammation, and is rich in vitamins C, A, and E and fiber. Some people have adverse reactions to peppers due to the lectins in the skin and seeds, but peeling and removing the seeds help to remove some of the inflammatory proteins. 6. Spinach Spinach is easy to find and easier to use. This incredibly alkaline leafy green is high in vitamins K, A, C, as well as iron, potassium, and magnesium. Spinach is also rich in chlorophyll, which can decrease inflammation and increase the quality of red blood cells. Adding spinach to meals will help ensure balance in the body's mineral content. 7. Kale Kale has a wealth of alkalizing benefits including those now-familiar essential antioxidants, which can improve the digestive system and help rid the body of acidity and toxins. Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods and is high in vitamins A and C. It's also one of the best sources of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting. As such, however, it is not recommended for people taking blood thinners. 8. Bananas Bananas act as a natural antacid, producing mucus that coats the lining of the stomach. This versatile fruit is rich in calcium and can help balance blood sugar. Eating a banana before bed may improve sleep because they contain the amino acid tryptophan. They also aid in relaxation thanks to the muscle-relaxing qualities of potassium and magnesium. 9. Broccoli Broccoli is an all-around healthy vegetable. In particular, the cruciferous veggie is a must when it comes to increasing alkalinity. Broccoli helps inhibit the growth of cancerous cells, supports the digestive system, and improves detoxification processes in the body. Like many healthy vegetables, it contains antioxidants that can help decrease inflammation in the body. 10. Celery Nature's own anti-acid....Not only is celery alkaline, but it also has extremely high water content and lots of vitamin C, which helps support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve cardiovascular health. Potassium and sodium also help rid the body of excess fluids. Celery is also very high in fiber, which can reduce constipation and aid weight loss. 11. Sea Vegetables Sea vegetables are a bounty of alkalizing foods full of micronutrients known for remarkable health benefits. Their multiple varieties carry different nutritional profiles, but each type contains high levels of the trace element iodine. Sea vegetables also yield a generous harvest of essential amino  acids and antioxidants such as phenols and tannins. Despite their salty flavor, kelp, dulse, kombu, and other edible sea plants are rather low in sodium and calories. 12. Almonds Almonds are more alkaline than other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, and cashews, according to the proponents of the alkaline diet. Almonds also contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids that can help protect the heart. They are rich in protein, antioxidant vitamin E, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese. Clinical studies show that almond phytonutrients can reduce insulin resistance and systemic inflammation. The nut's biocompounds also help improve the blood lipid profile. The nut's high fiber content contributes to feelings of satiety, making them a tasty, nutrient-dense snack option for controlling the appetite and managing weight when consumed in small quantities. 13. Basil Aromatic basil can enhance the flavor and alkalinity of many dishes.  Eugenol and other biocompounds are thought to help reduce blood glucose levels, fight inflammation, boost immunity, and treat mood and cognitive conditions, as well. 14. Root Vegetables Root vegetables can make hearty, alkalizing additions to the diet. Radishes and beets carry an abundance of nitrates that increase nitric oxide, a molecule integral to many cardiovascular functions. Carrots provide more than 300% of the recommended daily requirement of beta-carotene, a form of vitamin A that helps protect vision, enhance skin, and fight cancer-causing compounds. Root vegetables supply plenty of soluble and insoluble fiber, which can boost the health of gut microbiota. 15. Citrus Fruits Citrus fruits are high in citric and ascorbic acids. Although they are acidic, these fruits generate alkaline by-products and the proponents of the alkaline diet suggest that citric fruits are alkaline. Lemons, oranges, limes, grapefruits, and tangerines are rich sources of vitamin C and supply generous amounts of vitamin A, potassium, magnesium, and folate. These foods also contain flavonoids that may help fight neurodegenerative conditions, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and cancer. Studies show that people who regularly drink 100% citrus juice (unsweetened and all-natural) have more favorable body measurement parameters than those who do not. However, citric acid can erode the teeth. Dentists recommend consuming citrus fruits and beverages along with other low-acid foods and using a straw for beverages.

My Approach

I am a Metaphysical Natural Health Therapist. 

My name is Susan Smit.   I currently reside in Mossel Bay, and Boggomsbaai.  Life is Beautiful.

Everything starts with a thought.  The idea which inspires and drives me forward.   

I learned as a young child to pay attention, to be present in the moment, and to do the task at hand with what you have and do the best that you can.    My youth also took many turns in learning about the beauty life has to offer, and to notice the little things.   My Father taught us to be deeply spiritual beings and my Mother's soft and gentle approach to supporting him in every way molded me into a gentle minded being.  In my therapy practice, these tools have been most useful, and has resulted in the learning and understanding the workings of a wide range of modalities in the practice of natural healing and the Integrative approach to Healing and medicine. 

I always choose Complimentary Therapies and Natural healing above all standard and orthodox therapeutic practice. It can, and inevitably does transcend the patient’s spiritual life and beliefs, which drives life's practices and guides social relationships.   In my work, I choose to employ mind-body practices, and combine it with the use of therapeutic physical/touch therapy, herbs (locally produced and manufactured) if required, and other natural healing options, which include nutrition, lifestyle and water-fasting, detox retreats and others which assist and supports the work.  I have a very real resistance to diagnoses, and will refer rather than try and claim the power of knowing. (Diagnoses, in my opinion is best left to blood analysis by Medical Doctors) 

Since 2004 my life presented me with the opportunity to change my perspective and focus my attention towards Natural Healing and therapy, Supporting the Body to Heal, Naturally.  

Due to physical challenges my body and my life insisted on teaching me to put my attention to healing the body when conventional medicine is not an option, or solution for the healing of the body.   

My intention is to share my experience and all that I have learnt with people who wish to heal naturally. In 2010 I founded Integrated Health and Natural Wellness in Mossel Bay and introduced myself to the community. My idea was to initiate an umbrella company in Mossel Bay to attract like minded individuals and other natural healing modalities to serve our community, and to create a space to find solutions to your individual problem when you have been everywhere else, nothing has worked, and you are finally ready to take on the responsibility of healing your body, the way it was designed to do. 

I am a mother and I am a daughter, I am a friend and I am a student and teacher of life.  I have wondered through many valleys filled with obstacles and mountains full of painful and blissful lessons.  I try to keep my focus in the present and real.  I aim to be authentic and think before I speak, sometimes being quiet says everything I have to say.   

I have a son, Gregory and a daughter Anna who are from different times inside this lifetime who came to teach me about life. I have a deep fascination and passion for the human body and mind, the anatomy of the cells that make us who we are, why we are and how it all works in the wonder of natural living.  I am a student and teacher of A Course in Miracles and offer and facilitate the local group in monthly meetings.   I write in Caligraphy when I make time.

Qualifications: Psychology 101 (1985) During these years I worked with Electrical Engineers, designing computerised maps, as a computer aided mapping designer (draughtsperson), using Ortophotos to digitize maps in the norhtern parts of Mpumalanga, South Africa. Pranic Healing Basic, Pranic Healing Advanced (2007-2009) Therapeutic Massage / Physiology and Anatomy - Core Training (2004-2006) Reflexology Ingham Method - Core Training (2011&2012) Pastoral Narrative Therapy - Coram Deo (2017&2018) Acupressure & Magnet Therapy - Jain (2019&2020)  Inner Engineering - Sadghuru (2020)