MASSAGE OIL

Massage oil is a specialized oil blend formulated to enhance the experience and benefits of massage therapy. It serves as a lubricant, reducing friction between the hands of the massage therapist and the recipient's skin during the massage session.

Components of Massage Oil:

1. Base Oils: These are carrier oils that form the bulk of the massage oil. Common base oils include jojoba, sweet almond, coconut, grapeseed, or olive oil. They provide lubrication and nourishment to the skin.

2. Essential Oils: Some massage oils incorporate essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts known for their therapeutic properties. These essential oils can add fragrance and may offer additional benefits such as relaxation, pain relief, or skin nourishment.

Purpose of Massage Oil:

Ease of Movement: Massage oil allows for smooth, gliding movements during the massage, reducing friction and preventing irritation to the skin.

Hydration and Nourishment: The base oils in massage oil can moisturize and nourish the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple after the massage.

Enhanced Benefits: Essential oils, if included, can provide added aromatherapy benefits. For instance, lavender essential oil is often used for relaxation, while peppermint oil can offer a cooling sensation and ease muscle tension.

Need To Know:

1. Shelf Life Varies–Different oils have varying shelf lives. While some oils like jojoba have a long shelf life due to their stability, others like sweet almond oil can oxidize more quickly. Storing oils in a cool, dark place can help prolong their shelf life.

2. Various Base Oils Suit Different Skin Types–Different base oils cater to specific skin types. For instance, jojoba oil closely mimics the skin's natural oils and is great for most skin types, while coconut oil is comedogenic and might not be ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.

3. Essential Oils Require Dilution–Essential oils are potent and should be diluted before applying to the skin. They are usually mixed with carrier oils like sweet almond or coconut oil. Direct application of undiluted essential oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.

4. Seasonal Considerations–Massage oils can be chosen based on the season. Lighter oils like grapeseed are great for summer as they absorb quickly, while heavier oils like avocado or sesame are more suitable for winter as they provide more nourishment and moisture.

5. Nutrient-Rich Oils–Certain oils, such as avocado oil, are rich in nutrients like vitamins A, D, and E, making them excellent choices for skin nourishment during massages.

6. Traditional Cultural Practices–Different cultures have their preferred oils for massages. In Ayurveda, sesame oil is commonly used for its warming properties, while in Thai massage, a blend of oils like coconut, rice bran, or sesame is often used.

7. Compatibility with Massage Techniques–Oils vary in their suitability for different massage techniques. For instance, oils with good slip like jojoba or grapeseed are suitable for Swedish massages, while thicker oils like shea butter might be used for deep tissue massages.

8. Environmental Impact–Some oils have a more significant environmental impact due to factors like cultivation practices, demand, or potential depletion of resources. Sustainable sourcing and fair trade practices are becoming more important considerations in selecting massage oils.

9. Potential Allergens–Some oils, even natural ones, can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with specific allergies. For example, sweet almond oil can cause allergic reactions in people allergic to nuts.

10. Historical Significance–Throughout history, massage oils were not only used for physical benefits but were also considered sacred or used in religious ceremonies in many cultures, symbolizing purification and healing.

Written by Cassandra

Ayurvedic Nutrition

The Building Blocks Of Life

In the world of quick fixes and dietary trends, Ayurvedic nutrition stands as a beacon of wisdom, reminding us that true health is cultivated over time. It encourages us to listen to our bodies, adapt our diets to our needs, and savor the flavors of wholesome, well-prepared meals. Ayurveda encourages us to approach nutrition with a sense of realism – embracing a diet that suits our individual constitution, the changing seasons, and our unique circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of fresh, whole foods and mindful eating, celebrating the nourishing qualities of different ingredients. 

Our gut is our second brain, so it’s important to ensure the food we eat is adding value to our souls, creating balance in our sacred vessels, and fueling a positive mindset. Our collaborator See Fit, St. Louis based functional nutritionist and personal trainer, would remind us to “dial into a kinder frequency” towards our body, what we put into it, and the work we put it through. Everything really does matter, and nutrition is the key to optimal health from the inside-out. When we choose to nourish ourselves with quality foods, we are communicating to our bodies that we care deeply about its well-being and longevity.

Food is to be used as a functional medicine, a concept which seeks to understand and heal the root causes of imbalances, rather than simply treating symptoms. By recognizing that each of us possesses a unique constitution (dosha), Ayurveda tailors its approach to address the individual’s specific needs. And the journey becomes transformative when we're guided by professionals—nutritionists, personal trainers, or holistic lifestyle coaches—who truly understand and resonate with our individual paths.

LifeSource Meals, an Ayurvedic-inspired catering company we collaborate with in St. Louis, would suggest something like a kitchari bowl for something simple that will cater to anybody’s specific needs. This traditional Indian dish, made from rice and split mung beans, is often considered a cornerstone of Ayurvedic nutrition, because it is considered ‘tri-doshic,’ meaning it can help balance all three doshas. Its ingredients are simple, gentle on the digestive system, provide a balance source of protein, and can be custom tailored. 

In the realm of nutrition, Ayurveda teaches us that self-discipline isn't about restriction but about balance. It's about choosing nourishing foods that align with our constitution, engaging in daily practices that foster equilibrium, and guiding us into syncing with the natural patterns of the Ayurvedic clock, attuning our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 

These tools of ancient wisdom empower us to build resilience and make conscious choices that support our health. We are reminded that we have the power to shape our destinies, not through deprivation, but through mindful eating and daily rituals that celebrate life's abundance.

At Divine Productions, we tread this beautiful path illuminated by Ayurveda's timeless wisdom. We mindfully select collaborators who share these values and mindsets, and we invite you to join us on this fulfilling odyssey.

Embark on a deeper journey with us. Explore the profound realms of our Divine Library + Ayurvedic wisdom.

Written by Kaileah + Cassandra

Edited by Cassandra

Numerology

Numerology is a millennia-old practice that traces its roots to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Babylonia, China, Greece, and more. Pythagoras, a philosopher and mathematician, played a significant role in shaping the practice in the West around 600 BCE, emphasizing the spiritual essence of numbers and their vibrations.

Different Methods of Numerology

**Chaldean Numerology**: An ancient system from Babylon, it assigns values based on the vibrational sound of letters. Often used for personal names.

```

   1 - A, I, J, Q, Y

   2 - B, K, R

   3 - C, G, L, S

   4 - D, M, T

   5 - E, H, N, X

   6 - U, V, W

   7 - O, Z

   8 - F, P

   ```

**Pythagorean (Western) Numerology**: Popularized by Pythagoras, this system assigns numerical values to letters based on their position in the alphabet. Useful for analyzing business names.

   ```

   1 - A, J, S

   2 - B, K, T

   3 - C, L, U

   4 - D, M, V

   5 - E, N, W

   6 - F, O, X

   7 - G, P, Y

   8 - H, Q, Z

   9 - I, R 

**Kabbalah Numerology**: Based on Hebrew mysticism, it links numbers to Hebrew letters, delving into their profound significance in Kabbalistic texts.

 **Chinese Numerology**: Focuses on the phonetic sounds of numbers, emphasizing their auspicious or inauspicious meanings. For instance, the number "8" (八, bā) is associated with prosperity due to its phonetic similarity to the word for wealth.

Modern-Day Relevancy of Numerology

In an era dominated by technology, numerology's appeal remains undiminished. Individuals often turn to it for:

- **Personal Insight**: Understanding personality traits, strengths, and life purpose.

- **Decision Making**: From naming a child to starting businesses or choosing significant life dates.

- **Cultural Engagement**: The influence of celebrities and media has brought numerology into mainstream discussions.

- **Technological Integration**: Apps and online platforms offer easy access to numerological insights.

- **Personal Development**: As a tool for introspection and self-improvement.

- **Business Decisions**: Naming businesses or products with favorable numbers.

The Basic Principles of Numerology

Every number (1-9) in numerology carries a unique vibration and meaning. (The characteristics and traits of each number, including master numbers, are as listed in the previous content.)

Core Numbers in Numerology

These numbers offer insights into an individual's life:

**Life Path Number**: Indicates life's journey and challenges.

**Destiny (Expression) Number**: Relates to destiny and life's purpose.

**Soul Urge (Heart's Desire) Number**: Delves into inner desires and motivations.

**Personality Number**: Offers insights into external perceptions.

**Birth Day Number**: Reflects inherent skills and talents.

Understanding these numbers provides insight into personal cycles, guiding decisions and actions.

The Basic Principles of Numerology

Understanding the vibrational essence of numbers is the foundation of numerology. Each number, and sometimes combinations of numbers, have a unique resonance that can be correlated to specific traits, energies, and tendencies.

In numerology, each number (from 1 through 9) has its unique vibration and meaning, representing distinct personality traits, tendencies, and characteristics.

1 - The Initiator

Positive Traits: Independence, assertiveness, leadership, originality

Negative Traits: Arrogance, selfishness, impatience

2 - The Peacemaker

Positive Traits: Diplomacy, cooperation, sensitivity, intuition

Negative Traits: Indecision, shyness, dependence

3 - The Communicator

Positive Traits: Creativity, expression, optimism, social interaction

Negative Traits: Scatter-mindedness, exaggeration, lack of focus

4 - The Builder

Positive Traits: Stability, practicality, hard work, loyalty

Negative Traits: Stubbornness, narrow-mindedness, rigidity

5 - The Freedom Seeker

Positive Traits: Adventure, flexibility, curiosity, progressiveness

Negative Traits: Impulsiveness, restlessness, inconsistency

6 - The Nurturer

Positive Traits: Responsibility, compassion, harmony, home-oriented

Negative Traits: Self-righteousness, worry-proneness, smothering tendencies

7 - The Seeker

Positive Traits: Wisdom, introspection, intuition, spiritual insight

Negative Traits: Aloofness, cynicism, secretive nature

8 - The Powerhouse

Positive Traits: Ambition, authority, efficiency, leadership

Negative Traits: Materialism, impatience, ego-centricity

9 - The Humanitarian

Positive Traits: Compassion, altruism, completion, broad perspectives

Negative Traits: Martyrdom, emotional volatility, detachment.

Master Numbers in Numerology

Certain numbers in numerology are termed "Master Numbers" due to their heightened spiritual and esoteric significance. These numbers have powerful vibrations, offering both challenges and the potential for great transformation.

11 - The 'Intuitive Illuminator'

Positive Traits: High intuition, spiritual insight, visionary, dreamer, charismatic

Negative Traits: Anxiety, shyness, stressed, conflicted, scattered

22 - The 'Master Builder'

Positive Traits: Leader, ambitious, confident, practical, disciplined

Negative Traits: Dominating, insensitive, manipulative, overly ambitious

33 - The 'Master Teacher'

Positive Traits: Blessing, spiritual uplifting, healing, compassionate, blessing to others

Negative Traits: Overly sacrificing, overburdened by others' problems, martyrdom

These master numbers are pivotal in a numerological profile. When they appear, particularly in one's core numbers like Life Path or Destiny numbers, they bring with them a higher level of challenge and potential.

Interactive Numerology Workshop

Today, we'll journey into the magic of numbers, uncovering your Life Path number and exploring the vibrational significance of favorite or familiar places: Hawaii and Missouri.

1. Discovering Your Life Path Number

Instructions:

Write down your full birth date in the format: DD/MM/YYYY.

For instance, if you were born on 1st January 1990, write 01/01/1990.

Break down each component of the date to a single digit.

Example: For 01/01/1990

Day: 0 + 1 = 1

Month: 0 + 1 = 1

Year: 1 + 9 + 9 + 0 = 19 (then, 1 + 9 = 10, and then 1 + 0 = 1)

Add up all the single-digit numbers.

1 (day) + 1 (month) + 1 (year) = 3

Your Life Path Number is 3!

2. Vibrational Significance of Your Favorite Places

Instructions:

Let's calculate the numerology for the states of Hawaii and Missouri using the Pythagorean method.

For "Hawaii":

H (8) + A (1) + W (5) + A (1) + I (9) + I (9) = 33

Hawaii resonates with the master number 33!

For "Missouri":

M (4) + I (9) + S (1) + S (1) + O (6) + U (3) + R (9) + I (9) = 42

Reduce further: 4 + 2 = 6

Missouri resonates with the number 6!

3. Reflection and Discussion

How does your Life Path number intertwine with your experiences and journey?

How do the vibrational energies of your chosen locations align with or differ from your energy?

How will you integrate numerology into your life? 

Numerology can be such an exciting tool for more inner wisdom and self-guidance in life. It was an honor to host an interactive numerology workshop at our 11.11 Abundance event. Our attendees found the lessons from the session to be most insightful and refreshing. It is our aim to continue educating and elevating our community with holistic knowledge through workshops and events like these, as well as through extensive literature such as this article. Feel free to explore the Divine Library for more content like this.

Written & Edited by Kaileah & Cassandra

Lunar Tuning

Nã'auao is the Hawaiian term for wisdom, or enlightenment encompassing more than just academic knowledge, which taps into the full moon's divine energy, fueling our drive to make our dreams a reality.

Full moons act as celestial signposts, marking perfect moments to celebrate how far we've come, revel in our achievements, and shed what no longer serves us.  They're our celestial sync-up, aligning us with the moon's cycles and the cosmic dance that influences our emotions and goals.

ALIGNING WITH THE NEW MOON

The dark, seemingly moonless nights, during the lunar phase we refer to as the New Moon, the moon may appear as the tiniest sliver of light in the shape of a crescent in the sky. This phase always offers us the opportunity to retreat, reflect, and rest, reminding us of the importance of honoring the polarities within us and throughout the universe. 

An impactful, yet simple ritual one could perform for the new moon is simply burning a candle while you write down all the things that are no longer serving you which you wish to release from your aura. As the candle burns, you may wish to meditate on the flame, or perhaps even set the list on fire, really locking in your intention of ridding yourself of these energies. It may be beneficial to then pull a tarot or spirit animal card to see what side of yourself you will be facing in this next cycle, or perhaps what messages your guides have for you in easing your resistance to whatever is to come, so that you may instead ride the waves smoothly. 

Here are some of our favorite ways to sync up with the reflective new moon energies:

Cleanse or smudge your living quarters

Get organized and set intentions/goals for the month

Yoga, meditation, and journaling

Burn a candle with the intention of releasing what no longer serves you

Do a Tarot reading to see what energies can support you during this cycle

ALIGNING WITH THE FULL MOON

As always, full moons offer an invitation to celebrate our efforts, harvest the fruits of our labor from the seeds we planted at the new moon, and to release what no longer serves us. During the 5 days around the full moon, one may experience heightened emotional awareness and psychic abilities. Taking the time to meditate and connect with one’s personal desires may support in manifesting more efficiently. 

The best Full Moon ritual is to gather under the open night sky with like-minded spiritual beings. To be in community in celebration is the best way to honor our moon in her fullest luminance. At this time we should be harvesting the fruits of our labor from over the past few weeks, from the seeds we sowed at the last new moon. Partaking in community healing is such a profound way to tap into full moon energy, which is why we find so much joy in hosting our Divine Productions events. 

Another lovely way to honor the full moon in ritual is to take a flower petal bath, or be in a natural body of water at some point during the 5 day energy burst. It’s a great time to dive deep into what can be called “higher consciousness journaling,” which is really just meditating before journaling, allowing the most evolved version of yourself take the lead with pen to paper, and begin writing stream-of-thought style, trusting that your intuition and Source are guiding the prophecies being spelled out. This is the perfect time to charge your crystals; just set them outside on a table under moonlight overnight, and to charge up some moon water, which you can add to another bath or drink the next morning. 

For a reference, here is a summarized list of ways one could tune into the magnified magic of a full moon:

Keep an active dream journal—both lunar dreams and daydreams you wish to manifest

Have a Manifestation Meditation Session

Moonbathing—get cozy outside and have a sleepover with the moon

Charge some water and your crystals outside overnight

Gather for a community energy healing event

Whatever practices you implement in your life for attuning to the moon, you’ll likely experience refreshing results in your intrapersonal and interpersonal relationships, work ethic, and general perspective of the world. This is so because the moon pulls on the tides of the oceans just as within us, so by syncing up with her, we are taken gently through the ebbs and flows of life naturally.

Written by Cassandra

Thai Massage

Exploring the Tranquil World of Thai Massage

In a bustling world filled with stress and constant demands, finding a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation has become essential. The ancient practice of Thai massage combines a unique blend of therapy and tranquility. Acupressure, passive stretching, and assisted yoga postures are used in the practice to promote relaxation, improve flexibility, and balance the body's energy pathways.

During a Thai massage session, the recipient lies on a comfortable mat while the practitioner uses their hands, thumbs, elbows, and feet to apply pressure on specific points along the body's energy lines or “sen.”

The practitioner also gently stretches and manipulates the recipient's body into various yoga-like positions, targeting both the muscles and the joints for somatic releases (gentle releases in the body). Thai massage is generally considered safe for most individuals, but it's important to communicate any health concerns or specific conditions to the practitioner beforehand.

It is typically performed with the recipient fully clothed, and the pressure and intensity of the massage can be adjusted to suit individual preferences and needs.

Thai massage offers a wide range of benefits for both the body and mind.

Increased Flexibility: Through gentle stretching and assisted yoga poses, Thai massage helps improve flexibility, joint mobility, and range of motion. It releases tension and stiffness in muscles, promoting better posture and overall body alignment.

Pain Relief: Thai massage can alleviate muscular pain, headaches, and other common ailments. The acupressure techniques and stretching movements stimulate blood circulation, promoting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and facilitating the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

Enhanced Energy Flow: Thai massage focuses on balancing the body's energy pathways, meridians, and/or acupuncture points. By clearing blockages and restoring the smooth flow of energy, it can help improve vitality.

Improved Sleep: The deep relaxation and stress reduction achieved through Thai massage can help improve sleep quality. It calms the mind, reduces restlessness, and encourages a sense of tranquility, promoting better rest and rejuvenation.

Mind-Body Connection: Thai massage incorporates elements of meditation and mindfulness. It fosters a deeper connection between the mind and body, promoting a sense of inner peace, harmony, and self-awareness.

Embracing Mindful Surrender:

Thai massage extends far beyond the realm of physical therapy. It embraces the concept of mindful surrender, allowing oneself to fully let go and be present in the moment. As the practitioner gracefully guides your body through a symphony of gentle stretches and acupressure techniques, you can embark on a journey of deep relaxation and introspection.

Awaken Your Body's Inner Wisdom:

Through the intricate dance between practitioner and recipient, Thai massage facilitates a profound connection with the body's innate wisdom. As you surrender to the flow of each movement and breath, you become more attuned to the whispers of your body, discovering areas of tension which are probably inviting release. This heightened awareness fosters a sense of harmony and balance within.

A Gateway to Emotional Release:

Beyond the physical benefits, Thai massage also acts as a gateway to emotional healing. Stored emotions and stress can manifest as muscular tension within the body. The expert touch of a skilled Thai massage practitioner can help release these emotional blockages, allowing a gentle wave of catharsis to wash over you. It's not uncommon to feel a sense of emotional lightness and clarity following a session.

An Artistic Symphony of Movement:

Thai massage is often likened to a beautifully choreographed dance, with the practitioner's hands and feet gracefully orchestrating each movement. The fluidity and precision of their touch, combined with a deep understanding of the body's energy lines, create a symphony of healing that resonates throughout your being. Each session is a unique masterpiece, tailored to your body's specific needs.

Cultivating a Sense of Wholeness:

Thai massage goes beyond the physical body, working holistically to integrate mind, body, and spirit. By harmonizing the energy pathways within, it brings a profound sense of wholeness and unity. The stillness of the mind, the release of tension in the body, and the restoration of energy flow culminate in a state of profound relaxation and inner peace.

Thai massage offers a transcendent experience that extends far beyond the mere facts and benefits. It is a gateway to self-discovery, a pathway to inner peace, and a reminder of the exquisite beauty that lies within each of us. As you immerse yourself in this ancient healing art, allow yourself to embrace the mindful surrender, awaken your body's wisdom, and experience the symphony of movement that unfolds before you. Step into the tranquil world of Thai massage, and let its transformative power guide you on a journey of holistic well-being.

If this peaked your interest, we invite you to explore our Divine Library, where we offer more information of different healing modalities on massage therapy.

We often have Thai massage practitioners at our Divine Productions events, so if this piques your curiosity we invite you to join us in the next community healing session.

Written by Kaileah, Edited by Cassandra