Be Well... Be Wise... Just Be...

Chakras 101

2012-02-12T11:44:00.000-05:00

Upcoming Class:

Wednesday, February 15th, 6:30 - 8:30PM, $45

Pre-register HERE

Also:
We added a Saturday class, Saturday - February 25th, 10:00AM - 2:00PM

Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 17A
West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 73B-WELL (732-9355)

Bay Path College - Women's Leadership Conference - Lead with Compassion

2012-01-24T23:10:00.001-05:00

Stress vs. Peace:What Truly is the Difference?

by: Mary-Anne DiBlasioPlan on attending...March 23, 20127:30AM - 4:30PM

Now, as silly as that question may seem, think about it for just one minute. Stress vs. Peace. Stress is what we feel most days and peace is what we want to feel. Do we have to eliminate the stress in our lives in order to achieve peace? No. However, we can limit the amount of things in our lives that we know cause us to feel stress. In addition, we can learn how to change our reaction to and perception of the stressors we can’t limit or eliminate, and learn to react positively to our stressors. The meaning of true peace is not to be in a peaceful state at all times. Rather, it is to feel peaceful in the midst of the drama and chaos happening within our lives. As Wayne Dyer once wrote, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” If we learn to change our perspective of those things that stress us, the stress we feel can be reduced.

From the books, Power of Intention to The Secret, we have learned that we are able to manifest positivity within our lives. We are able to choose how something affects us, both negatively and positively. The glass half full versus the glass half empty is another perfect example of how the same glass can be viewed in two very different ways. People are either in a state of need or in a state of abundance. How we choose to allow something, positive or negative, into our lives is indeed our own choice. We can choose how something has an effect upon us.

There are simple steps we can take that may seem almost too simple to make a significant difference in our lives. But, if we take the time and commit to a few daily steps, we will see a difference. All too often, we forget to nurture the one person who matters the most: ourselves. We spend time nurturing and giving our energy away to so many people: family, friends, spouses, and jobs. We forget to replenish our own energy and well being. When we forget to take care of ourselves, we are not as healthy or happy as we could be. There is a balance everyone should strive to achieve, a perfect ebb and flow of energy that equals the right amount of give and take. Take the time to learn your balance and limits, and how to recharge and replenish yourself.

If you find this topic interesting, please visit Mary-Anne DiBlasio when she speaks in theHealth & Wellness Center at the Women’s Leadership Conference, to find out how to live a more stress free life.

Mary-Anne DiBlasio is a Holistic Health Practitioner, Be Well Life Coach™ and Founder of Western Mass Wellness Center. Mary-Anne prides herself in walking her talk and talking her truth. She believes in empowering her clients to truly take care of themselves, to be accountable for their choices, and to acknowledge and move past their mistakes. In her breakout session she will share with you simple techniques that support change in one’s perspective and how to view and deal with stress in a more productive way. If you are someone who feels any stress in your daily life, this breakout session is for you.

Western Mass Wellness Center is located in West Springfield, MA
413-73B-WELL (732-9355) WesternMassWellness.com
BeWell@WesternMassWellness.com

http://www.baypathconference.com/stress-vs-peace-what-truly-is-the-difference/

http://www.baypathconference.com/

Healthy Resolutions

2012-01-08T21:01:00.001-05:00

By Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Contributing Writer

Happy 2012! Who has their resolutions in order? Who’s following them? Ok, so, right there, we are feeling stress. We are feeling bad that we are not following and sticking to the promises we make to ourselves every January. Am I right? Am I close?

Here’s the deal: We need to be good to ourselves ALL the time, not just for the two first months of every year. We always try to turn over that new leaf, make a fresh start, and begin a-new. Now, I am all for the motto “no matter how far down the wrong road you may travel, it is never too late to turn around and c’mon back!” However, what I feel is more effective, is trying to stay the course the whole time, albeit detours every now and again, our main staple has to be taking care of ourselves first.

When the airline steward gives you the low-down on what to do, just in case, what do they say? “Be sure to put your oxygen mask on yourself first then your child or someone next to you in need”. Why? Because if you do not care for yourself and make sure you are in good working order, what good will you be to anyone else? Correct?

There are many simple techniques to keep yourself on track. The secret to true peace is not to feel calm and tranquil all the time on the contrary, the secret is to be able to remain calm, cool, and collected on the inside thru all the drama and chaos we call life!

Read more at http://www.westernmasswomen.com

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Holistic Health Practitioner, Be Well Life Coach® and Founder of Western Mass Wellness Center.
Mary-Anne is a happily married mother of four living in Western Mass. She walks her talk and talks her truth. She founded her Wellness Center back in 1999 after she had a personal need for Holistic Health in a science-based world in 1995. Not happy to hear that there were not a lot of options, she decided to pioneer her own journey for a more natural way to better health and wellness. Four years and much training later, she decided to dedicate her life to offering folks holistic alternatives.

Western Mass Wellness Center is located at 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21 in West Springfield. Visit her website westernmasswellness.com or call 413-73B-WELL (732-9355). Be Well… Be Wise… Just Be…

Interview - Cooperative Kids - Part 2

2012-01-04T20:51:00.000-05:00

In this clip from the CREATING COOPERATIVE KIDS TV show, host Bill Corbett answers a parent's question about how to help kids dream big. To help him answer the question, he interviews holistic health practitioner, Mary-Anne DiBlasio.

Creating Creativity...

2012-01-03T21:07:00.000-05:00

In this clip from episode 8 of the CREATING COOPERATIVE KIDS TV SHOW, executive producer and host Bill Corbett interviews Mary-Anne DiBlasio and Croix Sather in an attempt to define what creativity is in our children and what parents can do to foster more of it.

REIKI SHARE - NEW NIGHT

2012-01-02T22:56:00.001-05:00

PLEASE NOTE:

Reiki Shares will now be the first Wednesday of each and every month. The first Reiki Share of 2012 being Wednesday, January 3rd from 6:30 - 8:30PM.

A Reiki Share is a great time to stop by the Center and see what it has to offer as well as what a Reiki Session would consist of as well as ask the questions about Reiki that you have always wanted answered.

We will also be scheduling Master Only Shares on a bi-monthly basis. Saturday mornings. Dates to follow.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Center
either by email: bewell@westernmasswellness.com
or call 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Founder and Holistic Health Practitioner
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089

A Happy New Year to All!

2011-12-30T17:52:00.000-05:00

May your New Year be safe and happy!

May you and yours make 2012 a year to remember. May your heart and soul be at peace during these transitional times.

Stay tuned for updated calender of events at Western Mass Wellness Center.

Posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Merry Merry...

2011-12-23T09:46:00.001-05:00

On behalf of Western Mass Wellness Center, may you enjoy your Holiday Season this year!

May you have a very Merry Chrsitmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

Stay tuned for great new workshops at the Center and bringing back old ones by popular demand for 2012!! :-)

From our family to yours... God Bless...

Mary-Anne DiBlasio and family...
Western Mass Wellness Center
www.WesternMassWellness.com

The True Reason for the Season!

2011-12-09T09:28:00.000-05:00

Jesus: Santa.
Santa: Yes?
Jesus: I'm sad.
Santa: Why are you sad? It's Christmas right? It's your birthday!
Jesus: Yeah. That's the point
Santa: Why?
Jesus: Because whenever its Christmas the kids only wait for you and not me! They only celebrate Christmas because of you! Why Santa, why not Jesus? -Dec. 25 is for Jesus not for Santa. Repost if You Believe in the True Reason for the Season!

Remember... it's not about "things" or "presents" or "bigger, better, more". Think of how much money you can save if we all celebrated a good old fashioned Christmas this year!

Not to mention what else we can save! ;o)

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

Truly Enjoying the Holiday Season

2011-11-20T21:56:00.000-05:00

The Holidays are fast approaching and sometimes there is undue stress that goes along with the pressure of gift giving and entertaining beyond our means.

This Holiday Season I want you to make a promise to yourself to truly enjoy the Season for what it is – a time for reflecting, a time for being thankful for all you have, a time for compassion and unconditional love. Whether it is with your family and friends, may you enjoy them to their fullest; or if you are more the type to enjoy the solitude and decide to celebrate alone, may you truly enjoy your own inner thoughts and truly be at peace with yourself this Holiday Season.

So often, we forget the true meaning of the Holidays. Manufactures and retailers do their best to let you know what you “need” or “should have”. We can’t even enjoy Halloween without the pressure of Christmas presents lurking behind the masks! All too well, we know the feeling of falling into the “must have” traps and getting sucked right into the “keeping up with the Jones’ philosophy”.

This Season, I want you to have dialogue with your family. A great time for this is right after enjoying a great Thanksgiving Dinner; talking about how great it is to spend time with family and friends. Enjoy the moment of “Thanksgiving”. Don’t look any further than that. Enjoy the moment. I love the saying “to want what you don’t have, is to waste what you do have”.

Enjoy each and every moment this Holiday Season and try your best not to get caught up in the hustle and bustle that may bring on undue stress. Now, I am not saying to never step foot into the mall from now until the New Year; I am simply stating not to get caught up in the drama and chaos we truly all want to avoid over the Holidays.

Simplify your life. Simplify your Holiday shopping list. Keep it simple. Keep it local. Be sure not to lose sight of the true reason for the season. The traditions we share with our children are what they will carry on for generations to come, think long and hard what you would like that tradition to look like. Who has the biggest, most expensive best? Or who truly has the most.

Holidays are absolutely what you make of them. Make this Holiday a heartfelt tradition to remember!

For more information on How to make a Holiday tradition to remember, check back to the Be Well Blog in the month of December for some great wholesome tips the entire family can enjoy!

By Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Founder - Western Mass Wellness Center & The Be Well Blog

Contributing Writer for Western Mass Women Magazine

http://www.westernmasswomen.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=section&layout=blog&id=14&Itemid=83

The Five Aspects of Health

2011-10-21T10:52:00.000-04:00

By Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Contributing Writer

There are five aspects of health that we should all focus on as a whole, and I see all too often at least one of them being overlooked. These five aspects of health are as follows: Physical, Mental/Emotional, Spiritual/Energetic, Nutritional and last but certainlynot least is Financial.

Physical: Now, this is a pretty well understood aspect of health for most of us. We have a stomach ache, we may have eaten too much or have the flu. We will have physical symptoms and we seek out relief that will take care of the symptoms that we feel. Now, if we display signs of a pretty bad headache, most of us will reach for the closest bottle of ibuprofen; and for immediate relief that will most likely do the trick, but what we also should be looking for is what could have caused the headache in the first place. Our body is great at telling us there is a problem, but most of us are not so great at paying attention to what those problems are or where they could be stemming from.

Mental/Emotional: Also, a pretty well versed aspect. We feel anxious or depressed; we seek out a therapist and possibly a prescription to help us feel better or even an herbal supplement. Again, working from the inside out, we need to look at what is causing the anxiety or depression, and the therapist should be working with you on ways to balance out potential issues in your everyday routine. If the anxiety or depression is coming from an “outside source” than there are options that may not require medication, and again, relief can come more naturally.

Nutritional: Nutritional health is a tricky one. We are not saying “diet” or “lose weight”, we mean the substance we intake in order to nourish our bodies. With obesity at an all-time high, and fast food restaurants on every street corner, we need to truly come back to basics here, and as one of our practitioner’s says… “Eat like it’s 1800”; When food was natural; no preservatives or additives or “enriched”. Eat whole foods. Good old fashioned from the earth goodness. The more natural the better, before companies basing ingredients on the bottom line get involved.

Spiritual/Energetic: This is where it gets to be a little more fuzzy or what we would call that “grey area”. Spirituality can be religion, however, if someone is not religious, it does not mean that they are not spiritual; they just may not follow any one particular “organized” religion. The bottom line is, people need hope in their lives. Hope to dream and achieve goals and look forward to future. Hope comes from the inside and folks can get this from various things; anything from meditation to Reiki to going to mass on Sundays.

Financial: Now this is where folks are like… “Whaaaat?” “Financial, this isn’t part of health, and it is all about investing, and I just don’t have the money to invest.” Well… no! Financial health is an important part of the whole, because financial “stress” is what can cause a whole host of other issues affecting the Physical, Mental/Emotional, Spiritual/Energetic as well as Nutritional aspects of one’s health. Perfect example: ‘I can’t afford to pay my rent this month so 1. I have had a headache for two weeks straight, and 2. I am feeling completely depressed and anxious about it, 3. I feel there is no hope, and 4. I haven’t got an appetite for anything lately (because my headache is so bad I have a stomach ache!) Sounds pretty accurate, yes?
So, with all that said, it is very important to nurture all five aspects of one’s health; the Physical, Mental/Emotional, Nutritional, Spiritual/Energetic and Financial for complete health and wellness.

Western Mass Women Magazine

Spiritual Health on Mass Appeal!

2011-10-18T18:06:00.000-04:00

Spiritual Health at the Western Mass Wellness Center : wwlp.com

Fibromyalgia: Creating a Treatment Plan

2011-10-14T10:27:00.001-04:00

Your Fibromyalgia Treatment Plan: Stay Active

Exercise is an important part of managing fibromyalgia symptoms. Staying physically active can relieve pain, stress, and anxiety.
The key is to start slowly. Begin with stretching and low-impact activities, such as walking, swimming or other water exercises, or bicycling. Low-impact aerobic exercises such as yoga, tai chi, or Pilates can also be helpful. If you want to increase the intensity of your exercise, talk with your doctor.
Whatever exercise you choose, focus on three areas: range of motion, aerobic, and strength training.

Physical Therapy for Fibromyalgia

Physical therapy can help you get control of your illness by focusing on what you can do to improve your situation, rather than on your chronic symptoms.
A physical therapist can show you how to get temporary relief from fibromyalgia pain and stiffness, get stronger, and improve your range of motion. And she can help you make little changes, such as practicing good posture, that help prevent painful flare-ups.

Alternative Treatments for Fibromyalgia

A number of popular fibromyalgia treatments fall outside the realm of mainstream medicine. In general, there hasn’t been extensive research on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), but anecdotal evidence suggests that some may work. Always talk with your doctor before starting any alternative treatment.
Popular alternative treatments include:

Acupuncture. This ancient healing practice aims to increase blood flow and production of natural painkillers with thin needles inserted into the skin at strategic points on the body. Some studies report that acupuncture may help ease pain, anxiety, and fatigue.
Massage therapy. This may help reduce muscle tension, ease pain in both muscles and soft tissue,improve range of motion, and boost production of natural painkillers.
Chiropractic treatment. Based on spinal adjustments to reduce pain, this popular therapy may help relieve fibromyalgia symptoms.
Supplements. A number of dietary and other supplements are touted as treatments aimed at relieving fibromyalgia symptoms. Some of the most popular for fibromyalgia include magnesium, melatonin, 5-HTP, and SAMe, which may affect serotonin levels. However, results of studies on these supplements are mixed. Be sure to talk with your doctor before taking any supplements. Some may have side effects and could react badly with medication you are taking.
Herbs. As with supplements, scientific evidence for the effectiveness of herbs is mixed. A few studies have shown that St. John’s wort can be as effective as certain prescription medication for treating mild depression.

Thanks to Lynn LaDuke for sharing the article. The Western Mass Fibromyalgia & Chronic Support Group meets the second Tuesday of each month at the Western Mass Wellness Center, 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA 01089.

Call with any questions: 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Improve your Physical Health

2011-09-19T22:37:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center's Be Well Segment on WWLP's Mass Appeal!

Improve your physical health at the Western Mass Wellness Center!: wwlp.com

Marriage and Family Therapist: The Family-Friendly Mental Health Professionals

2011-09-19T12:41:00.000-04:00

Marriage and family therapists are mental health professionals with a minimum of a master’s degree and two years supervised clinical experience. Marriage and family therapists (commonly referred to as MFTs or family therapists) are trained and licensed to independently diagnose and treat mental health and substance abuse problems. Marriage and family therapy is one of the core mental health disciplines and is based on the research and theory that mental illness and family problems are best treated in a family context. Trained in psychotherapy and family systems, marriage and family therapists focus on understanding their clients’ symptoms and interaction patterns within their existing environment. MFTs treat predominantly individuals, but also provide couples, family and group therapy. Whomever the client, Family Therapists treat from a relationship perspective that incorporates family systems.

Most mental health professionals and their clients recognize the necessity of treating mental and emotional problems within the context of the family system. Research has shown that these family-based interventions are as effective—and in many cases more effective—than alternative interventions, often at a lower cost. Studies demonstrate that family therapy is a preferred method of treatment for depression, substance abuse, alcoholism, marital problems, child problems, couple enrichment, and schizophrenia, to name a few.

Family therapy for severe mental illness is one of the most well-studied and effective interventions in the mental health literature. Family involvement—including family psychoeducation, multifamily group therapy, and family therapy—have been consistently linked to better individual and family functioning. Research on couples therapy for depression indicates that couples therapy is the treatment of choice for couples in which there is both depression and couple distress. Family therapy outcomes for severe mental illness include improved well being, fewer medical illnesses, decreased medical care utilization, and increased self-efficacy.

Family-based interventions are also effective for persons with medical problems. Treatment outcomes show improvement in the identified patient, as well as in other family members. Family therapy is particularly effective with families who are providing care to elders and to a child with a chronic illness (e.g., asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis, cancer). There is also some evidence that family involvement facilitates disease prevention, demonstrating improved outcomes for weight reduction for children and cardiovascular risk.

(thanks AAMFT for a great article)

Bonnie Coopersmith, LMFT is available for sessions at the Western Mass Wellness Center, 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA 01089 - for more information for other Health Professionals at the Center, or programs we offer, please visit WesternMassWellness.com or call 413-73B-WELL (732-9355).

Celebration of Peace

2011-09-07T23:29:00.000-04:00

Sunday 9-11-11 2PM - 4PM

It's been 10 years. Please join us in healing not only our memories but our Nation as a whole, to consciously raise our hearts and give hope for bigger and better things to come!

We all are aware of the power of positive thought and prayer and it’s affect on Society. With all the challenges that we are faced with everyday, let us come together to consciously send positive energy to our future.

There will be a guided group meditation for the close of our Celebration of Peace.

Any questions, do not hesitate to contact the Center (413) 73B-WELL
or Bonnie Coopersmith, LMFT
direct at 413-386-8966

A great testimonial for one of our recent Wellness Partner additions...

2011-08-23T15:20:00.000-04:00

Bonnie is one of our more recent additions to our Western Mass Wellness Team, and the reasons she is on board, are numerous... the testimonial below is just a sampling of how pleased clients are with her expertise! If I have not said it enough before, we are so pleased to have her as past of our Wellness Team!

Parenting teens is a tough enough job, but parenting teens with mental health issues is tougher. Thanks to the support /advice / knowledge that Bonnie Coopersmith provided to me I am happy to say I survived the teen years and so did my teenagers, they are all adults today, functioning on their own.

Thank You Bonnie for all your help

Irene

Bonnie Coopersmith, LMFT - is now accepting clients at her new location: 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA 01089 in The Western Mass Wellness Center.

For more information about Bonnie, check out her website: HERE

Posted by:

Mary-Anne DiBlasio,

Owner & Holistic Health Practiioner,

Western Mass Wellness Center

Be Well Life Coaching™

2011-08-17T16:50:00.000-04:00

@ Western Mass Wellness Center

Be Well Life Coaching™ is a straightforward approach to feeling comfortable in your own skin. How many times do we doubt who we are, fear who we are becoming and decide to maintain complacency in a place we may not necessarily agree with however, feel there are no better options.

The answer “all too often”!

Call now to set up an Initial Evaluation and receive $50 off (90 minutes for $100!!)

Western Mass Wellness Center Be well life Coaching

www.westernmasswellness.com

SPECIAL OFFER!

Food: Wellness & Wholeness

2011-08-16T09:25:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness: wwlp.com

In this "Be Well" Segment, you will learn that you CAN eat healthy on a budget. You will learn simple foods that may boost your mood. You will learn staple items that EVERY kitchen needs for healthy eating! Tune in and learn how you can increase your nutritional health, simply and easily. Nutritional Health is so very important to overall Health & Well-being.

Nutritional Health is only one of the health & wellness aspects Western Mass Wellness Center focuses on for optimum health and wellness for every body! For more information on all other aspects of Health that the Centers covers: Physical Health, Emotional & Spiritual Health, Mental Health & Financial Health, call 413-73B-WELL (that's 413-732-9355)

A big Wellness Thank You to Ashley for a fantastic interview! Gabrielle Riola, Registered Dietician & April Cantell, Wellness Chef for great information! and Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Holistic Health Practitioner for bringing it all together!

For more great information visit: Western Mass Wellness Center

Never surrender your dreams

2011-08-15T09:26:00.004-04:00

''I was not looking for my dreams to interpret my life,

but rather for my life to interpret my dreams. '' Susan Sontag

Follow your heart,
never surrender your dreams.
Constantly work towards your goals.
Believe in yourself, and always be truthful.
Take time to enjoy life's pleasures.
Keep your mind open to new experiences.
Think before acting,
but don't forget the joys of spontaneity.
Make your own decisions.
Look out for yourself, but remember
that you share this universe with others.
Look for the good in others,
everybody has their own song to sing.
Live each moment to the fullest,
for a moment too soon becomes a memory.
Look for opportunities, not guarantees.
Hope for the best.
Give people a chance to love you,
for that is how you learn to love.
Live your life for yourself,
but always be considerate of others.
Believe in tomorrow, for it holds the key
to your dreams.
~ Melissa Ososki ~

Every great dream begins with a dreamer.
Always remember, you have within you
the strength, the patience, and the passion to
reach for the stars to change the world.
Harriet Tubman

positive-thoughts.typepad.com

Reducing Stress At Home & Work

2011-08-09T15:18:00.000-04:00

By Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Contributing Writer,

Mind, Body & Soul, Western Mass Women Magazine

The first thing you want to do to reduce stress in your world is to reduce the amount of things you have to do. I know. I know. You are saying to yourself, well, that’s all fine and dandy, but what am I NOT supposed to be doing?? I have to do it all!!

Well, no you don’t. Last time I checked you didn’t have superhero after your name on any document I have seen, so you’re off the hook. See! Wasn’t that easy? OK, well, maybe it’s not quite that simple, but let’s take the first step, shall we? First, write down, on a piece of paper, all the things you feel you HAVE to do during the course of a week. A typical week. All of it. Your 9-5 job if you haveone. Kids to school, or maybe soccer. Grocery shop. List it all… go ahead, I’ll wait………. OK, you have it? Now, what I want you to do is look at it through very squinted eyes, you know, the ones you get when you’re spouse or child is asking to do something that is a NO WAYanswer! So, while you are scrutinizing this paper… be honest with yourself REALLY, what you could potentially remove from the list. HONESTLY. Obviously we need to go to a job, we have to pay the bills, bring the kids to school, and grocery shop, but what about that commitment you made to your friends’ friend regarding oh I forget what. Simply, this is a request to say “NO” when needed. We often over burden ourselves because we are afraid to say no to people. The word no is a very powerful word, and useful. Become friends with it, know it’s boundaries. We over extend ourselves as a whole on a daily basis, thinking we can get it all done. Not to say that there are days when we are super revved up and can get a lot done, but, for everyday to be overfilled with things that may not matter, will only take away from the core of yourself.

Now that you have taken the time to write down all you do during the course of a day, andhave maybe shaved off a thing or two, I want you to set a schedule for yourself. A timely schedule that will leave “self time”. Self time will be any time you set aside for yourself to do something FOR yourself. Read that book you’ve been dying to read. Give yourself a manicure, go GET a manicure (keep finances in mind). One program is not meant to feed the other :O) Take a bath. Take a walk. Take a gosh darn breath!

For full article: Western Mass Women Magazine - Mind, Body & Soul

Western Mass Wellness Center in West Springfield, MA is pleased to announce the addition of four new associates:

2011-08-09T15:14:00.000-04:00

Join me in welcoming these fantastic four to the Center!!

I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful practitioners. They are truly what makes the Center what it is today! The Wellness Partners that are associated with the Center cover all aspects of health and wellness from Physical to Nutritional to Emotional to Spiritual and even Financial. It is all about balance that makes Western Mass Wellness, truly, the place to be... in Western Mass... for Wellness! :o)

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Founder and Holistic Health Practitioner, Western Mass Wellness Center

Carleen Eve Fisher Hoffman has owned and operated her own business since 2000; the Clutter Doctor located in East Longmeadow, and has helped many people overcome clutter and organize their lives. Ms.Hoffman, in conjunction with the WMW Center has formed the Western Mass Clutter Support Group.
Ms. Hoffman is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (“NAPO”), NAPO Golden Circle of New England, NAPOCT, Women Business Owners’ Alliance of the Pioneer Valley, Western Massachusetts Eldercare Professionals Association, Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association, National Society of Newspaper Columnists, Writer’s Group of East Longmeadow “Ink and Drink”, and OnlineOrganizing.com. She currently sits on the Town of East Longmeadow Green Committee and is responsible for the design and creation of The Green Learning Center, a series of displays and sitting area that is being “toured” around Western Massachusetts. A native of Palmer, Massachusetts, Ms. Hoffman currently resides in East Longmeadow with her husband Brad .

Bonnie Coopersmith is a Licensed Individual Relationship Therapist. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has been practicing in Massachusetts since the early 80’s. Her practice includes BHN (Behavioral Health Network) in Springfield, ServiceNet in Northampton, and the Carson Center in Westfield. She has consulted at several area emergency rooms providing crisis intervention for individuals and families. She is also a skilled conference presenter. Bonnie holds a Master’s degree and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in psychology, with a major in Marriage and Family Therapy. She serves on the board of directors and continues to be a member of the Massachusetts division of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. Bonnie is originally from Brooklyn, NY and now she and her husband call Western Mass their home.

Kelley Hamaoui is bringing Tai Chi back to Western Mass Wellness Center. Kelley has been studying the healing martial art of Taijiquan (Taiji/Tai Chi) since 2006 and is also an assistant instructor at the Inner Arts School in Amherst, MA. Kelley is a teacher, and student of the Taoist principles on which the practice is based. Kelley begins classes at the Western Mass Wellness Center in August 2011 to expose clients at the Center to the wonderful world of Tai Chi. “An absolute gem of an addition to the Center”, says founder Mary-Anne DiBlasio. “We are truly looking forward to having her as part of our Wellness Team”.

Lynn LaDuke has joined the ranks of Western Mass Wellness Center in West Springfield, MA as a presenter and speaker on holistic options for pain relief for
Fibromyalgia & other Chronic Pain sufferers. She heads up the Western Mass Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Support Group.

A "former" fibromyalgia sufferer, Lynn brings to the table a personal experience that deems her much more credible a success story than a science based practitioner telling you, "here take this, it should work". - "oh, and we'll deal with the side effects later".

How about holistic options and NO side effects! Let's talk!

TAI CHI - NEW SERIES BEGINS TOMORROW!

2011-08-08T14:45:00.000-04:00

Please join us tomorrow night for our new Tai Chi Sereis with Kelley Hamaoui 6PM - 7PM

The cost for the 4 week series is $48 if you pay on-line HERE - scroll down to Tai Chi.

If you pay per class it is $15 per class. This is a 4 week series. There will be a fall series beginning in September as well.

Tai Chi has so many benefits, come join in to see how Tai Chi will benefit you!

Thank You.

Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Western Mass Wellness Center

Western Mass Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Support Group

2011-08-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain Support Group - Restoring Quality of Life

meets the first Tuesday of each month... August 2nd being the meeting for this month... 6:30-8PM with Lynn LaDuke at the Western Mass Wellness Center

1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA (all the way in the back of the building, upper corner...) Call with questions - 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Please forward to anyone you think will benefit from attending...

Attending the group is no charge...

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Western Mass Wellness Center

EMF Balancing & Tarot Readings

2011-07-25T11:37:00.000-04:00

Don't forget, this Saturday, July 30th is an Open House at Western Mass Wellness Center!

Maribeth - our very own "Happy Medium" will be here giving her infamous intuitive readings 15 minutes $25 and Josie and Joe Natle will be offering sample EMF Balancing Sessions to those who want to try it out. 20 minutes $20.

Be sure to stop by between 12 Noon and 5 PM to check things out! Always better to call to reserve a space first.

Oh, and a crystal class will be held from 2PM-4PM. Learn simple techniques to balance your life. :o)

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

REIKI MASTER CLASS JUST ADDED!

2011-07-20T16:50:00.000-04:00

There will now be a Reiki Master Class Training being held this Saturday, Jul 23rd, from 10-6 for those who are interested in learning Master Training in a "Spa Inspired" environment!

If you are interested... please call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

or you can register right on line at: http://www.westernmasswellness.com/reiki%20classes.html

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Reiki Master/Teacher
Western Mass Wellness Center

Step into an oasis of peace & tranquility.

2011-07-18T20:58:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center: wwlp.com

Crystal Class to be held during Open House - on July 30th

2011-07-06T14:51:00.001-04:00

Upon request, we are holding a Crystal Healing Workshop that will be held from 2-4pm on Saturday, July 30th during the Open House. It will be a complete workshop, so you will need to pre-register! 413-73B-WELL (732-9355). or follow the link below and register right on the Western Mass Wellness Center website.

http://www.westernmasswellness.com/workshops.html

Thank you,
Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Instructor
Western Mass Wellness Center

OPEN HOUSE

2011-06-28T12:22:00.001-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center would like to invite you to stop by and feel the Western Mass Wellness Experience for yourself.

On Saturday, July 30^th, from 12Noon until 5 pm our doors will be open for those who would like to stop by and see what the Center is all about. Check out what we have available for both Sessions & Workshops as well as the Wellness Products we have for sale here in the Simple Pleasures of Mind Body & Spirit Boutique.

On July 30^th, our very own “Happy Medium” Maribeth McNair will be on site offering intuitive readings for those who have reserved space. (There are still slots available - $25 for every 15 minute increment – call the Center if you are interested at 413-73B-WELL 732-9355).

Also, we will be offering a brand new Healing Modality for the Center – EMF Balancing with certified instructors Joe & Josie Natle who will now available for sessions here at the Center. We give them a warm Western Mass Wellness welcome!

Be Well
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089
westernmasswellness.com

MyMass Appeal

2011-06-21T11:35:00.000-04:00

Mary-Anne DiBlasio begins her monthly "Be Well" Series on MyMass Appeal - Be sure to watch the third Monday of each month for more great information about Western Mass Wellness Center and how they can help empower you to be... all that you can be...

Western Mass Wellness Center: wwlp.com

Taking time to Relax

2011-06-17T15:26:00.000-04:00

MASS APPEAL

Taking time to relax: wwlp.com

PERSONAL APPEAL with Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Holistic Health Practitioner and Founder of Western Mass Wellness Center
with Seth Stutman, WWLP

WORKSHOPS SCHEDULED:

2011-06-14T16:31:00.000-04:00

6/21 - Tuesday - 6:30 - 7:30 - Chakra Balancing
6/21 - Tuesday - 7:30 - 8:30 - Crystal Healing Therapy
6/22 - Wednesday - 6:30 - 8:30 - Vision Board Assembly
6/23 - Thursday - 6:30 - 7:30 - Introduction to Reiki
6/23 - Thursday - 7:30 - 8:30 - Guided Imagery

All Tuesday and Thursday Workshops are $25 each.
(Two or more $20 each.)
Vision Board Assembly Workshop is $45

Pre-registration with deposit is required for all workshops.
Contact the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)
or email bewell @westernmasswellness.com

6/25 - Saturday - 10AM-6PM - Reiki I Day Spa Training
Get Pampered while you learn to Nurture!

Tai Chi Improves Mood and Quality of Life for Heart Failure Patients

2011-05-10T16:42:00.000-04:00

The ancient Chinese exercise tai chi—which blends moderate-intensity aerobics with strength training, breathing techniques, and stress management—could boost heart patients' quality of life. Researchers split 100 patients with heart failure into two groups: Half participated in a 12-week tai chi program, while the others spent 12 weeks in an educational program learning about heart-related issues, like low-sodium diets and heart-rhythm problems. At the end of the study, the tai chi group reported improvements in mood, less depression, less fatigue, and more energy than the others—and those in the first group were more likely to continue with some type of physical activity, according to findings published Monday in the Archives of Internal Medicine. "Maintaining an exercise regimen is important in heart failure," study author Gloria Yeh of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center told HealthDay. "Tai chi may be a suitable alternative or adjunct exercise for these patients."

Read full article here: http://health.usnews.com/health-news/diet-fitness/heart/articles/2011/04/26/health-buzz-tai-chi-helpful-to-heart-patients

Tai Chi classes are available at Western Mass Wellness Center Tuesday evenings at 6PM and Thursday afternoons at 12 Noon. Instructor - Heather Duncan. $10/class. Ongoing classes.
Please call the Center to sign up - 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

WMW - 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA

Relief for Fibromyalgia Pain: a Dose of Tai Chi

2011-05-09T14:16:00.000-04:00

Some 5 million Americans, mostly women, have fibromyalgia, a condition that causes pain in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It is also a source of sleep problems, severe fatigue, physical debilitation, and sometimes depression. As with any chronic pain, fibromyalgia is managed largely with painkillers, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants, often with little success. New research, however, offers a glimmer of hope: The ancient Chinese practice of tai chi may be an effective antidote, according to a study published in Thursday's New England Journal of Medicine.

[6 Simple Ways to Improve Symptoms of Fibromyalgia]
The study was small but well conducted: 33 volunteers with fibromyalgia were assigned to take twice-weekly tai chi classes and 33 others were assigned to twice-weekly stretching classes and educational seminars about their condition. At the end of 12 weeks, the tai chi group reported greater relief from muscle pain, better sleep, and a higher quality of life with less depression. They also performed better on tests of physical abilities. What's more, nearly one person in three in the tai chi group was able to stop taking medications compared to fewer than one in six in the control group.

[Tai Chi and Qigong Offer Many Health Benefits]
How tai chi works to relieve fibromyalgia is unclear. It involves physical exercise, which has been shown to improve the condition. Many sufferers have a hard time hitting the gym due to the pain, but Tai chi includes gentler physical movements as well as a type of meditation that may improve psychological well-being, increase confidence, and help sufferers overcome their fear of pain. "Controlled breathing and movements promote a restful state and mental tranquility, which may raise pain thresholds and help break the 'pain cycle,' " write the Tufts Medical Center study authors, who conclude that "tai chi is potentially a useful therapy for patients with fibromyalgia."

Western Mass Wellness Center and Tai Chi Instructor, Heather Duncan offer Tuesday evening classes at 6PM or a Luncheon Series - Thursdays at 12Noon. WMW is located at 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA - Please call to sign up - 413-73B-WELL (413-732-9355)

Read full article here: http://health.usnews.com/health-news/managing-your-healthcare/bones-joints-and-muscles/articles/2010/08/19/relief-for-fibromyalgia-pain-a-dose-of-tai-chi

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, MAY 7th 12Noon - 5PM

2011-05-06T17:15:00.000-04:00

Please join us!

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, May 7th - 12 Noon – 5 PM
A Day of Health & Wellness

The doors open at 12Noon.

Three Speakers:

1:00 - Registered Dietician -
Detoxification, Cleansing the Right Way.

2:00 - Certified Yoga Instructor -
Yoga is indeed for everyone (small demonstration)

3:00 - Professional Organizer -
Unclutter Your Life and Start Living.

There will be delicious and healthy snacks prepared
and fully catered by our very own Personal Chef
during the course of the full day.

Maribeth McNair, our very own Happy Medium will be conducting Tarot Readings after her Tarot Workshop (see below). Readings begin at 12:30. ($25 for every 15 minutes. You choose how long.) Be sure to call to hold a spot. 732-9355.

There will be plenty of good information, good conversation and even better energy throughout the day! Lots of gift ideas for Mom for Mother's Day... if you bring mom, you receive 25% off of any Wellness Product at the Center (even custom healing jewelry!!!)

If you bring ad from Heathcare News, you will receive 10% off any item.

There will be raffles throughout the day.

Looking forward to seeing you!

Tarot Workshop is held from 10:30-12:30 - please call ahead to register. Cost of the workshop is $95. (413-73B-WELL 732-9355)

Cinco de Mayo Celebration

2011-05-05T17:12:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center has it's own Cinco de Mayo Celebration!!!

I am not sure how many of you know this, but today begins Western Mass Wellness Center's 13th year in business! They have never really made a big deal about it in the past, however with it being the day after they were recognized by the Chamber of Commerce for being a growing business!! (although I do not think the Chamber was aware of the May 5th Anniversary date - buttttt... remember, there are NO coincidences!!!) so I thought it necessary to SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOF TOPS!!! :o)

Western Mass Wellness Center has it's own need to celebrate Freedom, Heritage & Pride!

FREEDOM: from the thought process that you are stuck! from the thought process that there are no more options! from the thought process of "this must be as happy as I get"! FREEDOM!!!

HERITAGE: to honour where holistic medicine comes from; each modality, REIKI, an ancient Japanese Healing modality used centuries ago! CHAKRA's, in traditional Indian Medicine, the wheels of energy existing within man's subtle body. CRYSTAL's, used in many cultures, especially the Chinese with their Jade and the Hopi Indians with their Turquoise. AROMATHERAPY, from Egypt to China to Europe, used truly across the globe from as far back as when Baby Jesus was brought frankincense and myrrh!

PRIDE: to show our inner strength! to walk our talk! to talk our truth! to be... all that we can be!

Join me, in celebrating Western Mass Wellness Center's anniversary with me as they embark on yet another year of empowering individuals, bringing peace and calm in the midst of drama and chaos and truly changing lives for the better!

Anyone who prints out this ad and brings to the Center will get 13% off their next purchase of either a Healing Session or a Healing Product in honour of their 13th year!

Congratulations Western Mass Wellness Center, for a job... well done!

Join us for a day of Health & Wellness

2011-04-29T18:47:00.000-04:00

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, May 7th - 12 Noon – 5 PM
A Day of Health & Wellness

The doors open at 12Noon. There will be delicious and healthy snacks prepared and fully catered by our very own Personal Chef during the course of the full day.

Maribeth McNair, our very own Happy Medium will be conducting Tarot Readings after her Tarot Workshop (see below). Readings begin at 12:30. ($25 for every 15 minutes. You choose how long.) Be sure to call to hold a spot.

There will be plenty of good information, good conversation and even better energy throughout the day! Lots of gift ideas for Mom, for Mother's Day... if you bring mom, you receive 25% off of any Wellness Product at the Center (even custom healing jewelry).

If you bring ad from Heathcare News, you will receive 10% off any item.

There will be raffles throughout the day

WMW is proud to present the following speakers:

1pm – Registered Dietician Gabrielle Riola speaks on Detoxification - Cleansing the Right Way.

2pm – Certified Yoga Instructor Sandi Zanetti explains the benefits of Yoga and will give a short and easy demonstration to show Yoga is indeed and can be for everyone.

3pm – Professional Organizer Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman shows you how to Unclutter Your Life and Start Living.

Maribeth McNair - our very own Happy Medium will be conducting another Tarot Workshop prior to beginning her readings. Please call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355) to sign up. There is a separate charge for this. 10:30-12:30 $95

Chamber Breakfast Salute

2011-04-27T09:45:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center is hoping you can join them in their ACCGS Salute

Wednesday, May 4th 7:15-9AM

at the Ludlow Country Club
1 Tony Lema Drive
Ludlow, MA 01056
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chief Greeter: John Majercak,
Restore Home Improvement Center

Guest Speaker: Paul DiGrigoli, DiGrigoli Salons

Salute: Western Mass Wellness Center
(New Location)

Spotlights:
JCC and the Maccabi Games
Springfield Vintage Grand Prix

Honestly... how do you live your life?

2011-04-20T16:06:00.000-04:00

So... how many people do you know live like this? Interesting what we find out about folks around us. Their priorities. What is truly important to them. What makes them tick.

The saying used to be... "The one who has the most toys when he dies wins" Remember that one? My how times have changed. Money is found, money is lost, but what is the one constant in your life?

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

Saturday - April 16th

2011-04-11T16:14:00.000-04:00

WORKSHOPS ALL DAY!

10AM - Chakra Balancing
12Noon - Crystal Healing
2PM - Guided Imagery
4PM - Reiki Introduction

$25 each ($20 each for two or more)

Call to reserve your spot!
413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Instructor
Western Mass Wellness Center
West Springfield, MA 01089

Yoga - New Session Beginning!

2011-04-07T16:15:00.001-04:00

Our new April/May sessions have begun!

Wednesdays - 10AM - Gentle Yoga

Thursdays - 5:30PM - Back Strengthening Series
Thursdays - 6:30PM - Vinyasa Flow

$15/class or $12/class (with a pre-paid class card)

Please call 413-73B-WELL (732-9355) to register

Instructor: Sandi Zanetti

Posted by: Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089
www.westernmasswellness.com

The Super Moon looking Super Cool

2011-03-20T18:45:00.001-04:00

The Super Moon over Springfield, MA
March 19th, 2011
Getting ready for Spring! :o)

Picture taken from West Springfield
by Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Upcoming Events at Western Mass Wellness Center

2011-03-15T11:11:00.001-04:00

Reiki II Class, Saturday, March 26th -
still room!

New Yoga Series begins April 7th

Gentle Yoga - Thursdays 5:30PM

Yoga Back Series - NEW Thursdays 6:30PM

Be Well Workshops: April 16th - All Day – You choose:

10-11:30 - Chakra Balancing

12-1:30 - Crystal Healing Therapy

2-3:30 - Guided Imagery

4-5:30 - Reiki Introduction

Tai Chi New Sessions begin April 19th. Tuesdays 6:PM

Also adding a lunchtime series
Thursdays at 12:00

Be Well Workshop, “Spa Series” - Saturday, April 30th 10AM-3PM- (2 sessions) you pick.
1. Yoga and Legacy Writing or 2. Essential Oil Blend/Healing Jewelry Making.
12-1 Lunch will be catered
by WMW Personal Health Chef

Starting in May – Reiki Shares move to the second Tuesday of each month! Still same time 6:30-8:30PM

New selection of dates: 5/10 – 6/14 – 7/12 – 8/9 – 9/13 – 10/11 – 11/8 – 12/13

Open House, Saturday, May 7th - book your appts now with our very own Maribeth
(The Happy Medium) McNair – speakers to be announced…

Reiki III Master Class, Saturday, May 21st - teacher training will be at a later date.

Please visit the website for more details
or call the Center
413-73B-WELL (732-9355)
to pre-register for each event.

Space is limited so be sure to call now.

Thank you and Be Well!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Western Mass Wellness Center

YOGA starting tom'w... 2-9-11

2011-02-08T16:13:00.000-05:00

Gentle Yoga with Instructor Sandra Zanetti.

Wednesdays 10AM

Thursdays 6PM

1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA

Western Mass Wellness Center

Thanks to those who weathered the storm and attended the WMW Open House 2/5/11

2011-02-07T21:59:00.004-05:00

A big 'ole holistic thank you to all those who weathered the storm and made it to the Open House.

We had great speakers, great food, and it was great to see familiar faces and get introduced to new ones!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio Owner and Holistic Health Practitioner at Western Mass Wellness Center showcasing some of her custom healing jewelry, crystals and other wellness based products she carries at the Center.

April Cantell, Buttercups Bistro setting up an impressive spread that not only was spectacular to look at, delicious to eat, but also was all vegan and gluten free!

Gabrielle Riola, Registered Dietician, now available for appointments at the Center, very excited to show off her new office at 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21

Mark Gagnon, Artisit explains some of the pieces of artwork he brought to the Open House to curious onlookers and potential customers.

Vegetable Sushi Rolls of aparagus, sweet pepper, mango and avacado. Amazing!

Olive & Fig Tapenade with Gluten Free Hand Made Chips for dipping.

Fruited yogurt rolls with edible flowers.

Monica Gagnon, Registered Nurse & Clinical Aromatherapist explains the healing benefits of some of her essential oils to Mila McEvoy, Massage Therapist.

OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 5TH

2011-02-03T11:50:00.000-05:00

YES! WE WILL BE OPEN!! :o)

With Mother Nature giving us a good 'ole fashioned winter, of course there is more snow forcasted for Saturday. Luckily, our snow angels are working just as hard, and the snow should be starting late enough, so not to negatively affect any of our Health & Wellness Festivities!!!

So... C'Mon down! The day should prove to be nothing less than spectacular!

Great Speakers!
Great Food!

And lots of folks gathering in an Oasis of Peace & Tranquility!

See You Saturday!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
and all her Wellness Partners
at the Western Mass Wellness Center

Reiki Share & Tai Chi Classes Cancelled for Wednesday February 2nd.

2011-02-01T20:25:00.000-05:00

Apparently Mother Nature is looking for us to spend some good old fashioned quality time with our families and keep us cozy warm in our homes!

Due to the inclement weather, both the Reiki Share as well as the Tai Chi Classes are cancelled for Wednesday, February 2nd. Tai Chi Classes will resume next week as scheduled. Reiki Shares will also resume next month as scheduled.

Any questions, be sure to call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355). Messages checked periodically.

OPEN HOUSE FEBRUARY 5TH

2011-02-01T15:00:00.000-05:00

Please join us for a day of Health & Wellness

Hourly Schedule:

11AM-1PM - Tarot Workshop with Maribeth, our very own Happy Medium*
1PM-2PM - Tai Chi Demonstration with Instructor Heather Duncan
2PM-3PM - Healing Crystal Discussion with Mary-Anne DiBlasio
3PM-4PM - Interactive Aroma Therapy Workshop with Monica Gagnon
4PM-5PM - Nutritional Super Foods with Registered Dietician, Gabrielle Riola
5PM-6PM - Personal Chef April Cantell will explain the health benefits of her "Soothies" being offered during the course of the Day.

ONGOING - Chair Massages offered by Yesenia Camareno & Mila McEvoy (tips only)
ONGOING - Tarot Readings with Maribeth McNair ($25 every 15 minutes)

$10 Entrance Fee covers all talks and presentations, unless otherwise noted. (*2 hr Tarot Workshop $95)
Entrance Fee also covers healthy snacks being catered by Buttercups Bistro and a chance to win health and wellness door prizes.

Any questions, or to sign up for the Tarot Workshop and/or Tarot Readings please call 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Registered Dietician now available for appointments at the Center!

2011-01-28T14:41:00.000-05:00

Western Mass Wellness Center warmly welcomes Registered Dietician, Gabrielle Riola. Gabrielle has been a Wellness Partner for the past couple of years, but has just decided to locate her office at the Center. We are thrilled to have her and looking forward to her being more readily available to offer her Nutritional Expertise for Western Mass Wellness' clients, customers, students and friends.

Call for an appointment to learn how to balance your diet, eat right and be well. 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

For more information on Gabrielle and what she does, visit her website Nurturing Nutrition.

We are all looking forward to not only eating better but feeling better now that Gabrielle will be around!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio

Holistic Health Practitioner

Western Mass Wellness Center

Tai Chi Cancelled For Wednesday, January 26th

2011-01-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

As much as we do not want to have to cancel class... With the storm looking to begin sooner than expected, and to keep everyone safe and warm at home... We are deciding to cancel tonight's class. Class should be (fingers crossed) good to go for next week!

Thank you and we will see you next week for both the 5:30 and 6:30 classes!!

Be Well
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
and Heather Duncan (Instructor)
Western Mass Wellness Center

Western Mass Wellness Center is pleased to announce Wellness Foods at all upcoming Classes, Workshops and Open Houses

2011-01-23T14:04:00.002-05:00

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness Center wants to be sure that all aspects of her Wellness Center is based upon complete Mind Body Spirit Wellness! She has partnered with April Cantell, Buttercups Bistro to make that happen.

"In the past, I have always bought good, wholesome foods for the classes, workshops and Open Houses, but that is what it was... store bought." Now, Mary-Anne has hired Buttercups Bistro to custom design menus based upon the healing qualities of the foods. Each and every item offered will be specifically tailored towards the type of class being offered. April has compiled many varieties and combinations of foods that will bring better balance and benefit.

"She works with the vibrations of the foods, not unlike how I work with vibration. She has taken my Chakra Balancing Workshops and truly has taken it to an all new level. She has many cookbooks that describe the benefits of the foods on the body and incorporates all her knowledge to custom design menus for my students, clients and customers. I am so thrilled to be able to offer this!"

Under Day Spas in the Healthcare News is where you will find the Western Mass Wellness Center listed. Mary-Anne is proud to present an all new way to nurture yourself. "Spend the day feeding your Mind Body & Spirit while learning to nurture yourself with Reiki." This is the first program like this in the area, and Mary-Anne is very excited to be the pioneer truly incorporating all aspects of Wellness at her Center, Western Mass Wellness Center.

Mary-Anne and Western Mass Wellness Center is the only Center in the area that supplies meals {breakfast, lunch and healthy snacks} for her students during her Reiki Classes. The closest you will get is Kripalu or Omega Institutes, of course, for a much higher fee. "I feel that it is important to maintain the students attention for the entire time. The sharing of food, the discussions over tea, all these things are priceless to me. My focus is to bring Reiki and as much balance and centeredness to as many people as I can reach. I absolutely love what I do, and I wouldn't change a thing."

Mary-Anne, although offering more, keeps her pricing affordable and in-line with the local community. She truly is passionate about her work and anyone who knows her or has attended classes at the Center can see just that, her passion about her work as well as her clients, students and customers.

For more information, contact Western Mass Wellness Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355). The Center is located at 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, West Springfield, MA.

For more information on Buttercups Bistro, contact April direct at 413-204-3826.

OPEN HOUSE FEBRUARY 5TH

2011-01-20T21:18:00.000-05:00

Please join us for a day of Health & Wellness

Saturday, February 5^th from 11AM-6PM
Mary-Anne DiBlasio would like to share with you
some of her “holistic hospitality” by inviting you to
feel the “Western Mass Wellness Experience”
for yourself.

The day will consist of a Tai Chi demonstration,
a Healing Crystal discussion, an interactive Aroma
Therapy presentation; a Registered Dietician spelling
out must haves in the kitchen to a Personal Chef who
will be featuring her own elixirs… “Soothies”
utilizing the vibrations and energies of certain
foods to feed not only your body, but your soul.
A Tarot Workshop as well as Tarot Readings. (priced
separately – please call to sign up – space limited)

$10 – includes all speakers, light refreshments
and chance to win wellness based door prizes.

Yoga Coming in February

2011-01-19T23:13:00.000-05:00

Yoga is new to Western Mass Wellness Center for 2011! There will be both evening as well as morning classes. When calling to register (413-73B-WELL) 732-9355 be sure to specify preference.
Cost $15 per class

Yoga equipment is in; ready and waiting!

Lavender filled eye pillows fill the room with an all new peace and calm!

Western Mass Wellness hosts the Pioneer Valley Professionals Networking Group January Meeting

2011-01-18T22:10:00.000-05:00

What an incredible PVP/WMW start to 2011

April Cantell of Buttercups Bistro wowed us with her incredible menu that not only fed your body, but also your soul.

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, owner of the Western Mass Wellness Center strongly feels that you are indeed who you surround yourself with; and equally you are only as successful as those you partner with, so, with that said, she explains to us, that she carefully chooses the "Wellness Partners" that she has as part of her wellness center.

"April has chosen to not only refer to herself as a 'traveling chef', Ms. DiBlasio tells the PVP, "but she also works the foods' energies to better balance the group she is feeding. The fact that she is working off the foods' energy is why she was a perfect choice as a Wellness Partner for WMW. She specifically chose certain foods to cover all the chakras of the body." {Chakras being the energy equivalent to each endocrine gland in the body.}

WMW also had both Yesenia Camareno (shown here) and Mila McEvoy from Energia Massage there offering chair massages to the group. They explained the simple benefits of massage on the body and personal experiences they have had with massage truly helping them balance their own lives. They offer Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue, Couples Massage, Pregnancy Massage and Hot Stone Therapy, just to name a few. Yesenia and Mila graduated together and decided to go into business together. "They are a great pair and should do quite nicely." Mary-Anne feels very fortunate to have them as Wellness Partners at the Center. She has always wanted to offer massage, and never had the right fit, now, she tells us, she has found that fit.

The meeting was a great gathering on new and old and the synergy of the group was truly felt by all. Their was a student of Mary-Anne's that had told her once that she truly offers a "Western Mass Wellness Experience" well, the PVP meeting was just that. You left, relaxed from the massage, well fed, yet not feeling full or bloated {by the natural foods selected by both April and Mary-Anne} and having a better understanding of what Western Mass Wellness Center stands for - Wellness from the inside out.

"I have worked long and hard to remain credible as a Holistic Health Practitioner and it is very important not to just run out and gravitate to the newest, latest and greatest!" As a matter of fact, when asked about her "new age" center, she corrects me my telling me that the modalities she works with are far from "new age". "These are ancient healing modalities used centuries ago, there is nothing 'new' about them." She works with vibration she tells the PVP. Everything is based on vibration, and she explains that we also are based on vibration {we are just masses of vibrational energy} and her wellness modalities and wellness products that she sells out of her boutique, Simple Pleasures of Mind Body & Spirit, work on balancing those said vibrations within the body, giving you a feeling of better balance, health and well being.

If you would like to know more about Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness Center, the wellness services she offers or the wellness products she carries at her Wellness Center visit Western Mass Wellness Center online:

HERE or call 413-73B-WELL

Tai Chi Cancelled For Wednesday, January 12th.

2011-01-11T21:21:00.000-05:00

Due to the impending storm, the Tai Chi class will be cancelled for this week.

We will hold both classes next week as previously scheduled.

Thank you.
Mary-Anne

Tai Chi - Another class added!

2011-01-06T13:05:00.000-05:00

Tai Chi Instructor, Heather Duncan truly knows how to draw in a crowd! There was alot of response for Tai Chi at Western Mass Wellness! So much so, that we needed to split one of the classes and add another time slot!

Wednesdays will also now have a 5:30 Class Time Slot! That means that there are a couple of slots left for two classes. The 5:30 and the 6:30.

Please be sure to contact the Center if you are interested.

$10/Class - 8 week session. This session runs through January and February. Another will begin in March.

Thank you and of course... Be Well,
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

No Longer a Last Resort Alternative Health Care Makes Strides in the Mainstream

2011-01-03T12:40:00.000-05:00

By JOSEPH BEDNAR

A dozen years ago, Mary-Anne DiBlasio was suffering from severe endometriosis, a condition of the uterus that causes often-severe pelvic pain. Two surgeries later — both with complications, but no relief — her sister told her about Reiki and directed her to a local practitioner. She had never heard of this Japanese technique aimed at stress reduction, relaxation, and healing. It’s based on the idea that an unseen ‘life force’ or ‘energy’ flows through people, and when that energy is out of balance, it can cause someone to get sick or feel stress.

“I’m very much a black-and-white person, and I needed something more tangible. It seemed very new age,” DiBlasio told HCN. “I remember going to this woman and talking to her and giving her a chance to do what she does. I was to have a hysterectomy in six months. I told her, ‘you have six months to fix me.’ She said, ‘I don’t fix you; you actually fix yourself.’”

But after starting Reiki sessions, DiBlasio started feeling better. She stopped going — and the pain came back. When she returned, she started to learn about the theories of chakras, or the body’s seven energy centers. She said Reiki eventually helped her clear a block in one of her chakras, and her condition disappeared for good.

“My endometriosis was gone; it was confirmed by a medical doctor,” DiBlasio said. “When that happened, I went back and said, ‘OK, you need to tell me what you did to me and why it works. If I incurred a disease and this modality healed it, I need to know what happened, and I need to share it with other people.’”

So she studied to become a Reiki master and opened a business, Simple Pleasures of Mind, Body & Spirit, in Belchertown in 1999, offering Reiki treatments and other services. She later moved to West Springfield and changed the name of the home-based business to Western Mass Wellness, and has grown it to the point where she recently opened a storefront on Elm Street.

“I see people who have exhausted all their medical options; they come to me, astonished that this exists and makes them feel better,” said DiBlasio, who has taught this manipulation of energy to others like she was once taught. “It’s all based on vibration, and it’s all more scientifically based than people realize. Most of my clients become my students; I give them the tools to do this themselves.”

As someone who has both benefited from an alternative form of healing and communicated it to others, DiBlasio has observed a growing acceptance of complementary therapies, such as Reiki, acupuncture, yoga, and herbal remedies, over the past decade. In the late 1990s, about one-third of Americans had undergone such treatments. A decade later, a series of studies put that number above 40%, and it’s rising.

A study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Assoc. found that people who use alternative medicine tend to be more educated and in poorer health than individuals who use traditional therapies — suggesting that some, like DiBlasio, are arriving at these solutions out of desperation. Debee Boulanger, owner of the Abundant Wellness Center in Chicopee, has seen this trend in action.

“We’re getting a variety of people, even senior citizens who have exhausted all sorts of medical doctors and specialists and feel like there’s no other hope for them,” she said. “They’re seeking things like acupuncture; it seems like they’re doing that more than [therapeutic] massage at this point.

This month, the HCN looks at this trend in alternative health, why more people are seeking holistic therapies, and why they need to educate themselves before diving in.

See full article here: Healthcare News of Western Mass

Well Helllloooo 2011 !!!

2011-01-02T20:12:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the New Year! For as much as 2010 was a year of navigating through a boat load of obstacles, (I know, you are all nodding your head in agreement, right??) 2011 will be a year of reaping the benefits from what we have sewn! So... you better have been putting your best foot forward, cuz you'll only reap the benefits of your own hard work! No one else's!! and no more free rides!! This is a year for YOU! Not to be selfish, this is not at all what I am saying; but it is to focus on what YOU need and want out of your own future! You can manifest the future of your choice! No placing blame on what you don't have, for we know that to "want what you don't have is to waste what you do have" and that is not a good place to be! It will keep you in that state of "want".

We all know the feeling of thinking as though everyone else gets that needed "break", everyone else seems to have better luck, wishing that nice guys didn't have to finish last... Well, 2011 is going to look a little different than years past. A year of "finally!" A year to reward those that have truly made a difference! Those who have truly remained heart based through times of adversity, stayed selfless through the tough times...

Now, on the flip side, if you feel there may have been some wasted time on your part over the past year, some not staying true to the path, and your efficiency levels may not have been at that all time high, don't fret! There is still a chance to c'mon back down the right road! You may just have to pick up the pace a bit over the next few months in order to finish with the rest of us!

2011 is another year closer to the "New Earth"!

Keep clear, remain grounded and enjoy the ride!

Posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 73B-WELL

Holiday Wishes

2010-12-22T20:57:00.000-05:00

From the Western Mass Wellness family to yours...

May you have a Very Merry Christmas and a

Safe and Happy New Year!

See you in 2011!

Be Well,
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089
westernmasswellness.com

Tai Chi coming to Western Mass Wellness Center

2010-12-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

Meet Heather Duncan - Newest Wellness Partner here at Western Mass Wellness. Heather will be offering Tai Chi classes at the Center beginning in January. Be sure to sign up quickly, class size is limited! Choice of 6:30-7:30 or 7:30-8:30 Wednesday nights for the months of January and February. These are Beginner Classes. Advanced Classes to follow once familiar with form.

Heather is a retired elementary school teacher who has discovered Tai Chi as a way to meet her Mind/Body/Spirit need. She likes the gentle "inner-cize", as she describes it to me, Tai Chi offers as opposed to "ex-ercise" from a typical say, gym membership. "I can feel the benefit of the breathing practice, and I very much appreciate the peaceful, centered feeling I have while doing Tai Chi." explains Ms. Duncan. She notices a measurable difference in days she begins with Tai Chi versus days she is up and adam flying out the house with mug in hand.

Heather is hoping to share with you this peaceful feeling she herself has experienced as a way to de-stress once the hectic Holiday Season comes to a close. What better way than to begin a new year than with a great new way to bring peace and calm into your world.

Looking forward to seeing you there! Be sure to call the center (413) 73B-WELL 732-9355 or email bewell@ westernmasswellness.com to register and hold your place in class.

Just one more tool Western Mass Wellness offers you to bring balance into your life.

Stay tuned for even more new classes to be offered! And always, thank you for all those who are a part of WMW and who make it all possible!

Be Well
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Holistic Health Practitioner
Western Mass Wellness Center
1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089
www.westernmasswellness.com

New location for WMass Wellness Center

2010-11-17T09:41:00.001-05:00

Western Mass Wellness has new location at 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21 in West Springfield. The Wellness Center started in Belchertown as Simple Pleasures of Mind Body & Spirit, relocated to West Springfield in 2003 and expanded to become Western Mass Wellness in 2005 keeping Simple Pleasures of Mind Body & Spirit the boutique located within the Wellness Center that carries all wellness based products.

“Even though the economy seems to be struggling, business has been booming. I feel that it is the tough economy which drives people to seek out stress reducing modalities such as Reiki,” stated Western Mass Wellness founder Mary-Anne DiBlasio.

Ms. DiBlasio has been helping people in our local (and not so local) communities for over a decade. Ms. DiBlasio has clients and students from across the nation that travel for her sessions as well as classes and workshops. Passionate about her work, it is no surprise that even in this economy, she is flourishing. Reiki is just one modality that is offered at her center. Mary-Anne is also planning on expanding upon the different workshops and classes she currently holds now that she has more space. Some of these will include, but are not limited to: Yoga, Aroma Therapy, and Nutritional Counseling from a Registered Dietician.

If you would like more information about Western Mass Wellness, visit www.westernmasswellness.com or call 413-73B-WELL (that’s 732-9355) and set up an appointment to see the new space at 1111 Elm St!

West Springfield Record
Thursday, November 11, 2010

New Location - Expanded Workshops

2010-11-14T17:31:00.000-05:00

Keep your eye out for new classes and workshops at our new location.

ps... can i tell you that the post about the Meet & Greet on "11-11" at "1111" was the "111th" post to the blog! I LOVE MY LIFE!!! :o)

Meet & Greet on "11-11" at "1111"

2010-11-09T09:27:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

Most of the center is moved in and settled... some? not so much! lol

However, finished or not, I could not pass up the opportunity to have a small reception and meet & greet on "11-11" at "1111" :o)

I hope you can join me in celebrating yet another adventure for Western Mass Wellness! Come by, say hello, and grab a cup of tea, hot cider or an Italian cookie from Cerrato's Pastry Shop! :o)

Hope to see you there! 6pm-8pm this Thursday, 11-11

1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089

Drive all the way along building to very back.
In back door, up stairs, first door on left!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

REIKI I - Saturday, November 13th, 2010

2010-11-07T12:49:00.000-05:00

Reiki I Class is this coming Saturday, November 13th. Be sure, if you are attending, that I have your full name as you want it to appear on your certification.

Class begins at 10AM and runs til 6PM. A light breakfast as well as lunch will be provided.

REMEMBER: New Location!

1111 Elm Street, Suite 21
West Springfield, MA 01089

If you have not registered, and would like to, please call the Center to see if there is still room.

Thank you!
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Readings by Maribeth McNair - Our very own... "Happy Medium"

2010-11-03T17:06:00.000-04:00

Maribeth McNair will be at Western Mass Wellness' new location, 1111 Elm Street, Suite 21, Saturday, November 6th from 12Noon until 6PM.

There are still a couple of slots left if anyone is interested.

Please call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Thank so much! and of course... Be Well

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Reiki Share Rescheduled!

2010-10-31T10:35:00.000-04:00

Due to the extent of the move of Western Mass Wellness, the regularly scheduled Reiki Share (first Wednesday of every month) needs to be rescheduled. Please check back to the website, facebook, or this blog for new date - coming soon!

Thank you for your understanding. All other shares will be as scheduled. This will be the only month that needs to be adjusted.

Posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

“Life is what happens while you are making other plans.” ~John Lennon

2010-10-26T10:22:00.000-04:00

tiny buddah
simple wisdom for complex lives...

article by Lori Deschene

I am someone who enjoys doing a lot of different things, and yet I don’t always enjoy being busy. Sometimes when my schedule gets full, I feel almost as if I’ve lost a part of me.

Just like some people become codependent in relationships, I can be codependent with work. When it has my attention, everything else can easily fall to the wayside—my social life, my hobbies, you name it.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in a riptide of doing without ever evaluating what you’re sacrificing, why, and if it’s actually in your best interest.

Sometimes it is worth it, though you might need to make minor adjustments to enjoy the journey more. Other times you need to make major changes to experience the happiness you might think you’re chasing.

Here’s what I’ve been doing to ensure my busy-ness doesn’t compromise my happiness:

1. Assess just how busy you’re willing to be.

New research indicates that a key indicator of happiness is the distance between the hours you’d like to work and the hours you actually do. If you don’t want to work more than 40 hours per week because you have a hobby you’re passionate about, but you’re working over three hours more than that, you will inevitably feel dissatisfied.

In some cases, this may be beyond your control. If you just can’t afford your mortgage unless you push yourself, that’s one thing. But sometimes you do have a choice; you just think it’s too difficult to make it. Downsizing or moving into a new place may seem like an unnecessary hassle, but it’s worth the uncomfortable transition if it allows you to do with your time as you’d like.

2. Consider whether your schedule conflicts with your priorities.

When you have internal or external conflict, it’s difficult to maintain your center and sense of joy. If fitness is a priority but you’re working 60 hours a week, leaving you little time to exercise, you will feel conflicted. Even if you want to keep working hard, you’ll feel frustrated that you’re not meeting your own needs.

If you absolutely can’t scale back your work to allow for regular exercise, consider rearranging things to make exercise easier. Wake up 20 minutes earlier for a quick job; something is better than nothing. Or see if you can take a class during your lunch break. Happiness is honoring you needs—all or most of them.

3. Be sure your goals align with your values.

Most people would prefer not to overwhelm their lives with work, but oftentimes we push ourselves because we have our eye on the prize, so to speak. There’s nothing wrong with having a dream and working toward it; but if you’re going to sacrifice much of your now for later, be sure you’re really headed where you want to go.

Does the future you envision align with your values in life? If your family is one of your top priorities, but achieving your goal might compromise that, all your busy-ness might lead you somewhere that doesn’t truly make you happy.

4. Find joy in the way things are.

Oftentimes when we’re busy, we’re fixated on the way things can be, should be, or will be on the other side of overexertion. It’s all too easy to get caught up in a race toward some fantasy tomorrow that inevitably will fall short of your expectations. Someday dreams usually do because they’re more about avoiding the present than building the future.

Regardless of how things might be after your efforts pay off, life always takes place in the present. You never know what the future holds—whether or not you’ll still have good health or the people you love will still be around. The opportunity to enjoy those things is now. Find the time to appreciate and engage with them, even if only in small doses.

5. Make time for relationships.

Studies have shown that the quality of our relationships correlates directly with our overall sense of happiness. Sometimes while we’re working toward a larger life we forget to do the things that remind us we’re part of something larger than ourselves. We need meaningful contact with other people to feel fully alive. We need interaction, engagement, and the time to just be in the presence of other.

Make time for people, even if it’s just a quick meal. It’s worth sacrificing your working lunch to experience life outside your office.

6. Allow yourself completely disconnected time.

This can be difficult in the Internet age when work can seem like a 24-7 commitment. At least that’s my experience. I’ve checked my email at 11:00 PM, 5:00 AM and every time in between. I know that I won’t ever bookmark work between 9:00 and 5:00. But sometimes I need to shut off.

We all do. We all need complete breaks from work where we can be fully present in something else. Whether it’s an afternoon at the movies, a yoga class, or a complete day and night of relaxation, compartmentalizing life for a while can be rejuvenating.

7. Say no liberally.

A few different writers have tackled this subject in the past, including Sonya Derian in her post The Halfhearted Yes: Why We Don’t Say No and How to Start and Karen Mead in her post Compassionate Boundaries: Saying No Without Guilt.

Saying no is hard when you want to please people. You might assume only spineless, needy people struggle with this, but the truth is we all do. None of us want to disappoint people, and on some level we all want approval.

Just like on airplane you need to put your own mask on before helping someone else, we need to take care of our needs before we can even begin to be valuable for other people. We need time to decompress, do what we love, and just plain call the shots, without reacting to other people’s needs.

8. Prioritize rest.

In a perfect world, we’d all sleep eight hours a night. We’re best equipped to handle life’s challenges when we’re not fatigued. But sometimes that’s not an option. When you are exhausted, take care of yourself using these tips to function better when you’re tired.

To the best of your ability, take time to nap, meditate, or practice deep breathing. A past yoga instructor once told me a certain pose was the equivalent of a good night’s sleep. I don’t know if I believe that entirely, but I do know certain yoga poses help me shut off my mind to fall asleep sooner at night.

9. Expel less mental energy.

This is a good practice in life in general—one I need to constantly work at—but it’s especially helpful when you’re busy. If your circumstances seem a little overwhelming, your inner state may start to parallel that. You may over-analyze, worry about every little decision, stress over whether you’re doing the right things.

Trust your gut. Learn and adjust as you go, but give yourself a break from the constant overanalyzing—whether the meeting went well enough, or your report was detailed enough, or if you sales calls are compelling enough. Don’t make yourself do the work twice—once in the doing and again in the rehashing.

10. Embrace the chaos.

Nobody forces us to live busy lives. We do it because we want to feel a sense of purpose, commitment, and accomplishment. You may have to maintain a full schedule out of obligation—kids to feed or loans to pay off—but there are a lot of things we could sacrifice if we truly wanted a simpler life.

If you’ve chosen to do various different things, engage with many people, and strive toward numerous goals, realize a lot will feel out of control at times. The more elements you introduce to your life, the more unpredictable the days will be. Sometimes the uncertainty is both the most exciting and terrifying part. Choose to focus on the former. Why fight the game you’ve chosen to play?

What do you do to stay happy and balanced when life gets busy?

article taken from:
http://tinybuddha.com/blog/10-happiness-tips-for-busy-people/?ref=nf

posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Wonderful Long Distant Healing Testimonial

2010-09-30T09:48:00.005-04:00

Like many others, I have been on the path of healing and growth for most of my life. My experience of Mary-Anne's (DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness Center, West Springfield, MA) work has been quite profound and far surpassed my highest expectations. Mary-Anne's kindness, love, intuition, vision and healing talents have supported changes in myself that I never dreamed possible: more inner peace,feelings of gratitude, empowerment and confidence, compassion and the ability to give and love, increased motivation and focus to achieve my goals to name a few. Mary-Anne has helped me evolve from a state of survival to the joy of living with passion and freedom. I am so grateful that she is in my life and honored to know her. I feel very,very blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her. She has changed my life and to think it all occurred thousands of miles away!

Thank you so much Mary-Anne for everything. Joni

Reiki I Class Rescheduled!

2010-09-23T15:25:00.001-04:00

The Reiki I Class has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 13th. If you are interested in attending, please be sure to call the Center to register. (413) 73B-WELL (732-9355). A 50% deposit is required.

Posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Reiki Master/Teacher
Western Mass Wellness

Independent Observer

2010-09-02T08:44:00.001-04:00

Peace ends when you are emotionally involved in a situation. The practice of being an independent observer helps you stay stable and calm. It is the best way to approach a decision in any circumstance.

Thought for the day... http://www.thoughtfortoday.org.uk/

Posted by... Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness

60 Things to Be Grateful For In Life

2010-08-31T07:34:00.005-04:00

I have always been one to enjoy life's "Simple Pleausres" hence the original name of my wellness center... I encourage all my clients, students, family and friends to realize what they do have instead of focusing on what they do not have. The phrase I use is this: "To want what you don't have is to waste what you do have." It is a sad but very true statement. If we are always hyper-focusing on the things we want, we never fully appreciate that we truly have all we need...

A friend shared this site with me, and I love the latest post which I have shared with you below. There is also a link at the bottom to get to the site so you to can subscribe and get "simple wisdom for complex lives"... I LOVE IT!

by Contributor Celestine Chua

“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” ~Cynthia Ozick

How often do you pause to appreciate what you have in life?

When I was young, I sort of took things for granted. I believe many other kids did so, too. After all, we were young and we didn’t know what life could be like on the other side.

One thing we took for granted was education. In my country, it’s compulsory for all kids to go to school, so it was a given. We never thought about how lucky we were to be educated.

Another thing we took for granted was our teachers. We never thought about how lucky we were to have teachers who cared for our growth so much, and poured their heart and soul in their lessons.

Then slowly as I grew up, I began to appreciate things around me more. As I saw more and more of the world out there, I realized all the things I’d been given are not rights, but privileges.

I realized that being literate is a not a right, but a gift. I realized there is a lot of war and violence in the world, and I’m lucky to live in a country where it’s safe and peaceful. I realized there are people out there who don’t have their five senses, and to have mine is a gift.

I realized the world is so beautiful, and we’re lucky to live in such an amazing world.

Sometimes it’s easy to feel bad because you’re going through a tough time in life. However, remember no matter how bad your situation may seem, there are tens of thousands of things to be grateful for in life.

Below is a simple list of 60 things that I’m grateful for in my life. Most of the items, if not all, will apply to you too. I’m sure as you read this list, you’ll think of many more things to be grateful for. Feel free to add on in the comments box below. I would love to read them.

Here are 60 things to be grateful for in our lives:

1. Your parents - For giving birth to you. Because if there is no them, there will not be you.
2. Your family – For being your closest kin in the world
3. Your friends – For being your companions in life
4. Sense of sight – For letting you see the colors of life
5. Sense of hearing - For letting you hear trickle of rain, the voices of your loved ones, and the harmonious chords of music
6. Sense of touch - For letting you feel the texture of your clothes, the breeze of the wind, the hands of your loved ones
7. Sense of smell – For letting you smell scented candles, perfumes, and beautiful flowers in your garden
8. Sense of taste – For letting you savor the sweetness of fruits, the saltiness of seawater, the sourness of pickles, the bitterness of bitter gourd, and the spiciness of chili
9. Your speech – For giving you the outlet to express yourself
10. Your heart – For pumping blood to all the parts of your body every second since you were born; for giving you the ability to feel
11. Your lungs – For letting you breathe so you can live
12. Your immune system – For fighting viruses that enter your body. For keeping you in the pink of your health so you can do the things you love.
13. Your hands – So you can type on your computer, flip the pages of books, and hold the hands of your loved ones
14. Your legs - For letting you walk, run, swim, play the sports you love, and curl up in the comfort of your seat
15. Your mind - For the ability to think, to store memories, and to create new solutions
16. Your good health – For enabling you to do what you want to do and for what you’re about to do in the future
17. Your school - For providing a environment conducive to learning and growing
18. Your teachers – For their dedication and for passing down knowledge to you
19. Tears – For helping you express your deepest emotions
20. Disappointment - So you know the things that matter to you most
21. Fears – So you know your opportunities for growth
22. Pain – For you to become a stronger person
23. Sadness – For you to appreciate the spectrum of human emotions
24. Happiness – For you to soak in the beauty of life
25. The Sun - For bringing in light and beauty to this world
26. Sunset – For a beautiful sight to end the day
27. Moon and Stars - For brightening up our night sky
28. Sunrise - For a beautiful sight to start the morning
29. Rain – For cooling you when it gets too warm and for making it comfy to sleep in on weekends
30. Snow – For making winter even more beautiful (Snow Cups on Mt. Rainier at Emmons Flats)
31. Rainbows – For a beautiful sight to look forward to after rain
32. Oxygen - For making life possible
33. The earth – For creating the environment for life to begin
34. Mother nature - For covering our world in beauty
35. Animals – For adding to the diversity of life
36. Internet - For connecting you and me despite the physical space between us
37. Transport - For making it easier to commute from one place to another
38. Mobile phones – For making it easy to stay in touch with others
39. Computers – For making our lives more effective and efficient
40. Technology – For making impossible things possible
41. Movies – For providing a source of entertainment
42. Books – For adding wisdom into your life
43. Blogs – For connecting you with other like-minded people
44. Shoes – For protecting your feet when you are out
45. Time – For a system to organize yourself and keep track of activities
46. Your job – For giving you a source of living and for being a medium where you can add value to the world
47. Music - For lifting your spirits when you’re down and for filling your life with more love
48. Your bed - For you to sleep comfortably in every night
49. Your home - For a place you can call home
50. Your soul mate – For being the one who understands everything you’re going through
51. Your best friends – For being there for you whenever you need them
52. Your enemies – For helping you uncover your blind spots so you can become a better person
53. Kind strangers – For brightening up your days when you least expect it
54. Your mistakes - For helping you to improve and become better
55. Heartbreaks - For helping you mature and become a better person
56. Laughter - For serenading your life with joy
57. Love - For letting you feel what it means to truly be alive
58. Life’s challenges - For helping you grow and become who you are
59. Life - For giving you the chance to experience all that you’re experiencing, and will be experiencing in time to come

And last but not least… #60:

You.

For being who you are and touching the world with your presence. For being alive and reading this post. For giving me the chance to touch your life and fulfill my purpose to help others. You are the reason I live. Thank you.

Article from tinybuddah - simple wisdom for complex lives.

http://tinybuddha.com/blog/60-things-to-be-grateful-for-in-life/

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness, llc

News from our Happy Medium!

2010-08-10T21:00:00.002-04:00

Tarot Workshop

If you are interested in learning to read tarot cards for yourself or others, please consider attending a TarotCare workshop this month in Rhode Island. This two hour commitment will provide you with a skill that will last a lifetime. You will learn the basic meanings of the suits and numbers in the tarot. This simple method makes understanding the minor arcana easier to remember. We will also cover the major arcana, which is best learned through storytelling. And of course, you will learn what an arcana is!

Your natural intuition will be strengthened by using this ancient art of divination. Your ability to help others is a gift that is incredibly rewarding. This class is appropriate for beginners and will provide you with reference materials. Tarot cards are not required.

Details are available on the TarotCare website. If you know someone who may be interested, please pass it on!

Thank you!

Maribeth
The Happy Medium
www.tarotcare.com

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

Northern Edge Milled Flaxseed

2010-08-10T10:56:00.004-04:00

Western Mass Wellness Center is an authorized distributor of Northern Edge Flax Seed.

The whole flax and nothing but the flax... Certified organic flaxseed, grown north of the 53rd parallel, milled into light-proof pouches, and immediately vacuum packed to optimize it's fresh nutty flavor. Excellent on cereal, salad, fruit or mixed in juice. 2Tbsp. per day or as desired.

"Mary-Anne, I have taken flax for over 10 years. I would always buy the over the counter product. It is no comparison to the Northern Edge Flax Seed that you carry at your Western Mass Wellness Center. I can truly see and feel the difference. The texture. The flavor. Everything about it, with much better results than with the product I have bought in the past. Thank you!" Katherine, Agawam, MA

If you would like to purchase Northern Edge Milled Flaxseed, please call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355).

Happy clients feeling well!

2010-08-01T22:19:00.002-04:00

“Mary-Anne, you brought light back into my soul again, and for that, I thank you!” Mary, Feeding Hills.

"Mary-Anne, Thank you so very much. I wanted you to know EFT works. You have no idea how grateful I am for this technique. Also I wanted you to know I picked up vanilla rice milk. It is good. Thank you so much for offering up options for me. You are the best! I mean that!" D.Fuller

"Since doing sessions with Western Mass Wellness, I feel lighter, happier, and more present than I have in years. I had a major insight after my first session - a big aha moment - and my perspective on everything shifted, I stopped blaming people that I had been blaming for years. I feel like I'm growing, integrating and moving forward in my life every day since doing sessions with Mary-Anne. I'm also feeling so happy all the time (I wasn't allowing myself to feel happy before). And my heart feels so much more open. I am relating to people in a different way, from a place of lightness and ease. I am more comfortable with myself and open with others. All this after two sessions! What next?! Thank you!" KC, Springfield, MA

A Big Thank You!

2010-07-16T15:20:00.003-04:00

Thank you to all my clients, customers and friends who attended the Summer WMW Open House! As always... it was a great success! Great people and great information makes for an overall great day!

Thanks to all our speakers and vendors who were able to present and sell their wares! Much appreciated! And a warm welcome to our newest Wellness Partner... Karoun Charkoudian, Relaxation Specialist from Karoun Yoga Studio. She offered a great presentation on how to relax thru yoga and how to "keep it simple".

With that said... I am about to embark on my own Be Well Challenge!!

Mentally: Clear
Emotionally: Balanced
Spiritually: A direct connect

Physically? Well... this is where Karoun from Karoun Yoga, downtown will be helping me out a bit! :O) Eating right just isn't enough... I want to be sure that as I age, I am flexible and strong at the core. Karoun is presenting me with an individualized program geared towards what my body needs.

Thank you Karoun and YES! I am up for the Challenge!

WMW Summer Sale & Open House - Not to be missed!!

2010-07-05T14:38:00.004-04:00

Saturday, July 10th. from 12:Noon - 6:PM

We have a great line-up of speakers:

1:00 - Natural Soap Products – Kiernan Rushford from Shiny Hiney Soaps, East Longmeadow, MA will speak on the benefits of using natural products – Good for your skin… naturally.

2:00 – Healthy Eating Habits – Gabrielle Riola, RD – Registered Dietician from Nurturing Nutrition, South Windsor, CT will explain the benefits of eating healthy giving you a list of “must haves” for your kitchen pantry.

3:00 - Karoun Yoga Tool Belt - Karoun Charkoudian, Owner of Karoun Yoga Studio in Downtown Springfield will teach you how to deal with stress while having fun at the same time. Within an energized and upbeat atmosphere, participants will learn the “Karoun Yoga Tool-Belt," simple breathing and stretching exercises to be used anytime, anywhere. Once the body is open and relaxed, Karoun will conclude with a grounding and quieting meditation - participants will feel revived, connected, and at peace.

4:00 – Vision Board Assembly – Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Holistic Practitioner, Western Mass Wellness will teach you the benefits of putting together a Vision Board and offer some tips and tricks to help manifest your dreams.

There will be our annual summer sale… all jewelry items are Buy one get one (of lesser value) half off. And, our soy candles are back!!! We have container candles, votives and even some tealights!!! And, we now have a local Avon representative that will have current books available to order from. They are now offering some great new all natural products along with a new line of Mineral Make-up (comparable to Bare Escentuals)!!!

Also at the Open House will be Maribeth McNair from Tarot Care, RI our very own Happy Medium giving intuitive readings. $25 per 15 minutes (and worth every penny!) Slots are filling fast, call to reserve your spot.

The Open Houses will be held on Saturday, begining at 12 Noon and run until 6PM. There is a nominal fee of $5 which covers all speakers as well as light refreshments and your name entered to win fabulous door prizes!! It is a great way to come together with like-minded folks.

Space fills quickly for both readings and workshops, so be sure to call the Center at 413-73B-WELL (732-9355) or email bewell@westernmasswellness.com to reserve your place as well as get directions to the Center.

We look forward to seeing you. Be Well.

Karoun Yoga

2010-06-15T22:59:00.001-04:00

Happy June everyone! With the approach of summer 2010, Karoun Yoga is greeted with new growth and new opportunities. Thank you to all of the lovely yogis who's bright faces we've been seeing in class!

Here is what's new and coming soon at Karoun Yoga:

PRESS

Karoun Yoga is featured in the current edition of Business West!

Click here for article!

Business West has a large presence in Western Mass, and Karoun Yoga is very proud to be featured there.

BLOG

Karoun Yoga now has a blog! If you've missed any of the "Karoun Yoga wisdom and tips" from these emails over the past year, you can find them here!

You can also follow me on my blog!

Click here for Karoun Yoga blog

COMING SOON...

Take Karoun Yoga with you into your day!

Karoun Yoga Products

(sshh, it's a secret, but I'll give you a hint - think meditation cd and yoga dvd)

Also...Karoun Yoga on facebook coming soon!

KarounYoga.com
---
Open Yoga Classes
June 14-26

Tuesdays
12:15-1pm All Levels One Financial Plaza
2-3:15pm Gentle FREE CLASS (donations accepted) 11 Pearl St.
5:30-6:30pm All Levels 11 Pearl St.

Wednesdays
5:30-6:30pm Gentle 11 Pearl St.

Thursdays
10-11am FREE CLASS Bowen Community Wellness 340 Main St.
12:15-1pm All Levels One Financial Plaza

Saturdays
10-11:15am Gentle with Kendra 11 Pearl St.

WMW Wellness Partner Upcoming Class

2010-06-15T21:25:00.005-04:00

Monark Complementary Health.

Just a reminder that the Home Essentials course will be held this Wednesday, June 16th at 6pm at Monark Complementary Health in Ludlow. If you are interested in attending, please contact Monica at 413-204-1546.

The class is $70 and it includes four essential oils.

Thanks so much and enjoy your week! Monica

posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness, llc.

Market Show & Big Y Wellness Fair

2010-05-07T20:36:00.005-04:00

There are different ways to market yourself to get your name out there. One of which, albeit a lot of work, is fantastic, ...SHOWS!

The Market Show turned out to be a great way to expose folks to Western Mass Wellness. The weather could not have been better to cart around our hand trucks from parking garage to expo booths.

Between the show-goers that popped in and out of booths all day long, to the other exhibitors that tried to sneak over to see what you were all about.

Meeting not only the folks right beside you, but strolling down the aisles to see who else was out there and what they had to offer.

One thing that I feel was very beneficial is that there were quite a few people that didn't realize that I was located right in West Springfield. Easy to get to, right on and off the highway. Convenient not only from Rte 91, but the Mass Pike and Rte 291 as well...

Passed out a lot of information, and even made some appointments right there on the spot! Nice...

The show-goers had a big interest in the custom healing jewelry I offer... The Be Well Line. I had both men and women alike interested. At the Big Y, I was the crystal table causing a commotion! LOL! I didn't have enough pendulums to go around!! What fun...

Market Show Wednesday, and Big Y Wellness Fair on Friday. A great week for Western Mass Wellness! A big THANK YOU to all who made it possible!

Posted by: Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness

Market Show 2010

2010-05-03T14:10:00.004-04:00

Join us for the ACCGS
Business Market Show
Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Don’t miss the Business Market Show 2010 on Wednesday, May 5th, 2010 at the MassMutual Center from 9-4pm. Entrance is free with a business card!

Network with over 200 exhibitors and attend free seminars! Special give-aways all day long including a $500 visa gift card and a laptop give-away.

Start the day by attending the ACCGS Breakfast featuring Jeff Taylor founder of monster.com.

Make plans to have lunch at the Business Market Show Lunch and hear keynote speaker, Charlie Baker, a Republican Gubernatorial Candidate.

End the day with the Cinco de Mayo Networking After Hours event featuring local restaurants and caterers.

Tickets for the breakfast and luncheon are still available and can be purchased by contacting Diane Swanson at (413) 755 -1313 or by email at swanson@myonlinechamber.com

*Attending the show, seminars and Cinco de Mayo networking after hours event are free. For more information visit www.BusinessMarketShow.com

Western Mass Wellness is Booth #53. Stop by to say Hello! :O)

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness, llc.

What a great turn out at the Open House!

2010-04-18T18:27:00.027-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came out in the rain to share in our fantastic day of wellness. Between our vendors and our speakers, the day was a smash! Dr. Steve Sobel held a very captive audience as he gave tips and tricks on how to be mentally healthy and happy. He offers public presentations as well as private sessions for success and career counseling and you can get more information at www.DrSteveSobel.com

Maribeth McNair our very own "Happy Medium" was booked all day doing her amazing intuitive readings. She made many new friends today, one of which was so very impressed that she will be driving back and forth to Tarot Care in Rhode Island to personally learn tarot from the "Happy Medium" herself!

Monica Gagnon, from Monark Complementary Health was also a big hit with her essential oils and blends. Here she is explaining to a couple of eager learners the benefits of essential oils in everyday life.

Some happy show goers as well as our resident Registered Dietitian... making sure there are healthy snacks to be had for nibbling in between talks.

Fantastic crystals, stones, jewelry and more for sale as folks mill around.

Gabrielle Riola from Nurturing Nutrition

as well as Keirnan Rushford from Shiny Hiney Soap Products selling her wares...

Not shown here, Mark Gagnon also from Monark Complementary Health who walked us through an amazing relaxation meditation with a custom "Meditation Blend" Oil he and Monica came up with to open not only the senses but the mind, body & spirit as a whole...

Again, thanks to everyone for coming and making Western Mass Wellness possible!!

Be Well!!

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness

SAVE THE DATE! SATURDAY, APRIL 17TH, 12NOON - 6PM

2010-04-08T21:26:00.000-04:00

Western Mass Wellness
Open House – Saturday, April 17th – 12Noon – 6PM
A Fantastic Day planned!

1:00 - Natural Soap Products – Kiernan Rushford will speak on the benefits of using natural products – Good for your skin… naturally.

2:00 - Clinical Aromatherapy - Monica Gagnon, RN – Clinical Aroma Therapist will explain the benefits of using essential oils in everyday living.

2:30 - Yoga Breath for Relaxation – Mark Gagnon will show how using essential oils with the Yoga Breath will accentuate an already great course of therapy.

And… our Spotlighted Speaker for the Afternoon at 3:PM will be Dr. Steve Sobel giving his nationally known presentation… Yes You Can! – How to Live Your Greatest Dreams and Get What You Want Out of Life™

Due to the small and intimate setting, space is limited, so be sure to call to register as well as get directions.

There will be great gifts for sale for Mother’s Day as well as for simply pampering yourself!

Also at the Open House will be Wellness Partners: Gabrielle Riola, RD and Maribeth McNair our very own Happy Medium giving intuitive readings. $25 per 15 minutes (and worth every penny!) Slots are filling fast, call to reserve your space with Maribeth.

There will be a $5 fee for the Open House that will cover all speakers, light refreshments as well as a chance to win some great door prizes.

Western Mass Wellness
The place to be… in Western Mass… for Wellness.
West Springfield, MA – www.westernmasswellness.com – 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio

OPEN HOUSE - NOT TO BE MISSED!!!

2010-04-01T10:20:00.006-04:00

Saturday, April 17th. from 12:Noon - 6:PM

Our SPOTLIGHTED presentation will be:

Yes You Can!

Dr. Steve Sobel

How to Live Your Greatest Dreams and
Get What You Want Out of Life”TM

Western Mass Wellness is proud to sponsor this unique
opportunity to see Dr. Steve Sobel in a small and intimate
setting. This will be the most uplifting presentation you ever
will attend as Steve gives you the inspiration and solid direction
to go beyond what you think you are capable of! This presentation
will impact the work and personal lives of all attending. Get way
past the limits, beliefs and fears that are holding you back! Learn
to deal pro-actively with CHANGE and ADVERSITY.
Learn why fear means “false evidence appearing real!”

Dr. Steve Sobel, Speaker Extraordinaire, one of the country's most adored motivational speakers, educators, and humorists, will be presenting Yes You Can, a lecture not to miss! Steve is also the author of the best seller, “The Good Times Handbook - Your Guide to Positive Living and Exciting Life” and appears regularly on television and radio throughout the United States and Canada.

Additional speakers will be our Wellness Partners:

Monica Gagnon, RN - speaking on Clinical Aroma Therapy

Mark Gagnon - speaking on Yoga for Relaxation

*Also, this husband and wife team will also walk us through some breathing exercises utilizing essential oils.

And of course we have our very own "Happy Medium" doing intuitive readings throughout the day - she fills up quick. Be sure to call and reserve your time slot!

Fee - $5 - covers all speakers as well as light refreshments and your name entered to win fabulous door prizes!!

Due to the cozy & intimate setting space is limited so be sure to Call to register (413) 732-9355 West Springfield, MA 01089 (Call for directions).

Posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness Center

Vision Board Assembly Workshop

2010-03-30T22:36:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, March 31st. from 6:30-8:30

Learn how to manifest your dreams into reality with this incredibly useful tool. You will learn just what to put on your board as well as where to position things with a little Feng Shui flair!! Bring with you a list of goals you have, as well as a list of fears that could be blocking your progress; and watch how we transmute all negatives into positives for your success!!

Fee - $45 Call to register. 413-73B-WELL (732-9355)

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness
www.westernmasswellness.com

Spring is in the air...

2010-03-22T22:37:00.000-04:00

The Spring Equinox has arrived! The air is filled with the energy of renewal and new growth. Take this time to effectively re-energize yourself. To clean out those cob webs of the mind, the body, as well as the spirit. The season is all new. The sun will shine and warm us from the inside out.

Be sure to make the most out of this Spring. Call the Studio to find out what would be best for you on your path.

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
(413) 73B-WELL (732-9355)
West Springfield, MA

It's not easy bein' green...

2010-03-17T12:09:00.008-04:00

Doesn't it just bring you back? And look at the message it is able to give us today. You can just see Kermit swaying back and forth, am I right??

Well... today being St. Patrick's' Day is as good a day as any to think green!

We all talk about "going green" - "being green" - "green energy"... but are we doing anything about it. Today is a great day to promise yourself, and your children (if you have any) to do something green; since after all... it is the future of our children that we are concerned about...

Something simple. As easy as making sure you bring your own bags to the grocery store (not too hard to do, right?). If every person, stepped up and made a simple, small change... it all makes a difference. We need to look at the big picture. We need to look at how much trash we generate. What truly is your carbon footprint?

Maybe make a promise to have a compost pile this year (Great fertilizer for the garden!!) How about buying something used as opposed to buying something new; keep recycling something that still has "life" left in it!!

Forget the latest and greatest... go for character! It is fun to think of the memories an item may have. My husband and I just purchased a 1972 boat. A little thing... nothing much, just to putt around in and take the kids fishing...

The clincher was when the gentleman selling said to him... "my wife and I loved this boat... we spent many hours truly reconnecting... we found each other again"... SOLD! I mean... how sweet is that? We didn't need new... we wanted something with character... something with great energy to keep the cycle going...

Think green... even if it's small... it's still green... Any shade of green will do! ;o)

Be Well and thanks for reading!

Posted by: Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness, West Springfield, MA (413-73B-WELL) www.westernmasswellness.com

Every time you influence another person to do a better job, you benefit that person and you increase your own value.

2010-02-20T21:10:00.004-05:00

Someone once said that no one can really motivate anyone else; all we can do is motivate ourselves and hope it catches on. You will probably never know how much you influence others with your behavior. When you always go the extra mile, you will influence those in your circle of friends and acquaintances, your family, your co-workers, and even your bosses to do more and better than they have done before. Your value to yourself and others is greatly enhanced by your ability to influence others to be happier, more productive people. There are no salary caps or career limits for those who lead others to great heights of success. Such people are simply too valuable.

Napoleon Hill Foundation's Thought for the Day. I LOVE IT! Live to empower others! It is not about keeping someone vulnerable so they always need your help; it is about truly helping and showing them how to care for themselves! "no repeat business!" Western Mass Wellness' motto - It's a beautiful thing!!

Posted by:
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Where to nuture your body & soul

2010-02-16T12:24:00.009-05:00

By Maureen Sullivan at the Republican
February 05, 2010, 1:00PM

By Romola M. Rigali
(Read full article here)

Honor (and pamper) thyself

The Western Mass Wellness Center in West Springfield is the brainchild of Mary-Anne DiBlasio and her husband, John R. Schelb.

DiBlasio is a Reiki Master who helps those who are not looking for a quick fix, but who are seeking harmony and peace – a place where one has an opportunity to rebalance and heal.

“I see so much stress, anxiety and depression, especially now,” DiBlasio says in her comfortable home and office on Pine Street. To help our bodies begin to heal, she says, “We need to take the time to honor ourselves.”

DiBlasio had a personal experience some 15 years ago when she was diagnosed with severe endometriosis, she says. After several surgeries and no positive results, she turned to a Reiki practitioner for help.

“A friend bought three sessions for me,” she says. After those initial sessions and more, DiBlasio was cured of the disease and subsequently became pregnant. “I’m a black-and-white person by nature,” she says. “But it worked. I couldn’t deny it. I became obsessed after that,” she adds.

Evidently passionate about her work, DiBlasio says her goal is to empower clients to take care of themselves.

“We don’t want repeat business,” she laughs.

In addition to Reiki, DiBlasio practices cranio-sacral therapy, meditation, crystal healing, chakra balancing, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and energy clearing, vision board assembly and life coaching. She has been in practice since 1999 and holds several certificates in Reiki practices. She also teaches Reiki classes.

Hours are by appointment. Sessions run from half-hour to 1½ hours. Fees vary, but DiBlasio keeps them reasonable, she says. For more information, call 1-413-73B-WELL (732-9355) or visit her Web site at www.westernmasswellness.com. She can also be reached at mdiblasio@westernmasswellness.com.

Excerpt posted by Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness

(Read full article here)

SUCCESS ATTRACTS SUCCESS AND FAILURE ATTRACTS FAILURE BECAUSE OF THE LAW OF HARMONIOUS ATTRACTION

2010-01-30T12:25:00.005-05:00

In physics, positives attract negatives and vice versa, but in human relationships the opposite is true. Negative people attract only other negative people, while positive thinkers attract like-minded individuals. You will find that when you begin to achieve success more successes will follow. This is the law of harmonious attraction. When riches begin to come your way, you’ll be amazed how quickly they accumulate. Train your mind to visualize yourself acquiring a specific amount of wealth or achieving a certain goal-whatever you most desire. Then use self-suggestion to persuade your subconscious mind that you can achieve your goal, and put your plan into action. When you use the tools that you have at your disposal to prepare yourself for success and visualize yourself as having already reached your objective, you can achieve any reasonable goal that you set for yourself.

On January 26th 2010, this was the Napoleon Hill Thought For The Day. This is of course what the Be Well Challenge is based on. The new program at the Center will help you achieve your 2010 goals, your hopes, your dreams. We can manifest our own reality if we just put our mind to it. The energy is at an all time high right now for manifesting... Keep your thoughts clear and positive!

Call now to get in on the 30 Days for $30 Special pricing only available until March 31st.

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Setting a Course for Financial Independence

2010-01-28T19:31:00.004-05:00

In these tough economic times, we are always grateful for good information to help us stay on the right financial track. Yes You Can, Financial Education from American Century Investments has helped many a family find their way to Financial Freedom. Here is one of their latest posts for the New Year:

Research has shown that it takes at least 21 days to form a new, improved habit. That means, over the next three weeks, you can start changing how you spend money and set yourself on the path to financial independence.

Here are some things you can do to help set realistic and achievable goals:

* Keep them small. It’s better to take small steps and succeed than try for a lofty goal and fail. Don’t set a goal you can’t achieve. It may be easier to cut out several small expenses than lop off a single big one.

* Make them measurable. Instead of resolving to “spend less”, set a goal with a specific amount you want to achieve – like a 5% reduction or $100/week in reduced spending.

* Write them down. If you can put your goals into words on paper, you’re more likely to remember them and keep them.

* Limit the number. If you have more than five goals, you might get overwhelmed. To start, think small. It’s better to have several small successes than one big failure.

* Create an action plan. Track your steps on a calendar so you can watch your progress. That will help keep you going. If you haven’t already, create a spending plan, too. This will let you see – penny-by-penny – how you are using your money.

Don’t be discouraged if you miss a goal. Achieving financial independence is a long-term process that requires a disciplined approach.

Thank you, and if you are looking for additional assistance with staying on the right track, call Western Mass Wellness and take advantage of their newest program... The Be Well Challenge!

Girls' Nite Out!

2010-01-27T09:28:00.007-05:00

WOW! and what a night it was.

4PM I arrive at Lattitude to find wait staff mopping the floor, cleaning, and rearranging tables for the night to come. The restaurant is closed to the public tonight for a Girls Only Party!

I wanted to arrive early to be sure I would have time to set up my table with enough time to relax a bit before the mad rush. So far just employees, myself, and one other vendor with the same thing in mind... very quiet. As the late afternoon progressed, more vendors were appearing, all setting up our 4' tables to sell our wares.

I introduce myself to a few new faces, as well as say hello to those I recognize as fellow show goers and friends. I pull out the Goddess Cards and share with a new friend... She is shocked by the accuracy of the cards! I do love what I do! It should be a good night.

The wait staff was exceptional to our needs as we set up. Very accommodating. A big thank you to the entire staff especially Matt & David!

Table is all set up, looks pretty good if I do say so myself (no data card in the camera - sorry no pics). My friend Sue shows up to help, and tweaks the table just a bit! (That is of course why I invite her! She's got the eye! :O)

Doors open, like flood gates... wall to wall women heading straight for the bar to taste the official Girls' Martini (available on the Lattitude Menu for 2010). "Not as sweet as I would have thought" says one consumer, "but still good, strong, but good." The night gave all new meaning to the term standing room only!

An incredible night. Lots of fantastic people! (Especially Carol & Pat! What a hoot to talk with them and hear their stories! You gals made our night!) We met so many great folks that we look forward to seeing at the Center for either Open Houses, Classes or Workshops.

Sue was quick to learn the lingo, I'll have her a wellness expert in no time! Once Sue and I were able to at least look up from the table, Matt & David were quick to bring us some tasty treats! We were glad for the break in the crowd, just to be able to get a bit to eat. The hors d'oeuvres were Dee Lish!

A big thank you to the Republican! GJWHF! and Lattitude! For a great night of fun! Maureen & Kathy, you did a fine job!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2010-01-22T16:37:00.002-05:00

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Martini Launch. Tuesday, Januray 26th. Lattitude in West Springfield. The restaurant is closed to the public for this exclusive "Girls" party. The GJWHF martini will be on the menu for a year. Join us and be among the first to taste it.

Tickets are $35 each and include one GJWHF martini, a "Girls" martini glass, an abundance of delicious hors d'oeuvres - plus prizes, surprises, music, vendors and more.

Call (413) 735-1645 to purchase your tickets today!

Mary-Anne DiBlasio, Western Mass Wellness and Simple Pleasures of Mind Body & Spirit are among the few selected vendors that will be present!! Be sure to read the write up in the Living (GJWHF) Section of Friday's Daily Republican. Should be posted soon!

Be sure to give a call and purchase your ticket for this exclusive "girls" night out!

Thank you and hope to see you there!!
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Holistic Health Practitioner
Western Mass Wellness, llc.

Gold -by Dr. Anastacia Samson -January 17, 2010

2010-01-20T06:58:00.003-05:00

Golden love, light and harmony
Shower down on me.
All that glitters here
Is the gold of life
The gifts of the spirit
Bringing joy for your heart.
Golden opportunity to transform your world
Peel off the layers to discover
To uncover the precious treasures
Within

Angels of gold swoop down,
Scoop the gems of experience from the sea of life
Into their beautiful tapered fingers
Playing the music of the spheres
In a uni-verse of blissful song

They glide in the surf
Of the golden sea
Topped by snowy silver peaks
Of rolling waver
Reflecting the changing light
Of sun and moon
Day and night
Rhyme and reason.

"This is the stuff of dream"
poetry transformed into reality.
It is mine,
Yours,
To have and to hold
In the eternal moment of now
To delight the heart
Nourish the soul
And feed the vision
Of who we REALLY are-
The Spirit of Love-
The fulfillment of life's search
For meaning and purpose
Joy and gratitiude
Given and received.

Gold of old-
The ancient teardrops of the sun.
Weeping in joy
Weeping in sorrow-
Always shifting
Changing
Mutations of the play of light-
Of life.

Impressions-
Fleeting yet indelible,
Momentarily eternal
A paradox
A paradigm
Shadow of opinion, belief
Bathed in the clarity of enlightenment.

We've roamed the valleys of dispair
And scaled the peaks of delight
To know the unchanging
Face of God.

Dr. Anastacia Samson - Copyright 2010
www.aldchiro.com
www.allhealinglight.com
www.chinagirl5050.com

Love, Purity, Peace, Wisdom

2010-01-19T08:25:00.002-05:00

When you build a house, every brick counts. When you build character, every thought counts. You are what you think. Love, purity, peace, wisdom - the more you think of these qualities, the more you will become them.

Thought for Today

THE AVERAGE PERSON WOULD HAVE QUIT AT THE FIRST FAILURE. THAT’S WHY THERE HAVE BEEN MANY AVERAGE MEN AND ONLY ONE EDISON

2010-01-19T08:10:00.002-05:00

Thomas Edison once observed that the reason most folks don’t recognize opportunity when it comes knocking is that it is often dressed in coveralls and looks like work. Edison knew that anything worthwhile never comes easily; if it were easy, anyone could do it. Because he persisted far beyond the point the average person would consider reasonable and rational, he produced inventions that even the most learned people of the day considered impossible. Great advances in knowledge are often achieved by people with an almost fanatical devotion to finding the solution to a problem. Flashes of inspiration alone are not enough to ensure success; they must be followed by determined, persistent action.

-Napoleon Hill Foundation - Thought for the Day - January 17, 2010 - naphill.org

What do you know about Hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) ?

2010-01-07T09:39:00.006-05:00

Hospital-acquired or Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a global crisis. Recognizing the rapid growth in cases of infection like MRSA and ventilator-associated pneumonia being picked up in hospitals, Kimblery-Clark Healthcare has put together a website called "Not on My Watch" at www.haiwatch.com to educate patients and healthcare professionals. Their goal is to eliminate these preventable illnesses and their often tragic consequences. The website is a collaborative effort between Abraham & Harrison and Kimberly-Clark to generate online awareness.

When someone develops an infection at a hospital or other patient care facility that they did not have prior to treatment, this is referred to as a healthcare-associated (sometimes hospital-acquired) infection (HAI). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at any point in time, 1.4 million people worldwide suffer from infections acquired in hospitals.

As part of an ongoing commitment to quality care and infection prevention, nationwide doctors and hospitals are partnering with Kimberly-Clark to deliver continuing education programs on healthcare-associated infection (HAI) prevention to staff and management Whether you’re a healthcare professional, patient, or visitor , the most effective way to keep HAIs down to a minimum is to wash your hands or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.

Educate yourself. Keep yourself and your family safe. Simple steps to get fully involved in your own care. It is as important to the doctors to keep you healthy while you are in their care as it is for you to have a fast and speedy recovery if the need arises that you need to be hospitalized.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact:

Barbara Dunn
HAI Watch News
barbara@haiwatchnews.com
http://haiwatchnews.com/#kimberlyclark

Thank you for taking the time.
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night...

2009-12-18T20:40:00.006-05:00

From our family to yours...

May you have a very Merry Christmas and a Safe and Happy New Year.

May the Spirit of Christmas bring to you all the wishes your heart longs for this Christmas Season.

Western Mass Wellness will be closed for the Holiday Season starting Monday - December 21st, and will reopen for business on Monday - January 4th. Please call for an appointment.

Thank you...
Mary-Anne DiBlasio
and family
Western Mass Wellness, llc
West Springfield, MA 01089

Western Mass Wellness proudly presents the following speakers:

2009-11-08T10:14:00.003-05:00

Please join us on Saturday November 14th, from 12 noon until 6pm:

1pm: AROMATHERAPY BASICS - Monica Gagnon has been an RN for 18 years and currently works for Weldon at Mercy Medical Center. She is a student in the Clinical Aromatherapy Course at Mercy Medical Center and additionally will be opening her own practice in March 2010. Monica is also working with administration at Mercy Medical Center to start a complementary health program at the hospital. Her talk will include an overview of the practice of Clinical Aromatherapy and the use of essential oils.

2pm: TAROT READING INTRODUCTION - Maribeth McNair affectionately known as “The Happy Medium”, has been professionally reading Tarot cards since 1997. She is a gifted intuitive and author of “Tarot Talk”, a tarot-advice column published weekly in the Newport Daily News’ publication the Newport Mercury. During this Open House session, Maribeth will be discussing the class description for The Symbolism of the Tarot. Using the Universal Waite tarot deck, throughout this 26 week course we will study each of the cards in a way that will allow you to absorb the meanings and vibrations of the cards. You will be able to provide readings for yourself and others in a healing and helpful way. During the overview on November 14, she will also provide a one-card reading for each attendee so that they may walk away with an understanding of the power available through the Tarot.

TAROT READINGS WITH OUR VERY OWN “HAPPY MEDIUM”

Before and after her talk, Maribeth will be available for private readings. $25 for every 15 minutes. Space is very limited, please be sure to call to schedule your readings before she is filled up.

3pm: NATURAL WEIGHTLOSS - Renee Blanchard Hastings is a Holistic Health Counselor certified by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Renee received her education from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in NYC. As a Holistic Health Counselor Renee works with clients to guide them to follow their body’s intuition to achieve optimum health and wellness. She recommends an easy to follow diet and lifestyle changes that clients incorporate into their lives as it feels best for them.

Also available at the Open House will be items for sale from the Simple Pleasures Boutique such as crystals, pendulums, and handmade beaded jewelry. There will still be time to order something custom for that special someone on your Holiday List!! Natures Inventory Oil Blends & Northern Edge Flax Seed.

Also, gift certificates for Reiki available in any denomination. Makes a great gift for anyone on your Holiday list!

Please call for directions! Thank you and of course... Be Well.

Everything Retro

2009-10-20T09:13:00.002-04:00

Everything seems to always come back "in". From the mustang styling to new (old) fads for clothing to even football uniforms...

I say... let's bring "love thy neighbor" back! or maybe good old fashion child rearing... where parents were in charge! Just like it used to be!!

Ahhhh... the good ole days...

Just think... no cell phones or texting, your child actually asks if it is ok to go next door and hang out with Bobby before dinner since his homework is finished. Those were the days right? Not worrying if Janey is pregnant,no. Just worrying whether or not she will be too nervous to kiss Jimmy for the first time at the prom!

That was the life, right? simple, slower than it is today... what seems to be the problem? Society, and what we are becoming, where we are going... Look around, it's not pretty... More responsibility at work for less pay. No employee/employer loyalty. (What's that?) My father worked at the same company for 43 years, that's right 43! started off at the very bottom and made his way all the way to the top. An honest living. Not who he knew, or who he - well... you get the picture. When I tell folks I was at a company for 17 years, at my age, they look at me as though I have three heads! Yikes! I loved that job!

The only way life can get more simple now a days is if we make it so... ourselves. Learn to slow down. Breathe. Deep. The only one that can do it for you, is you... I know it seems impossible. In this technologically savvy world we live... when a businessman could tell a fellow colleague, "I'll get back to you on that." and if it was by the end of the week, that was terrific. Now? If you do not return calls within 24 hours someone out there, without a shadow of a doubt will think you're dead. Trust me, it's happened to me! Sad... but none the less true...

Join the Retro Rage! why not?

Mary-Anne DiBlasio
Western Mass Wellness, llc

Fitness is Fun - Health & Wellness Fair

2009-10-14T16:00:00.003-04:00

SATURDAY · OCTOBER 17TH · 10:00AM TO 3:00PM · EASTFIELD MALL - MALLWIDE

Join us for a health & wellness fair for the whole family and people of all ages. Featuring interactive exhibitors, FREE health screenings, Reiki, flu clinic, blood drive, children's activities, live performances, raffles and more.

Flu clinic provided by Center Pharmacy - no appointment necessary
Blood drive hosted by Mercy Medical - no appointment necessary
Reiki provided by Western Mass Wellness - sample sessions - first come first serve basis

FREE health screenings include: Blood pressure
Hearing test
Glaucoma
Macular degeneration
Blood glucose
Body fat analysis