Aaahhhhhhhh!!!

After the not-so-routine appointment, I could feel myself tensing up. The muscles in my neck and upper back were hard and unmovable. Long before the grace of God in the prayer service hit me, I knew I had to do something to relax before those tight muscles turned painful.

That's when I discovered that several therapeutic massage institutions allow a percentage discount depending on your insurance coverage. I emailed one on Buffalo Road and set up an appointment. After my first bout of cancer, one of the singers in Amazon offered me free massage to help me recover, and it did indeed help stimulate healing and rebuilding. I knew the benefits.

When I walked in, I was greeted by a cozy fire in the fireplace, a juice and water bar, a soft environment with neutral colors of tans and browns. Scattered about were thoughtful little touches of calmness. People spoke in hushed tones, phones did not jar your thoughts with jagged jangling. There were little sand containers with rakes, water whispering over stones with gentle musical murmurs, and baskets with raisins and granola bars scattered about. Everything had been carefully planned to present you with an experience of peace and quiet.

I was ushered to a candle lit room with soft music playing - mostly nature sounds or wooden flutes and rainsticks. The table, to my utter delight, was heated and the sheets were that dreamy butter softness of fresh sun and nurturing motherly comfort.

For an entire hour, the therapist and I worked together to relieve tension, soothe nerves, lighten tightness. Her hands moved expertly to the many knots huddled along my spine and shoulder blades, coaxing them to release their relentless grip on my body. The neck ones were the most obstinate, but even they gave way under her guidance.

How luxuriant and almost sinful it felt to be so pampered and lovingly cared for. I rarely ever indulge such things, but knowing what may lie ahead, I gratefully accept this ministration of adjuvant therapy as just that - a much needed therapy well worth the time. I feel as if I can breathe better, more deeply, more confidently. No breath holding. Breathing is important.

As I take my time about putting myself back together, I remain relaxed and at peace. This needs to last a long time and carry me through the upcoming tests and procedures which can surely wreak havoc on one's body. They hand me a glass of refreshing water at the front desk just before I leave. Stay hydrated. And come back. You will need more sessions. I smile. Yes, they are probably right.