KBrink Design

Hi All,

I hope you all are having a good Holiday Season.  I had an excellent Christmas and looking forward to a good New Year.  It's even been a little like winter here (northern tier folks - don't laugh too hard).  Anyhow - I'd like to announce a new design start up that I'm involved with....KBrink Design.

KBrink Design Logo

KBrink Design is the brainchild of my son Andy.  Andy is an artist and designer with experience working in screen printing and some work with punk rock band logo and flier design.  We've talked about collaborating on a business for a while, but the timing was never quite right.  However, this time the timing seems good.

Here's the idea that he had for the business.  We would focus on the markets/areas where his interest lies.  Punk and Rock n Roll Bands, Horror Movies, and related topics.  We'll be putting together products for sale at Horror Cons, Comic Cons, and on-line.  TShirts, buttons, stickers, artwork prints, original artwork, etc.  We'll also be providing original designs, artwork and products for clients.

I bring most of the experience to the project.  The knowledge of the industry, artwork production techniques, and thing of that nature.  We're already working on products and designs and will be open for business at an event soon.  Updates to come soon.

Have a great day and Happy New Year.

Peace,

Tom

Expectations and Attachments; a Holiday Trap.

Hi All,

Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday, Seasons Greetings....etc, etc....  I hope you're enjoying the Holiday Season, whatever you celebrate.  We've had a nice little taste of winter here in Phoenix, AZ this year.  It's been on the cool side - and I'm loving it.  I hope wherever you are, things are going well.

I got up early this morning and was doing a few things around the house, before going in to work with a client.  It was peaceful and quiet, and my thoughts turned to the expectations and attachments that we can sometimes have around the holidays.  Those are two things that can be a huge trap for resentments and disappointment during what should be a festive season of joy.  Because I've fallen into this trap before, (several times), I thought it might be a timely topic for the blog.

When we're kids, so often we had expectations of Santa Clause, friends and relatives bringing toys and gifts for us.  When I was growing up, we had a routine - Christmas Eve we went to church and while gone, Santa came and delivered presents.  After church we had treats, opened gifts, enjoyed family, and had a great time.  Expectations met, right?  What if we were really attached to recieving a certain special gift - and didn't get it?  If we got it, what if it didn't live up to the hype?  What if it got broken shortly after recieving it?  Sometimes the disappointment could be pretty big. 

As adults we can have expectations and attachments that set us up for disappointment also.  These expectations may not even seem unreasonable.  However - are we attached to them so much that when things change we have a resentment?  It's a trap, and especially easy to fall into during this season of peace and love.

Here are some examples many of us can relate to.  We may make plans with friends and relatives and excitedly look forward to them... then, they cancel.  We may be counting on a particular special gift from someone near and dear...and they don't deliver.  Are we attached sometimes to Holiday traditions going off in a particular fashion...but then they just doesn't measure up to past celebrations?  These can be a sure fire way to become sad, angry or even resentful.  It's happened to me before, (more than once), and probably has happened to a lot of us.

So this Holiday Season, I'll be celebrating Christmas with my family as usual.  Sue and I go to church on Christmas Eve, exchange gifts with the family Christmas morn and enjoy other festivities.  There are things I need to do to keep my expectations and attachments in check, so I can just enjoy the season.  The first thing is obvious - take a look at myself.  Am I attached to people, places, things, events?  Do I have expectations for any of these?  If so, who or what am I judging? What I need to do is release these; let these go.  When I do, I release myself from them.

When I'm in the middle of the Holidays what can I do to stay centered and feeling good?  For me, I find I need to remain flexible.    I find that I need to go with the flow.  This means not being rigid or attached to things going my way.  Things change and sometimes they don't go the way we want them to.  Relax, take a deep breath and just enjoy the ride.  For me, so many times situations like that turn out better than my expected agenda.

The last thing is, remember to fill your heart with gratitude.  There's always something to be grateful for.  A quick prayer of gratitude or carrying an attitude of gratitude with me always makes me feel good.  It just seems to work that way.  It's been said, nothing changes the energy of a situation like gratitude.  I find that true in my own life.

Enjoy the Holidays.  I hope you find joy and peace and happiness this Season of Celebration.  Take a little time to be grateful and enjoy those around you.  While you're celebrating, remember to keep an eye on how you're feeling.  If you start to feel a little out of sorts...perhaps you might take a look at any expectations you're having, or are you attached to anything?  Regardless of the details - you may just have the best Christmas (or other Holidays), ever.

Enjoy.

Peace and Love,

Tom

Great Easy Holiday De-Stress and Energizing Ideas

Hi All,

Seasons Greetings...I hope your holiday season is shaping up to be a good one.  Things are pretty good here in Phoenix.  It's an amazing and beautiful time of the hear here.  Whether you celebrate Christmas (as I do), or whatever holidays...I hope they're happy and blessed.

Earlier this evening, a friend of mine shared these images with my wife and myself.  She thought I might find them helpful...and I agree.  These are nice little ideas for relaxing, energizing and letting go of stress and tension.  These are from Dr. Oz's "The Good Life," magazine, and also on line at www.DrOzTheGoodLife.com.  Check it out.

Below are some very easy to to beginner yoga moves that can help you de-stress during this hectic Holiday Season, or anytime.  Enjoy...

Peace,

Tom

Some Thoughts...

Hi All,

I've got some thoughts about all the shootings in our country and violence around the world as well.  I thought I'd jot some down and see if it makes sense.  My heart goes out to the people of San Bernadino and Colorado Springs...and people and communities around the country affected by gun violence.

Typically, we're peace loving people, here in the USA.  We also have rights to buy and own guns.  Many times, people take guns and lash out at other people, the community, etc, with firearms.  So the question is; what can we do about it?  As a nation, as an individual, as a community?

As an individual, what can we do?  Do you know your neighbors - most? any of them?  Can we reach out to neighbors who we don't know?  Can we reach out to people at work, who we don't know...like the person who may seem sad, isolated or angry? What would happen if we showed some of these folks some kindness, compassion, etc?  Would that change things in some small way?  Conversely - when we're at odds with people who are a little different than us; perhaps we don't understand them or agree with them about issues of race, religion, country, and the like.  If we show them hostility because of that, does that solve anything?  Does that make things better in any way?  Or does each side walk away with strengthened resolve?  Could this push someone over the edge? (don't assume that I'm removing personal responsibility from people...just asking some questions).

What is it that drives a person to shoot up a church, a school, a healthcare facility, or to kill anyone?  Hatred, fear, feeling isolated and persecuted, anger, feeling powerless; all of these play a part.  Many of the people who carry out these shootings are mentally ill and need help.

What do you see in your neighborhood?  Keep your eyes open.  People rarely act out in a vacuum.  If you see suspicious activity, report it to the authorities.  Who knows, you could prevent something bad from happening.  It doesn't mean we have to be prying into peoples business - just be aware of your environment.

As communities - we can be alert in our communities as well.  Perhaps we're part of a spiritual community.  We can pray for our neighbors, countries and the world.  Prayer is powerful.

Does the community have a responsibility to help people who suffer from mental illness and don't have the insurance or money to cover it?  Are there resources available in your community? Can we pull together a little bit more as communities and can this prevent tragedy?

How about as a nation?  Can we pass some legislation to address the unfettered access to firearms in this country?  Should we?  Some say yes, some adamantly say we should do nothing.  Unfortunately, here in the US, many of our politicians are beholden to lobbyists and special interests like the National Rifle Association, who are vehemently opposed to any gun legislation - however small.  I was a member of the NRA as a kid.  Back then it was about gun safety and hunting - now it's something much different.  Can we as a nation, continue to have a free society, and balance gun rights with some restrictions that may keep some guns out of the hands of folks who would do harm to others?  It seems to me that there has to be a middle ground, where we don't overreact, where we find some solutions and common sense actions we can take.  Does this mean I oppose people's right to keep and bear arms?  No, of course not.  Does this mean I'm calling for the government to round up the guns?  No - absolutely not.  Should all Americans have access to all the assault rifles and military gear they want; no questions asked?  Does that sound like a good idea?  Not to me.  Does that make me anti-gun rights?  No...of course not.  So can we make changes?  Changes that make sense?  I'd like to think our politicians can put partisan bickering aside and get to work on this.

Now, I'm not removing responsibility from the people carrying out shootings/killings.  People have to be accountable for their actions.  I don't have a pollyanna view of the world, (some will think so).  I'm disturbed by the constant mass shootings in our country that happen every week (sometimes every day).

There's also so much hate speech out there as well.  There's politician suggesting that Muslims should be registered (like sex offenders??).  There was a suggestion that Muslims should have some kind of identifier so they could be identified on sight.  Tell me - does this solve anything?  I feel like this will cause more and more resentment and hard feelings.  We have 15 or 20 million American citizens who are Muslims and how many of these domestic terrorism acts were carried out by them...3 or 4 over the years?  How many mass shootings have we had in this country this year so far?  35.  Think about it.

We've got some issues....we really need cool heads to prevail and we need leaders with the sense and the courage to do what needs to be done.  And again - there are things each of us can do.  Fear and hate are not going to help anything.  We need solutions...and we need to stand on our principles.

I hope and pray that we can pull together in these times, not fall apart.  God bless you all.

Peace and love,

Tom

Himalayan Salt Lamp - Why Have them?

Hi All,

I hope you're all having a great day.  Here in Phoenix, summer is finally over and it's a welcomed change.  Of course further up north, your weather is changing and winter is coming.  Enjoy it - every day....even if you have snow and cold.

As a massage and holistic therapist, I like to write about topics that promote health and well being.  Of course, the therapies I provide can be huge for health and healing, but they're only a piece of the picture.  Good nutrition, exercise, meditation, spiritual care, and any way you take care of yourself all help.  Clean air is also important and that's my focus today.

Standard Himalayan Salt Lamp

One thing that helps clean the air in your house and is a good looking decorative item is the Himalayan Salt Lamp.  Turning the light in these lamps on actually helps clean the air we breathe.  The lamp is made from a chunk of Himalayan salt, hollowed out, with a light bulb inside.  When you turn the light on, the bulb lights up the rock salt lamp and works it's magic.

So, how does this all work, you may wonder?  When heated, the Himalayan Salt works to clean the air by emitting negative ions.  In the world we live in today, we have computers, TVs, microwave ovens and electronics of all kinds.  These electronic devices emit positive ions into the air.  The negative ions from the lamp neutralize the positive ones, creating a cleaner and healthier environment in your house.

Too many positive ions in your living space can be hard on you.  They stress the body, can make you feel sluggish and cause or increase insomnia.  Positive ions are also said to increase anxiety, brain fog, and help the body accumulate free radicals, (not a good thing).

There are different styles of Himalayan Salt Lamps

Using the Himalayan Salt lamps will help clean the air by emitting negative ions into the air - neutralizing the positive.  This will help you to relax, breathe better and sleep better.  These negative ions are reported to reduce allergies and reduce the amount of allergens in the air.  Cleaner air = you feeling better.

There are different kinds of lamps to chose from (as shown in the photo above).  You may want more than one lamp in your house, as each lamp will only be effective for a certain amount of space.  You'll have to look and pick out the one (or one's), that are right for you.

Himalayan Salt is good for other things too.  People add them to their bath water as a relaxing, soothing soak, much like Epsom Salts.  It's also used on food and internally.

I hope you find this helpful and enjoy less positive ions in your living space.

Have a great week.

Peace,

Tom

Tom Kreienbrink is a licensed massage therapist and holistic therapist in Phoenix, AZ
www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com

Energy Medicine and Energy Healing

Hi Everyone,

I hope you're all doing well out there.  I'm just fine here in Phoenix.  Enjoying the change of seasons.

I hosted a Reiki/Energy Share last night with a friend, at her shop.  It was a nice little share and we did some amazing sessions on each other.  We split up into groups (depending how many people participate), and share energy medicine/healing with each other.  It's so amazing, and feels so good.  People with almost always go home feeling wonderful.  It's a chance to share with others and receive this gift as well.

Mikao Usui - artwork by Tom Kreienbrink

So what is this, and how does it work?  First, remember that at the most basic level, everything is energy (and mostly space).  Items that appear solid are slower, denser energy, while light is a fast, high frequency energy.  The Chinese had the body's energy meridians mapped out thousands of years ago.  They referred to this life force energy in our bodies as Chi.  They found they could keep the energy flowing and have balance in their lives by keeping the energy flowing freely thru the meridians of the body.  Also - they found that when there was blockages or imbalance in any of the meridians, they could open or balance these and bring things back to normal.  They use acupuncture, acupressure, and other techniques to do this.

Gallbladder Energy Meridian - starts and 1 and ends at 44.

In the early 1900s Mikao Usui discovered/was given the energy healing modality, Reiki, in a vision while on a journey on Mount Kurama in Japan.  With Reiki, the person is attuned to symbols that are a focal point for energy delivery.  Reiki also taps into the universal life force energy and uses it to bring the person back to a place of harmony and balance.  Like Chinese medicine, it's not associated with any religious practice.  The universal life force energy is in and around us for use at any time.  People experience a wide variety of benefits from Reiki on all levels.  Pain relief and deep relaxation are very common.  One of my first clients was referred by a friend.  She had cancer and was flying back to Pennsylvania the following day.  She wanted to try Reiki to see if it would help.  A couple of weeks after the session, I found out that she had a nice flight back and felt unusually well for several days following.  Occasionally more dramatic healing experiences are reported.

One of my favorites is Cranial Sacral therapy.  It is an energy therapy that Dr. Jon Upledger studied and helped to bring to the mainstream.  It's a treatment that involves working with the body's own rhythms to help restore balance and vitality.  As the name suggests, a major part of this is working with the bones of the cranium, spine and sacrum while monitoring and working with the movement of the cerebrospinal fluid in the head and up and down the spine.  Another major part of this is fascial release; helping to release and open "stuck" areas of connective tissue in the body.  Part of why we need to release these areas of fascia (or connective tissue), is because stress, physical, mental, and emotional injury can manifest in our tissues as tightness, tension, stuck energy, and even disease.  We want to use these techniques to release that and again...restore the person to a state of balance and harmony - physically, mentally, emotionally.  It's very helpful for people who have experienced traumatic injuries, like veterans, or folks who have been abused or in serious accidents.

Foot reflexology chart showing areas of the feet and corresponding systems of the body

It is my belief that massage and reflexology are also forms of energy work.  Thru a more deep physical technique we are able to move the energies of stress and tension out of the muscles and help to keep or restore the client.  These modalities are much more physical, and feel fantastic.

Physical therapists in main stream medicine are now (and have been), using electronic devices to send energy deep into tissues to assist with healing.  Applying ultrasonic machines to send energy waves into soft tissue to heat them up, helps to enhance the body's healing.  You may have seen commercials for devices you can buy and use in your home, like the Willow Curve.  It's energy healing - but it uses electricity instead of the more natural techniques like Reiki or CranialSacral.

I hope you found this helpful and eye opening.  Energy healing modalities are good for you, can be relaxing and also assist you in deep healing.  The techniques I employ are of the highest vibration and not the work of any sinister being - they're also not a part of any religion or belief system.

I am a massage and holistic therapist in Phoenix, AZ.  I specialize in Therapeutic Massage, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Reiki Therapy, and Reflexology.

You can access my website at: www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com  -- call, email, or text for an appointment.

Have a wonderful day.

Peace,

Tom

Painted Nativity Scene Project

Hi All,

I hope things are going well for everyone.  Recently, my family and I were going thru "the big photo box," after my Dad passed away; reminiscing and looking at pictures.  While looking at old pics I came across a few photos of a project I helped put together around the year 2000.  It was a fun job and an old school project as well.

While in the Air Force I was stationed near Honolulu, Hawaii.  Every year during the holidays the city hosts displays in downtown and a parade.  This particular year, some folks from the church we attended, put a nativity scene together and asked if I would help out by doing some artwork for the display.

Painting nativity scene panels on large sheets of plywood with acrylic paint

The project was a lot of fun.  Very much a cartoon style display, but the as you can tell, the characters weren't exaggerated either.  Almost like coloring book style artwork.  As you can see by the top photo - outline first, then fill in with color, then finishing with airbrushed highlights and shadows.

Working on details.

At the time I still had my hand in doing airbrushed artwork on a regular basis.  Years prior to this, most of the illustrating I did was created using traditional media; including airbrush.

Bethlehem to my left, camel and wise man on my right.

Unfortunately, I didn't come across any photos of the completed project.  When painted, the panels were constructed into a little stable with nativity scene.  It all came together quite nicely and was a beautiful display.  It was a fun project to help out with.  I hope you enjoyed it.

Have a great day.

Peace,

Tom

On-line portfolio: www.behance.net/tk-art

On Facebook:  www.facebook.com/pages/Tom-Kreienbrink-Art-and-Design

Sleep Issues - Energy Meridians

Hi All,

Last week, I wrote about holistic sleep remedies.  I had a client who needed help getting to sleep at night, so I did a little research on line and in my own materials; books, notes and things, and came up with a number of natural sleep enhancement actions and remedies you can do or take.  It's a good list of ideas and can be very helpful if you're having trouble sleeping or falling asleep.

Shortly after publishing the post I had a thought that something else could be affecting her sleep; her Chi Energy or one or more Energy Meridians could be out of balance.  In particular, if you're Chi is out of balance, you may have problems sleeping at certain times.  You may also be tired certain times in the day, when you should be awake and energetic.  I'm going to try to explain...hopefully it makes sense. 

All of this comes from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).  In particular, Chinese 5 Element Theory (see Element attachment).  In TCM, there are 5 Elements related to systems or organs in the body.  Some are Yin, some are Yang, and two Regulators.

The Five Elements - broken down in a very basic way.

Each organ in 5 Element also relates to an energy meridian.  And - before I get too far ahead of myself - each organ has a time of day that it relates to (according to the Circadian Clock).  The Circadian Clock is a 24 hour "clock," showing the times during the day and the dominant system/organ meridian during that time.  For example; Gallbladder is dominant from 11pm-1am.

Circadian Clock

When an organ or system is out of balance it has an energetic affect on a person.  As an example, if you normally go to bed at 10pm, but find yourself wide awake nightly at that time, your Triple Heater is out of balance.  Likewise, the opposite system, Spleen (directly opposite on the Circadian Clock), is most likely out of balance as well and you may find yourself tired from about 9-11am.

A graphic showing the path of the Lung Meridian.

Each organ or system has a corresponding energy meridian, (I'm showing a couple examples).  Meridians are energy channels throughout the body.  The points are used in modalities like acupuncture and acupressure, and each affects various systems and parts of the body.

A graphic showing the path of the Kidney Meridian

I'd learned about this in my reflexology program.  I'd taken a class that was a hybrid reflexology, polarity therapy, and TCM 5 Element class.  In the class I learned that I could balance these systems by holding the source point and reflex area (or the organ itself), and help clients balance the energy in their body.  Now this is a very simplistic explanation.  There are protocols that are associated with balancing the organs, systems or elements.

So back to my client...after our regular session this week, I did some energy meridian balancing with her.  I brushed the meridians (to open them up) and did some balancing on the primary one out of balance and it's opposite.  The next day I received an email telling me that she was able to get to sleep at a normal hour and slept great.

There are so many holistic therapies and various forms of medicine.  We're all a little different and some work for us better than others.  This happened to be the right thing for my client.  If you find yourself awake when you should be sleeping or tired when you should be awake, this may be something to look into.  If you're in the Phoenix area - let me know if I can help.

Have a great day everyone - and be kind...a little goes a long way.

Peace,

Tom

I'm a massage and holistic therapist in Phoenix.  Check out my website at:
www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com
Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HolisticTherapySolutions

Holistic Remedies To Help You Sleep

Hi Everyone,

I hope things are going well for you - wherever you are.  Things are going pretty good here in extra warm Phoenix, AZ.

Recently, a client of mine asked if I had any ideas why her sleep cycle was off and if I had any tips on how she could get to sleep earlier.  I thought of a few things that I had learned, but told her I'd look into it further.  So I did and I thought I'd share some of it with you.

Ideas to help you fall asleep at night.
- Limit intake of foods with refined sugars (especially in the evening).  Instead, snack on foods high in tryptophan like milk products, turkey, eggs, bananas, etc...
- Avoid alcohol before bed.  It's actually unhelpful to drink. Alcohol is high in sugar and your body will have to process that.
- Try drinking a non-caffeinated herbal tea in the evening.  Chamomile and others have a sedating effect.
- No technology before bed (turn it off an hour before bed).  The light from TV screens, computer, smart phone, etc can effect the production of melatonin in the brain and keep you awake.
- Eat honey before bed.  A tea spoon of honey before bed should get you nice and sleepy.  It's one of the oldest sleep remedies around and works great.
- Magnesium deficiency can affect your sleep.  This can cause a whole bunch of different problems for your body - one of them being insomnia.  Dark chocolate, Pumpkin seeds, beans, lentils, avocado, and dates are among the many foods rich in magnesium.
- Lavender can help.  Essential oils and aromatherapy products are excellent; candles, oils, and maybe put some lavender essential oil into bath salts, then take a nice evening bath with the salts in the water.  Very relaxing.
- Get massage regularly.  This is like a reboot for the system, of your body.  It feels great, is good for you and normally - you'll sleep like a baby. Other holistic therapies can be helpful.

There are many natural remedies or "hacks" that can help you get to sleep, or sleep better.  Obviously, there's no answer that works for everyone and if none of these work for you, there are other options.  Of course, I would never discourage anyone from seeing a physician either...sometimes that's what we need.

I hope some of these may be helpful.  I hope you get a good nights sleep.

Peace,

Tom

I'm a massage and holistic therapist in Phoenix.  Check out my website at:
www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com
Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HolisticTherapySolutions

BioCatalin - Enzyme Lotion

Hi All,

Hope you're all having a great week.  My week is going alright.  I'm keeping busy with clients and getting some other things done as well....and taking it a moment at a time. 

So last week, as I was experiencing some pain in one of my thumb joints, I noticed my tube of BioCatalin enzyme lotion on the shelf.   I reached for it and applied it to my thumb, rubbed it in good and went to bet.  When I woke up my thumb felt great.  So I've been using it regularly since and the thumb and other achy finger joints feel pretty good.  I was surprised and delighted.  I'd used it a little a while back and forgot about it. 

So, what is this lotion and what does it do?  It's an enzyme lotion designed to have anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to stimulate the bodies own natural enzyme process without suppressing the immune system.  It helps provide relief from chronic inflammatory conditions and also has circulation support to assist with the healing process.

In the interest of full disclosure - besides being a massage and holistic therapy provider I'm an Energetix representative.  I've been a rep. for them for quite a while, but I'm not really a sales person.  So I use the products because I do believe in them, and occasionally offer them to others as well.  I like the company and products because they're all natural and they have the highest standards for quality.  They offer nutritional supplements and homeopathic remedies as well as some flower essences.  They really offer excellent, high-end products.

My thumb?  Well, it's a work in progress.  I'm a massage therapist, so it get's plenty of use, but it does feel a lot better than it has in a long time.  This has been an eye opening experience and I'll probably start offering these products to clients who are interested.

If you're interested in Energetix products, take a look at their website: http://www.goenergetix.com/
Let me know if you'd like to try any of the products.  I'd be happy to order for you.
My website and contact info: www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com

Have a great week everyone.

Peace,

Tom 

Geddy Lee Artwork...Rockin the Bass

Hi All,

I hope your summer is going well.  It's hot here...whew!  I just got back from Texas and it's hot there too.  But hey - that's how we roll down here in the summer.  Not complaining.

Today I'm highlighting a couple caricatures I recently completed of the vocalist, bass and keyboard player for a band called Rush; Geddy Lee.  This summer Rush is out on tour, celebrating 40 years together as a band.  They've made a lot of music together, with just 3 members in the band...and, they still tour and play shows with only the 3 guys playing, (unlike several of the old bands who bring in many supporting musicians to back up the main band members). 

A few weeks ago they came thru town and I really wanted to see them in concert again, (I'd seen them around 1985).  At the same time they were on the cover of the Rolling Stone and I saw an excellent new documentary on them, (on Netflix).  So I was inspired to have a little fun with Geddy.

I started this one in pencil and finished it out in pen and ink. 

 

 

I know I'm not the only guy my age with this story.  In 8th grade, while hanging out with friends I heard the album, "Fly By Night" (yes - on vinyl), and then "2112".  Needless to say, I was hooked.  They rocked; the dude's voice is completely unlike anyone elses,  they have the best drummer in rock and roll, and they sang about some things I could relate too....deep topics and some a little lighter.  Throughout my teenage years - they were the best in music (in my humble opinion).

I took the pen and ink version into Photoshop and created a color version.

By the time I was well into my 20's, they took a little different turn musically and I did a little bit as well.  However, I still love that trio from Canada.  They can rock the house.  I heard they'd put on an amazing show here in Phoenix...I'm sure they did.

Have a great day everyone.  Enjoy.  Be kind to yourself and to others as well (even the annoying guy or gal at work).  And....rock on!!

Peace,

Tom

On-line Portfolio:  www.behance.net/tk-art

What I Do at Holistic Therapy Solutions

Hi Everyone,

I had the thought that it's time to let everyone know again, what I do and why you may want to honor my humble therapy table.  Here's my mission and what I'm doing at Holistic Therapy Solutions, LLC in Phoenix, Arizona.

Logo for Holistic Therapy Solutions, LLC in Phoenix, AZ

My passion is help people feel good, to heal; to come to a place of balance.  We live in a fast paced, stressful world.  With all that's going on and required of us, it can be easy to get out of balance.  That can take form in many ways - pain, injury; it can affect us both mentally and physically.  My massage and holistic therapies are designed and intended to restore balance and harmony to you - on whatever level needed.

Massage Therapy:  I'm a Licensed Massage Therapist.  My specialty is a firm, relaxing, therapeutic massage, designed to meet each individual's needs.  It's great for physical stress relief and mental decompressing.  It's also good to work the tension out of the trouble areas or heal from injury.  It's my firm belief that without an effective method of releasing the issues of daily life, we store them in the tissues of the body - eventually the body lets you know with pain or "dis-ease."  A good massage once a month is excellent maintenance to keep balance in today's fast paced life.

My therapy room at Holistic Therapy Solutions, LLC

Reflexology:  The feet, hands, and ears are a hologram of the body, representing all parts and systems of the body in each.  Thru therapeutic massaging/working of these areas, you can send healing stimulation to all parts and systems of the body (including organs, glands, muscles, etc).  Reflexology can be very healing and it feels wonderful.  Another added benefit - you can get an ok foot rub somewhere, but once you have a true reflexology session from a professional, you'll never settle for less again.

Bottom of the Feet with Reflexology map of some of the body.

 Cranial Sacral Therapy:  Sometimes life can be downright difficult, and we can store the physical and emotional traumas we encounter in our tissues - especially in the fascia (connective tissue).  These tissues are everywhere in our body - around our muscles, bones, organs, etc...  This gentle yet powerful esoteric work focuses on tuning in to the "cranial wave," created by pulsing of cerebrospinal fluid that pulses up and down the spine and in and around the brain/cranium.  By tuning into the cranial wave and using other techniques, I work to help the trauma and tissues to unwind, release and come back into balance and harmony.  This work can be very deep and very rewarding, releasing both emotional and physical pain.  I've worked with Veterans who have issues with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries and have had good results.

Reiki Therapy:  This energy work is gentle, soothing and powerful, and can aid with healing on all levels.  It's also great for deep relaxation, stress relief, pain relief, and also helps bring the whole person back into a place of homeostasis - or balance.  One of my favorite combination therapies is to pair Reiki with relaxing hypnotherapy.  This therapy helps relax the client, addresses the issue with the subconscious, and they receive the healing benefit of deep energy work as well.

Sensei Usui - discovered Reiki in the early 1900s

Hypnotherapy: I've been playing with this for over 30 years.  I can assist with a variety of things including smoking cessation, self-discovery, making life changes, and more. 

Classes:  I have a passion for teaching as well as therapy.  I've developed a number of classes that I offer occasionally including: Mindfulness and Meditation, Reiki Training, Introduction to Chi Energy.

Reiki Shares: As a Reiki Master, I hold Reiki and Energy Shares once a month.  This is a gathering where people, at all skill levels of Reiki and other energy work training can get together and practice and receive energy work.  It's also a place where people with no experience can come as well and learn a little more about it and experience this.  This is a great opportunity to practice your energy work training and gain confidence in a safe and non-judgmental environment.  We also socialize a little too and have fun.

For more info about me and my practice check out my website:
www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com

Peace,

Tom Kreienbrink

Tom Kreienbrink is a licensed massage therapist in Phoenix, AZ.  He received an Associates Degree in Holistic Healthcare from Southwest Institute of Healing Arts and has been the owner and operator of Holistic Therapy Solutions, LLC for about 3 years.  He's completed certification programs in Cranial Sacral Therapy, Reflexology, Hypnotherapy, and Reiki (and is also a Reiki Master and Teacher).
For contact information go to the website and call, text or email for an appointment.

Holistic Nutrition - Garbanzo Beans

Hi All,

The other night my wife Sue and I were talking and Chick Peas or Garbanzo Beans came up in the discussion (how does that happen - Ha!).  Next thing, we're having a conversation about these little golden nuggets that adorn salad bars throughout America and that we eat occasionally when we enjoy Hummus.

I told her about my client who grew up in Syria.  She still prepares a lot of the traditional foods she was raised with and she was telling me how Chick Peas are a staple in every day diets across the middle east and a lot of Asia.  Of course its used in Hummus, but also used in a lot of other dishes and salads.

Can of Organic Garbanzo Beans

So I picked up a can of Garbanzo beans at the store recently.  Of course, it's always good to eat organic when possible.  I do when I can.  The nutritional content is good.  In a half of cup of beans there's 120 calories, 2 grams fat, 130mg sodium (probably more than you want, but it's out of a can), and 6grams of protein (not bad).

I checked in my favorite nutrition book, The World's Healthiest Foods, by George Mateljan.  It's a great reference.  The book says that garbanzo beans are a great source of dietary fiber and excellent for heart and digestive health.  They're also excellent to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels. 

Nutritionally, they are high in Fiber, Protein, Copper, Tryptophan, and Iron, among other vitamins, minerals and nutrients.  The best way to make them is to buy them dry, soak them for 8 hours, drain, rinse and cook.  Of course, you'll use them then in whatever dish you like.

recipe for a quick and easy garbanzo bean salad.

So this afternoon, I'm going to get a good hummus recipe off the internet and make some with the can of chick peas that I purchased.  I believe it's made with the beans, olive oil and some spices....just whip it up. 

Hopefully the hummus turns out good. 

Have a great weekend everyone...stay healthy.

Peace,

Tom

www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com

Having a little fun with The Donald

Hey All,

I hope your week is off to a good start.  Mine is pretty good so far.  Today was my day off and I met with a colleague, ran errands, and made a big crock pot of chilli.  (I know...chilli in the middle of the Arizona summer??).  Anyhow - it turned out delicious and was a good day.

Anyone who's watched the news lately has probably heard that Donald Trump is running for President of the United States.  At least most people in the USA know about this and most of you overseas are most likely familiar with who he is.  So I thought I'd share a fun piece of artwork that I created during the last Presidential election.  Back then Trump was talking about running, but in the end he didn't.

Back then, I thought I'd do a fun caricature illustration of Trump.  He's such a boisterous, loud and over the top character anyhow - he's naturally the first person you want to immortalize in a cartoon.  Of course, he's a business man and known for his hotels and lavish lifestyle...so I was thinking...how would he envision upgrades to the White House?  Perhaps a Trump Tower DC? 

Well - anyone who's watching election coverage, here in the US knows that he's said some controversial things.  I don't want to get into that here.  He's not my preference for President, but I know there are some folks who really like him.  That's one of the things about our country that I'm grateful for....the freedom to enjoy our opinions and the right to select our representatives.

Enjoy my small attempt to get into the head of Donald Trump.  It's certainly going to be an interesting campaign season...good luck with that my fellow Americans.

Have a great week everyone...work hard and have some fun too.

Peace,

Tom

On-line portfolio:  www.Behance.net/tk-art

Phillip Seymour Hoffman Caricature

Hi All,

How's it going out there?  How's summer time where you are?  Here in Phoenix, it's been hot, as it should be in summer.  This morning I cleaned the swimming pool and I've got a couple massage clients later in the afternoon.  So it's a good Monday.

The other day I watched the documentary about Drew Strewzan - the amazing movie poster artist.  Back when I was doing mostly airbrush work and illustration, he was one of my heroes.  So I got out the sketch book and a pen, as I was watching and started sketching a caricature of Phillip Seymour Hoffman.  I love his movies - such a great actor and I'm sad we no longer will have him around.

pen and ink in sketchbook

Initially I sketched with a ball point pen and sketch book in my lap....just for fun.  Then I took a photo of it with my phone and did a little painting in Photoshop on the computer.    I started with a magazine photo to work from.

sketch after painting in Photoshop with Wacom tablet.

I enjoy sketching once in a while as I sit around.  It's good for all of us to do this.  It gets us into the right side of the brain...let that creativity flow.

I hope you all have a great week.  Enjoy a little sketching today.  If you're not very artistic...make sure you do the sketching.  It's good for you.

Peace,

Tom

web portfolio:  www.behance.net/tk-artwww.behance.net/tk-art

Medical Illustrations - the Talus

Hi All,

This past winter and spring I had some illustration work come my way.  I don't actively persue illustration work, but I do welcome inquiries and I'm an artist, I love the work.  So, I'm always grateful to have some artwork projects come my way.

This past winter, Mary Meyers, from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, contacted me about producing a few illustrations for a book that they were putting together.   So we worked out the details and I got to work.  Dr. Brett Sachs was the author of the chapter which I illustrated, and he brought me up to speed on what he needed and I got to work.

First illustration showing various types of injuries to the superior medial area of the Talus bone.

The first illustration shows the Talus bone and highlights the superior, medial part of the bone that sometimes when injured, doesn't heal very well.  It shows the five most common types of injuries that happen in that area.

Second illustration showing the technique where the drill goes thru the Tibia.

The second illustration shows a technique where the surgeon would drill thru the Tibia in order to be able to drill into the Talus.  When that area of the Talus is injured, it doesn't always heal very well or quickly for some, because there's not a lot of circulation in that area of the bone.  By drilling into it they can then do some things that will bring blood flow into that area and stimulate healing.

Third illustration showing the Drill Guide technique.

 The third shows a similar technique using a drill guide.  Using the guide, the surgeon drills thru a tube into the bone.  The direction of drilling is from the lower lateral area diagonally to the injured area in the superior or upper area of the bone.

I started with tight pen and ink illustrations.  I scanned them in to my Mac and finished the illustrations with Photoshop and my Wacom tablet.  I drew the black and white layer and then filled color on layers beneath it.   A simple yet effective technique. 

All in all, it was fun to get into a little anatomy drawing again.  I worked in Air Force teaching hospitals for 10 years as a medical illustrator and I still enjoy this challenging and educational work.

Have a great day everyone.  Check out my web portfolio at:  www.behance.net/tk-art
If you'd like to commission a piece of artwork or hire me to illustrate your project, let me know and we can talk about it.

Peace,

Tom

RELAX....and Breathe

Hi All,

I hope you're all off to a great start on your Friday.   My last post was about control.  Today I'd like to stay in that vein a little bit.  I'm featuring some pictures with messages that may help to inspire you to relax and take care of yourself and not try to manage or regulate other people or events.

Here's a great one.  "When you try to control everything, you enjoy nothing.  Relax, breathe, let go, and just live."  How many of us try to manage or control everything or most everything in our lives?  How about controlling people?  How is that working out for you?  Probably not very well.  When we let go and relax and live in the present moment...things begin to flow....and that feels great.  So let all of that go...

What do we think about most of the time?  Do you have thoughts that weaken you?  Obsese about others or maybe you think of how you've been treated by others and how you'll "get even" with them.  Those thoughts won't serve you...Try to let go of the negative thoughts.  Thoughts come and go - you really can never turn off the mind.  However, you can train your mind.  Watch what you think - without judgement.  Observe.  When you have thoughts come that "don't make you strong," or that don't serve you, tell yourself - this is not true - know it.  Then - let it go.  Perhaps, tell yourself what is true, how you are a strong, beautiful child of God.  Let go/train yourself not to dwell on the negative. 

I love this one..."20 Stress Reducing Self Care Ideas."  Self care is very important.  Be good to yourself - mentally and emotionally, and also physically as well.  Great ideas here on this picture...take a walk, watch a good movie, get a massage, read a good book, etc....  I'm sure you can think of other ways to be good to yourself.

Today - enjoy what you're doing (working, cleaning the house, hiking, seeing family or friends, etc).  Be present, without judging - just enjoy the moment.  And be grateful....gratitude makes everything better.  For most of us, this is do-able.  If you have big huge needs and issues...get help.  Ask, search the web, call a hotline, and make the changes you need to...you can do it. 

Have a great day everyone - and a great weekend.  I'll close with one more that I've seen on social media occasionally.  "Kindness - it's free, spread that shit around."  Now go do it (and I'll do it too).

Peace and Love,

Tom

Check out my Holistic Therapy practice and let me know how I may serve you:  www.HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.comwww.facebook.com/HolisticTherapySolutions
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HolisticTherapySolutions

Got Enough Control of your Life?

Hi Everybody,

I've been enjoying the last couple days of spring here in Phoenix...at 115 degrees F, and the beginning of summer.  Ha....yeah, it's pretty warm.  So what can you do about it except enjoy the moment, and try to keep cool when you can?  We all would like to have a little more control over various aspects of our lives, but what do we really have that control over?

I've been thinking about doing a post on Control issues lately.  Many of us have control issues in one form or another (including myself).  Some control issues may include being bossy or wanting/cohercing/manipulating others to do what you expect of them.  Other control issues may be more subtle and private like "reminding," someone of something more than one time or several times; just to make sure they follow thru.  Do we try to fix others, or change them, maybe just "help" them to improve (even though we weren't asked).  How do you react when things don't go the way you expect or plan for them to go?

We may think we've got it all planned out in life.  We've got finances under control, the people we want surrounding us, the job, the lifestyle, etc....everything is set up how we like it and nothing can change that...and is that true?  Sometimes we may even go to great lengths to ensure we keep it all together.  We may manipulate or try to coerce others to fall in line with our plans...either overtly or maybe trying to be very smooth in trying to pull this off.  We want things to go, "the way they're supposed to go."

The truth is, control is an illusion.  Trying to control the people in our lives can be a tricky business, and in the end will leave us with a lot of heartache.  Whether it's a sibling, spouse, or friend; we may be able to get them to fall in line, behave, or do what we ask or demand for a while.  Sooner or later though, if we have expectations that others will change to meet our desires, we will always find ourselves getting frustrated and our expectations unmet. 

We may want to control events, our businesses, jobs, etc.  Again - you may get the outcome you want for a while, but if you're trying to force solutions, sooner or later you'll end up stressed out and very frustrated.  Basically, we may have control issues in almost every aspect of our lives.  Do you do everything in your power to get the outcome you want?  Do you try to force your solutions to any or every situation?  If so, you may have issues with control and you may want to do something about it.

Then there's denial.  Denial can play a huge role in keeping the controlling person from making changes.  They may feel they have to "control," to keep it all together.  They probable feel like they're trying to help...how can that be bad, right? 

First - you need to realize, you're not in control of everything and everyone.  If you feel like you are, go get a handful of water or sand and hold it tightly...the harder you squeeze, the more it goes right thru your fingers.  It's a great metaphor for how we try sometimes to hold on too tightly in our lives.  The more we try to get others to do what we want, and hold on to and try to manage outcomes, the more elusive it seems to be.  So what can we do?

We can go with the flow.  We can do our best, and take the steps necessary, but sometimes things don't go our way.  When that happens we need to adapt, adjust, and perhaps go with the flow and not hold on so tightly.  When we fight the flow, it wears us down.  Back to the water/sand example; when we try to hold it tight, it slips thru our fingers.  When we gently cup our hands together and dip out some water, it will stay in our cupped hands. 

There's a couple of sayings - "Give it over to God," and "Let Go and Let God."  If you're a person of faith or spirituality, you can give that person or situation over to your Higher Power, and let Him handle the details...and try to keep my fingers out of it.  When I do this, things don't always go the way I want them to, but they always work out just right.  Of course sometimes it's hard to immediately see that they turned out just right, but that's not really for me to dictate, anyhow.

The bottom line is that controlling is a fear based behavior.  When we release that fear and move over to a place of love and allowing, things immediately shift.  This means, I let go of the outcome and doing only my part.  With people, I need to accept them for who they are and release feeling the need to change them in any way.  I only give help to people who ask for it (because I think someone needs my help, doesn't mean they need it or want it).  For plans or events - I do my part, do my best, and let the chips fall where they may.  I detach from forcing outcomes or solutions. 

I also try to stay in the present moment as much as possible.  That means not dwelling on the past or anticipating or trying to manage the future, but just being right here, right now.  This moment is the only one we have, and I let the future unfold as it is supposed to.

These are some of my thoughts on control and how I deal with it in my own life.  Of course, I'm still a work in progress, but I like to think I'm moving in the right direction.  If you feel you have control issues, try some of these ideas.  If it's still too much and the compulsion to control is too great, there's help to be had; therapy, 12 Step Groups, etc.  Believe me when I tell you; it feels good when you don't feel like you have to control everything and everyone around you.

Have a great week and be kind to each other out there.

Peace,

Tom

I'm an Holistic Therapist in Phoenix, AZ.  Check out my website at:
www. HolisticTherapySolutions.weebly.com

My Grandfather - an Amazing Craftsman

Hi All,

I hope you're having a great day.  I've got a busy weekend going, but I wanted to take a little time and share about one of my grandfathers, Arnold Vahl.  As not only a grandparent, but also an artist, he was a huge influence in my life and my work.

I was blessed to know all four grandparents who were all amazing and talented people, but today I'm going to highlight my Grandpa Vahl.  Last week, while at my parents place in Texas, I came across a very old photo of Arnold Vahl; my grandfather.  He's seated at a work table in a print shop where he worked.

My Grandfather: Arnold Vahl (seated).

 As a young man my grandfather served a four year apprenticeship to learn the art and trade of being a lithographer.  He learned to create the master artwork for printing; they etched the artwork into the surface of very heavy stones.  Labels were then printed off of these stones.  The precision work on these stones is exceptional and the detail; nothing short of amazing.

Lithography Stone; artwork etched by Arnold Vahl. Size: 10" x 8"x 2.5"deep.

Not long after my grandfather became a skilled craftsman in lithography, printing technology advanced and lithography stones were no longer used.  So my grandfather became a printer.  He ran huge printing presses.  I remember once when I was a young boy, visiting the shop where he worked.  He showed us around...everything seemed so huge and magical - as printed products came out of these big printing presses on large sheets.  If I remember correctly he worked on an 8 color press.  I remember they did a lot of labels for Oscar Meyer back then at the shop where he worked.

Lithography Stone; etched by Arnold Vahl

Arnold Vahl was a very talented man.  He learned a trade and when it became obsolete, learned a new one.  He was an artist and skilled in many ways.  He was also a painter.  He painted oil paintings, signs...I remember him producing many creative projects.  He was meticulous and precise.  He never did sloppy work.  Perhaps something that became habit when he was etching the precise artwork on to the surface of the lithography stones.

Tools of the master: scribes for etching, pens, pencils, brushes, watercolor pads, a steel triangle.

My Grandpa Vahl was musically talented also.  He was a very good violin player.  I believe I remember hearing about him playing in the orchestra pit for the silent movies.  I just remember enjoying his playing at parties when I was a kid.

My grand dad has passed on several years ago now, but I'll always have fond memories of him.  As a kid, he would bring me piles of scrap paper from the print shop to draw on.  I never ran out of paper and he always encouraged me in my drawing and artwork.  He was also the guy that showed up at the house with Grandma and had some kind of treat that he would judiciously dole out (Hershey's Kisses or MnMs).  He enjoyed listening to the Brewers game on the radio, on a summer day while enjoying a cold Pabst Blue Ribbon and he loved playing dice games.

As a kid we sometimes butted heads; we were so different and so alike in so many ways.  I've learned so much from him and as an artist myself, I treasure the photo, the stone and tools I now have of his, but most of all I treasure what I've learned from him.  I wouldn't be the artist or the man I am today, without so much of the experience that he passed on to me.  Thanks Grandpa.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Peace,

Tom

On Line Portfolio:  www.Behance.net/tk-art
On Facebook:  www.facebook.com/pages/Tom-Kreienbrink-Art-and-Design