Blog Post: Dogs, Aromatherapy and Singing Bowls

I attended my first ever SHRMA meeting today, which was hosted by the Suncoast Hospice (formerly The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast).

The meeting included the usual breakfast and some news and updates, but the agenda was a "Pamper Yourself Day" and included stations for each of the holistic care services (Palliative Arts) Suncoast Hospice provides to the people they serve.

One of the more popular stations was the Pet Therapy station where we met Brooks, the 6-month old King Charles Spaniel therapy dog. At the Smile Team table I picked up my recycled medicine container that now contains "laughter" - I'm to take as needed, prescribed by Dr. Riddle A. Day (Ha!).

I learned about noise and vibration therapy at the Singing Bowls station and took a swab of peppermint and lemon oil from the Aromatherapy table - good for headache relief. At the Art therapy table, a few of us made little glass keepsakes using old greeting cards (good way to recycle!) and learned about some of the other art projects they do.

Finally, I had my 10-minute Reiki session, a first for me. Reiki is a therapy utilizing energy, and practitioners use their hands in a light touch or held just above the body, to bring about a sense of relaxation, comfort and calmness in the recipient. Other SHRMA members had the opportunity for a traditional chair message or Pilgrimage, which is a non-invasive healing touch that includes mediation and/or prayer (for any faith).

Additionally, we learned about the numerous ways Suncoast Hospice can partner with your company, including promoting employee engagement through volunteerism, support services such as grief counseling, and even becoming involved in charitable events such as "The Stroll", their annual leisurely walk on the waterfront of downtown St. Petersburg. Contact the Director, Center for Community, for more information.

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