It is a “heating pad” of infrared rays – these rays penetrate 6-8 inches into the innermost recesses of the body, stimulating healing and regeneration of nerves and muscle tissue layers.

And the heat is transferred through amethyst crystals. Gemisphere (tools of gemstone energy medicine) says, “Amethyst helps you attain wisdom by reminding every aspect of your being of its inherent spiritual nature. And it helps support the health of your nervous system.”

The benefits of the Amethyst BioMat include:

• Relieve pain and joint stiffness
• Increase blood circulation
• Decrease hyperactivity
• Strengthen the cardiovascular system
• Rejuvenate skin and cellular function
• Induce deep Delta state of relaxation
• Reduce stress and fatigue
• Boost the immune system
• Burn calories and controls weight
• Remove waste and toxins
• Boost energy and vitality
• Regulate psychological well-being.

Personally, in December, I was booked almost every day and was carrying my harp in and out of different locations each day in extreme cold and lots of snow. My back felt open and flexible – I “arrived” at Christmas in great shape (not totally exhausted as usual).

It is always fun for me to experience new things and to share what I’m excited about. If you’d like additional information, please feel free to e-mail me.

Connie Nelson Ahlberg and Courage (her dog)

Shortly after writing her story for “Women as Healers: Voices” of Vibrancy, Connie Nelson Ahlberg experienced a near-fatal car accident that continues to demand attention from the medical community. After getting caught under her moving car and literally dragged down her driveway, Connie suffered three fractures (clavicle, humerus, and scapula) and underwent two surgeries. Most importantly, she is alive to tell her amazing story.

What I find amazing about Connie’s recent close call is the way she reflects on it. As a writer of prayers in prose for more than 24 years, it goes without saying that Connie has a way of choosing words that invite the imagination. She shared the following, “Finding sacredness and truth is being awake for it. This speaks of the Buddhist tradition of mindfulness. In my time at the rehabilitation center at Augustana in Apple Valley, MN, there were many profound events.” While many would spend this prolonged, three-month hospital and rehab time filled with frustration and resentment, Connie decided to “lean into it” and be present in order to find the sacredness in everyday life. Connie’s three roommates in rehab greeted her with openness, as well as taught her important life lessons about tenacity and courage. Without a doubt, she made eternal connections with them.

There is so much to be learned from Connie Nelson Ahlberg that one simple blog post cannot do justice. Her words of empowerment, spirituality, and prayer continue to inspire all that read them. For more on Connie’s journey with depression and her inspirational outlook on life, read her story in “Women as Healers: Voices of Vibrancy.”