As athletes, we understand the importance of massage therapy. That’s why we were so happy to meet up with Sara Rennie Heretick.  Sara, native Richmonder, is nationally certified in therapeutic massage and clinical sports therapy.  After over 15 years in the healthcare industry, Sara made the decision to leave the medical field and learn non-invasive techniques for injury rehab, pain management and therapeutic massage.  She attended the American Institute of Massage in Richmond, VA for her basic therapeutic massage training and then received further training in the areas of sports performance and injury rehab.  She discovered a passion for helping physically active individuals get back to their sport of choice.  Whether side-lined due to injury or other reasons, Sara assists the athlete at all levels (elite athlete to the recreational enthusiast) to get back on the field, on the court, in the saddle or on the course since 2005.  Sessions (30, 60, 90 or 120 min) are offered and incorporate a wide variety of techniques.  Sessions may be problem focused, particularly in the case of injury rehab or for specific performance improvement goals or generalized overall therapy for maintaining an achieved base line.

Sara has proudly supported and provided sports massage therapy for the North American Open Professional Squash Tournament for four consecutive years (2007-2010); Richmond Pro Cycling 2010 season; Race Across America solo riders in 2009-2010; Badwater 135 Ultramarathon runners 2009-2010 and USA UltraTri Triple IRON 2008-2010.

Sara is offering services within the 3Sports River Road location.  Morning, afternoon and evening appointments are available after 8/2/2010.  Sara will be out of the office from 7/14/2010 through 8/2/2010 while she provides crew support and sports massage therapy for ultrarunner, Bill Bradley, in his attempt at a Double Badwater Ultramarathon with Mt. Whitney.  More information as well as online scheduling is available on Sara’s website, www.handsonwellnessmt.com .  Please feel free to contact Sara with questions at 804.241.8425 or email, www.sara@handsonwellnessmt.com.

For the first time, a new study links Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to pesticides found on the most common fruits and vegetables.

More than 4 million American children suffer from ADHD.  It has been blamed on everything from watching too much television to simply being over-diagnosed.

The new study, published Monday in the Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, points to a pesticide called organophosphate, which is commonly used on produce. Researchers found this one type of pesticide may be contributing to ADHD.

Nutritionists suggest washing fruit and vegetables in distilled vinegar — about half a teaspoon to one cup of water. Alternatively, you can use a brush to scrub produce before eating.

What foods typically carry the most pesticide residue?

• frozen blueberries
• strawberries
• celery
• green beans
• peaches
• broccoli

Researchers say your best bet for avoiding pesticides is to purchase organic local produce.  An Emory University study found children given organic produce had nearly undetectable levels of pesticides. To be certified “organic,” food in the U.S. must be 95 % natural.

We’re fortunate to live in a region that offers tons of great Farmers’ Markets where residents make lasting relationships with local farmers from around the Commonwealth.  Richmond is actually home to one of America’s oldest public markets, The 17th Street Farmers’ Market began in 1779.

For that special Farmers’ Market blend of coffee or tea, the crusty breads, the homemade goat cheeses, the aromatic and culinary herbs or the colorful displays of fresh local fruits and vegetables, the Farmers’ Market is the place to be.  It’s also your best bet for avoiding pesticides and maintaining a healthy diet.