The Nature Cottage

03/20/2026

I just want to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who helped make today so wonderful. To the customers who came in to shop, the supporters who helped spread the word that the store is open now on Thursdays 1-5, Fridays 10-5 and Saturdays 9-2, to my helpful husband who was willing to come work for a couple of hours while I worked with massage clients, and to the customers and clients who have left great reviews on Google, Square, or Facebook. These reviews help new people feel comfortable booking with me and I greatly appreciate the support!

03/19/2026

I have some very exciting news that I simply can’t wait any longer to share!

The Nature Cottage is partnering with G&J Exotics to host a very special event during the Piedmont UFO Festival (April 24-26)

1 1/2 hours of hands on, interactive fun. $20/person includes unique souvenirs.
Friday 6:30
Saturday 5 & 7
Sunday 1:30 & 3:30

AREA 573: The Piedmont Signal Investigation

A mysterious signal first detected near Piedmont in 1973 has returned.

During the UFO Festival weekend, you are invited to step into the role of an Area 573 Field Investigator and help determine the source of the anomaly.

In this small-group guided experience, investigators will travel between two research divisions:

• The Biological Anomalies Unit – observe fascinating reptiles and learn about the remarkable adaptations that help them survive
• The Energy & Artifact Division – examine crystals, fossils, and minerals
• The Herbal Adaptation Protocol – explore traditional plants used for resilience and survival

Participants will record observations in an Area 573 Field Journal, collect evidence markers, and analyze their findings to determine what the Piedmont signal might truly be.

Is it biological… crystalline… botanical… or simply misunderstood Earth science?

Group sizes are intentionally limited to keep the experience immersive.

Advance booking is required.

Reserve your investigation spot here:
bit.ly/NatureCottageEvents

Edit to add: my current booking system requires each participant to register separately. If you are booking for multiple people (for example a family of 4) you can message or call me for assistance.

03/19/2026

Shopping hours starting now!
Thursdays 1-5
Fridays 10-5
Saturdays 9-2

03/19/2026

Today we will continue our learning on the lymphatic system.
I'm sure many of you have heard of lymph nodes. Often when you are sick, the dr will mention swollen lymph nodes. What what are they? Where are they? How many are there?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located within the lymphatic system. An adult has between 400 & 800 lymph nodes distributed throughout the body. The highest concentrations are found in the neck (cervical), underarms (axillary), groin (inguinal), chest, and abdomen. Of the total, approximately 300 lymph nodes are located in the neck region.

Their main role is to act as filtering stations for lymph fluid, helping trap bacteria, viruses, waste products, and other foreign substances. Inside each lymph node are specialized immune cells that help identify and destroy harmful invaders. Lymph fluid flows through vessels and passes through these nodes before eventually returning to the bloodstream.

When the lymphatic system is moving efficiently, these nodes quietly perform their job without us noticing them. However, when the body is fighting infection or when lymph flow slows down, lymph nodes can become swollen or tender. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle technique designed to encourage the natural movement of lymph through the vessels and nodes. By improving lymph flow, MLD can help reduce fluid buildup in tissues and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

MLD does not force lymph through the nodes but instead stimulates the surrounding vessels and pathways so fluid can move more easily. This can help decrease swelling, support immune function, and improve overall fluid balance in the body.

Interested in finding out if MLD is right for you? Message this page for more info. Ready to book your session? Visit naturecottagewellness.com

03/17/2026

I don’t know about the luck of the Irish, but an hour on the massage table might make you feel like you’ve found the end of the rainbow 🌈

03/17/2026

Wishing everyone out there a happy St Patrick’s Day!
Don’t forget that The Nature Cottage will open up for shopping hours this week!!
Thursday 1-5, Friday 10-5 & Saturday 9-2!

302 Legion Park Rd. Piedmont

03/17/2026

Have you ever wondered why I include the BioMat Infrared Heat Technology with every service? Because I care about your wellness and you deserve the best treatment I can give you!

03/16/2026

If you have seen my recent posts about Lymph, but aren't sure what that is, here is a simple graphic explaining how lymph is formed in the body.

If you would like to find out if Manual Lymphatic Drainage is right for you, or schedule your MLD session, you can message this page or book your appointment at naturecottagewellness.com

03/15/2026

For years I was told that I just needed to drink more water when my hands and feet would swell. While mild dehydration can actually worsen swelling as the body holds onto fluid more tightly, simply drinking more water doesn't always decrease swelling in the body.
Here's why:

Swelling (edema) usually happens because of:
poor venous return
lymphatic congestion
inflammation
low blood protein
hormonal shifts
prolonged sitting or standing

As blood circulates through the body, some fluid naturally leaks out of the tiny blood vessels to nourish the surrounding tissues and cells. Most of this fluid returns directly back to the bloodstream through the veins. About 20% of the fluid that leaves the bloodstream does not immediately return through veins. That fluid sits in the tissues and becomes lymph.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage helps move that fluid into lymphatic capillaries and collectors so it can return to circulation.
How does that effect swelling?
It reduces stagnant fluid.
When lymph flow slows, fluid can accumulate in tissues. This can cause:
swelling
heaviness
inflammation
reduced nutrient exchange
MLD helps restore the normal fluid turnover between tissues and circulation.
It indirectly supports hydration balance

Once lymph returns to the bloodstream, it eventually passes through the kidneys and re-enters systemic circulation. In that sense, MLD helps recycle fluid already present in the body.

So a simplified way to think of it is:
Drinking water supplies new fluid to the system.
The lymphatic system recovers and recycles existing fluid.
MLD helps that recycling process happen more efficiently.

If you would like to schedule a manual lymphatic drainage session, you can book online at naturecottagewellness.com or message this page for more information.

03/14/2026

Just want to remind you that the storefront will be opening back up for the season Thursday, March 19th.
Spring hours will be Thursday 1-5, Friday 10-5 & Saturdays 9-2

Massage, Reiki and Manual Lymphatic Drainage appointments will remain available Monday-Saturday. Book online at naturecottagewellness.com

Interested in attending a macrame class or sound bath? Visit bit.ly/NatureCottageEvents
More events being added to the calendar soon!

03/13/2026

03/13/2026

Oops. I had another last minute cancellation today! If you are interested in and 11 or 11:30 massage, manual lymphatic drainage, or Reiki session today, send me a message!!