Yesterday I had the great opportunity to do chair massage at the Connecticut State Capital for the legislature. Members of the American Massage Therapy Association were there not only to demonstrate the benefits of massage to the participants but also talk to them about to pieces of legislation that we are supporting that will be going to vote soon.
The first bill under consideration is House Bill 5455. It adds shiatsu, acupressure, and Thai massage to the list of services that fall under our massage license. Therefore, anyone performing these modalities or advertising them must have a massage license. It also adds the employer to the law not just the person doing the massage or the above modalities. So, if someone is found to be doing the massage without a license they and the employer will be responsible and can be charged with a Class C misdemeanor and fined.
Second is House Bill 5514. This is a Public Health Department Bill. It states that in order to be eligible for a CT Massage License the person must graduate from a school of massage that is accredited by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Body Work. Applicants for state licensure must attend an approved massage school and pass the National Board Exam.
These bills are very important to both massage therapists as well as the public. This will help protect those therapists who are legitimate licensed professionals. By shedding light on businesses and closing them, we are sending a message that massage is a therapeutic modality and is not an erotic profession. These bills will also protect the public. Any client should be assured that when they receive services from a massage therapist that this therapist has been probably vetted by the Department of Public Health as a professional who has received proper training as well as continuing education.
Massage therapy is a health care service and it should be held to the highest standards to fully protect the practitioners and the public.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
National Massage Therapy Awareness Week
National Massage Therapy Awareness Week is Oct. 23-29! Get the most out of your next massage therapy appointment with these ten tips from the AMTA:
1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
2. Don’t eat just before a massage session. Let your body digest your meal first.
3. Be on time. If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it may take longer to
relax
4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. If you don’t want to remove your clothing, wear clothing that will be comfortable during the massage and will allow the massage therapist to touch and move the areas of your body you expect will need to be massaged.
Privacy - The therapist will either leave the room or otherwise provide privacy while you undress. A sheet or towel is provided for draping during the massage and the therapist will uncover only the part of your body being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times. After the massage is finished, you will be provided with privacy while dressing.
5. Communicate with your massage therapist
* Before the session, give accurate health information and let the massage therapist know your expectations and reasons for the massage.
*Allergies to Oils, Lotions, Powders – The therapist may use oil, lotion or powders to reduce friction on your skin. If you are allergic to any oils, lotions or powders, tell your massage therapist, who can choose a substitute.
* Some massage therapists play recorded music during the massage session. Others find music distracting. If it’s provided, let your massage therapist know if you have any music preferences or if you would prefer they turn off the music.
*Some people like to talk during a massage, while others remain silent. Tell your massage therapist what you prefer.
* During the massage session, report any discomfort, whether it’s from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, e.g., room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc.
* Give feedback to the massage therapist during the massage on the amount of pressure, speed of hand movement, etc. If anything happens that you dislike or seems improper, you have the right to ask the massage therapist to stop. If necessary, you also have the right to end the session.
* Don’t be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns. It’s important that you be as comfortable as possible during your massage. Your massage therapist is a professional dedicated to do his or her best to help you feel at ease.
6. Remember to breathe normally. Breathing helps facilitate relaxation. People often stop or limit their breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged.
7. Relax your muscles and your mind. Tightening up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. Let your massage therapist know this is happening. They may need to adjust the massage technique they use and may also be able to help you relax the affected area. If you find your thoughts are racing during the massage, one way to be more body-centered and to quiet your mind is to follow the hands of the massage therapist and focus on how the touch feels.
8. Drink extra water after your massage.
9. Don’t get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. If you’re dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast. It also may take a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session.
10. Be prepared to schedule several massage sessions. Massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond. From one session to the next, relaxation deepens as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are affected and released. If you’re getting massage to address chronic muscular tension or recovery from a soft tissue injury, more than one session is usually needed.
1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
2. Don’t eat just before a massage session. Let your body digest your meal first.
3. Be on time. If you arrive in a frenzied, rushed state, it may take longer to
relax
4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. If you don’t want to remove your clothing, wear clothing that will be comfortable during the massage and will allow the massage therapist to touch and move the areas of your body you expect will need to be massaged.
Privacy - The therapist will either leave the room or otherwise provide privacy while you undress. A sheet or towel is provided for draping during the massage and the therapist will uncover only the part of your body being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times. After the massage is finished, you will be provided with privacy while dressing.
5. Communicate with your massage therapist
* Before the session, give accurate health information and let the massage therapist know your expectations and reasons for the massage.
*Allergies to Oils, Lotions, Powders – The therapist may use oil, lotion or powders to reduce friction on your skin. If you are allergic to any oils, lotions or powders, tell your massage therapist, who can choose a substitute.
* Some massage therapists play recorded music during the massage session. Others find music distracting. If it’s provided, let your massage therapist know if you have any music preferences or if you would prefer they turn off the music.
*Some people like to talk during a massage, while others remain silent. Tell your massage therapist what you prefer.
* During the massage session, report any discomfort, whether it’s from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, e.g., room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc.
* Give feedback to the massage therapist during the massage on the amount of pressure, speed of hand movement, etc. If anything happens that you dislike or seems improper, you have the right to ask the massage therapist to stop. If necessary, you also have the right to end the session.
* Don’t be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns. It’s important that you be as comfortable as possible during your massage. Your massage therapist is a professional dedicated to do his or her best to help you feel at ease.
6. Remember to breathe normally. Breathing helps facilitate relaxation. People often stop or limit their breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged.
7. Relax your muscles and your mind. Tightening up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. Let your massage therapist know this is happening. They may need to adjust the massage technique they use and may also be able to help you relax the affected area. If you find your thoughts are racing during the massage, one way to be more body-centered and to quiet your mind is to follow the hands of the massage therapist and focus on how the touch feels.
8. Drink extra water after your massage.
9. Don’t get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. If you’re dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast. It also may take a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session.
10. Be prepared to schedule several massage sessions. Massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond. From one session to the next, relaxation deepens as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are affected and released. If you’re getting massage to address chronic muscular tension or recovery from a soft tissue injury, more than one session is usually needed.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Many people may believe that receiving regular massages is a luxury reserved only for the wealthy. But here are some things to remember:
1. Massages are affordable
2. Massages are an investment
3. You are WORTH it!
I have to let you in on a secret- most of my clients are middle-class hard workers just like you who need to watch where their money is spent. So how do they afford to receive regular massages? The first step is to know that massage is affordable and can be fit into most people's budgets by simply budgeting for it. For example, to save up for a 1 hour massage ($65), someone may skip getting that expensive fancy $4 coffee everyday, or bring lunch to work, or make dinner at home instead of going out a couple times less a month. Or, instead of cutting expenses out, someone may simply do piggy bank style saving. Just put $2 and your spare change in a jar every day and by the end of the month you will have your massage. $65 a month may seem like a lot in the beginning to put aside but how about working up to that? You can receive a 30 minute massage which will at least focus on those spots giving you discomfort for only $35. So schedule that 30 minute massage instead of going out to dinner once a month.
Secondly, it is better to think of massages as an investment in your health instead of a luxury. The health benefits are numerous and include:
* Alleviation of joint and muscle pain
* Improved circulation
* Improved immune response
* Increased joint flexibility
* Release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killer
* Reduced frequency and strength of headaches
* Reduced scarring and shortened healing time from injury
* Reduced mental and physical fatigue
Massage has also been shown to have positive effects on many conditions such as:
* Back pain
* Headaches
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Sleep disorders
* High blood pressure
* Muscle injury
* Chronic pain
* Arthritis
With the benefits of massage, you may need to see your doctor or other medical specialists less, reducing the cost medical treatments and expensive co-pays.
Studies have shown that people who receive regular massages also use less sick days from work. This may either mean more money in your pocket or the ability to use those paid days off for things that you really want to be doing.
So, can you put a price on your health and well-being? Hopefully, many people will say no. But unfortunately, many of us put a lot more effort taking care of others than we do taking care of ourselves. Remember you will be a better spouse, partner, parent, worker, or caregiver if you put yourself and your needs first. By doing this everyone around you will benefit from having you at your best. Massage is a simple and affordable way to take care of yourself to keep your body, mind, and spirit working at their optimal level.
Spend your time wisely, invest in yourself! So schedule that massage, you're worth it!
1. Massages are affordable
2. Massages are an investment
3. You are WORTH it!
I have to let you in on a secret- most of my clients are middle-class hard workers just like you who need to watch where their money is spent. So how do they afford to receive regular massages? The first step is to know that massage is affordable and can be fit into most people's budgets by simply budgeting for it. For example, to save up for a 1 hour massage ($65), someone may skip getting that expensive fancy $4 coffee everyday, or bring lunch to work, or make dinner at home instead of going out a couple times less a month. Or, instead of cutting expenses out, someone may simply do piggy bank style saving. Just put $2 and your spare change in a jar every day and by the end of the month you will have your massage. $65 a month may seem like a lot in the beginning to put aside but how about working up to that? You can receive a 30 minute massage which will at least focus on those spots giving you discomfort for only $35. So schedule that 30 minute massage instead of going out to dinner once a month.
Secondly, it is better to think of massages as an investment in your health instead of a luxury. The health benefits are numerous and include:
* Alleviation of joint and muscle pain
* Improved circulation
* Improved immune response
* Increased joint flexibility
* Release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-killer
* Reduced frequency and strength of headaches
* Reduced scarring and shortened healing time from injury
* Reduced mental and physical fatigue
Massage has also been shown to have positive effects on many conditions such as:
* Back pain
* Headaches
* Depression
* Anxiety
* Sleep disorders
* High blood pressure
* Muscle injury
* Chronic pain
* Arthritis
With the benefits of massage, you may need to see your doctor or other medical specialists less, reducing the cost medical treatments and expensive co-pays.
Studies have shown that people who receive regular massages also use less sick days from work. This may either mean more money in your pocket or the ability to use those paid days off for things that you really want to be doing.
So, can you put a price on your health and well-being? Hopefully, many people will say no. But unfortunately, many of us put a lot more effort taking care of others than we do taking care of ourselves. Remember you will be a better spouse, partner, parent, worker, or caregiver if you put yourself and your needs first. By doing this everyone around you will benefit from having you at your best. Massage is a simple and affordable way to take care of yourself to keep your body, mind, and spirit working at their optimal level.
Spend your time wisely, invest in yourself! So schedule that massage, you're worth it!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Introduction to Pilates
Massage therapy at its best addresses the entire body to achieve optimal functioning, health,and well-being. However, even the best massage therapists cannot achieve these goals alone, it takes active involvement of the client too. One great way that a client can help keep his/her body in balance and achieve optimal strength and function is active participation in Pilates. Here is a brief description of Pilates as written by Maggie Downie, owner of Personal Euphoria Pilates, an expert in the field and a trusted colleague in health. Please visit her website www.PilatesCT.com for more information.
The Pilates Method was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Joseph was born in Germany and believed that poor posture and improper breathing techniques were the cause of many illnesses, from chronic back pain to asthma.
Therefore, he created the Pilates Method which focused on strengthening the core muscles of the body (the stomach, back, and butt) in order to support the spine. By increasing flexibility of the body's extremities (the arms and legs), the Pilates Method creates long, loose, limber limbs. The best analogy of the Pilates Method is to imagine the body is a tree. Both require a strong supportive trunk with limbs that can be tossed around by the wind and remain strong, flexible, balanced, and stable.
The focused breath pattern enables practitioners to enhance all their exercises and develop better breathing skills.
Joseph originally developed the method for WWI soldiers (and called it Contrology) but continued to alter the exercises to help increase the strength and flexibility of boxers and NYC dancers. His work with the soldiers makes Pilates a potentially great exercise option for anyone recuperating from a physical injury. However, doctors should always play a role in an individual's decision to begin a new exercise regime.
One of the many things I love about Pilates is that anyone can do it. The fittest athlete can do Pilates and be extremely challenged and individuals recovering from various surgeries can also do Pilates—the exercises are that varied and can be modified to fit nearly everyone’s needs.
Maggie Downie
Personal Euphoria Pilates
personaleuphoria@cox.net
www.PilatesCT.com
The Pilates Method was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Joseph was born in Germany and believed that poor posture and improper breathing techniques were the cause of many illnesses, from chronic back pain to asthma.
Therefore, he created the Pilates Method which focused on strengthening the core muscles of the body (the stomach, back, and butt) in order to support the spine. By increasing flexibility of the body's extremities (the arms and legs), the Pilates Method creates long, loose, limber limbs. The best analogy of the Pilates Method is to imagine the body is a tree. Both require a strong supportive trunk with limbs that can be tossed around by the wind and remain strong, flexible, balanced, and stable.
The focused breath pattern enables practitioners to enhance all their exercises and develop better breathing skills.
Joseph originally developed the method for WWI soldiers (and called it Contrology) but continued to alter the exercises to help increase the strength and flexibility of boxers and NYC dancers. His work with the soldiers makes Pilates a potentially great exercise option for anyone recuperating from a physical injury. However, doctors should always play a role in an individual's decision to begin a new exercise regime.
One of the many things I love about Pilates is that anyone can do it. The fittest athlete can do Pilates and be extremely challenged and individuals recovering from various surgeries can also do Pilates—the exercises are that varied and can be modified to fit nearly everyone’s needs.
Maggie Downie
Personal Euphoria Pilates
personaleuphoria@cox.net
www.PilatesCT.com
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Protect Your Back this Winter
As a massage therapist in New England I have seen my fair share of clients this winter who have injured their backs while shoveling. Shoveling the white stuff can be grueling especially after the winter we have had so far, but there are ways to do it safely.
The first step is preparation and this means making sure your muscles are ready to work. Do a few simple back stretches including flexion (bending), extension (straightening) and rotations as well as stretching out your other shoveling muscles including your shoulders, arms, and legs. Your massage therapist can show you these stretches if you are not familiar with them. Next, make sure that you are dressed properly for the cold. Warm muscles will be more relaxed and will work in a more efficient manner than cold, tensed muscles. Warm, stretched muscles will be less likely to be strained leaving you feeling much better after the task is complete.
As far as the actual shoveling, it is best to follow the basic guidelines of good body mechanics. The first technique is making sure that you are close to the load that you are lifting. The shorter the "lever arm" (the distance between your center and what you are lifting), the less amount of strain that is put on your muscles especially your back. So don't reach into that drift, get close then dig. Next, when lifting the snow, make sure to bend your knees and lift with your legs and not with your back. Keep your back relaxed and don't bend. To unload the snow, keep the end of the shoveling close to your center (short lever arm rule)and move your feet to where you want to dump it- don't twist! As I am observing people as I drive down the snowy lanes, most people are breaking this rule and will ultimately have very sore low backs in the morning.
These steps may seem like they add to length of a task that so many people dread already, but it will make you feel so much better when you are done and will prevent that emergency visit to your massage therapist. May the rest of your winter be safe!
The first step is preparation and this means making sure your muscles are ready to work. Do a few simple back stretches including flexion (bending), extension (straightening) and rotations as well as stretching out your other shoveling muscles including your shoulders, arms, and legs. Your massage therapist can show you these stretches if you are not familiar with them. Next, make sure that you are dressed properly for the cold. Warm muscles will be more relaxed and will work in a more efficient manner than cold, tensed muscles. Warm, stretched muscles will be less likely to be strained leaving you feeling much better after the task is complete.
As far as the actual shoveling, it is best to follow the basic guidelines of good body mechanics. The first technique is making sure that you are close to the load that you are lifting. The shorter the "lever arm" (the distance between your center and what you are lifting), the less amount of strain that is put on your muscles especially your back. So don't reach into that drift, get close then dig. Next, when lifting the snow, make sure to bend your knees and lift with your legs and not with your back. Keep your back relaxed and don't bend. To unload the snow, keep the end of the shoveling close to your center (short lever arm rule)and move your feet to where you want to dump it- don't twist! As I am observing people as I drive down the snowy lanes, most people are breaking this rule and will ultimately have very sore low backs in the morning.
These steps may seem like they add to length of a task that so many people dread already, but it will make you feel so much better when you are done and will prevent that emergency visit to your massage therapist. May the rest of your winter be safe!
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Art of Japanese Zen Facial Massage
According to Oriental Medicine, a person's face tells everything about him or her including the person's health and emotional well-being. The Oriental concept of beauty believes that what is on the inside affects the outside and that true beauty is only achieved with internal balance and health. They believe the factors such as diet, life style, exercise, and emotions affect the entire body. These imbalances display themselves as impurities, imperfections,and deficiencies (dullness) in the skin.
The Art of Japanese Zen Facial Massage is the application of essential oil aromatherapy, acupressure, and massage to the face and upper body. These treatments help alleviate the negative affects of internal and external stressors on the skin. The facial treatments increase circulation and lymph flow in the face, tones skin and underlying connective tissue, and increase energy (Qi) in the area. By removing toxins from the face, improving circulation and tone, and balancing Qi, outward affects include a decrease in fine wrinkles especially around the eyes and lips, evened skin tone, decrease in blemishes, and a brighter complexion. This treatment can slow premature aging and help balance emotions. It can also be used to treat and prevent migraines and tension headaches, TMJ dysfunction, neck pain, and provide deep relaxation.
Essentials oils that may be used in Japanese Facials include basil, peppermint, cedarwood, lavender, geranium, and rosemary. Essential oils have the ability to penetrate cell membranes and diffuse throughout the blood and tissues of the body. Essential oils are natural healers. They can be used as an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and can also be used to enhance relaxation, balance emotions, and decrease muscle tension and pain. Each oil has unique properties to suit each person's individual needs.
Japanese Zen Facials are non-invasive and can be used safely on a variety of individuals for a wide array of dysfunctions. Some precautions include pregnancy, sensitivities to oils, high blood pressure, and use of anti-psychotic drugs. Inform your massage therapist of all of your health conditions so that the treatment can be tailored to your needs.
Enhance your external beauty with internal balance, try Japanese Zen Facials.
The Art of Japanese Zen Facial Massage is the application of essential oil aromatherapy, acupressure, and massage to the face and upper body. These treatments help alleviate the negative affects of internal and external stressors on the skin. The facial treatments increase circulation and lymph flow in the face, tones skin and underlying connective tissue, and increase energy (Qi) in the area. By removing toxins from the face, improving circulation and tone, and balancing Qi, outward affects include a decrease in fine wrinkles especially around the eyes and lips, evened skin tone, decrease in blemishes, and a brighter complexion. This treatment can slow premature aging and help balance emotions. It can also be used to treat and prevent migraines and tension headaches, TMJ dysfunction, neck pain, and provide deep relaxation.
Essentials oils that may be used in Japanese Facials include basil, peppermint, cedarwood, lavender, geranium, and rosemary. Essential oils have the ability to penetrate cell membranes and diffuse throughout the blood and tissues of the body. Essential oils are natural healers. They can be used as an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and can also be used to enhance relaxation, balance emotions, and decrease muscle tension and pain. Each oil has unique properties to suit each person's individual needs.
Japanese Zen Facials are non-invasive and can be used safely on a variety of individuals for a wide array of dysfunctions. Some precautions include pregnancy, sensitivities to oils, high blood pressure, and use of anti-psychotic drugs. Inform your massage therapist of all of your health conditions so that the treatment can be tailored to your needs.
Enhance your external beauty with internal balance, try Japanese Zen Facials.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Clear Your Head with Breathing
We all know that breathing is essential for life, but few are aware of how breathing can be used to improve life. Many people have done "deep breathing" also known as diaphragmatic breathing. It is commonly used to calm oneself down in stressful situations. A lesser known breath technique that can be equally useful is called Yin/Yang breathing or alternate nostril breathing. This technique has been shown to increase relaxation by calming the nervous system. It is also used as preparation for meditation and can also improve clarity of thought by balancing the right and left brain hemispheres.
How to perform:
1. Sit in a comfortable, relaxed upright position.
2. Bend your middle fingers into the palm of your dominant hand
3. If using your right hand, close the right nostril with your thumb and exhale
through your left nostril
4. Inhale through your left nostril while keeping the right nostril closed
5. Close your left nostril with your pinky finger and open your right nostril
6. Exhale through the right nostril
This is one cycle. Repeat doing a comfortable number of repetitions. Stop if you feel any strain or light-headed. Do not do if you have a cold or congestion. Check with your doctor if you have had any past breathing difficulties or respiratory conditions or if you are pregnant.
Practice makes perfect. Give yourself time to master the technique. Take a minute today to focus on your breath- its a simple way to clear your head and make your whole being feel better.
How to perform:
1. Sit in a comfortable, relaxed upright position.
2. Bend your middle fingers into the palm of your dominant hand
3. If using your right hand, close the right nostril with your thumb and exhale
through your left nostril
4. Inhale through your left nostril while keeping the right nostril closed
5. Close your left nostril with your pinky finger and open your right nostril
6. Exhale through the right nostril
This is one cycle. Repeat doing a comfortable number of repetitions. Stop if you feel any strain or light-headed. Do not do if you have a cold or congestion. Check with your doctor if you have had any past breathing difficulties or respiratory conditions or if you are pregnant.
Practice makes perfect. Give yourself time to master the technique. Take a minute today to focus on your breath- its a simple way to clear your head and make your whole being feel better.
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