The Rest…
Acupressure (usually offered in ½ hour
to 1 hour sessions)
Acupressure
is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers to press key points on the
surface of the skin to stimulate the body’s natural self-curative
abilities. When those points are
pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and
the body’s life force, (sometimes known as Qi or Chi), to aid healing. Acupuncture uses needles, while acupressure
uses the gentle, but firm pressure of hands
The
Chinese discovered acupressure, thousands of years ago. There are 12 meridians of the human body and
are 365 pressure points on these meridians. Each organ in our body is in a
meridian line. Acupressure is accurate
pressure using finger pressure on specific points along the meridians. This is great for clients who don’t like the
use of needles in Acupuncture. Also is a convenient method of massage because
it can be performed fully dressed.
Acupressure
is good for things like:
v Headaches, spasms, strains,
periodic insomnia, bad dreams, indigestion, backaches, arthritis, tension due
to stress, and pre ministration cramps.
v Good for energy balance and
health in the body.
v Noticeable difference in
life and feelings
v Don’t have to rely on
belief, will work anyway. We interrupt
the cycle of being sick
v Clients suffering with
Fibromyalgia
v There is also an acupressure
face-lift that can be done. It puts the
sparkle back into eyes. And is good for
stress, environment lights, smoke, smog, lack of sleep, allergies, emotional
and iris tension. This brings back the
energy into the face.
Contraindications: When you don’t use this
routine.
o
No recent Heart Attack
o
Much also same as Swedish American massage ones.
o
Recent localized injury. I.e.
Knee wrapped, work around area and modified. Note that anything with “itis” at
end of word will have inflammation.
o
Bad Heart or heart aliment
o
Cancer (in book)
o
Phybitis: Inflammation in veins
in legs.
o
Thrombosis, blood clots. I.e.
Sudden onset pain in calf, touch and lots of heat. Note:
on jog, not a sign, so if person had, don’t work area.
o
Periods of extreme exhaustion
o
Extreme hunger or extreme fullness
o
Contagious disease because your body is in survival mode
o
Pregnancy is okay, but be careful about 2 points. SP-6 and CO-4 are big NO NO’s, unless ready
for birth, causes onset of birth.
o
High Fever
o
Manual Lymphatic Drain, MLD (can be ½
to an hour massage)
Manual lymphatic drainage
(MLD) is one of the oldest, most often performed treatments for the body and
tissues and removal of toxins and cleansing of the tissue spaces. After much
research of the lymph vessel system, a system was developed with very specific
series of light, rhythmic manipulations that stimulate lymph flow and fluid
movement. The lymphatic system is separate from the arterial and venous system
and is responsible for transport of excess water, proteins and wastes from the
connective tissue back to the blood stream and ultimate removal by the kidneys.
During the transportation process the lymph is cleaned, filtered and
concentrated. Many immune processes occur in the lymph nodes. If the pathways
become congested, blocked, damaged or severed, then fluids can build up in the
connective tissue leading to edema and swelling. This can lead to abnormalities
in the cells and tissues. If there are any abnormalities in the tissues (e.g.,
chronic inflammation, recent surgery, congestion), then it is the role of the
lymphatic system to transport the damaged cells, inflammatory products and
toxins away from the area. The quicker this can happen, the faster recovery
will be. This is where lymphatic drain makes a difference and the technique of
gentle massage enhances and stimulates the lymphatic system to more rapidly
remove the fluid from around the cells and in the tissues, back into the
lymphatic system for removal and ultimate cleansing. The effects of MLD are
numerous. It affects the nervous system, smooth muscles, and fluid movement in the
connective tissue and may have an affect on the immune system. Through the
pumping and stretching effect on the lymph vessels, MLD stimulates the
contraction of lymph vessels, helping to move the lymph forward and drain the
connective tissue. It is very useful before and after cosmetic surgery and
facial procedures to decrease bruising and edema.
The Lymphatic Massage
This light massage
provokes cellular regeneration throughout the body, especially in areas with a
concentration of the lymph nodes. It boosts circulation of the lymphatic system
and helps eliminate toxins while acting favorably against cellulite, various
edemas and the feeling of heaviness in the legs.
This is a different kind
of massage; it is designed to move bodily fluid in cells and connective
tissue. We remove excess fluid in edema
(swelling)
And example of why we
would do this kind of a massage is after surgery, your circulation is slowed,
so fluid doesn’t’ move and it becomes blocked. With this massage, you bring
nutrients or circulation to area or even clear it to accelerate flow of
lymph. Aids in swelling in face,
neck. Also aids in tooth, ear, and
throat infection by moving the lymph through.
When done in the face and neck can change the appearance of the face by
helping to reduce and even eliminate wrinkles and lines in skin. Another excellent benefit is moving lymph
through the face and neck during a sinus infection or cold.
Cellulite Massage (1 hour session)
This massage eliminates
cellulite and minimizes the possibility of it accumulating. This technique is designed to assist your
body in it’s natural function of removing excess toxins, increasing blood flow
and energy flow, while at the same time smoothing cellulite areas and re-shape the natural
contours of your body. . You will experience a loss of inches in the
process as well. We use the body’s
ability to work for itself without using invasive or dangerous methodologies
such as surgery.
Cellulite Massage
takes place over a period of weeks. You
will also be instructed in techniques to use at home as well in order to
maintain the results.
The purpose of this massage is not to replace proper eating habits and
exercise, rather, to enhance them. For
many, no matter how much weight loss takes place the dimpled cellulite
remains. Trying to lose more fat tissue
does not smooth these areas but may create a health hazard if it becomes an
extreme. (Anorexia, bulimia)
Cellulite
Massage is a process that is performed at
least two times per week for a period of 15 sessions. (Results begin to show after 7 to 10
sessions) You will also be shown
techniques to use at home to further enhance the process and maintain the
results longer.
The massage techniques are performed
on the areas of most concern including backs of arms, upper legs, thighs,
“saddle bags”, buttocks, and waist. A sheet with will drape you with only the
area being worked on will be uncovered at any one time. Together we will maintain your modesty and
privacy while still being able to work the necessary areas of your body.
Does it
hurt? - There is usually some discomfort
during the first few sessions as a substantial amount of pressure is
necessary. As time progresses the pain
lessens and most begin to tolerate or even appreciate the deep penetration.
Will I bruise? - Depends on the individual. If bruising does occur it usually disappears
in a short time. A deficiency in calcium
creates a good possibility for bruising.
Vitamin C, Calcium and lots of water are recommended.
How long does it take before I begin to see results? - It takes
seven to ten sessions to begin to see
results. (Some more, some less) The closer you are to your ideal weight the
shorter time usually.
Will I have to do the massages forever? - When you exercise and
tone your body, then stop...it will return to its former condition. Much is the same with cellulite. However, you will be taught some self-massage
to enhance and lengthen the time the effect has. Periodic massage from your therapist will be
of benefit to maintain the effects as well.
Aromatherapy (usually offered in 1 hour session)
The art of aromatherapy is beneficial to the emotional as well as the physical body through the healing, beauty-enhancing and soothing properties of essential oils. The specific benefits of this type of massage depend on the careful selection of such oils under the guidance of our therapist. Essential oils can be blended by therapist, or be purchased already blended into recipes to relate to specific results.
Aromatherapy is helpful in relieving stress,
fluid retention, sleeping disorders and anxiety, and helps induce relaxation,
enhance health and appearance with caring, hands on approach.
Aromatherapy can be defined as the art
and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to
balance, harmonize and promote the health of body, mind and spirit. It is
an art and science, which seeks to explore the physiological, and psychological
realm of the individual's response to aromatic extracts as well as to observe
and enhance the individual's innate healing process. As a holistic
medicine, Aromatherapy is both a preventative approach as well as an active
treatment during acute and chronic stages of illness or disease.
It is a natural, non-invasive
treatment system designed to affect the whole person not just the symptom or
disease and to assist the body's natural ability to balance, regulate, heal and
maintain itself by the correct use of essential oils.
Essential oils are great in a First aid
kit. For example, keep lavender on hand
for burns and cuts. There are so many ways these oils can be used. Many books are available on the subject and can
be purchased in Health food markets or Bookstores.
Chair Massage – (Usually offered in 10 to 20 minute sessions)
This massage is also known as:
On Site Massage; Corporate Massage; Office Massage or Work Place
Massage. You may want to consider this massage in the public or business
setting for so many reasons. Here are a
few:
☺
People remain fully dressed
☺
Very portable and convenient
☺
Results are immediate. Relieves
discomfort in head, neck, back, arms and hands
☺
Employee productivity is likely to increase
☺
Short enough to have done during coffee breaks
☺
Great for after lunch when stomach is working on digestive, so employee
feels tired. Get a short massage, which
gets the blood moving and they feel energized.
Foot Reflexology (Can be offered in ½ to 1 hour sessions)
Reflexology is simple and effective. There is no undressing and no
special equipment and can be done anywhere, anytime. We have lots of nerve endings in the bottom
of our feet, so we energy the nerves in reverse. We get blockage in our feet. Gravity take everything down to so, so all
junk is carried in blood and lymph to feet.
We have different areas on feet and hands that are associated with
organs and other parts of our bodies.
Our feet are shallow structures, so when we work on the feet, we get
right to the point.
When working on feet we remove waste products, congestion and blockages
form energy pathways, improve circulation and relieve constriction over 61
blood vessels. We also cause relaxation,
and help normalize organ and gland function.
Some waste products that settle in feet are: lymph; uric acid; calcium deposits fatty
deposits of both solid and fibrous material from fates and cholesterol. Also there is tissue degeneration;
pollutants, lead in air, metallic buildups, lactic acids and more.
Contraindications:
·
Avoid working on injured areas
·
Do not work on someone with high fever
·
Avoid severe skin problems because can be spread, or cause bleeding
·
Diabetes, severe or in constant care of doctor. Be gentle and cautious, you don’t want to
injure an extremity, because they are slow to heal. No foot reflexology, do soft body massage
instead.
·
Be careful with recovering drug and alcohol addict. Only do a little at a time.
·
If person on morphine, they may not feel pain so watch pressure.
·
Arthritis of foot. When
arthritis is active, no reflexology.
Magnet Therapy
Some people have a hard
time believing what magnets can accomplish.
Success is almost too good to be true, yet the Asian cultures have successfully
used magnets for centuries. Magnets are
used to rebalance energies, combat pain, create yin or yang, and rejuvenate
your water.
Why use magnets? Relieves pain; acupuncture like effects;
muscle relaxation, reduction in platelet count with adhesions,
anti-inflammatory effects, bone factures heal in ¼ the time, wound care,
reduction of bruising; reduction in edema aids to healing with a variety of
physical and emotional disorders such as arthritis and stress.
Magnets work on the North
and South pull properties. If you are
purchasing magnets, be sure that they are marked with either a north or south
side. (Is important is how you will use
the magnets) also be sure that they are
at least 1000 gauss and have been measured that on the outer surface. If measured from center with this amount,
magnet will not be strong enough to assist your body in healing.
Contraindications:
·
Pace Makers or
Defibulators
·
Insulin pumps
·
Metallic Pins in
hips or joints (do not use in area of)
·
Do not place near
Transdermic patches
·
Never use on
problem before doctor has looked at it.
You don’t want to take away the body’s warning system of telling you
something is wrong. (Pain)
·
Do not use on
pregnant women
·
Do not use on
infant under 3 months old
·
Active arthritis,
ask doctor first
Interesting facts:
Is the head of your bed
facing north? If so, you are getting the
best sleep possible for you.
If head is West or East,
perhaps you could be sleeping a little better.
Is the head of your bed
facing south? Are you having strange
dreams? Maybe you will need to
reposition head of bed…
Powder Massage (usually offered ½ hour or
1 hour)
A
deep meditative state can be achieved receiving this massage. It is perfect for people unable to tolerate
heavier methods of massage and is now used for terminal patients in hospices
and some hospitals. Is a very light massage with very soothing, slow, gentle
strokes. Powder massage is practical
for clients with lots of body hair rendering oils useless. Is also useful with depression and PMS and is
an excellent change of pace for any client.
Prenatal & Hospital Massage (This massage is normally 1
½ hours)
There are times when a
client cannot lay flat on the massage table.
Perhaps this person is pregnant, in the hospital, or has an emotional
reason for not being able to receive a massage in the traditional manner. This massage, created by Myra Kelly at
Southern California of Massage in
Parentally, specific techniques can reduce pregnancy discomforts and concerns
and enhance the physiological and emotional well being of both mother and
fetus. During labor, skilled, appropriate touch facilitates and shortens the
process while easing pain and anxiety.
Pregnant woman should ask their doctor if massage is recommended, as many
massage therapists require a physician's referral. Make sure your massage
therapist has specialized, advanced training in anatomy, physiology,
complications, precautions and contraindications.
Many, many pillows are used
during this massage. The pillows help the client feel safe and relaxed.
Sports Massage (usually offered in ½ or 1 hour
sessions)
This is a vigorous massage using compression and cross
fiber friction techniques as well as stretching. It focuses on muscles used in
particular athletic activities and problem areas.
Consists of
specific components designed to reduce injuries, such as alleviating
inflammation and providing a warm-up for amateur and professional athletes
before, during, after, and within their training regimens.
Massage can help you prepare for a competitive event. A pre-event massage is
brief and invigorating, usually lasting, 15-30 minutes. It is given within an
hour before the sporting event, through the clothes.
Post-event massage will be calming and relaxing with the goal of easing pain
and soreness and reducing inflammation, also lasting 15-30 minutes and through
the clothes. Post-event massage can bring blood and oxygen to tense areas and
flush out metabolic waste products built up during heavy muscle use.
Salt Glow (offered in 1 hour session)
A wonderful exfoliating process that removes the dead skin cells from
the surface of your body.
The result is a deeply relaxing total body treatment that leaves you
with incredibly smooth, silky skin. This treatment is completed with a
relaxing Swedish Style massage techniques.
Massage Therapy For Fibromyalgia Clients
More and more people are being diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. This disease leaves people with almost daily
muscle pain, constant fatigue, sleeplessness, and low grade depression. For many years Fibromyalgia patients were
told there was nothing wrong with them, but they are in constant pain.
There is a special massage offered to Fibromyalgia clients which
consists of the following:
v Specific Acupressure points
v Comfort Compression Techniques
v Soothing butterfly stocks
This massage is extremely
relaxing and comforting, allowing the Fibromyalgia client a place of rest and
understanding.
Massage Therapy For Seniors
Massage
therapy is particularly valuable for the problems associated with growing
older.
The benefits of massage encompass conditions that may arise with age, such as
muscular stiffness, arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and respiratory problems
such as asthma and emphysema.
Massage encourages circulation, decreases muscular stiffness, and helps to
decrease inflammation that may rest in the joints. Careful massage can help
provide the elderly with symptomatic relief and enable seniors to extend the
vitality in their lives.