exploring today’s touch therapies

CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. What’s Your Specialty? pg. 28

ISSUE 257 • OCTOBER 2017 massagemag.com

ANNUAL SELF-CARE ISSUE

$ $ Make 10- 30 More From Holiday Retail & Gift Every Session Guide Page 54 EXPERT ROUNDTABLE: What Massage Experts Can Teach Us About Self-Care

Discover How You You Too Can Get Embrace the 8 Secrets of Sleep Can Feel Better While Out of Pain Quickly Parasites that Want (That Have Nothing to Giving Massage with Taping to Rule Your Life Do with Your Pillow)

Research: Massage Results in Greater Inactive Alertness in People with Severe Disabilities | October 2017 Issue 257 Contents

42 36 46

You Too Can Get Out of Pain Quickly with Taping 20 Cover Story Many massage therapists’ careers are cut short due Expert Roundtable: What Massage Experts 36 to the repetitive physical stressors associated with Can Teach Us About Self-Care their work. This course can be corrected through simple awareness, changing body positioning or using kinesiology Self-care is essential, but it doesn’t need to feel like tape. work. Plenty of self-care techniques can be fun, inspiring by Stacey Thomas, L.M.T., S.F.M.A., F.M.S., N.K.T., C.F.-L2. and surprisingly simple. In this article, several massage educators and therapists discuss what they do—habits including napping, self-massage and firearms practice—to Embrace the Parasites that Want to Rule Your Life feel happy, relaxed and ready to tackle each day as a massage Parasitic movement is a very useful way to think professional. 42about something that happens to all of us all the time: Read “If You Don’t Practice Good Nutrition, You Might Age the contraction of any muscles that we don’t actually need to Poorly,” by Dee McCaffrey, at massagemag.com/goodnutrition. complete an action. by David Lobenstine, L.M.T. Help your clients learn to recognize parasitic tension in their own bodies, in “When The Massage Client is the Host: Parasitic Tension on the Table,” by David M. Lobenstine, L.M.T., at massagemag.com/clienthost.

Body Mechanics: Discover How You Can Feel Better While Giving Massage Longevity depends on training oneself to the fluidity 46generated by excellent body mechanics—and a multitude of gifts are received through this practice. by Linda Derick

2 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com | October 2017 Issue 257

REGULAR FEATURES 24 24 THE MASSAGE MAGAZINE LIST: The Top 5 Ways to Be More Creative by Eric Maisel, Ph.D. 26 PRACTICE BUILDING Make $10, $20 or $30 More From Every Session. by Linda Beach Read “5 Proven Techniques to Change Your Money Mindset,” by Linda Beach, at massagemag.com/changemoneymindset. 60 SPA SUCCESS The Spa Day as Self-Care. by Allison Payne 68 LIVING IN BALANCE Can You Really Trust Your Heart? Read This Before You Decide by Suzanne Scurlock-Durana What’s Your Specialty Suzanne Scurlock-Durana’s exploration of the heart continues The National Certification Board for Therapeutic on massagemag.com with “Listen to Your Heart, Part Two Massage & Bodywork and American College of “Feeding the Deep Heart” and “Listen to Your Heart, Part 40 Three: Loving Wholeheartedly.” Healthcare Sciences have partnered to create a Professional Certificate in Holistic Spa Management. RESEARCH REPORTS By NCBTMB 74 Pleasant Touch Prior to Massage Improves Chronic Low Back Pain; Massage Results in Greater Inactive Alertness The 8 Secrets of Sleep (That Have Nothing to Do in People with Severe Disabilities with Your Pillow) Visit massagemag.com/newresearch to read this month’s online Research Exclusive, “Reviewing the Research on Sleep is an integral component of self-care, yet it can be Massage for Preterm Infants.” 50easily overlooked in a culture that prides itself on being alert, active and awake. by Larry Cammarata, Ph.D. DEPARTMENTS 14 To Our Readers 66 Product Focus Self-Care Tools 16 In Our Mailbox Conventions & Events 18 News & Current 76  Events 77 Display Ad Directory 32 New Products & 78 Educational Resources Services and Development 34 Best Practices 80 Marketplace and Classifieds exploring today’s touch therapies

CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. What’s Your Specialty? pg. 40

ISSUE 257 • OCTOBER 2017 massagemag.com

ANNUAL SELF-CARE ISSUE

$ $ Make 10- 30 October cover image: More From Holiday Retail & Gift Every Session Guide Michael Zhang – Delight Images/ Page 54 EXPERT ROUNDTABLE: What Massage Experts Can Adobe Stock 64 Teach Us About Self-Care Discover How You You Too Can Get Embrace the 8 Secrets of Sleep Can Feel Better While Out of Pain Quickly Parasites that Want (That Have Nothing to Giving Massage with Taping to Rule Your Life Do with Your Pillow)

Research: Massage Results in Greater Inactive Alertness in People with Severe Disabilities

3 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com | October 2017 Issue 257

BOOKMARK Online Exclusives massagemag.com ookmark our Massage News Bpage to keep current on the latest news about the massage profession. massagemag.com/massage-news

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1 “Listen to Your Heart, Part Two 4 “5 Proven Techniques to Change Feeding the Deep Heart” Your Money Mindset” 2 “Listen to Your Heart, Part Three: 5 “Reviewing the Research on Loving Wholeheartedly” Massage for Preterm Infants” Our email newsletters deliver exclusive articles, tips, news and information 3 “When the Client is the Host: directly to your inbox. Parasitic Tension on the Table” Subscribe for free at See these and more at massagemag.com/current-issue massagemag.com/signup

4 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com FAQs

MASSAGE Magazine’s mission is to provide to massage and touch therapists the tools, Q: How do I subscribe? information and resources to help them succeed both in their businesses and their session A: Order online, by mail or by phone. rooms. We give readers the latest news affecting the massage field, in-depth feature articles, Order online at massagemag. educational technique articles, accessible business advice, informative profiles, and inspiring com and click on our subscription stories of how touch promotes well-being on individual and global levels. We connect readers to each other, and to the organizations and manufacturers providing exceptional opportunities link. Order by mail by submitting a and products. We believe healthy touch has the power to create a better world, and that subscription card to: by supporting and educating massage and touch therapists, we are playing a role in that MASSAGE Magazine creation. MASSAGE Magazine is dedicated to ongoing growth and improvement—both in P.O. Box 3002 editorial scope and content, and as a healthy business doing good work in the world. Northbrook, IL 60065-3002. Order toll-free by calling (888) 883-3801. MASSAGE MAGAZINE YOU CAN CONTRIBUTE TO MASSAGE MAGAZINE Q: How much does a Editor in Chief • Share news happening in your community, school, subscription cost? Karen Menehan workplace or association. A: U.S. surface: $14.95/year; $25.95/two [email protected] years or $34.95/three years. Associate Editor • If you are inspired, pleased, angered or intrigued by Hannah Fell anything we publish, express your views by writing a Q: When will my subscription start? [email protected] Letter to the Editor. A: Your subscription will start 4-6 weeks Digital Content Strategist from the date you place your order. Casey Nighbor • Suggest a colleague, or yourself, to be interviewed for a [email protected] news or feature article. Q: My address is changing—how do Art Director • Visit us online at massagemag.com for exclusive news Elizabeth Blacker I keep from missing an issue? [email protected] and articles. A: Go online to massagemag.com Art Director–Marketing • Visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/ and click on the SUBSCRIBE button W. Kelley Lucas massagemagazine to network with colleagues and be located on the upper right of the page. [email protected] one of the first people to see new articles. Q: How many issues are published ADVERTISING SALES Send your ideas, feedback, editorials, leads each year? and letters to [email protected]. A: MASSAGE Magazine is published Director of Sales monthly. Susan Nevins (904) 567-1554 [email protected] The information in any article is not meant to replace Q: Is Massage Magazine affiliated hands-on training. Readers must ensure they have received with any associations? National Account Execs: adequate training before attempting to apply any technique A: No, it is an independent publication referenced or described in MASSAGE Magazine. Jennifer Jolly and not connected to any association, (904) 395-3394 [email protected] organization or institution. Janice Long Subscription Services: Please visit (904) 567-1541 massagemag.com or call (888) 883-3801 Q: Can I receive a free sample issue? [email protected] A: We are unable to provide Jeff Pruitt complimentary samples. However, (904) 567-1542 Opinions and endorsements expressed herein are not you can call (904) 285-6020 to [email protected] necessarily those of MASSAGE Magazine. Letters to purchase single copies. MASSAGE Magazine or its editors are assumed intended OFFICE for publication in whole or in part and may therefore be Q: I have a question not answered used for such purposes. Letters become property of here. Who do I contact? Advertising Coordinator Rebecca Mabrey MASSAGE Magazine. Reproduction of this publication in A: Please visit massagemag.com (904) 567-1545 whole or part without written permission is prohibited by and click Contact Us at the bottom of [email protected] law. ©2017 by MASSAGE Magazine Inc. All rights reserved. the page. Circulation Manager Canadian subscriptions: Canada Post Agreement Tyler Bell Number 7178957. Send address changes and blocks of Q: I have an editorial question. Founders undeliverable copies to IBC, 7485 Bath Rd., Mississauga, Who do I contact? Robert and Judi Calvert ON L4T 4C1 Canada. A: Please email Karen Menehan at [email protected].

5 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com To Our Readers

eing a massage therapist in the context of hands-on work for clients and presented can be very hard them as techniques for massage therapists to use on work, physically and yourselves. emotionally. Many new These topics include spa therapies, in “The Spa Day as Bmassage therapists dive into their Self-Care” (page 60); relaxation, in “Embrace the Parasites practices without thinking of that Want to Rule Your Life” (page 42); and kinesiotaping, the effects that providing several in “You Too Can Get Out of Pain Quickly with Taping” hours of massage each day will (page 36). have on their own bodies, while What other techniques do you apply to clients that other massage therapists burn out might provide ways for you to stay energized, decompress after just a few years. and get out of pain? Some of my favorites include

PHOTO BY KELLY MENEHAN Still, we all know there CranioSacral Therapy, assisted stretching, reiki, Swedish are people who have been working in this field for 10, massage, and taking a half-day with a friend to get a facial 20 or more years. They are the massage therapists who at a day spa. understand that a career can be made so much easier—and Now, imagine if every massage therapist booked a long-lasting—by practicing regular, effective self-care. They massage session for him- or herself every week. Then, this understand the need to make themselves and their own body of people would be that much more able to sustain a health paramount. massage career (and you’d all be supporting each other by The adage about putting on your own oxygen mask helping your colleagues maintain full schedules). first is so true for massage therapists. If your own body Wherever you are on your self-care journey, you can is suffering or your heart is not in your job, you simply make the decision to receive at least as much as you give, cannot help your clients feel better. Just as you want your explore the modalities and techniques offered in this clients to feel good (more relaxed, out of pain, stress-free) amazing realm of bodywork, and put yourself first. I hope you should want those things for yourself as well. this issue supports you in feeling great. You can connect This annual Self-Care Issue of MASSAGE Magazine is with me at [email protected]. tailored to help you discover new ways of practicing self- care. In the spirit of supporting you in putting yourself first, for this issue we have taken topics usually discussed

Meet some of the contributors who helped Contributors create this month’s MASSAGE Magazine

Linda Beach wrote “Make Larry Cammarata, Ph.D., Linda Derick wrote “Body Stacey Thomas wrote “You David M. Lobenstine wrote $10, $20 or $30 More wrote “The 8 Secrets of Mechanics: Discover How Too Can Get Out of Pain “Vanquish the Parasites From Every Session” Sleep (That Have Nothing You Can Feel Better While Quickly with Taping” for that Want to Rule Your for this issue. Linda has to Do with Your Pillow)” Giving Massage” for this this issue. Stacey has been Life” for this issue. David been a massage educator for this issue. Larry offers issue. Linda is a massage a certified sports massage is a massage therapist for more than 25 years, continuing education to therapist and educator therapist since 2005. and continuing education and owned a massage massage therapists and of 30-plus years, and She holds certification provider, with special and esthetic school. Her psychotherapists through is also a certified yoga in Functional Movement focuses on deep tissue company is A Passionate his company, Mindfulness instructor. She directs the Screen, Selective techniques and self-care. Dream Life. She also hosts Travels. He is a licensed Connecticut Center for Functional Movement He owns Full Breath continuing education psychologist and instructor Massage Therapy. Assessment, Neurokinetic Massage in New York, New retreats in exotic locations. of qi gong and tai chi. Therapy and CrossFit Level York. 2, as well as other training and soft tissue modalities.

6 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com In Our Mailbox

Gratitude Asian Bodywork Therapy: A program I want to thank you for the beautiful that prepares individuals to provide relief graphics you placed with my article. I feel and improved health and well-being deeply grateful for the opportunity to be a based on Chinese medical principles contributor to MASSAGE Magazine. through one or more of the traditional Kathy Ginn bodywork therapies of Asia. Includes Deerfield, Wisconsin instruction in acupressure, AMMA® Editor’s Note: Kathy Ginn’s articles for Therapy, Chi Nei Tsang, Five Element MASSAGE Magazine include “The Soil Shiatsu, Integrative Eclectic Shiatsu, and The Seeds: Grow a Garden of Regular Japanese Shiatsu, Jin Shin Do®, Bodymind Clientele” (August 2017); “How I Learned Acupressure™ Macrobiotic Shiatsu, Anma to Love Myself—and My Practice” Therapy, Thai massage, Tui na, Zen (September 2017); and “Create and Shiatsu, Qigong, Okazaki® Restorative Atmosphere of Safety and Trust” (Aug. Massage, principles of Western and 17, 2017, massagemag.com). Chinese medicine, patient counseling and observation, practice management, Concerns About Asian applicable regulations, and professional Bodywork Article standards and ethics. Your well-intentioned article, professional training required to become “Asian Bodywork: Health as a State certified practitioners of the AOBTA. Massage Therapy/Therapeutic Massage: of Balance” (massagemag.com) is To refer to Asian bodywork A program that prepares individuals marred by inaccuracies and common therapy as massage is both inaccurate to provide relief and improved health misunderstandings about Asian and misleading. Reference the U.S. and well-being to clients through the bodywork therapy. Department of Education’s definitions of application of manual techniques [The author] makes no distinction Massage Therapy (51.3501) and Asian for manipulating skin, muscles, and between the different Asian bodywork Bodywork Therapy (51.3502). connective tissues. Includes instruction therapies professions and a few Pamela Ellen Ferguson, Dipl. A.B.T. in Western (Swedish) massage, techniques that might be integrated (NCCAOM), AOBTA(r) and G.S.D.-C.I., sports massage, myotherapy/trigger into a bodywork practice after minimal L.M.T. (TX). Austin, Texas point massage, myofascial release, training. deep tissue massage, cranio-sacral The article makes no reference to the Editor’s note: According to the U.S. therapy, reflexology, massage safety American Organization for Bodywork Department of Education’s National and emergency management, client Therapies of Asia (AOBTA) and our Center for Education Statistics, the counseling, practice management, official list of definitions. I do not know following are the definitions of Asian applicable regulations, and professional the source of the definitions [the article] Bodywork Therapy and Massage standards and ethics. lists. Nor does the article outline the Therapy/Therapeutic Massage: Comments from Social Media Article: “This is Why Some People Don’t Like to Be Touched”

Because they’ve had unhealthy touch The source of their anxiety is abuse of or they were never exposed to touch some sort. Touch is too much and can [or] they were abused or violated in be overwhelming. some way. There usually is a backstory; Helen Ann not right not wrong necessarily, just is, facebook.com/massagemagazine and [touch is] not the type of thing one should force because everyone has their Read this article here: own comfort level as it concerns touch. massagemag.com/touchavoidance Ohddie Roah Wilson facebook.com/massagemagazine

7 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com News & Current Events

Massage Therapist is Also a Humanitarian assage therapist Marcia Chaves “It was a smaller city [so] I was able to MTyndall was honored for her help with massage events and work with volunteer work with The SMART Ride—a smaller companies,” Tyndall said. She first nonprofit in South Florida that sponsors heard about The SMART Ride years ago a two-day, 165-mile bicycle ride from from a colleague. The SMART Ride has Miami to Key West and benefits HIV/ raised more than $8 million since it began AIDS service organizations—with in 2003. the Performance Health FSMTA Tyndall said she has been volunteering Humanitarian Award. The award was for The SMART Ride for four years as a presented at the Florida Massage massage therapist. This year, in 2017, Therapy Association convention in she has been invited to be a crew leader Orlando, Florida, in June. for the organization. Her role this year This award is given annually to will be managing a crew and organizing individuals in the massage industry who a group of about 300 people who will be have improved the lives of their clients supporting the ride. and have given back to the community. “I’m passionate for what I do, and I love MASSAGE ASSOCIATION THERAPY STATE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA Marcia Chaves Tyndall, L.M.T. (center) holds a plaque According to a press release, this is the to help people in general,” Tyndall said. commemorating her receiving the 2017 Performance 15th year this award has been presented. “Volunteering is something that makes me Health FSMTA Humanitarian Award. She is flanked Tyndall is originally from Brazil and feel better. When I can do something for by (L) Craig Hall, director of sales and marketing lived in many cities before moving to Ft. someone, I feel happy about it.” for Performance Health, and (R ) Joyce Prahasky, Lauderdale. —Hannah Fell executive president of the FSMTA.

Massage, Music & More Recommended for Cancer Patients

new systematic review focused on natural products as part of supportive care A integrative therapies for patients with or to manage breast cancer treatment- breast cancer and other cancer populations. related side effects. The researchers evaluated more than 80 “Studies show that up to 80 percent of different therapies and developed grades of people with a history of cancer use one or evidence. Based on those findings, the Society more complementary and integrative therapies, for Integrative Oncology makes the following but until recently, evidence supporting the use recommendations: of many of these therapies had been limited,” said Heather Greenlee, N.D., Ph.D., assistant • Use of music therapy, meditation, stress professor of Epidemiology at Columbia management and yoga for anxiety and University’s Mailman School of Public Health, stress reduction; and past president of the Society for Integrative • Use of meditation, relaxation, yoga, Oncology. massage and music therapy for depression and mood disorders; “Our goal is to provide clinicians and • Use of meditation and yoga to improve patients with practical information and tools quality of life; to make informed decisions on whether and • Use of acupressure and acupuncture for how to use a specific integrative therapy for reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea a specific clinical application during and after and vomiting; breast cancer treatment,” she added. • A lack of strong evidence supporting the use Source: CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, a of ingested dietary supplements or botanical publication of the American Cancer Society. ADOBE STOCK

8 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Integrative Doctors Say the U.S. Medical System is “Seriously Flawed” ccording to a new report, a large majority of integrative doctors A are dissatisfied with our health care system: 73 percent have a negative view of the medical system, and just 10 percent feel that our health care system is OK, pretty good or excellent. The Integrative Physician Market Landscape 2017: A RealPersona™

Segmentation Study of U.S. Integrative MDs and DOs, report provides Lynda Solien Wolfe, L.M.T. (center) holds a plaque commemorating CHIROPRACTIC ASSOCIATION PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA a comprehensive snapshot of the integrative medical specialty, her being awarded the William C. “Bill” Lindsey Award, at The National including practitioners’ clinical philosophies, trends, sentiments and by the Florida Chiropractic Association (FCA) in Orlando, Florida, in behaviors. It includes data from 1,133 integrative M.D.s and D.O.s August. She is flanked by (L) Jack Hebert, FCA government relations from 49 states. director, and (R) Debbie Brown, FCA CEO. An integrative physician is one who is trained in allopathic medical procedures, possesses an M.D. or D.O. credential, and prescribes complementary therapies such as massage, acupuncture and herbs Lynda Solien-Wolfe along with medical treatments. Oftentimes, health care professionals trained in such complementary therapies work within the integrative Honored by Chiropractic medical team. The report includes a section on how integrative doctors see the Association mainstream U.S. health care system. “Some of these doctors work closer to the conventional insurance he Florida Chiropractic Association presented its William C. “Bill” model, while others [work] further away, but doctors are fairly T Lindsey Award to massage therapist (and proponent of both consistent in their negative attitudes toward today’s health care massage and chiropractic) Lynda Solien Wolfe, L.M.T., at its national system,” the report noted. chiropractic conference, The National by FCA 2017, in Orlando, “‘I feel that our health system is doing its best to try to keep up and Florida, in August. keep a finger in the dam, but the health system can only do so much if The award recognizes a chiropractic layperson for his or her heroic people are not willing to change their lifestyle,’” one doctor said in the service to Americans and commitment to educating the public on report. the benefits of chiropractic care, according to an FCA press release. Another doctor said our medical system is best for acute Solien-Wolfe is vice president, Massage & Spa for Performance Health conditions: “‘Let’s get you out of the emergency situation. It’s like a and has worked closely with the FCA for more than 20 years. She has Band-Aid. How do I help these people to understand that there is been in massage practice in Merritt Island, Florida, for 25 years. such a thing that you are able to go off of your thyroid medicine, you “I know of very few people without “D.C.” after their name that have are able to get off of insulin? There’s story, after story, after story, after as much passion as Lynda does for this profession, said FCA CEO story. If we only listen to people, it’s out there.’” Debbie Brown. “Above and beyond all that her impressive biography Perhaps not surprisingly, the majority (62 percent) of integrative contains, the reason she was selected for this rare reward is because doctors also say they are driven by altruism, not income, while 22 she is an ambassador for chiropractic wherever she goes, and she percent say they are driven by both altruism and income, and just 4 goes everywhere.” percent say income is their primary motivation. For many years, Solien-Wolfe educated Florida legislators on the benefits of both massage and chiropractic, she told MASSAGE Attitude Toward American Healthcare System Magazine. She has also worked to bridge the massage and chiropractic fields. In that regard, she built a massage program for 60% 56% the FCA whereby conference attendees can receive massage, and 50% she also helped the FCA create its award presented annually to a

40% massage therapist. “Chiropractic goes hand in hand with massage,” Solien-Wolfe 30% said. “I never wanted to choose whether to get a massage or see my chiropractor—and I want you to go do both. 20% 17% 17% “If you can get treatments without drugs, or need less medication, 10% that’s a win-win for everybody,” she added. 4% 5% 1% Solien-Wolfe said she was surprised to receive the award and felt 0% Excellant Pretty Okay Somewhat Seriously Extremely that by honoring her the FCA was honoring the massage field and Good Flawed Flawed Corrupt and Harmful saying, “Hey, we’ve done a great job.” Source: The Integrative Physician Market Landscape 2017: A RealPersona™ Segmentation Study of U.S. Integrative MDs and DOs —Karen Menehan

9 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Self-Care TeachUs About Can Experts What Massage Expert RoundtableExpert

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MASSAGE Magazine T professional. relaxed and ready eachday to tackle as amassage firearms (and more) help people feel these happy, rangingPractices from napping to self-massage to care inspiring fun, can be and surprisingly simple. likelook what you’d The takeaway? expect. Self-

Care Care Take

of Yourself |

October 2017 techniques, and some of might them not educators opendoor the to self-care their massagehese practitioners, and experts

|

massagemag.com

ADOBE STOCK Learn Yoga Move Lymph started doing yoga seriously about three years ago, at age am a huge fan of working on myself at the most convenient I67. I had just finished 10 years of kung fu and tai chi study, Itime—while taking a shower. I have to undress and I have getting my second-degree black belt in kung fu. I loved doing a built-in lubricant with shower gels or soaps, so it just seems martial arts, but had gotten tired of memorizing more-and-more to be a logical place for self-care. I can do a form of lymphatic complicated movement sequences. drainage with my hands or a natural sponge, or with a soft My wife had been doing yoga for years and finally convinced silicone cup. I can also park the cup on a stubborn knot and me to try a yoga class here in Austin, Texas, at her favorite place, stretch the tissue gently under the vacuum. Dharma Yoga. I found they did a wonderful job in their classes One of my favorite self-care treatments is to use a small face- of integrating Buddhist philosophy, meditation and hatha yoga. cup that looks like a traffic cone, or witch’s hat, to drain my face, Now we go there three or more times each week. tighten sags and bags, and relieve any sinus pressure in the face My body feels like it never has been stronger, and my and ears. This drainage and massage can also be done with the occasional back pain has greatly lessened. My stress is much hands, a natural sponge or with rollers made for the face. reduced, and my wife and I have something we share that brings Simply stretching and doing basic range-of-motion us even closer. movements along with massage strokes to drain stagnant lymph A year and half ago, I decided to take Dharma Yoga’s 200- takes just a few minutes, with or without a cup. The heat from hour yoga teaching training program. It was, physically and the shower helps soften lymphatic congestion and muscle tissue, mentally, the most challenging training I’ve completed in years. I so everything works together to provide a now teach yoga only occasionally, but the philosophy, meditation quick and convenient opportunity to take and physical grace I learned has profoundly affected my writing, care of myself. teaching, and practice of deep massage and Zero Balancing—really, it’s affected my Care Anita Shannon whole life. Educator, Developer; ACE Massage Cupping & Medicupping David Lauterstein Asheville, North Carolina. Educator, Co-owner; Lauterstein-Conway Massage School and Clinic Austin, Texas Work it Out Snap Up a Nap lthough it might feel like a workout at times, giving massage Ais not the same as working out. When I was first in practice, leep is nature’s premier restorative tool. Sleep repairs another therapist told me how important it was to get regular Severything in the body. This is why my favorite self-care is a exercise outside of the treatment room. nap. After more than 23 years in this profession, I wholeheartedly Instead of reaching for coffee, I nap. Just 10 minutes of being agree. Not only is exercise important to maintain my weight, horizontal, and my spine and I feel much better. Even if can’t strength and flexibility, it energizes and renews me on all levels. actually sleep, I get out of gravity for a few minutes and my hips When I am doing a more challenging activity, like weight and feet can rest. training, running or swimming, I’m focused on the activity When I used to work in a big office, I would find an empty instead of my stress. Thus, I can usually let go of whatever conference room and lie down briefly during lunch hour. Now problems or concerns might be on my mind, at least enough so I that I’m retired, I have been fortunate to have the spare time to can’t really think about them. Instead, those problems float away raise napping to a lofty status. from me as I huff and puff through the next set, mile or lap. Luxurious naps, short naps (snaps), long naps, naps while Much like massage, exercise is a sort of moving meditation for reading (oops)—and when I can catch my husband in a moment, me, which keeps my body healthy, mind clear and spirit joyful. naps for two. It also helps me set a good example for my Massage therapists have the greatest tool, nice and handy for a clients, and gives me one more great reason nap, the massage table—in a spare moment, to get more massage, my favorite self-care of course. Take that little bit of time and lie tool. down.

Felicia Brown Deborah Bruce Educator, Business Coach; Spalutions! Educator, Developer; The Finesse Massage Greensboro, North Carolina Technique Estes Park, Colorado

11 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Expert Roundtable Move to Maui Roll it Out e have come to rely on our daily self-care practice as a was born with my legs backward and didn’t walk for several Wnutrient—like air or water—essential to our success. Iyears, so the fascia was twisted on my body and I’ve lived Otherwise, we fall into the trap of giving until it hurts. To prevent with pain my entire life. Self-care is not a luxury for me; it is a trouble before it arises, we want to share one of our favorite daily requirement in order to stay ahead of the curve, for pain healing moves with you: 10 Minutes to Instant Maui. This easy management. practice refreshes our minds and releases our backs. First thing in the morning and right before bed, I always Find a chair or end of a couch where you can rest your calves take 30 to 60 seconds to roll the bottoms of my feet with a at a 90-degree angle with your back on the floor. Be sure your BodyworksBall. During the day, between clients, I take one to knees are bent, so they rest directly over your hips. Set your timer two minutes to roll away aches and pains. During each break I for 10 minutes of non-doing and let gravity do all the work. focus on a different body part while rolling against the wall. There’s no agenda for these 10 minutes. Until the timer Even on days when my schedule is relentless, without fail I goes off, meditate, nap or just give your body and mind an work my shoulders and upper back, with a focus on rhomboids; opportunity to rest and reset. Feel your back release gently onto glutes, with a focus on piriformis; and feet, hands and wrists. the floor and your hips relax. When your 10 minutes are up, roll During these mobility breaks, I also focus my attention on my to your side and gently push yourself back up. breath and do mini mindful-meditation breathing techniques to We feel like we just went on a mini vacation after giving help reset my mind while I do self-massage to reset my body. ourselves the gift of 10 minutes of non-doing. But don’t believe These breaks make a huge difference us—try it out for yourself. Watch a in keeping my body and mind feeling video of 10 Minutes to Instant Maui energized and restored throughout the day. at https://youtu.be/OaWglTF-JdE

BJ Dowlen Heath and Nicole Reed Strategist, Educator; Educators, Co-founders; Bodywork Enterprises LLC Living Metta Brick, New Jersey Mesa, Arizona Take it to the Mat Hit the Trail cherished self-care activity of mine is to receive Thai yoga am an avid backpacker! When I have two or three days Amassage. As an ancient therapeutic art originating more Iavailable, there is nothing better than getting completely off than 2,500 years ago, Thai yoga massage is an expression of of the grid and getting out into the forest with everything I need mettā, a Pāli word meaning loving-kindness. loaded in my pack. Compassion—for both self and others—is the guiding What makes the experience enjoyable for me is how I principle for the practice of Thai massage. As the recipient, I approach it. I was a member of the Explorers when I was a kid, enter a relaxed and meditative space grounded in the concept of and learned how to navigate, get a fire going without a lighter or mettā. During my sessions, I have heightened body awareness match, basic survival and a little bush-crafting. and focus my attention to receiving the bodywork with ease— When I am out there in the forest, noticing where tension, weakness and soreness are present in my problem-solving and awareness make the body, and bringing relaxation to these areas. experience completely enjoyable for me. Since learning about this concept as the essence of the practices and process of Thai bodywork, I have also discovered a host of guided mettā meditations (a favorite resource is Tara Richard Lomeli Brach’s website), which I practice regularly between sessions. Corrective Therapy Consultant, Sports Altogether, the techniques effectively remove embodied Therapist; Crossfit Horsepower negativity and awaken a great sense of San Fernando, California vitality, balance and harmony in my body and mind.

Naomi Oliviae, Ph.D. Virtual Assistant; Alliance for Massage Therapy Education Tucson, Arizona

12 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Get Some Zs Shoot & Reload he single most important thing I do to take care of myself ince I grew up in the Midwest, firearms are a kind of Tis sleep. Quality sleep makes a huge difference in stamina, Smaturation into becoming a young adult. My stepdad let me resilience and the ability to be productive. I need between eight shoot his 12-gauge shotgun at 10 years of age, and since then and nine hours of sleep a night. firearms and recreational shooting has become a beloved passion I get up once or twice in the night to use the restroom, so I of mine. have had to train myself to fall back to sleep right away. I have The smell of gunpowder, recoil hitting my shoulder, and all also learned to get up when I wake up about 6:30 a.m., even if I the precise measurements, calculations and have time to snooze, because I feel stiff and sluggish if I stay in form that go into hitting the target every bed. I have also learned to go to bed when I start to fall asleep in time equals pure ammo therapy! a chair at night. I have a busy brain, so controlling thought patterns as I fall asleep can be a challenge. I have a little mind ritual, similar to Justin Wright counting sheep, that helps. I make sure the bedroom is cool and Therapist; Just Wright Therapy dark. If I have an aching spot—and I have a few—I will put ice Canyon Country, California on the area. Also, my feet need to be warm so I usually go to bed with a warm seed bag by my feet. Good sleep is good for you.

Sandy Fritz Owner, Educator; Health Enrichment Read “If You Don’t Practice Good Nutrition, Center massage school You Might Age Poorly,” by Dee McCafferty, at Lapeer, Michigan massagemag.com/goodnutrition.

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13 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Ways to be TOP5More Creative 1 PICK A NUMBER If you’re working on a creative project and you skip it for a few days, you may end up losing days, weeks, months and even years of creation. It’s easy not to return to a creative project when we put it aside and lose contact with it. The solution? Pick a number of days that you will allow yourself to skip your creative work, and if those days have passed, tell yourself that you must return to your project. I suggest that the number be no more than two or three at the most. Say that you pick three days as your number. When that third day ends, say to yourself, “Tomorrow I am getting back to work no matter what!” And do exactly that.

2 LET YOUR IMAGINATION RUN WILD Our many years of schooling dulls our imagination. During our school years, we’re obliged to regurgitate facts. When was the last time you really let your imagination run wild? When was the last time you said to yourself, “What would happen if I put a salmon and a skyscraper together?” or “I wonder what it would be like to walk on Pluto?” We’re so trained to be reasonable and matter-of-fact that we can even feel a little ridiculous using our native imaginative powers. Give your imagination a workout and you’ll automatically become more creative. Today, say yourself, “I wonder what fantastic thing wants to percolate up!” Write it, draw it, fabricate it, sing it or dream it. That’s how innovation is born. IMAGES/ADOBE STOCK IMAGES/ADOBE

14 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com SLEEP ON IT If you’re trying to solve a creative problem—or 3 any problem—there’s no better method than to sleep on it. Whether it’s a nap or a night’s sleep, your brain thinks while it sleeps (when it isn’t dreaming), and this sleep thinking often produces some of our best imaginative efforts. If you’re a painter with a technical problem, say, give yourself a prompt such as, “I wonder what is the best way to paint a blazing sun” or “How can I finish my current painting without overdoing it and ruining it?” Sleep on the question, and when you wake up repeat the question. You could very well have your answer. Remember to use your brain’s power to think while it sleeps to unravel your knottiest creative questions.

START YOUR DAY CREATING 4 You’re probably busy during the day and by evening you’re tired. That’s when you want to relax and let down your hair, not, say, pick up a paintbrush and start painting. The best solution is to start your day creating. This may mean that you have to get up a bit earlier, which might be a difficult habit to acquire, and it may also mean that you have to alter some of your morning routines and rituals. But do you really need to check the world news first thing? If you manage to make this change, you’ll receive many benefits, among them that you’ll be using your freshest brain on your creative efforts, and you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something each day.

5 LOOSEN YOUR GRIP Creativity isn’t something to control; yet we love to feel like we’re in control. Creating requires that we loosen up, engage in the process and see what happens. You can exert some control over the creative process by doing formulaic work and by repeating yourself, but how creative is that? It’s much better to say, “Let me try this out and see what happens” than to say, “Let me wait until I’ve perfected this in mind and only then begin.” We can’t do that perfecting, we can’t make our creative efforts come with some sort of guarantee, and we can’t circumvent the reality of process, which includes making mistakes and messes. Let that all be OK.

Eric Maisel, Ph.D. (ericmaisel.com) is the author of more than 50 books, including Overcoming Your Difficult Family, Life Get creative with self-care by downloading some of Purpose Boot Camp, and The Future of Mental Health. He writes the self-care apps curated by MASSAGE Magazine’s the Rethinking Mental Health column for Psychology Today, the editors, in “21 Self-care Apps You Need to Try” at Coaching the Artist Within column for Professional Artist Magazine, massagemag.com/creative. and teaches and lectures worldwide.

15 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Practice Building Make $10, $20 or $30 More From Every Session

by Linda Beach

oney. It’s been called a necessary evil, but is it really? We Mneed money in order to pay our bills, but beyond that, are we allowed to flourish? Does our culture support the idea of a massage therapist enjoying abundance? ADOBE STOCK

16 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Pricing your services is one of the most important components of creating a successful business.

When I first became a licensed massage therapist in the early them too high, and customers will find a cheaper alternative. It’s 1990s, there was a prevailing notion that as a “healer,” my job a delicate balance with a number of things to consider. was to serve. The average hourly rate for a massage therapist in my area was around $35-$40, which was barely enough to pay Pricing Considerations my rent, let alone support my single-parent family. I had owned If you are a new therapist, the first thing you should consider other businesses prior to attending massage school, so I was when pricing your services is your level of training. Should you determined to change this perception. There was no reason a charge the same rate as someone with 10 years of experience? massage therapist couldn’t enjoy a profitable business. Probably not. From a consumer’s point of view, that wouldn’t be Less than a year after I was licensed, I created a workshop fair. called “Launching a Career in Massage Therapy” so I could Even so, a fledgling therapist should never drastically share my business knowledge with other new practitioners. I was undercut the market, because there’s something called perceived astounded when 50 people showed up, all eager to learn how to value at play here. thrive in this industry. For instance, if the prevailing rate in your area is $65 for Since then, I have taught hundreds of classes in the business a one-hour massage and you set your price at $40, it may be of massage. There was a need for business education then and perceived that your skills are subpar. If you lack experience, there’s still a need now. Even though the industry has undergone price your services at the lower end of the area’s median pricing many changes in the last two decades, knowing how to start, but never undercut it drastically. However, if you work in a grow and sustain a lucrative practice is vital. clinic or spa that sets pricing, you may not have a say. In this Pricing your services is one of the most important case, invest as much as you can in continuing education. Seek components of creating a successful business. If you price them out seasoned therapists to mentor you. Watch, learn and hone too low, you won’t make enough to sustain your practice. Price your skills.

17 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Practice Building

Aromatherapy, hot towels, hot-oil scalp massage and a hydrating foot mask are examples of add-ons that clients will gladly pay for.

Your overhead costs should be factored into your pricing fuzzy blanket will make your clients feel as if they are in a resort structure as well. If your clinic or spa is in a popular, well- spa. Flameless candles can add a nice, warm ambience and an trafficked area or in a newer facility, your rent likely will be aromatherapy diffuser in your waiting area will relax your clients higher than an out-of-the-way location. In addition to rent, before they enter the treatment room. add up all your expenses, including reception services, laundry, If you need inspiration, visit a couple high-end spas in your employee or contractor fees, taxes, insurance and supplies. After area and ask for a tour. Many of the elements they offer can be all expenses, you should be making a profit. If not, you may need duplicated for very little investment on your part. to adjust your pricing. You won’t be in business long if you are losing money at the end of the day. When to Adjust Prices Other things to consider when pricing your services are the There comes a point in every therapist’s practice when prices extras you provide for your clients. If the neighborhood day spa need to be adjusted. But how do you know when the time is right has a locker room with showers, steam room, sauna or other and how much you should increase them? There are several amenities, their prices will reflect these niceties. While you might factors to consider. not have the budget or space to add these luxuries, you can add First, why are you thinking about increasing your prices? Are value to your services for very little money. you fully booked and turning away clients? If so, increasing your prices is a savvy business decision. You may lose a client or two, Add Value to Your Services but you’ll replace them with someone eager to work with you. It’s easy to add value to your services without adding a lot of When you raise your rates, your bottom line will immediately expense. Simply using hot, moist towels during your treatment, increase without adding any more hours to your day. for example, can add a luxurious feel that will justify a slightly Are you working too hard and want to decrease your practice higher price. Aromatherapy oils have an almost mysterious hours? Again, raising your prices can help relieve some of the element that clients will pay more for. A pre-treatment foot soak strain of overwork. In this case, you don’t replace the clients will allow your clients to unwind while they wait and create a who leave, but you maintain your level of income with the price ritual that has a perceived value. increase. (Make sure you follow the suggestions above and take Services considered add-ons are those that can be done in into consideration what your market will bear.) the same amount of time as the regular session. Aromatherapy, Keep an eye out for any changes in your local market. hot towels, hot-oil scalp massage and a hydrating foot mask are When you notice a shift in prices, even a subtle one, it’s time to examples of add-ons that clients will gladly pay for. You pay investigate. Maybe a fancy new day spa is driving up the prices in pennies for the product but the perceived value is much higher, your local market or the demand for qualified therapists may be allowing you to increase your treatment prices. increasing. When you notice a scenario such as this, it might be a You may need to invest in additional equipment for these good time to follow suit by adjusting your prices, too. extra perks, but you don’t need to break the bank in doing so. An Whenever you increase your prices, notify your regular clients extra-large salad bowl can work well for foot soaks, for example. in advance. Write a memo or email in an upbeat tone explaining Set it on top of a rolling plant cart and make it easy to move out of your reason for the change. It’s OK to be honest. If your rent or the way. A turkey roaster or crock-pot can be used to heat moist other overhead expenses have increased, share that with your towels, although you should save up to purchase a professional clients. They will understand and likely sympathize. If you’ve towel cabinet. added staff that will make their visit a more pleasant experience, Another way to add perceived value is to give your massage they will welcome the change. space a facelift. Wrinkle-free sheets with a satiny feel and a warm, Never apologize for a rate increase. You are simply doing

18 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Your words have power and what you focus on is what you will ultimately create.

what’s best for your business. Here is an example of a price were probably re-creating patterns they learned when they were increase notice: children. Try changing your story about money. Do you catch yourself Dear valued client, saying things like, I never have enough money, I can’t pay my First, let me thank you for being such a loyal customer of bills with what I make or I’m always broke? Your words have Healing Hands. Your satisfaction is very important to me. I have power and what you focus on is what you will ultimately create. worked hard over the last 5 years to bring you quality massage Change your story around money by saying things like, “I have therapy services at a reasonable price. everything I need...I am so blessed...I give to the world and I However, due to an increase in my overhead expenses and with receive with open arms...All my needs are provided for...I am the addition of our new (and fabulous) receptionist, I must increase worthy of abundance.” my prices slightly. Effective January 1, my fees will be as follows: Practice gratitude. This is the simplest, yet most powerful way to create more abundance. Being thankful for every single thing in 60 min. massage: $75 your life will open you up to receiving more. Oprah Winfrey once 90 min. massage: $110 said, “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If 75 min. body scrub & wrap: $95 you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” Spend some time every day in the practice of gratitude. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to You can make a list of all the things in your life you appreciate contact me immediately. Thank you for your continued patronage. or you can say them out loud. Tell others how much you value I really appreciate it! them. Notice all the little things that go right during your day. Is the sun shining? Are your kids listening today? Did the car start Warmly, Linda Beach right up? Did you enjoy an easy commute to work? Express your thanks out loud as you move through your day. Being grateful You Are Worth It for even the smallest blessings will open the doors for greater Do you have a scarcity mindset, or are you cultivating the abundance to flow into your life. M qualities of someone destined for unlimited abundance? How do you know? And more importantly, how can you create a shift in your mindset so you can thrive in your business? Linda Beach has been inspiring and educating massage therapists So many of our beliefs about money were ingrained in us for more than 25 years. She recently sold her massage and esthetic as children. Others were acquired during stressful or painful school to follow her dream of living in Belize and traveling the world. times in our lives. It may be time to forgive the person or She now spends her days teaching others how to create more circumstances surrounding these events. Painful memories time-and-money freedom through her new company, A Passionate around money can involve parents, family members, spouses or Dream Life (apassionatedreamlife.com). Beach also hosts partners, bosses or even yourself. continuing education retreats in exotic locations. Write down any memory involving money that makes you feel anxious, stressed or frustrated. Create a forgiveness ritual to help you let go of these feelings. You might want to establish a mantra Read “5 Proven Techniques to Change Your Money such as I forgive you or I’m sorry or simply shred or burn the list. Mindset,” by Linda Beach, at massagemag.com/ You could hold an image of this person or persons in your changemoneymindset. mind and imagine yourself practicing compassion. After all, they

19 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Life in the Bones New Products & Services Zero Balancing Health Association Read about the life of Dr. Fritz Smith, the founder of Zero Balancing. David Lauterstein gives insights into Smith’s early influences, spiritual pursuits, and passions that led to Zero Beetology Balancing. Complete with color Kayco photographs and drawings This cold-pressed juice, which can provided by Smith’s colleagues, be found in the refrigerated product students and family, this section, is made from beets and biography guides the reader a handful of 100 percent natural through Smith’s life. ingredients like ginger, vegetables and Life in the Bones costs fruit. Beetology aims to provide overall $42.95. Zero Balancing Health wellness with a variety of antioxidants, Association, zerobalancing.com. micronutrients and organic compounds. Beetology retails for $3.99. Kayco, kayco.com.

on the New scene

The Abridged Basics of Research Literacy The Massage Therapy Foundation and Academy of Clinical Massage This course is designed to educate massage therapists and educators who are looking to Spiced Orange Cider Body Butter incorporate principles of research literacy into their Makes Scents Natural Spa Line massage practices and teachings. Explore research With organic sunflower seed oil, cocoa butter, and coconut oil with orange, work at your own pace and time with this three- this body butter will soothe and hydrate your skin. This product also has cardamom hour NCBTMB-approved online workshop. and cinnamon essential oils with distinct healing properties. It is also vegan and The Abridged Basics of Research Literacy costs $59. cruelty free. Massage Therapy Foundation and Academy of Spiced Orange Cider Body Butter costs $22.50. Makes Scents Natural Spa Line, Clinical Massage, massagetherapyfoundation.org/ makesscentsspaline.com. basics-research-literacy.

20 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Bon Vital’ Complete Massage Crème Performance Health Formulated with a unique blend of premium ingredients, this hypoallergenic dual-purpose crème combines the features of an oil and lotion. This combination makes it extremely versatile and ideal for techniques and modalities ranging from high glide to deep tissue massage. Bon Vital’ Complete Massage Crème costs $15.20 for 8 ounces, $17.50 for 14 ounces and $62.95 for 1 gallon. Performance Health, performancehealth.com. SOAP Notes + Custom Intake Forms ClinicSense ClinicSense has introduced new levels TPT—Trigger of automation to its clinic management Point Therapy software. With a new point and click style, Activator these SOAP notes eliminate the need for This lightweight trigger point writing or typing. You only need to answer tool gives massage therapists a few questions with a point and a click, the ability to apply just the right which will transform your responses into amount of pressure to tight, painful complete sentences and paragraphs. muscle spasms to loosen those spots and SOAP Notes + Custom Intake Forms costs provide relief. The tool’s pressure is $29/month for a basic plan. ClinicSense, pre-set at a factory. clinicsense.com. TPT—Trigger Point Therapy costs $159.99. Activator, activator.com.

Websites for Board Certified Massage Therapists National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage on Demand Premium Microfiber Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) and Rubzy Fleece Blanket BodyworkSites Earthlite Use this website to book a massage anywhere NCBTMB and BodyworkSites now offer you are, or sign up for this service as an Bring luxury to your practice with this websites to help board certified massage independent contractor. As a client, search for plush blanket that insulates and retains therapists advance their careers. Website and book massage therapists in your area. As heat all season. Oversized and made features include text and photos, online gift a massage therapy provider, see more clients from 100 percent polyester, this blanket certificate sales, unlimited pages, a simple consistently. is machine washable and comes in two two-minute setup process and more, all for colors: cream and espresso. massage therapists promote their practices. Massage on demand from Rubzy is free to search. Rubzy, rubzy.com. Premium Microfiber Fleece Blanket costs Websites range in cost from free to $49.95 per $39.99. Earthlite, earthlite.com. month. NCBTMB, ncbcertified.com.

21 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Best Practices Debora Bogart Debora Bogart, L.M.T., 51, of Vaughnsville, Ohio, graduated from The Institute of Therapeutic Massage and is a certified aromatherapist. She specializes in aromatherapy and orthopedic massage and has an office at Ellerbrock Spine and Soft Tissue in Bluffton, Ohio, providing medical massage and aromatherapy services to help alleviate clients’ pain.

What is the most rewarding pain relief. Essential oils readily absorb aspect of being a massage The most through the skin into the bloodstream therapist? rewarding“ aspect of and travel through the body. Essential oils are a [holistic] course of action and I personally find it rewarding to my life, ... is molding can be easily added to our massage A see the progress a client makes future therapists oils and creams. I have found that my over the course of a few sessions. I have clients prefer the more holistic approach seen them go from despair, thinking into the best to caring for their bodies, and they they have to learn to live with pain, to have embraced the use and benefits of ecstatic, moving without pain. therapists they can aromatherapy. Informing people about the benefits possibly be. of regular massage is something I find incredibly rewarding. Once I get the How did you get into using client pain-free, I educate him about ” aromatherapy in your practice? wellness massage and how it can make a I was looking for a way to help profound change in the way he feels. my business grow in the holistic I also enjoy teaching. The most A health care field. Clients were always rewarding aspect of my life, not just asking what they should take for pain my massage career, is molding future between their massage sessions. I used therapists into the best therapists they can possibly be. I taught massage theory to guide them toward common topical and advanced massage classes for six COURTESY OF DEBORA BOGART analgesics, but some clients didn’t like years at the school where I also received Debora Bogart the cold or burning sensations they got my education. I have since moved on to from such products. I attended a few teach aromatherapy classes to licensed use oils in his massage session, and aromatherapy seminars and quickly massage therapists, educating them I explain the reason for my choices. knew I needed more than the basic on the safe use of essential oils in their There have been cases where a client information. private practices. will request the cream to take home and I took a couple of aromatherapy use between sessions; especially those certification courses in order to learn How do you incorporate who suffer from fibromyalgia. I have the chemistry behind essential oil usage. aromatherapy into a massage done case studies with the oils and can By understanding the components of substantiate their uses for the clients the oils, I am now able to combine and session? who are interested in self-massage care create customized blends for each client I create creams and oils to use with the creams at home. according to his or her needs. A on my clients according to their individual needs. I keep premixed What are the benefits of using What is the best way to market creams for different conditions, aromatherapy in massage? aromatherapy to clients? such as muscle aches, inflammation, headaches and fibromyalgia. I start The benefits are numerous and Simple, talk to them about the by getting the client’s permission to A range from aiding in relaxation to A benefits. M

22 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com

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WHY PAY MORE? Start saving today at shop.ncbtmb.org on all CustomSave Craftworks 20% products 1-800-296-0664 • [email protected] You Too Can Get Out of Pain Quickly with Taping By Stacey Thomas, L.M.T., S.F.M.A., F.M.S., N.K.T., C.F.-L2.

he profession of massage therapy is rooted Cornerstone Knowledge A concrete understanding of core-to- in providing treatment and care for others; extremity function as it pertains to mobility, stability and strength should but, what about self-care for you, the be a cornerstone of knowledge for every therapist? Are you working to prevent common clinician to provide successful treatment T for clients, as well as self-care. You can’t overuse injuries that plague clinicians? How are you be a mechanic if you have no idea what the parts are and how they are meant to providing self-care when injuries do arise? work together. While the field of massage therapy is continuously expanding its base of Many massage therapists’ careers are some of the most common issues from knowledge as it pertains to movement, cut short due to the repetitive physical which massage therapists suffer. movement assessment and movement as stressors associated with their work. Most often, poor body mechanics medicine, ironically, we are often quite Thoracic outlet syndrome; carpel tunnel are at the root of all of these conditions negligent about applying that knowledge syndrome; nerve entrapment; neck and can be corrected through simple to our own well-being. If you are a pain; low-back pain; and de Quervain’s awareness, changing body positioning or clinician suffering from chronic pain, syndrome, also called tenosynovitis, are using kinesiology tape. take a literal step back and re-evaluate the

24 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com body mechanics you’re using when you constant forward flexion with rotation level of ability and proprioceptive and treat your clients. to the left or right, depending on mechanical awareness present. If you’re a therapist who uses posture which side of the treatment table they Strengthening the transverse screening or coach’s eye to evaluate your are standing. This posture of forward abdominus, pelvic floor and diaphragm clients’ movement patterns, turn that flexion with rotation coupled with is a great first step in using movement camera around on yourself. It will be the anterior pelvic tilt, loss of pelvic floor as medicine. In addition to addressing most enlightening and worthwhile selfie stability, oblique, contribution and the functional integration of the core, you’ve ever taken. gluteal function as the base from which the function and mobility of the gluteals In this article, we will look at two force is being applied is a recipe for pain within the hip joints play a big role in conditions: low-back pain and de in the lumbar region. low-back pain. Having the mobility of Quervain’s syndrome. Please note: It’s Maintain this train wreck of a position your hips assessed by a professional important to seek the professional care for several hours a day three to five days peer is recommended; an immobile hip of a doctor in any case of pain (chronic a week and most massage therapists will complex will certainly create low back or acute) to determine if there is an feel like they need to carry their low back pain. underlying medical or orthopedic issue around in a backpack—especially if they A simple hip-bridge exercise is one before incorporating any exercise. are doing a lot of deep tissue work. method that can be used to strengthen If you are not experienced in assessing A simple and mindful way to address hip extension to contribute to the movement, corrective exercises should underlying cause is to start correcting realignment of the pelvis. Additionally, be prescribed by a functional movement core function. Doing sit-ups has nothing using kinesiology tape is an easy and professional, physical therapist or to do with this. From a corrective powerful self-care tool that can facilitate chiropractor, as there are multiple levels exercise standpoint, we would begin with postural correction and even pain relief of entry with each movement pattern. re-establishing a balanced relationship for this issue. between the diaphragm and pelvic floor The mechanical disadvantage of the Low-Back Pain by incorporating breathing exercises, common treatment position can be In many cases, massage therapists will rolling patterns, the basic dead bug treated using the taping applications in suffer from low-back pain due to the exercise or heel slides—depending on the the photos below. This taping application PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROCKTAPE To apply tape to the posterior chain from The ripples in the tape shown here demon- To tape the diaphragm, apply the same gluteals to upper thoracic, position your body strate the lifting mechanism of the tape on the principle of stretching the tissue and not the in a supported, forward flexed position. To underlying tissue. The horizontal piece across tape. You can achieve this by raising your stretch the tissue of the gluteals, flex the hip the low back is a decompression strip. When arms over your head with a slight arch to raise and place the foot on a box or rung of a chair. applying this piece of tape have both feet on the rib cage. Taking a deep, expansive breath The same can be achieved if you are lying on the floor but maintain a supported forward in this position also helps to achieve stretch. your side on a treatment table. The intention flexed position. Apply a maximum of 50 Apply the tape at the line of the diaphragm is to stretch the tissue that you’ll be taping. percent stretch only to the middle of the tape. as it conforms to the contour of the bottom of There is no need to apply stretch to the tape Lay the other ends of tape down with zero the rib cage. If applying this while lying down, and at all costs never apply stretch to anchor tension or stretch. placing the hands over the head with a deep points. The vertical stabilization strips can be expansive breath, and a gentle extension of applied to both sides of the back. the spine (a small bolster could also be used) will achieve adequate tissue stretch.

25 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com symptoms associated with this issue. (Not enough attention is paid to the cause— Which is possibly higher up the chain with dysfunction of the shoulder girdle, but that conversation will be saved for another time.) Correcting the upper cluster can have positive effects that can offer relief or contribute to prevention of this painful syndrome. A kinesiology taping application for pain relief is typically

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROCKTAPE very effective in cases of de Quervain’s Cutting a small hole for the thumb allows for more precise and lasting placement of the tape. syndrome. Position the wrist in stretched position as shown. Secure the distal end of the tape around the thumb with minimal wrinkles. While the wrist is stretched, apply the anchor at the proximal end and then press the tape to the tissue of the forearm. Prevention = Longevity Self-care is a critical component to the is a good starting point, but with more from your medical doctor. Next, start longevity of your career as a massage complicated conditions the application with postural correction much like therapist. The most effective method can become more complex. you did for the low back. Overactive of self-care is prevention, which is upper traps can also be an indicator of why understanding and incorporating The Upper Cluster a diaphragm that isn’t contributing to correct body mechanics should be the Do you have stiff and achy neck or proper breathing patterns and stability, so cornerstone of your self-care routine. shoulders? How about headaches? Do using diaphragmatic breathing exercises Setting up a video camera to record you experience numbness and tingling as a self-care foundation should still be at your movement patterns or having a in your pinky and ring finger or your the top of your list. professional peer observe them for you is whole hand? If you’re a massage therapist, You’ll also want to incorporate a proactive strategy for self-assessment. If chances are you said yes to experiencing exercises to strengthen the posterior you’re unsure of how to assess movement, all of those at some point. chain. Posterior rolling patterns, the seek out the services of a movement Let’s revisit that train wreck posture “superman,” scapular retraction and specialist well versed in the Functional we just talked about for low-back pain depression, I’s, T’s, and W’s and wall Movement Screen or Selective Functional and a dysfunctional core. Travel up that angels are just a few of the movements Movement Assessment. kinetic chain along the posterior fascial that can be used to re-establish balance In addition, training in kinesiology lines and you might just find inhibition and strength between the anterior and taping is a great investment not only for in the middle and lower trapezii, and a lot posterior chain and help to alleviate self-care—because sticking to the basics of tension in the upper trapezii. Does this symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome. (pun intended) of proper mechanics is sound familiar? One helpful taping method in this where it all starts. M It probably does, because the majority scenario can be a continuation of the of the people you treat come to you for low-back-and-glute application, or as an the same upper “shoulder” pain from independent application. Stacey Thomas, L.M.T., S.F.M.A., F.M.S., jockeying a computer desk all day. For N.K.T., C.F.-L2, has been dedicated the massage therapist, excessive use of De Quervain’s Syndrome to human movement and athletic the upper trapezii can arise from the Pain in the thumb along the radial performance since 1997 and certified as a repetitive motion of trying to go deeper side of the wrist and weakness in grip sports massage therapist since 2005. She for the clients who think they need to strength can be a debilitating issue for holds certification in Functional Movement be bruised in order for a session to be any clinician. Other symptoms of de Screen, Selective Functional Movement effective. It can also arise from a basic Quervain’s syndrome include spasms and Assessment, Neurokinetic Therapy upper-crossed syndrome in which the the occasional burning sensation in the and CrossFit Level 2, as well as other pectoralis minor is excessively tight, hand. training and soft tissue modalities. She is causing a forward-shoulder position, Research is split over whether this is credentialed by educational organizations forward-head posture and overactive an overuse injury related to occupation, regarding human movement and soft extensors of the neck. but evidence suggests that repetitive tissue treatment. You can find her in one If you have upper cluster pain, what motion involving wrist bending, of her three Front Range, Colorado, clinics should you do? First, read the disclaimer abduction and flexion of the thumb, as treating athletes or teaching courses for noted above about seeking clearance well as twisting motions, contribute to RockTape (rocktape.com).

26 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com

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WHY PAY MORE? Start saving today at shop.ncbtmb.org on all CustomSave Craftworks 20% products 1-800-296-0664 • [email protected] ertificatio l C n a Bo on a ti r a d N BOARD APPROVED BCTMB k f r o r PROVIDER o

NCBTMB & American College of Healthcare Sciences T w Board Certified in h for Continuing y e Therapeutic Massage d ra Education o p & Bodywork B e & ut e Launch Spa Management Specialty Certificate Program ic Massag

“All of us at NCBTMB continue to be inspired “We developed ACHS’s Holistic Spa by the profession’s positive embrace of the Management program to fill an industry Specialty Certificate Program. We created demand. We’re very happy to offer this this program for the profession—and our credential opportunity to massage therapists CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. partnership with ACHS is yet another way through our new partnership with the NCBTMB to address the profession’s needs. NCBTMB Specialty Certificate Program. The ACHS is proud to continue fulfilling its mission of Holistic Spa Management Certificate Program The National Certification Board for Therapeutic ACHS’s program gives you opportunities for practical defining and advancing newer, higher provides participating massage therapists with Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) is proud to partner application in AROMA 103 and can start to apply what standards for therapists involved in this a credential in only 15 weeks. We’re honored rewarding sector.” to support these professionals on their chosen with the American College of Healthcare Sciences you’re learning in your practice right away. leadership path.” (ACHS) to empower new and veteran massage —Teresa M. Matthews Upon completion of this Specialty Certificate Program, therapists with the opportunity to achieve a Professional LMT, CPT, BCTMB, Chair, NCBTMB —Dorene Petersen Certificate in Holistic Spa Management—an exclusive you will benefit in such ways as: ACHS President & Founder credential available to therapists who complete the • Differentiate yourself from other spa managers ACHS Certificate in Holistic Spa Management and with both an accredited academic certificate and successfully pass the NCBTMB application process and professional recognition. exam. • Identify current and emerging trends in the spa Program Breakdown industry. This accredited program offers students the

ertificatio l C n a Bo on a ti r opportunity to gain the skills and certification for a a d • Gain foundational skills in strategic planning for N BOARD management career in the spa industry through a APPROVED BCTMB k spas including retail pricing and strategy, business f r o r PROVIDER o

T Board Certified in w h for Continuing y e Therapeutic Massage d nine-semester-credit, comprehensive, online program ra Education& Bodywork o p B planning, and staff management. e & u e tic M sag in as little as 15 weeks. This program will empower you as to gain a more comprehensive understanding of spa • Broaden your knowledge of aromatherapy as an management in a short time frame and further your essential modality to implement for spas. “Our courses in Holistic Spa Management “NCBTMB is thrilled to partner with ACHS to career in the spa industry. were designed to take our students to the create yet another career pathway for all • Describe a professional code of ethics, state next level in their spa career. Partnering massage therapists, bodyworkers, spa Program Requirements regulatory requirements and health regulations as with NCBTMB aligns perfectly with that managers and even spa owners with an strategy by awarding respected credentials interest in furthering their success. By 1. Current Massage Therapy License to Practice they relate to the spa profession. that summarize students’ educational achieving this Specialty Certificate, therapists achievement and give them a professional are empowered with an industry-recognized 2. Proof of Completion of ACHS’s Holistic Spa • An industry-recognized NCBTMB Professional Management Certificate Program advantage.” credential to separate themselves from the (five courses, online) Specialty Certificate in Spa Management, as well as pack.” a Letter of Verification to present to key stakeholders. —Shawn Hallum 3. Passing Score on the NCBTMB Specialty Exam ACHS Spa Program Chair —Donna Sarvello LMT, BCTMB (online) VP of Educational Support, NCBTMB

Course Details ACHS’s Certificate in Holistic Spa Management covers all aspects of holistic spa management, including an introduction to the industry and spa management (SPA 120), retail management for spas (SPA 220), a holistic introduction to aromatherapy as a modality To learn more visit www.ncbtmb.org/specialty-certificates in spas (AROMA 103), the ins and outs of supervision in the hospitality industry (SPA 250), and financial management for spas (SPA 367). To learn more visit www.ncbtmb.org/specialty-certificates CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. nto shonto infonto ertificatio l C n a Bo on a ti r a d N BOARD APPROVED BCTMB k f r o r PROVIDER o

NCBTMB & American College of Healthcare Sciences T w Board Certified in h for Continuing y e Therapeutic Massage d ra Education o p & Bodywork B e & ut e Launch Spa Management Specialty Certificate Program ic Massag

“All of us at NCBTMB continue to be inspired “We developed ACHS’s Holistic Spa by the profession’s positive embrace of the Management program to fill an industry Specialty Certificate Program. We created demand. We’re very happy to offer this this program for the profession—and our credential opportunity to massage therapists CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. partnership with ACHS is yet another way through our new partnership with the NCBTMB to address the profession’s needs. NCBTMB Specialty Certificate Program. The ACHS is proud to continue fulfilling its mission of Holistic Spa Management Certificate Program The National Certification Board for Therapeutic ACHS’s program gives you opportunities for practical defining and advancing newer, higher provides participating massage therapists with Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) is proud to partner application in AROMA 103 and can start to apply what standards for therapists involved in this a credential in only 15 weeks. We’re honored rewarding sector.” to support these professionals on their chosen with the American College of Healthcare Sciences you’re learning in your practice right away. leadership path.” (ACHS) to empower new and veteran massage —Teresa M. Matthews Upon completion of this Specialty Certificate Program, therapists with the opportunity to achieve a Professional LMT, CPT, BCTMB, Chair, NCBTMB —Dorene Petersen Certificate in Holistic Spa Management—an exclusive you will benefit in such ways as: ACHS President & Founder credential available to therapists who complete the • Differentiate yourself from other spa managers ACHS Certificate in Holistic Spa Management and with both an accredited academic certificate and successfully pass the NCBTMB application process and professional recognition. exam. • Identify current and emerging trends in the spa Program Breakdown industry. This accredited program offers students the

ertificatio l C n a Bo on a ti r opportunity to gain the skills and certification for a a d • Gain foundational skills in strategic planning for N BOARD management career in the spa industry through a APPROVED BCTMB k spas including retail pricing and strategy, business f r o r PROVIDER o

T Board Certified in w h for Continuing y e Therapeutic Massage d nine-semester-credit, comprehensive, online program ra Education& Bodywork o p B planning, and staff management. e & u e tic M sag in as little as 15 weeks. This program will empower you as to gain a more comprehensive understanding of spa • Broaden your knowledge of aromatherapy as an management in a short time frame and further your essential modality to implement for spas. “Our courses in Holistic Spa Management “NCBTMB is thrilled to partner with ACHS to career in the spa industry. were designed to take our students to the create yet another career pathway for all • Describe a professional code of ethics, state next level in their spa career. Partnering massage therapists, bodyworkers, spa Program Requirements regulatory requirements and health regulations as with NCBTMB aligns perfectly with that managers and even spa owners with an strategy by awarding respected credentials interest in furthering their success. By 1. Current Massage Therapy License to Practice they relate to the spa profession. that summarize students’ educational achieving this Specialty Certificate, therapists achievement and give them a professional are empowered with an industry-recognized 2. Proof of Completion of ACHS’s Holistic Spa • An industry-recognized NCBTMB Professional Management Certificate Program advantage.” credential to separate themselves from the (five courses, online) Specialty Certificate in Spa Management, as well as pack.” a Letter of Verification to present to key stakeholders. —Shawn Hallum 3. Passing Score on the NCBTMB Specialty Exam ACHS Spa Program Chair —Donna Sarvello LMT, BCTMB (online) VP of Educational Support, NCBTMB

Course Details ACHS’s Certificate in Holistic Spa Management covers all aspects of holistic spa management, including an introduction to the industry and spa management (SPA 120), retail management for spas (SPA 220), a holistic introduction to aromatherapy as a modality To learn more visit www.ncbtmb.org/specialty-certificates in spas (AROMA 103), the ins and outs of supervision in the hospitality industry (SPA 250), and financial management for spas (SPA 367). To learn more visit www.ncbtmb.org/specialty-certificates CHOOSE BOARD CERTIFIED. nto shonto infonto A Potent Career-Enhancing Tool Embrace the Parasites that Want to Rule Your Life

By David M. Lobenstine, L.M.T.

odywork pioneer Moshé Feldenkrais was an engineer, judo practitioner and relentless observer of self, who developed a system of body Bmovement and self-awareness that was eventually named after him (the Feldenkrais Method). One of his many beautiful insights, although not one that has been discussed much, is the notion of parasitic movement and its accompaniment, parasitic tension.

Although his method of working with a client is quite different from that used by massage therapists, I think these twin concepts are especially useful for us. They offer a compelling way of understanding both our own tension that we feel while we work, and also the myriad tensions of our clients. You Are the Host Imagine this scenario: You are catching up on email while your baby naps. She awakens and starts screaming. You rush to finish the email you are composing; in your hurry you bang on the keys a

30 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Parasitic movement is inevitable for massage therapists.

little harder than you did a minute ago, scapulae start contracting to raise the attention on these efforts. Instead, we are you hunch closer to the computer and shoulders. Next, as we lean toward the too busy focusing on the other body in your shoulders begin to creep toward keyboard, the paraspinal muscles are the room. your ears. That additional muscle working to maintain the body in that We take great pride in our ability to contraction—in the fingers, back and increasingly awkward position. help other people, session after session. shoulders—is parasitic. And on and on. While you are doing this helping, Let me explain. Thus, parasitic movement is a very how often do you ask yourself, “Am I A parasite attaches itself to and then useful way to think about something contracting the extensor muscles of my feeds off its host. So too, this extra that happens to all of us all the time: the forearm unnecessarily?” contraction piles on top of what you were contraction of any muscles that you don’t Chances are, never. already doing, thus sapping your energy. actually need to complete an action. We don’t think about whether we The extra muscle activation doesn’t This excess of effort wouldn’t be a big are contracting more than we need to. accomplish anything—your email doesn’t deal if it went away, right away; if, email We are too busy thinking about all that get finished any faster because you are sent and baby comforted, the shoulders excess tension in our client, and how we hitting the keys harder—but it is there flopped back to their resting position, are going to overpower it. Or we are too just the same. the forearms went slack once again—but busy wondering about how big a tip we’ll Indeed, a crucial aspect of this that’s not what happens. get if we do. The result is clear: Parasitic movement is that we are not aware of it. A parasite doesn’t just hang out for movement is inevitable for massage (Just as we are not aware of the parasites a minute and then voluntarily leave therapists. living inside of us.) In our relentless focus the host. Some of that contraction The sooner we acknowledge that on completing the task at hand—finish remains, and thus becomes the constant inevitability, the longer and happier email, rescue baby—we ignore how we are companion to parasitic movement, what our careers will be. We have all moved completing that task. Feldenkrais called parasitic tension: the parasitically, and have all felt the parasitic In this tiny example, many excess contraction that is held in the tension that results, even though most of unnecessary muscle contractions have musculature even after we’ve completed us probably haven’t given it that name. become attached to the only necessary the action. Think of that client who keeps asking movement needed to type that email: the for more pressure as you work on his very slight contractions of the flexors and Our Parasites, rock-hard rhomboids. Chances are, as extensors of the fingers. Ourselves you try to (somehow) go even deeper, As you can imagine, parasitic So, what does all this have to do with us? your whole body joins in. Your shoulders movement never affects just one muscle. In short, massage therapists are especially bunch up and curl forward as you try As soon as we start to rush our typing, susceptible to parasites. Think about it: to drill down. The whole length of your for example, we’re using all those forearm We spend our days contracting various arms tighten: biceps and triceps, forearm flexors and extensors more than we muscle groups in very complicated flexors and extensors. There’s a good need to. Then the trapezius and levator sequences, but we almost never focus our chance that even your glutes and hip

31 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com flexors are contracting more than you are aware of, in this full- understanding of how and when and why you are using your throttle effort to overwhelm the client’s tissue. This is parasitic muscles, then you can decide if you can contract a certain muscle movement. group less—or if you even need to be using it at all. Sound familiar? To develop this skill, we must give ourselves permission to You can now probably see how easy it is to move parasitically think about ourselves, our own bodies, while we contact our when you are working on that demanding client—or, rather, clients. how hard it is to not move parasitically. But the same danger Attending to yourself simultaneous to attending to your client exists with a light Swedish session as with a more robust sports may feel wrong. It may feel selfish. It is neither. Instead, it is a massage. practice that will benefit both you and your client. Consider another common manifestation of parasitic That said, it will not come naturally. It is a habit you must movement: The next time you begin a long effleurage stroke, create, consciously, as opposed to all the unhelpful habits you using the heel of your hand or your forearm—say, down the have created unconsciously. You must develop a practice of spine or up the leg—pay attention to your fingers. checking in with yourself before, during and after each session, If you are like most therapists, as you continue the stroke, like this: whether you are working light or deep, your fingertips and palm will start to arch away from the client and start to rise towards • Before you make initial contact with the client, pause for 10 the ceiling. The fingers will straighten, becoming taut and tense. seconds. Follow your slow exhalation down to empty and This tendency is especially true if you are tired, or doing a long think of letting your body weight sink as much as possible stroke without repositioning your feet, or in an awkward position into your feet. Notice the areas of the body that are already or thinking about something else. tense, even though you’re not doing anything. Does this contraction in the extensor muscles of the fingers aid the stroke? Not in the slightest. Once again, this is parasitic • Each time you transition from one part of the client’s body to movement at work. the next, scan your own body from head to toe. See if you can identify any parasitic tension. Is your jaw clamped shut? Are Parasitic Tension your glutes clenched? Where there is parasitic movement, there is parasitic tension. Again, we all have felt it, especially after a long shift or a • When you are doing cross-fiber friction or other deep strokes, particularly demanding client. You end the session and walk scan the muscles from fingers to forearms to shoulders. out of the room; your hands feel like claws, your forearms like Ask yourself, “Can I still create this same depth but without baseball bats. As you wait for your client to get dressed you are tensing these muscles quite as much?” Chances are, the not doing anything with your arms, yet they remain clenched. answer is yes. You can’t seem to get them unstuck. This is parasitic tension. • End each session slowly. As you break contact with the client, Again, your forearms don’t need to remain taut; you are not follow your exhale slowly down to empty and visualize your using those muscles. And yet those muscles can’t seem to let go. own body as relaxed as you just made your client’s body. The excess contraction while working has translated into excess tension even after you are done working. Recognizing parasitic movement is a slow and often The result is a vicious cycle. Parasitic movement leads frustrating process, but the self-awareness—and self-care—that to parasitic tension, which in turn leads to more parasitic can result is one of our most potent and career-enhancing tools. movement. Before too long, as we know from biology, the M parasite becomes inseparable from the host. It becomes difficult to give a deep tissue massage without our shoulders creeping up David M. Lobenstine, L.M.T. (fullbreathmassage.com), is a massage toward our ears. That excessive effort becomes the norm; our therapist, continuing education teacher and owner of Full Breath bodies forget how to contact the client with ease, using only the Massage in New York, New York. He wrote “Rock On! Soothe muscle contraction that is needed. Clients with Satisfying Contact” (June 2017) and “The Mindful Massage Therapist” for massagemag.com. Essential Self-Awareness There is no cure, no quick fix. Parasites are an innate part of our environment, and they are an innate part of our patterns of movement. Since we can’t get rid of them, what if we can benefit from them? What if we acknowledge that there will always be Help your clients learn to recognize parasitic tension moments in which we contract our muscles more than we need in their own bodies, in “When The Massage Client is to? Then we can use that knowledge as a reminder to continually the Host: Parasitic Tension on the Table,” by David M. check in with ourselves while we are working. Lobenstine, L.M.T., at massagemag.com/clienthost. Self-awareness is essential. If you can enhance your

32 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com

BEST SELLING Massage Table Kits STARTING AT $28720

Exclusive discount Hands Free Basic Table Shown available 24/7/365 to all BCTMBs and APs

Sign up for savings today at shop.ncbtmb.org

To create your Resource Center account: • Visit shop.ncbtmb.org • Click on “Sign Up” • Include your BCTMB or AP ID# to unlock all discounts

To view your savings: • Browse all CCW products at shop.ncbtmb.org • Add desired products to your cart of • Click “View Cart” to unlock discounts (available 24/7/365)

Browse Custom Craftworks products by clicking on “Shop” and “Massage Supplies”

WHY PAY MORE? Start saving today at shop.ncbtmb.org on all CustomSave Craftworks 20% products 1-800-296-0664 • [email protected] Body Mechanics Discover How You Can Feel Better While Giving Massage PHOTOS BY GEORGE PARKER PHOTOS BY

By Linda Derick

This is the basic principle of yoga, tai chi and many other movement eing a professional art forms. massage therapist Giving massage all day, hour after hour, year after year, can be taxing on the body. Longevity depends on training oneself to the fluidity requires that we— generated by excellent body mechanics. Ball day, every day (even A multitude of gifts are received through this practice: when not in session)— The body becomes more grounded, centered, at ease, graceful and strong, well-balanced. What a wonderful phenomenon: The more we maintain a daily practice work, the better we feel. The mind follows the organization of the body and becomes calm, of dynamic alignment. spacious and alert. This practice is rooted in The heart is supported and open and becomes soft and peaceful. The energetic flow is unobstructed and can release restriction and the feet, developed in the increase vibrancy. Our clients—the last as much as the first of the day—receive our legs, directed by the pelvis healthiest, most dynamic and responsive delivery of our massage and expressed through the techniques. hands. Following are some instructions on dynamic alignment that support optimum body mechanics. Within each one instruction is a note regarding the polarity of opposites that create the energetic dynamic.

34 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Strengthen your stance and grounding. Feel your feet fully in contact with the floor. There is a solid base in the triangle of the inner big-toe edge, the outer little- toe edge and the heel. This is our natural abundance that evolved as we became upright. Explore the spatial territory of your feet, rocking your weight forward and backward and side-to-side, finding the sweet spot in the center. While you work, shifting from one stance to another, Weight is too far forward. Weight is too far back Weight is aligned in the center. frequently scan your feet for suppleness and explore how you might be able to increase the surface contact with the ground and melt into it, rather than gripping away from it. The polarity here is reaching down into Earth as we are lifted upward with lightness. Stack your joints. From the bottom up, get familiar with alignment of the knees over the feet, hips facing in the direction of the force Gripped feet. Feet at ease, making full of your stroke, like headlights; shoulders contact with the ground. over hips, and the back of the neck long. In the tensegrity, or integrity of tension, model of alignment, the opposing stays that stabilize the mast of a sailboat must be in balance. Likewise, the stays in the body are the agonist- antagonist pairs that align the spine. If the soft tissues in the back of the body are shorter and tighter than those in the front of the body, the spine is distorted posteriorly and vice versa. If the front of the body is constricted, the spine deviates into chronic forward crunch. With your mind’s eye, scan your body. What do you need to soften, let go of, strengthen or engage to bring balance to Too hunched forward. Too extended back and Good vertical alignment. your alignment? away from the work. A caution here: If we chronically correct postural deviation by loosen the back stay. If you always correct the spine will be compressed and strengthening, we can become overly the alignment of the mast by tightening, pressure will be increased on the lower compressed rather than elongated and you can drive the mast through the discs. expanded. bottom of the boat. The polarity here is to balance the Back to the sailboat mast: There are Apply this analogy to the spine and counter forces between the pairs of muscles small winches that can adjust the length the lower lumbar discs. If the back so that the soft tissues are lengthened of each stay. If the rear one is too tight is tight and you counter-balance by and the spine is decompressed, providing and the mast is leaning to the back of the strengthening the abdominals without increased space for the discs to provide boat, you can tighten the front stay or also lengthening the back, then overall maximal cushioning for the vertebrae.

35 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Open the heart by giving it the support of a strong back.

Take a moment to imagine opening your heart by expanding the front of your chest, both with the breath as well as muscularly widening. Then move your awareness to the back of your torso and imagine pressing the bottoms of your scapula forward and upward, and notice what happens to your heart and breath. You can also practice this lying on your back with a rolled towel under the bottom of your scapula and allowing the opening to happen passively. We talk about a heart-and-hand connection in massage education. The Stiff, forced opening of the heart and chest. Opened heart with support from the more open and activated this pathway scapulae from behind. is, the more we are able to convey our As this pathway is also bi-directional, an The polarity here is between the loving kindness energetically from the open hand-and-heart connection also strength of the back and softness of the heart through the hands and our touch. heightens our palpatory perception. heart.

Work within your work zone.

Scrunched-up and too contracted. Over-extended. Working appropriately within the work zone.

This is the bodily expression of retreating away from that process. (working too close to your body) restrict being in the moment, neither behind Physically, it means trying to do most your mobility and flow of dynamic yourself in the past nor ahead of of your work in the area between your energy exchange. Scan frequently to keep yourself in the future. It is that balanced hips and shoulders, about 10 to 12 inches microadjusting to your optimal work zone. orientation toward being a therapist; not away from your body. The polarity here is not too tight, not overextending, overgiving, falling into Overextending (working too far away too extended. the client’s process, nor withdrawing or from yourself) and over contracting

36 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Linda Derick has been a massage therapist and educator for 30-plus years. She is director of the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy (ccmt.edu). Her leadership weaves together academic studies in movement from Wesleyan University, contemplative education from Naropa University, and her evolving avocation as a certified yoga instructor, All The While specializing in stand-up paddleboard It’s important to cultivate our dynamic yoga. Her many articles for this publication alignment both when we are not working include “Public Speaking for Introverts” with clients and all the while that we are. (December 2016) and “Working States of During our sessions, we need to alternate Consciousness in Massage Therapy” for our consciousness between attending to massagemag.com. our client’s process and changes in the The practitioner demonstrates dynamic tissue, as well as to our own alignment: alignment, with a strong, grounded stance; recalibrating to our center, our ground, stacked joints; and open heart, while our ease and our balance. M massaging within the work zone.

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37 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com The Secrets of Sleep (That Have Nothing to Do with Your Pillow) 8By Larry Cammarata, Ph.D. leep is an integral component Sof self-care, yet it can be easily overlooked in a culture that prides itself on being alert, active and awake. The irony is that healthy sleep can contribute to increased alertness during the daytime. While many individuals have difficulty getting a good night’s sleep from time to time, the good news is that there are several natural ways

to improve the quality of your sleep. ADOBE STOCK If you find yourself suffering from insomnia—a sleep disorder characterized by problems falling or staying asleep— despite adhering to the points covered in this article, it may benefit you to consult with a health professional specializing in sleep problems.

38 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com body. Calmness and relaxation during the to positively influence the quality of sleep 8 Secrets daytime can support your nighttime sleep. by normalizing your circadian rhythms, Even if you don’t consider yourself to Mindfulness will also increase your which regulate several key physiological have difficulties sleeping, integrating awareness of how your body, thoughts, processes of the body, including sleep and the following practices into your life emotions, attitudes, behavioral patterns wakefulness. can support your health, energy, mood, and other experiences influence the To support the quality of a good memory and wellness. quality and duration of sleep. night’s sleep, it’s important to create a For example, if you’re someone who boundary that limits your bed to two Meditate and relax. The practice of is prone to engaging in emotionally functions: sleep and sex. That means 1mindfulness meditation is an effective charged texting or phone chats during no TV viewing, radio listening, texting, method of reducing stress, supporting the late evening hours prior to bedtime, laptop usage and other technological sleep quality and overcoming the problem mindfulness can assist you in tracking activities while in bed. of insomnia without reliance upon and changing that pattern, if that is your Your body and mind can become medication. Mindfulness is about being intention. conditioned to various things. It’s far in the present moment and observing When you practice mindfulness, you better to condition yourself to fall asleep your mind and body with openness and will also become more aware of your in your bed than to condition yourself to acceptance. Being mindful of the body’s negative thoughts and perceptions about stay awake, as is the case when reading sleep signals, such as nighttime tiredness, sleep. You don’t even have to change your emails in bed. If you find yourself awake yawning and spontaneous eye closure, thoughts to experience a greater sense in bed for more than 20 minutes, get out can help you transition to sleep at the of peacefulness; what’s most important of the bed and do something relaxing that right time. is that you’re aware of your negative involves limited exposure to light. Then, Mind-body practices that facilitate thoughts, which gives you the possibility return to your bed when you feel tired or deep bodily relaxation, such as yoga, of letting them go or just letting them be after 20 minutes have elapsed. tai chi, qi gong, breathing exercises and focusing your mind elsewhere. and autogenic training, help reduce the Further, mindfulness will support Change your negative sleep story. arousal and tension that can interfere you in cultivating attitudes such as 3Understandably, the narrative with sleep. When you lie down, focusing acceptance, kindness, compassion, surrounding sleep disturbances can be upon sensations of heaviness, softness gentleness and non-striving. Acceptance anxiety-provoking, negative, despair- and relaxation can transport you to and non-striving are particularly inducing and at times catastrophic. sleep. Learning to relax deeply can also important attitudes, as negative Worry, frustration and hopelessness can reduce the suffering associated with sleep judgments about sleep problems and complicate the picture. problems. striving to get a good night’s sleep can In addition to applying mindfulness Mindfulness meditation and the activate the central nervous system, to negative thinking associated with sleep practice of being mindful in everyday which can intensify sleep problems. The disruption, you may also benefit from life can train you to be present, accepting attitude of, “I better hurry up and get to changing your negative thoughts about and nonreactive to the stresses, conflicts sleep” is not recommended. sleeplessness. For example, instead of and challenges that are a normal part of telling yourself, “I’m going to feel terrible life. The less emotionally and physically Maintain a sleep-wake schedule in the morning,” tell yourself, “Since I’m reactive you are, the more you’re able 2and bed boundaries. Sticking to a awake now, I’m going to just breathe to cultivate a calm mind and a relaxed consistent sleep-wake schedule is one way calmly and relax.”

39 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Even if you don’t have problems make sleep into a necessary evil and Exercise. Physical exercise is an sleeping, changing your story about sleep instead practice viewing sleep as a natural 4 excellent complement to the passive can create greater ease at bedtime. For process that preserves your health, vitality surrender required of the sleeper. example, watch out for thoughts that and memory. Physical exercise can relieve stress and anxiety, discharge muscular tension, and prepare the body and mind for sleep. BEST SELLING While it’s not a good idea to exercise Massage Table Kits strenuously for several hours before STARTING AT bedtime, gentle yoga stretches and the 20 slow movements of qi gong or tai chi can $287 be used to shift you into a slower rhythm Exclusive discount during the later evening hours. Moderate exercise can be integrated into your available 24/7/365 daytime hours to support nighttime rest, to all BCTMBs and APs relaxation and sleep.

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40 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com is associated with dreaming. So, although Exposing your naked eyes to indirect for letting go of the concerns of the day. you can fall sleep under the influence of sunlight during the day is an excellent way Bedroom spaces for supporting sleep alcohol, the overall effect is not conducive of lowering the production of melatonin. are clear of clutter, calming to the senses to staying asleep or feeling restored upon A reduction of melatonin is associated and not infiltrated by electronic devices. awakening. with increased alertness, which is normally Remove the clutter from your bedroom. Drinking caffeinated beverages can desirable during waking hours, and can Move computers and television sets to be very disruptive to sleep, as caffeine is positively impact your mood. another room; if that’s not possible, cover a stimulant that can contribute both to As day turns into night, lower the lights them with a cloth prior to bedtime. problems falling asleep and difficulties in your home and reduce your exposure staying asleep. Although some individuals to electronic devices. Use blackout shades Day Leads to Night can drink a cup of coffee prior to bedtime in your bedroom or a sleep mask to create All of the points covered in this article without a problem, that’s not the case complete darkness, which will increase are about your behavior while awake. for most people. Ideally, it’s best to limit your brain’s melatonin production in Therefore, remember that the royal road to moderate consumption of coffee, tea and support of deep sleep. healthy sleep is paved during the daytime. other caffeinated drinks to prior to noon. The biological rhythms of your ancient Viewing healthy sleep as a key to self-care is ancestors were not challenged by the an excellent place to begin this journey. M Alter your brain chemistry, modern technologies of today; yet, that 7naturally. Close to bedtime, electronic ancient rhythm continues to exert an effect stimulation in the form of computers, a upon your daytime alertness and nighttime Larry Cammarata, Ph.D. (mindfulnesstravels. television and smartphones can greatly sleepiness. If you tamper with it too much, com), is a licensed psychologist and disturb sleep. The light from these devices the quality of your sleep can become instructor of qi gong and tai chi. Through reduces your brain’s melatonin production; jeopardized. If you honor your natural his company, Mindfulness Travels, he melatonin is a neurohormone that rhythms and align yourself closer to the provides continuing education to massage regulates your sleep and wake cycles. light of day and dark of night, your brain, therapists and psychotherapists. His work One way to naturally manipulate the energy and sleep may very well benefit. on mindfulness and mindful movement has brain’s melatonin production—without been presented at international conferences taking a supplement or medication—is to Prepare the sleep space. Your and retreats. abide by this principle: Light during the 8 bedroom can be a sanctuary providing day, dark during the night. you a quiet, soothing, nurturing place

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41 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com HolidayHoliday RetailRetail && GiftGift GuideGuide

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47 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Spa Success ADOBE STOCK Relax, Refresh & Rejuvenate The Spa Day as Self-Care

by Allison Payne

s a massage therapist, self-care is crucial to your daily work. When you take care of yourself, you feel better, and when you feel better, you can give a better massage and can Agive more of yourself to each client on your table.

48 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com A balanced, consistently practiced program of self-care can mean the difference between barely making it through your workday and finishing up your daily tasks in a good mood with energy to spare.

But just like the clients you see who let the effects of stress, pains, or a breakdown of proper body mechanics while giving poor posture and lack of exercise build up and affect their bodies massage—is key to giving your body the care it needs to recover and minds, these same life happens factors can accumulate from the taxing work of providing massage therapy. and have a negative effect on you. That can mean less job Taking a few hours for a massage, facial or other spa satisfaction—and can lead to aches, pains, tension, stress, and treatments can be just what your body craves when you’ve even increased susceptibility to illness and injury. Unfortunately, overdone your work or underdone your normal self-care routine, most massage therapists engage in inadequate self-care. or a combination of both. If you are an employee, your employer “Almost nowhere in the industry is enough attention being may offer you discounted or free services, as many franchise paid to self-care,” said Rick Boden, an injury prevention locations do, or you may want to book some time at a local day instructor and director of Employee Brand Engagement at spa or resort spa to get in some much-needed recovery time. Massage Envy. Jaime Dubreuil, an independent massage therapist and A balanced, consistently practiced program of self-care can esthetician in Plymouth, New Hampshire, spent many years mean the difference between barely making it through your working for a large resort spa that often welcomed professional workday and finishing up your daily tasks in a good mood with massage therapists as spa guests. Those guests appreciated the energy to spare. multiple amenities a big spa can have all in one place, she noted. Have you thought about hitting the pause button in your “They would seek out massage,” she said. “But the things life for just a few hours and taking some time out for a spa day? that a larger spa, a resort spa, can offer, it’s kind of like a one- Whether you unwind at a full-service resort spa or take a trip stop shop. You can get your yoga in; you can get your workout to your local day spa, some extended time for extra pampering through the fitness center or the lap pool; [then use] the steam can go a long way toward easing your body’s physical issues, room, the sauna ... and then relax after [your] service as well.” dissolving stress and negative thought patterns—and even Seeking out services that go beyond traditional massage can inspiring you in this career that you love. also help your body recover. Boden recommends Massage Envy’s new service, Total Body Stretch, for both the general public and Issues in Tissues professional massage therapists. The service, which can be done Physical issues such as fatigue, pain and tension are the most in 30- or 60-minute sessions either as a stand-alone offering or in outwardly obvious indicators that self-care is lacking. Boden, conjunction with a massage session, involves a therapist assisting who helped develop Massage Envy’s Self-Care Commitment for the client in performing and holding stretches of the entire body, employees of the spa franchise, said staying aware of how your from head to foot. body feels, and looking for what the company calls early signs— Of course, addressing your body’s purely physical needs is including fatigue beyond normal tiredness, minor aches and only one of the benefits you can get from taking a spa day.

49 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Mindful awareness is key to a therapist getting the most out of his or her own bodywork treatment.

and flattening of muscles,” Adams said. “In Asian techniques, it’s Restore the body-mind connection about lifting and separating, creating that space within the layers The spa in which Dubreuil worked also offered meditation areas; of muscle, bone and connective tissue to allow freer movement. she is a huge proponent of meditation and also recommends So it’s more about creating space within the body.” making mindfulness an integral part of any spa experience for Dubreuil specializes in deep tissue massage, and also in care of oneself. dispelling many myths about deep tissue work; in fact, she refers “Self-care should be a time to reflect and listen to our bodies to her signature technique as corrective care massage. For many and then put into action the changes necessary for [career] people, “deep tissue just means elbow down to the table, no-pain- longevity,” she said. “What are we feeling during our spa service? no-gain,” she said. Are we pushing ourselves too much by performing more massages “In calling it corrective care I can then educate what deep than we should? Are we following proper body mechanics? Are tissue does for the body and how it can help relieve some we maintaining healthy eating habits and stretching or performing muscular ailments, and correct postural issues, correct range of strength training within boundaries to keep us going? motion, and things of that nature,” Dubreuil added. “Listening to our bodies as we are massaging as well as while we receive our massage for maintenance is so important,” Get Inspired Dubreuil added. While trying a totally new technique can address your own For Maggie Adams, a certified massage therapist, National body’s physical issues in new and different ways, it also has Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork- the power to inspire you. During a spa visit, you may discover approved continuing education provider, and treatment and something new and exciting you want to train in and incorporate therapist manager at the spa at the Las Alcobas hotel in Napa into your own work, or pick up on a delivery style that can add a Valley, California, meditation is a part of what her spa offers, as new dimension to the work you already do. well as a part of what its employees do every day. “Getting different types of massage regularly creates different “We actively meditate,” Adams said. “We have meditation levels of awareness of how we move during our massage,” said built into our schedule for our therapists and all employees ... at Adams, “and that’s one of the things that Asian techniques really the beginning of their shift and at the end of their shift.” stress, is the rhythm and the flow and the movement.” Adams agrees that mindful awareness is key to a therapist In addition to easing physical issues and preventing burnout, getting the most out of his or her own bodywork treatment. spending time at the spa can also restore your spirit and refresh “There’s a lot of self-care that can be done within a service, just your motivation by giving you new appreciation for the healthy by being aware of self.” touch you bring to the world. “You can definitely gain inspiration from taking a day and Try Something New going to the spa,” Dubreuil said. “It reminds you of what we do One refreshing aspect of visiting a spa, for both your body and every day, and the intention of what we give our clients on a daily mind, can be trying something completely new. For example, basis we’re now experiencing firsthand. Massage Envy’s Total Body Stretch; Elements Massage’s “If we go too long without taking care of ourselves we can get Himalayan Salt Stone Massage; or an add-on of one of Massage lost in that [our work] can become monotony,” she added. “It Heights’ proprietary aromatherapy blends. Individual spas also shouldn’t ever get that way!” M often provide signature treatments you can’t get anywhere else. Adams’ spa offers Swedish, hot stone and sports massage, Allison Payne is a former online & associate editor for MASSAGE like most other massage providers, but its true specialty is Asian Magazine, and now a freelance writer and editor based in central modalities, including ayurveda, tuina and Balinese massage, which Florida. She has written many articles for MASSAGE Magazine and may be a new experience for many professional massage therapists. massagemag.com, including “Your Video Toolbox: Take Online Eastern techniques tend to focus more on the flow of chi, or life Marketing to the Next Level (June) and “No Way Would I Work at a energy, and take a more integrated body-and-mind approach. Massage Franchise—Until I Learned This” (Aug. 23, 2017). “A lot of Western techniques are more about compression

50 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com

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Self-The right self-care tools can makeCare all the difference when it comes to takingTools care of yourself. As a busy massage therapist, you understand that it can be difficult to put your needs ahead of your clients, and it can be especially difficult to find the time for self- care. However, sometimes it is necessary to step back to give yourself the attention you deserve. Here are some products that will help you achieve “you” time. RockBlades RockBlades are two precision- engineered and manufactured soft-tissue instruments: a “mallet” and a “mullet” and come with RockRub emollient, sanitizing wipes, and a quick- start guide to form a complete Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) system. $299 RockTape

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52 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com The Sacro Wedgy Be pain-free with the Sacro Wedgy. Combined with a neck support that helps facilitate balance by stabilizing the spine at both ends, Sacro Wedgy allows you to relax in a comfortable position for Female maximum self-care. $33.95 Male Sacro Wedgy

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RAD Roller Rad Roller is designed to relieve tension in the back, shoulders Massage Gel and forearms, and it is still precise Available in a variety of scents, enough to tackle the smallest Simple is Best massage gels muscles in your body. Use it for are created with just a handful general body maintenance or injury of ingredients for relaxing recovery. massages. The product is vegan, $24.99 paraben-free, cruelty-free, gluten- OPTP free and phthalate-free. $29.99 for 128 fluid ounces Soothing Touch

53 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Living in Balance

C an You Really Trust Your Heart? Read This Before You Decide

By Suzanne Scurlock-Durana

eople thrive on inspiration. Oddly enough it does not matter what that inspiration is, as long as we glean Pmeaning from it. ADOBESTOCK 54 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com In order for us to have balance and longevity in our lives and our bodywork practices, it is absolutely necessary that we love ourselves.

Inspiration could mean raising a child, caring for abandoned • In order to keep a balance in work and play animals, building furniture, creating art, or making a connection • In order to operate more regularly from a full energy with other humans through touch that fosters relaxation and reservoir healing. • In order to be able to hear your needs when they speak to This is the first half of the equation to life happiness and job you in that primal sensation language of the body. satisfaction, and our hearts are the part of us that registers this inspiration. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, they speak about The Energy of Love the element of fire residing primarily in the heart, and we all The heart is the wellspring of our inspiration for life. The char- know the energy and power of feeling inspired by what we do. acteristic wisdom of the heart is in how it inspires us to live more Next let’s talk about the lesser-known anatomy of the heart: the deeply and fully and to create from our gifts. The energy of love deep heart. In order for us to have balance and longevity in our resides throughout the entire body. It is the foundational energy lives and our bodywork practices, it is absolutely necessary that we upon which our creative inspirations are born. love ourselves. It is the antidote to burnout. And the deep well of Although the energy field of the heart has been proven to be the heart is where that loving of yourself bubbles up and emerges quite powerful, in our culture today the voice of the heart is often to feed you and all that you are doing in the world. I think of it as muted or ignored altogether. When our heart’s intelligence isn’t regularly priming the pump so the well doesn’t run dry. activated, we can easily feel confused, or we may listen only to This is not a hedonistic, self-centered love. This is a compas- the voice of the head telling us what we should do. The inspira- sionate, kind, deep love of who you are at a soul level. This part tion of our deepest heart’s knowing is then lost to us. of you quiets that inner critic and celebrates your strengths. It There is a distinct feeling when we drop into our heart and let feeds your soul. it open up. When we share from our heart, there is an authen- Self-love also recognizes and reminds you to slow down and ticity and vulnerability that create a feeling of connection and rest when you are burning the candle at both ends. This deep well intimacy if the listener is open and receptive. of love makes it okay to say “no” to other people’s demands when There is also a distinct feeling when we are not connected to those requests are not yours to do. It allows you to take time in our heart. This could manifest as “coldheartedness,” which might stillness and silence so that quiet inner voice of wisdom can be be experienced as a chill in the room or a conversation killer, and heard. it will create a block to genuine intimacy. I just watched an interview on “StarTalk” between Neil de- Another feeling occurs when we are in our heart in an overly Grasse Tyson and Arianna Huffington. At one point they were sympathetic manner. These kinds of interchanges often feel cloy- discussing the origins of great breakthroughs in science. Arianna ing, sometimes suffocating, and frequently invasive. made the point that these “aha” moments did not happen when Yet another experience occurs when our heart resonates with someone was exhausted and reading email while watching TV and another person’s heart. A warmth in meeting, ease of connec- talking to someone else. They most often occurred when someone tion, feeling deeply seen and heard—these are the empathetic was resting, daydreaming, drawing, or walking in nature. connections that may become lifelong relationships or enduring These are a sample of the activities that might feed your inspi- imprints on our heart. ration, your creativity and your deep energy reservoirs. What is the quality of energy that our hearts generate? The Look, sense, and feel into your own deeper heart. What do heart expresses warmth, compassion, forgiveness, empathy, you need … loving-kindness, and most of all inspiration. A full-hearted person is a happy person. • In order to feel worthy of receiving nurturing love In Chinese medicine, the element of the heart is fire, and • In order to start loving yourself more there is a distinct sensation when this element is balanced.

55 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Living in Balance

We feel excited, creative, and “on fire” for life. The heart is the like a warm campfire, or whether it was something that was birthplace of our deepest inspirations, so when it has been burning out of control. She told me it was the latter—and that it suppressed or exhausted, we may have a flat, muted experience. was burning extremely hot so that it could keep up with the pace Burnout approaches when our creative fire has gone out. of her life. I asked Monique how far back in her chest she could feel Priming the Deep Well the heat. She described it as being primarily in the front half of The heart is the home of compassion. When I work with her chest. I knew how much energy and caring she generously someone in the helping professions, especially health care spreads throughout the circles of her life. She is someone who providers, their genuine concern for others is apparent. Their gives a hug or shares her warm smile with anyone in need around warmth and caring is frequently the original inspiration that her. She is a true gift to her world. I also knew the price Monique moved them toward their profession. was paying for the way she operated from the front of her heart: However, when I sit with them long enough, I often discover her pervasive tiredness, which she could feel when she slowed that they are much better at giving than receiving. The front of down to listen internally. a caregiver’s heart—the part that they radiate love from—feels I wanted to help Monique understand how to support her warm and wide open. heart, so I shared with her about the nature of the back of the However, often they have much less awareness of the back of heart and how it is like a deep well—connecting us to an even their heart, the heart space of self-love and nurturing. I think of deeper aquifer of life energy. This well is the place of self-love— this as the deep well that feeds the rest of the heart. Like any well, not selfishness, nor self-centeredness, but of the care and keeping when it is not primed and replenished, it runs dry and burnout of the soul. This well needs to be primed and regularly drawn starts to take hold. The front of the heart—the part shared with from with true acts of self-love. the world—needs connection to the deeper well of the heart in This well is then the resource for all other acts of love we offer order to survive and thrive. to the world—feeding the front of the heart and sustaining all the This means self-care is mandatory, not optional. The airlines loving and sharing we do for those around us. In fact, when the truly do have it right. You must “put your own oxygen mask on deep heart is open, primed, and connected, the love we extend first” before helping those in need around you. What the flight to the world has an effortless quality—and in our giving, we are attendant doesn’t say is that if you fail to care for yourself first, touched as deeply as the receiver. unconsciousness or even death may result. Yet many of us have Monique got quiet as I spoke. I asked if this had anything to been taught to ignore our own needs as we focus on caring for do with loving herself. Tears welled up as she shared about being those around us. This is a sure recipe for disaster. Now is the a young child who was praised for loving others. She figured out time to turn this paradigm around and treat our own heart as a at an early age how to put others’ needs before her own, and she primary resource that is to be treasured and deeply valued. became very good at knowing and addressing the needs of others The heart is the home of our deepest inspiration and the well so that they were pleased with her. She had long ago muted that of our love for life. Having respect for the wisdom of the heart quiet, wise voice within. and living from its rich depths is essential. I sensed that if this session went well, her empathy—her capacity to feel deeply and sense accurately what was going on in Woman on a Mission those around her—was about to return to being the asset it was Monique is a highly successful advertising executive with a meant to be. wide circle of good friends as well as a close-knit immigrant Monique dropped her awareness back to her spine, behind family. She is well loved in her community for her generosity her burning heart, and let herself spread out and relax there. I of heart and her sharp, clear mind. This combination of asked her to notice the sensations in the front of her heart as it bigheartedness and clearheadedness has created success for her loosened up and connected to the resource of the deep well of at every turn. Her issue is that as a mother and wife, a successful the back of her heart. The burning sensation diminished slowly businesswoman and community member, she often feels as she explored this area. stretched thin and exhausted, which she will admit in her quieter Monique visibly relaxed as she settled back in her body—as moments. she felt her heart, she said, “come into a friendlier relationship As an intelligent woman, Monique cognitively knows about with the rest of my body.” She was starting to feel her spine and the need for self-care. She knows she deserves to take care of the steadiness of her bones. herself. She also sees how valuable she is to the people in her A smile came to her face as Monique described the sensations life. But until she worked with me, she had never slowed down “coming in for a landing” as she rode the wave of feeling down enough to actually experience the effects of her lifestyle on her her spine to her pelvis. We continued to explore and add to the deep physiology, specifically, her heart. support for the heart by playing with what it would feel like to When our session started, I asked her to scan her internal inhabit her legs and feet as well. This went more slowly, but by sensations. She was drawn right into the area of her heart. She the time we ended, she was feeling rooted down into Earth’s rich described it as “burning.” I asked her whether it was a good burn, energy field.

56 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com As I scanned her field in closing, I noticed that her heart individuals have grown into the people they are by learning to energy had naturally flowed down her arms and into her hands, pay attention outside of themselves to the needs of others, often as well as up into her head without any help or suggestion from to the detriment of what is happening inside. M me. This made sense, as these pathways were ones she had honed from early on in her life. In Chinese medicine, the meridians of the heart connect us into our hands and fingers, as we naturally Suzanne Scurlock-Durana (healingfromthecore.com) is the author extend our arms to hug others when our hearts are full of love or of Reclaiming Your Body and Full Body Presence. Her Healing from in need of love. the Core curriculum combined with CranioSacral Therapy and As we wrapped up the session, Monique checked inside to other bodywork modalities creates a complete, body-centered ascertain what attitudes and actions would be loving to herself, guide to awareness, healing, and joy. She teaches around the so that she could keep this deep well primed and flowing to the world and lives in Reston, Virginia. This article was excerpted front of her heart. She made an action plan and got agreement from the book Reclaiming Your Body: Healing from Trauma and with her heart that she would take quiet time each day to listen Awakening to Your Body’s Wisdom. Copyright ©2017 by Suzanne to her inner landscape. She would do a short practice of the Core Scurlock-Durana. Printed with permission from New World Library Embodiment Process, grounding and filling twice a day to help (newworldlibrary.com). her better sense what she needed in any given moment. She was relaxed and settled inside herself as she left my office. As I reflect on her journey, I realize how much her process is mirrored by most people who are caring, loving individuals in our world today. We are not taught how to truly love ourselves Suzanne Scurlock-Durana’s exploration of the heart in deep, nurturing ways. We don’t realize the power of feeling continues on massagemag.com with “Listen to Your into every corner in our heart. We have lost the fact that the Heart, Part Two: Feeding the Deep Heart” and “Listen heart needs to be honored throughout its entirety, not just the to Your Heart, Part Three: Loving Wholeheartedly.” front part that we share. Taking that a step further, many caring

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57 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Massage Research

Pleasant Touch Prior to Massage Improves Chronic Low Back Pain

Traditional massage therapy preceded instructed to sense the pleasant, comfortable warmth of the therapist’s hands on the pain-free region of his or her back. by a preparatory phase of pleasant “Then, the patient had to memorize the sensation of the pleasant touch resulted in significant and lasting touch and relaxation,” state the study’s authors. “Afterward, the [practitioner] asked the patient to ‘bind’ the pleasant and pain- improvements in pain among people free sensation to the painful area. At this point, the [practitioner] with chronic low back pain, according to touched the painful area of the back, [and] the session continued with traditional massage.” recent research. The main outcome measure in this study was pain, assessed using a visual analog scale. Secondary outcome measures included multidimensional pain intensity, pain-related disability, interoceptive he study, “The efficacy of a preparatory phase of a awareness, quality of life and heart-rate variability. These were touch-based approach in treating chronic low back pain: assessed immediately before and after the start of the intervention a randomized trial,” involved 51 people with chronic period, as well as three months later. low back pain. These subjects were assigned to either Results of the research showed benefits to both forms of massage Ta traditional massage therapy group or an experimental massage therapy; however, improvements on all pain scales were greater therapy group. among patients who received the experimental form of massage, both The same massage protocol was provided to participants in both immediately after the intervention and also three months later. groups, but those in the experimental group received a “preparatory “The new massage approach with a preparatory phase that is phase that was pleasant to the touch” before the start of the massage pleasant to the touch was more effective than the traditional approach intervention. Each intervention session lasted 30 minutes and for [chronic low back pain],” state the study’s authors. M occurred three times a week for three weeks. The massage protocol provided to subjects in both groups focused Authors: Federico Zangrando, Giulia Piccinini, Clara Tagliolini, on the lumbar region of the body and began with 10 minutes of simply Gabriella Marsilli, Marco Iosa, Maria Chiara Vulpiani and Teresa gliding over the surface of the skin with no pressure or direction. This Paolucci. was followed by five minutes of increasing pressure, and then five Sources: Complex Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, minutes of static pressure applied with the fists or palms. Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, University of Rome, Italy; Unit From there, the routine added five minutes of dynamic pressure— of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Sant’Andrea Hospital, slight friction against the surface of the skin—to the static pressure. University of Rome, Italy; Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Finally, subjects received five minutes of kneading, which was Neurorehabilitation, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome Italy. Originally described as a “pinching and rolling” technique. published online in April 2017 in the Journal of Pain Research. In the experimental massage group, the massage intervention was preceded by a preparatory phase in which each participant was

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58 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Massage Results in Greater Inactive Alertness in People with Severe Disabilities

Massage therapy provided in a engage freely with these tools as much as they found tolerable within a 30-minute window. multisensory environment resulted in In the MT group, subjects received a 20-minute massage, the focus greater states of inactive alertness—a of which was based on their own personal preference. Hand massage was given to those unable to indicate a preference, and foot massage relaxed yet attentive manner— was given to those with severe hand contractures or deformities. among adults with severe intellectual In the combined MT and MSE group, participants received the 20-minute massage therapy session during their 30-minute MSE time. disabilities, according to recent research. The main outcome measures in this study were the Behavior Problems Inventory, pulse and respiration rates, and the Alertness Observation Checklist. These were assessed before the start of the he study, “A randomized controlled trial on evaluation of 10-week intervention period and again after the interventions. Results the clinical efficacy of massage therapy in a multisensory of the research showed that subjects in both the MSE and combined environment for residents with severe and profound MT-MSE groups experienced a significant shift from active to inactive intellectual disabilities: a pilot study,” involved 42 people alertness. Tages 18 to 64 with severe intellectual disabilities, all of whom were “The participants having more frequent inactive alertness state residents in a long-term care facility. indicated a higher level of attention to their immediate environment To be included in the study, subjects had to have displayed in a motionless and relaxed manner [without] showing any sign of challenging behaviors within the previous two months. The study’s social withdrawal,” state the study’s authors. authors define a challenging behavior as “culturally abnormal According to the researchers, those in the combined MT and MSE [behavior] of such an intensity, frequency or duration that the physical group achieved greater states of inactive alertness than subjects in any safety of the person or others is likely to be placed in serious jeopardy, of the other three groups. M or behavior that is likely to seriously limit the use of, or result in the person being denied access to, ordinary community facilities.” Authors: J.S.L. Chan and W.T. Chien Subjects in the study were randomly assigned to one of four Sources: Siu Lam Hospital, Hospital Authority of Hong Kong, groups: massage therapy (MT) in a multisensory environment, the China; and School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social multisensory environment alone (MSE), MT alone or a standard- Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China. Originally care control group. For the three intervention groups, 20-to-30- published in June 2017 in the Journal of Intellectual Disability minute intervention sessions took place twice a week for 10 weeks in Research, 61(6), 532-548. a row. In the MSE group, subjects were given access to tools that would Visit massagemag.com/newresearch to read this produce a variety of sensory stimulations—such as a vibration chair, month’s online Research Exclusive, “Reviewing the a mirror ball and pleasant-smelling items—and were encouraged to Research on Massage for Preterm Infants.”

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59 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com Conventions and Events

2017 2018

International SPA Association San Diego Pain Summit Academic Consortium Conference & Expo Feb. 6–11, 2018 for Integrative Medicine Oct. 16–18 San Diego, California and Health Las Vegas, Nevada sandiegopainsummit.com Congress experienceispa.com May 6–11, 2018 Diversified Business Communications Baltimore, Maryland International Council Integrative Healthcare Symposium imconsortium.org of Reflexologists Annual Conference Conference Feb. 22–24, 2018 American Society for the Alexander Technique Oct. 19–22 New York, New York International Conference Taitung, Taiwan ihsymposium.com July 29–August 4, 2018 icr-reflexology.org Chicago, Illinois Green Spa Network amsatonline.org Rolf Institute Annual Congress Membership Retreat March 11–14, 2018 World Massage Festival Oct. 21 Carmel Valley Ranch Aug. 6–9, 2018 Charles Town, West Virginia greenspanetwork.org Las Vegas, Nevada rolf.org worldmassagefestival.com The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Academy of Integrative Health Spring Conference Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of & Medicine April 13–14, 2018 North America Annual Conference Washington, DC Breath of Life Conference Oct. 22–25 thebowencenter.org Sept. 5–9, 2018 San Diego, California Reisterstown, Maryland aihm.org Society for Oncology Massage craniosacraltherapy.org Oncology Massage National Association Healing Summit International SPA Association of Myofascial April 27–28, 2018 Conference & Expo Trigger-Point Therapists Bloomington, Minnesota Sept. 24–26, 2018 Annual Conference s4om.org Phoenix, Arizona Oct. 25–29 experienceispa.com Rosemont, Illinois Reflexology Association National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy myofascialtherapy.org of America Conference The World of Aromatherapy VIII Conference Alexander Technique International April 27–29, 2018 Oct. 24–27, 2018 Annual Meeting Chicago, Illinois Salt Lake City, Utah Oct. 29–Nov. 2 reflexology-usa.org nahaconference.com Seattle, Washington Fascia Research Congress ati-net.com Zero Balancing Annual Benefit Fifth Annual Society for Integrative Oncology May 4–6, 2018 Nov. 14–15, 2018 International Conference Location TBD Berlin, Germany Nov. 12–14 zerobalancing.com fasciacongress.org M Chicago, Illinois integrativeonc.org

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60 MASSAGE Magazine | October 2017 | massagemag.com