Never be afraid to ask to see a therapist’s credentials. Most therapists worked hard to obtain their education and various skills and should have no problem showing off their certifications. Other things to ask include fees, cancellation policy, and any other general business policies that may affect you such as preferred method of payment.

Another effective practice is to ask for personal recommendations or references from current clients. Word of mouth is an effective tool also, but talking to a real client can help you to understand what the therapist offers, and how they operate their business. You can also explore the various modalities offered by the therapist, and if you are unsure what something means, ask. Most therapists have literature available for clients to explain what the different techniques are and what they generally entail. This can also include an explanation of what to expect during a  treatment, for example, if you have to remain clothed or have to undress. By doing your research, you may find it easier to locate the best therapist for you. If you find that you are not satisfied, make sure to communicate your reasons for moving on to your therapist, and remember, not every therapist and/or modality is for everyone. It can take time to find a therapist that is the right fit for you.

Before you even have to worry about undressing, the therapist will require a health history from you. This includes all medications, supplements and herbs that you currently take, as well as any medical diagnoses you may have. The more comprehensive you can be the better, as there are many circumstances that may contraindicate massage, or require the therapist to modify their massage techniques. Generally, a health history will also include your problem areas, or areas you would like addressed, and your expectations of the massage. If you are a chronic pain sufferer, you may have to indicate on a diagram what areas you feel pain in, as well as describing the nature of the pain (i.e. burning pain, stabbing pain, pain that comes and goes rather than constant pain). Based upon your history, the therapist may perform some tests and assessments to determine how best to treat you.

Once the intake and assessment process are complete, you will be taken to the massage area. Usually this is a smaller room that has subdued lighting, and may even have soft music playing and/or candles or aromatherapy to promote relaxation. You will be left alone in the room to undress, and climb under the sheet or blanket. The therapist will knock on the door after a few minutes to see if you are ready for the massage to begin.

The massage itself is as unique as you are, and depending on the therapist and the modality they use it will vary. It is important to remember to communicate any discomfort you are experiencing to the therapist as massage should not be a painful experience. There are some techniques, such as trigger point release that are somewhat painful, but these will be explained by the therapist to prevent any surprises during the massage. Most therapists use a lubricant such as a massage lotion or oil to reduce friction on the skin, and if you have any skin sensitivities that you did not disclose in your health history, or you are curious, do not hesitate to ask your therapist what they are using on your skin.

The length of the treatment is also variable. Many therapists offer ½ hour, full hour and even 90 minute sessions, with variable prices to match. You will be at the therapist’s clinic longer than the 30 or 60 minutes for the massage though. Remember to include time for your history, assessment, and for relaxation prior to and after the massage.

After your massage there are many things you may feel. Some people are simply relaxed, while others may experience fatigue. Depending on the techniques used there may be some residual pain, or tired muscles. Often clients need a few minutes of lying still before they get off of the massage table as they may feel dizzy or cloudy. Massage promotes the release of toxins from your tissues and as such, you may find that you feel tired and have cloudy urine as your body processes and removes the toxins from your system. It helps to drink plenty of water and have an Epsom salt bath to assist the toxin release.

Pay attention to your body and remember self care. If you look after yourself you will be better able to care for others more effectively.

Listen to your clients’ verbal and non-verbal messages. By giving clients what they want, we ensure that they will return.

Do not allow yourself to be taken advantage of. Your skills and time are worth money, and should be recognized as such by yourself and whoever you massage.

Accept constructive criticism and learn from it.

Do not get discouraged if you cannot fix everyone-some people will never benefit from your work, while others will come along leaps and bounds.

Spend time with other therapists-we can learn a lot from our peers, and vice versa.

Massage Therapy and Scope of Practice:

Scope of practice is a term that is used to define what you are trained to perform safely. For example, many massage therapists learn how to perform passive range of motion techniques with their clients. However, joint mobilization, despite sounding like the same technique is not taught to, nor should it generally be performed by massage therapists. Licensing bodies have been given the task to communicate scope of practice to massage therapists. By remaining within the scope of practice a massage therapist is performing techniques within their educational base, and as such, the techniques are assumed to be safe for the clients. By remaining aware of their scope of practice, massage therapists can continue to work knowing that what they are doing is promoted and is safe for the client. Having a clearly defined scope of practice also helps to promote massage to the general public in a researched and regulated light.

As a massage therapist you are obligated to determine the definition of massage therapy according to your state licensure. If a client requires a skill that you are not licensed to perform, your best bet is to refer them to a therapist that is qualified in the discipline.

Self care for massage therapists can include stretching, strengthening and even massage for the massage therapist. Chiropractic is beneficial for massage therapists as strain or repetitive injuries are common. There are tools available to help promote muscle health for forearms and hands.

Some self care tips for massage therapists:

1. Try and keep your back as straight as you can throughout the massage.
2. Try and keep your wrists from flexing during a massage.
3. Use your leg strength rather than your arms. If your legs are not the first area to feel tired, you are not using proper body mechanics. Have someone watch you or videotape you to see where you are going wrong.
4. Do some learning about body mechanics to prevent strain and injury.
5. Stretch regularly throughout the day.
6. Do not overbook yourself, and remember to take days off and holidays.
7. Follow the advice that you give your clients. Eat properly, get regular exercise, drink planty of water and try and have enough sleep.
8. Set boundaries regarding massage with your family and friends. It is not rude to ask them to book with you in your clinic space, whether or not you charge them is up to you.
9. Get massages yourself, as regularly as you can.
10. Set boundaries with your clients. A day off should mean just that, not a day off where you are answering your phone and taking on clients.
11. Take care of business during business hours. This way, the end of your day really is the end, and after you are finished you can relax.

101 SIMPLE WAYS TO LOWER YOUR STRESS LEVELS

Exercise has been proven to reduce the body’s “stress hormones” like cortisol, and increase the feel good endorphins. Even if you feel that you do not have the time or energy to develop a fitness schedule, take a few moments to do a few simple exercises to relieve your feelings of stress.

Image by Longtrekhome

1. Taking a walk can do wonders. It can get you away from your stressful environment and into the natural world – allowing you time and space to put things into perspective.

2. If you cannot get out, try standing straight up and alternatively bending one knee up towards your chest and then the other. This will gently increase your heart rate, produce endorphins and work those abs!

3. Standing with your legs slightly apart, make figure of eight movements with your hips. Not only will this get the blood circulating through the abdomen area, but it is hard not to smile when you are doing it.

4. Simple breathing exercises can also be of benefit. In stressful situations, people tend to take shallow breathes – leading to hyperventilation. Focus on taking deep inward breathes, close your eyes and exhale slowly.

5. If you have the room, raise your arms over your head while inhaling deeply, and then hold your breath for a second before exhaling. As you breathe out, drop your head and let your arms slowly return to you sides.

6. In ongoing stressful situations, more drastic measures are called for. You could consider joining a gym or taking up a sport. If you manage you time properly to allow recreation activity, the long term benefits will be worth it.

Your diet, and the time you put aside for preparing and consuming food and drink, are also factors that can create stress – or be used to manage it. Forward plan your meals and shop accordingly, with these healthy tips in mind:-

7. Stress resistance can be enhanced by a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

8. Eat small meals frequently. Stress hunger may lead to obesity.

9. Keep handy the basics you need to prepare a healthy snack.

10. Red meat can create oxidants in the blood which attack your stress-immune system.

11. Yoghurt contains probiotics which aid digestion at times of turmoil

12. The omega-3 oils in Salmon inhibit the release of cortisol – the stress hormone.

13. Whole-grain carbohydrates produce serotonin – one of the body’s natural soothers.

14. Buy de-caffeinated drinks – The caffeine content in five cups of coffee produces a rise in blood pressure equivalent to eight hours spent in the office

15. Try drinking Green tea as an alternative. Green tea contains the compound L-theanine, which known for its calming effect on the nervous system.

16. Other calming herbal teas you could try are Chamomile, Ashwagandha Root and Skullcap (Scutellaria) – all of which are proven to reduce tension.

17. There are dietary supplements you can take specifically for the relief of stress. Vitamin B multi-compounds are the most effective.

18. Natural supplements you could also consider are Magnolia Bark (Relora), Bach Flower Rescue Remedy and St. Johns Wort – the “sunshine” plant.

19. Avoid buying alcohol as long term effects inhibit the absorption of Vitamin B, increase blood sugar levels and damage the central nervous system.

20. The hunger hormone – ghrelin – increases during periods of stress, so keep a supply of low-fat cereal bars handy for when you cannot avoid reaching for an oral comforter.

Image by FotoosVanRobin

Having too much work, or too little, can be a major cause of stress. Difficult conditions in the workplace can overspill into your home life and create anxiety for those around you also. Try to ease the pressure in the office by applying a few of these helpful suggestions:-

21.Aim for a balanced schedule so you are neither over-committed nor have too much time on your hands.

22. Don’t put of until tomorrow what can get done today!

23. Diarize whenever possible

24. Take firebreaks every time you need them.

25. Delegating reduces your workload and helps develop teamwork

26. Plan and prioritize your work schedules.

27. Organize your world and clear the office of useless junk.

28. Learn that it is okay to say “No” if you really cannot do it.

29. Have two mobile phones, and only give your work colleagues one of the numbers.

30. Do not be available 24/7 – turn that second mobile off when you leave the office.

31. Make time to take time. Regular breaks from the work environment will increase productivity on your return.

32. Accept that you are not a machine (and if you cannot do that – remember machines break down and get replaced!)

33. Have set spaces for keys, phones and files. Don’t spend time looking for stuff.

34. Work at the best time of day for you. Some folk are larks – others are owls.

35. Set realistic goals, complete assignments, go home!

Image by Phillie Casablanca

Getting sufficient rest is vital to avoid prolonged stress. Becoming over-tired not only creates stress, but we risk burnout because rest and relaxation is how our bodies let stress subside. Following some of the following advice and techniques will allow your body to heal from the strain of daily life.

36. Get enough sleep. Not an easy thing to do when you have things on your mind, but you need your energy to overcome the issues which are causing you stress.

37. Turn the computer off. Time spent on the Internet is not relaxation, and more sleeping hours are lost at night through surfing the web than any other reason.

38. A 30 minute “power nap” during the day has a more beneficial effect that a 30 minute lay-in in the morning.

39. Meditation is something that everybody can do. Try to learn a few simple yogic techniques and then allocate a set time each day to practice them.

40. 15 minutes is all you need for some relaxation techniques, yet you will feel the benefits of increased energy and willpower for hours thereafter.

41. Do not drink coffee or cola after 4.00pm, as the caffeine content can remain in your body long enough to prevent you from getting off to sleep when you are tired.

42. Keep to the same bedtime and train your mind and body into a predictable routine.

43. Make sure you stop performing any mentally demanding task in good time to let your brain wind down before you go to bed.

44. When going to bed, read some light fiction or article to tire your eyes and help forget about the things which are worrying you.

45. If you are still struggling to relax at night, use a natural compound such as Valerian to help you get a good nights sleep.

Image by Flickrized

Making time to do enjoyable, carefree things with your partner, children, friends or pets is more productive than spending hours worrying about a situation. Fun activities can be a marvelous way of coping with stress, and some of the items below simply highlight the importance of play.

46. Get a hobby. Many hobbyists who initially developed their interests for stress management, have turned their hobbies into careers and their work is now their play.

47. Drawing and Painting can be used as a way to process emotions and release them.

48. Knitting can provide an outlet for nervous energy.

49. Gardening is therapeutic and growing your own fresh fruit and vegetables also has health benefits.

50. Writing is a pastime that can be viewed as cathartic and relaxing and provides something that can be shared with others.

51. Learn to say “Yes!” to new opportunities and adventures.

52. Music is a great stress reliever – capable of providing a distraction, an inspiration or for lifting your mood.

53. Get involved with other people at clubs and associations to share and support each others interests.

54. Watch sport with family and friends – either live or on the TV. Supporting a joint cause creates a great bond.

55. Throw a party and, if cash is tight, only invite friends who will bring a bottle!

Image by Pam Ramsey

Owning pets can be a great stress reliever. It is virtually impossible not to forget your problems when a pair of puppy eyes meet yours, so “pet your pets” because looking after them is a great way of caring for yourself.

56. A pet will improve your mood and reduce your blood pressure.

57. Having a pet will encourage you to go out and exercise.

58. People stop and talk to pet owners. It is incredible the number of people that you will meet.

59. Having a pet means you always have a companion that will provide love and friendship for you.

60. Pets won’t judge you, so talk your problems through with your pet. They might not be able to provide solutions, but they are fantastic listeners.

61. Did you ever wonder why so many surgery waiting rooms have tropical fish aquariums in them? When is one of the times that you are going to be most stressed?

62. If it is impractical for you to have a pet, go feed the ducks in the park or visit your local zoo. You will be glad that you did.

Image by Beverly & Pack

Sex and stress are linked in several ways. It is clinically proven that couples who have enjoyed making love are less stressed and more inclined to make love more often. However, when suffering from stress, our levels of physical intimacy suffer.

63. Deep breathing during sex oxygenates the blood and reduces levels of stress.

64. Massaging each other whilst making love is good for our emotional health.

65. The energy used up when making love is equivalent to a good physical workout.

66. Sexual activity releases “feel good” hormones and endorphins.

67. Findings have suggested that, when faced with a stressful situation, you are more capable of dealing with it if you have recently made love.

68. Having sex takes your mind off your other problems.

69. Physical affection and sexual activity promotes a good mood.

70. Stress in other areas of your life will generate a low libido that will suppress your desire for sex. You need to say “no” to some things in order to say “yes” to the ones that matter.

Image by Sabrina Campagna

If you always seem to have more month left than money, the stress that this causes can ruin a relationship as well as your health. Here are some handy tips for managing your funds a little better.

71. Itemize all your outgoings and write down where your hard earned dollars go.

72. Pay bills on time. Red letters are not conducive to a low-stress life.

73. If in a relationship, the one who is the best budgeter should have the job.

74. Get help to amalgamate debts and then do not accumulate any more!

75. Shred your credit cards. If having one is a necessity, then leave it at home.

76. Only shop when you have just eaten – hungry shoppers are impulse buyers.

77. Always write a list and stick to it. This will save money and calories.

Image by Photos8.com

Telling somebody who is stressed out to “Pull yourself together!” is hardly the right type of support you would expect from a friend or loved one. But sometimes that special person is not able to see, or able to resolve, the issues which are causing you to be stressed, and sometimes, there is only one special person who can do that – yourself.

78. Try to change your perspectives – “It matters, but it is not important” is a good one.

79. Be kind to yourself. Your situation is already difficult so no need to make it any harder.

80. Look after yourself as you would somebody you loved.

81. Use positive self-affirmations “I am … …, I will … …, I can … …”

82. Help somebody else. This can be as therapeutic as helping yourself.

Image by RoryLab

83. Cultivate friendships with optimistic people.

84. Don’t dwell in the past – look to the future.

85. Be emotionally resilient. See change as an opportunity

86. Join a support group – a sense of belonging is important to emotional and mental health.

87. Use visualization…see yourself achieving, winning, being loved, wealthy, healthy

88. Read spiritually uplifting books that help to prioritize what is causing you to be stressed.

89. Rent your favorite movie and give yourself time out.

90. Get a clear idea of what you want and try self-hypnosis.

And finally, everything else that we could not categorize we are going to call “Special Ways to Lower Your Stress Levels”. As with all our other tips, you have to make small changes to your lifestyle and gradually build on them. Our suggestions will not change everything overnight, but the more you use, the better you will feel.

91. Laughter heals physical and emotional ills, and as hard as it may be to raise a smile sometimes, write a list of the happiest moments in your life and refer to it often.

92. Hug somebody you love.

93. Treat yourself to some Kava-Kava. The root of this Hawaiian plant generates mild euphoria, characterized by elevated mood, lively speech and increased sensitivity to sound! It is definitely nature’s remedy to stress!

94. Aromatherapy is a natural and proven way to relieve stress. Visit your local health shop and ask for the appropriate essential oil to combat the source of your stress.

95. Take a holiday to get away from the environment(s) which is causing you to be stressed, and use it to relax!

96. Show gratitude for what you have rather than stress over what you don’t. You will be surprised how good that feels.

97. Go Bowling. It is great fun, completely pointless and there is a lot of jumping up and down, throwing and hugging and kissing. It combines plenty we have suggested that you do in this article.

98. Go on a picnic.

99. What were your favorite sweets when you were a kid? Look after your inner child. Go out and buy some!

100. Treat yourself to an out-of-this-world massage.

101. Write lists. Not just for the things you have to do. But lists of your favorite films, lists of your favorite songs, lists of your favorite cities – lists of your favorite lists! You will soon realize that you have more blessings than you thought.

Image by thomaswanhoff

Snake Massage. If ever a massage was conceived that would not put you immediately at ease, this would be it! How do you fancy having half a dozen or more lively snakes wriggle over your body? Therapeutic? Apparently so, as clients who have experienced snake massage report that once you get over your initial “misgivings” the physical contact with the reptiles can be soothing.

Not convinced? Neither were we. So we sent Wendy from the office to find out more.

Shiatsu Massage “Pillow”. Well, they call it a pillow, but there are so many applications that this mechanism can be used for, that it was only fair to include it in this list for the “bizarre-ness” of the uses. The back, neck, lumbar, head, thigh, foot, arm and butt can all benefit from a Shiatsu Massage, and the massage unit can be integrated into a chair, bed or portable unit for use at any time in your daily life.

Wendy says “Whether you would want to experiment on your most delicate features with this particular model is down to you!”

USB Massager. We discovered this to be a very popular plug-in in the office. Sadly, the printers, scanners and internet immediately crashed due to the over-loading on our USB ports, and we had to send Wendy off to the IT department to get our systems running again. Tools such as these USB massagers are incredibly common in Asian workplaces, and we just thought they were oh-so-chilled!

Massage Pen. We discovered a USB massage pen in the course of compiling this article, but after what happened with the massage balls, the IT department told us where to stick it, and there are some things that Wendy will not do! However, this dual function, non-technical version is almost as efficient – although Wendy was not too enamored with the design.

Fish Foot Massage. This is not one for those with ticklish feet, but how do you fancy having a foot micro-massage from hundreds of Turkish Garra-Rufa fish? These little creatures nibble away at dead skin, and provide a stimulating experience for your feet. They have been used to cure psoriasis and eczema, but remarkably have been banned in Florida.

So, we sent Wendy to Bangkok on the pretence of getting a pedicure … … …

Thai Massage. Thai Massage is a very skilled, physical yet relaxing form of massage that involves a lot of yoga-like stretching and deep tissue manipulation. The theory behind it revolves around the body being permeated with “lom” (air/energy) which is stimulated by the massage and encouraged to travel through the body.

While Wendy was has having her feet done, we sent Mike to experience a rather more physical massage than he would have liked!

Lego Neck Massage. When we were kids, we never had Facebook or Twitter to keep ourselves occupied. We played on bikes, read books, drew pictures and created stuff with Lego or Meccano. With a little bit of ingenuity, anything is possible with a Lego set, as we found out when we discovered this Lego Neck Massager.

Wendy was away (and Mike was in recovery), so we had one of the office juniors demonstrate it

Spa Capsule. This is really awesome and complete indulgence – and you do not even have to take your clothes off! When you climb inside one of these “personal water jet massagers”, you are treated to a great massage experience and aromatherapy all in one. There is also a DVD player and iPod hookup to encourage you to relax whilst 28 water jets pound a protective sheet around you to give you the full body treatment.

Wendy has never been one to pass on an opportunity where she did not have to remove her clothes  … … …

Breast Massager. Of all the wacky and weird contraptions on the market, this one caught our attention – although the practical implications of using this device in the office raised a few eyebrows! Suitable for both sexes, it does not perform so well when turned around to massage your back, but has applications for the person with the larger gluteus maximus.

Wendy declined to be involved in this demonstration, so you will just have to use your imagination.

Roadroller. But for the ultimate deep tissue manipulation, get yourself a BW 120 AD double drum road roller, a reinforced concrete floor and some soothing music. Apparently, this is also banned in Florida!

We found this form of treatment particularly effective on uncooperative office staff … … … … … “Wendy!!!!”

]]> http://www.massagetherapy.net/10-incredibly-bizarre-massage-techniques/feed/ 0 http://www.massagetherapy.net/massage-therapy-equipment-and-supplies/ http://www.massagetherapy.net/massage-therapy-equipment-and-supplies/#comments Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:09:23 +0000 Mr. Massage http://www.massagetherapy.net/?p=36 Massage therapy equipment is varied and according to the skill of the therapist and the needs of the client, all striving to promote the massage experience and aid the therapist.. There is nothing as satisfying and relaxing as a good massage.

Massage therapy equipment usually consists of massage chairs, massage tables, towels, stools, cleaning supplies, lotions and oils, pillows and sheets, table warmers, candles, music and mood lighting.

Each day there are new massage therapy equipment ideas emerging. Some are designed to help the client, and some to help the therapist. For example, there are holsters available for the therapist to keep their lubricant in. This allows the therapist to move around the table without needing to reach for their massage lotion or oil, as it is always right by their side.

The Massage Table

Apart from the therapist the massage table is the most important piece of equipment. There are many different types of massage tables available. There are portable massage tables and stationary massage tables. Some offer adjustable height, either by adjusting the legs manually or using hydraulic adjustment capabilities. Also, massage tables are either made of light weight metal or made of solid wood and come in different heights. In addition, massage tables can be covered in leather or vinyl, come in various colors, and are durable and easy to clean. Most massage tables will have optional arm rests and/or face plates or holes. When choosing a table, it may be either custom built or readymade. Some custom built tables also have optional extra thick foam, or other design options such as open ends to allow the therapist to be seated at the end of the table.

The Massage Chair

The massage chair is made of similar fabric as the massage table but has wonderful  contoured shapes that give complete relaxation and helps to decrease lower body compression. Massage chairs are used to give a client a quick but effective massage while the patient has his or her clothes on. Massage chairs are a great way to offer portable services to busy people in their work environment or their home.

The Massage Stool

Massage stools are also part of the massage therapy equipment. Massage stools are not always used but might be used when the  therapist wants to give a deeper type of massage or massage in one area for a longer time period, for example, working on the feet, In this instance, the therapist might be seated on the stool while performing the massage. Massage stools help the therapist conserve their energy and promote ergonomics, helping decrease repetitive strain on the therapist.. Most models have adjustable height and are on wheels to give the therapist easy and smooth movement.

Massage Pillows

Pillows are used during a massage to support, or bolster various body positions and parts. They need to be covered with pillow protectors that are not only waterproof but also cleanable. There are, of course, many different shapes and sizes of pillows used for varying purposes. Regular flat pillows are often placed under the hips of the client when they are lying face down on the massage table, and then loved under the knees when they are on their back to promote comfort. There are wedge shaped pillows that help for massage during pregnancy, to support the woman’s belly during massage. As with any equipment, it depends on what modalities you practice, as well as your client’s preferences as to what type of pillow you use.

The Massage Towel or Sheets

Massage therapy towels/sheets are  another very important part of the massage therapy equipment. During most massage therapy sessions, towels/sheets are used to cover or drape many areas of the body such as the arms, legs, face, and torso. The therapist simply uncovers the area being addressed, while the rest of the body is covered to keep warm, and for modesty. Client ‘s are all shapes and sizes, so the size of your towels/sheets must be adjusted accordingly.. Therapists also use separate towels to clean the equipment and to clean and dry their hands. The quality, texture and laundering requirements of the towel must be considered for optimal results and satisfaction for the patient.

Massage Tools

There are also many massage tools available. These are designed to help therapists save their hands. For example, there are trigger point tools available that allow the therapist to apply the necessary pressure to a trigger point using the tool, rather than their thumb or fingers. These types of tool help therapist from muscle strain, the leading injury amongst massage therapists. Therapists still require their hands to palpate, or feel what is going on with their client’s muscles, but the tool can be used to replace the pressure needed to release sore muscles. Also important is the ergonomics of the tool, it needs to allow the therapist to keep their wrists straight during use, and promote good body mechanics for the therapist. There are many available on the market, and just like finding a match between client and therapist, one size does not fit all. Trial and error will allow you to find the appropriate tools for your practice and your clients.

Added Features of Massage Therapy Equipment

In order to reduce friction on the client’s skin, a lubricant is needed for most massage styles. Massage lotions, creams and oils are readily available, and many are scented or unscented, depending on your client’s needs.  Some clients are allergic to artificial fragrances, and there are natural, aromatherapy lotions that make a great alternative to fragranced products. Pillows may also be required for padding or bolstering during the massage, and generally should have a waterproof pillow protector to allow them to be sanitized between clients. Pillows are also generally covered with cases, which need changing and laundering between clients as well. Other equipment may also be part of a therapy session, such as table warming pads, specialty lighting, music and even candles. The need for some equipment depends highly on the needs of the client, and the setting for the massage treatment. Massage therapists also require adequate cleaning supplies. There are ready made cleaning solutions, and also plenty of recipes online for cleaning sprays and solutions. The massage table must be sanitized between each client, regardless of the fact that sheets cover your table between clients. Sheets and pillow cases must be changed, and the pillow protectors sprayed and wiped clean also. A therapist needs some way to store laundry , and if massage oils are used, it is best to store used linens in an airtight fashion to prevent the oils on the linens from smelling rancid before you get them into the laundry. This brings up the question of how the laundry will be cleaned. Some therapists take the linens home and launder them themselves, and some use a linen service that picks up the laundry every day, replacing it with a bag of clean linens.

There are many different places that hire massage therapists. Many of the places that you can find employment are day spas, resorts, hotels, health clubs, doctor’s offices, chiropractic offices, hospitals and cruise ships. You can of course open your own business which requires more work and an initial outlay of money to get the business going.

One of many things to remember when it comes to looking for a job in massage therapy is that pay is dependent on where you reside. Everyone pays different and when you are self-employed, you are either with clients and getting paid, or not bringing any money in. Alternatively, some companies pay therapists hourly, in which case your income is based on hours worked, rather than clients booked. The most common pay for a massage therapist is between $12-$15 an hour. Your success is going to be dependent on how many clients you can get. If you are working for a company then always make sure you understand the difference between subcontracting or an employee position. Remember to read the fine print before signing any contracts as many places require you to be contracted to them alone, leaving you unable to perform massage outside of their office.

Accurate training is very crucial when it comes to being a massage therapist. The more training you have as well as experience is going to have an impact on how much work you get and how many clients you can retain.

If you are interested in finding a job or training in massage therapy it may take some time to find the right match. If you are looking for training, you find that in just about state in the US. As mentioned previously, always make sure you do proper research into the school and the training they are going to provide. Some schools will provide financial aid and some may not. Finding a job is something that is going to require research as well. Make sure you understand everything about the job such as pay, hours and what kind of position is being offered. Massage Therapy is a growing field and is need of highly trained and professional therapists. Take the time to get the most and best information as you can find to determine if this is the right position for yourself.

Annual income really does depend on where the Massage Therapist lives and where they are employed .. It will also depend on their experience, where their employer is located and what kind of business they are involved with. Some therapists have been able to up to $180,000 a year after getting the much needed experience and training they need. You can work many different schedules being a Massage Therapist. It can range from full-time to part time to being a contractor.

Once you have been in the industry for  a while, you can start your own business and make a significantly higher income. You are of course going to have some things that you will need to purchase in order to run a successful business. You will have to purchase a massage chair and table, some sheets for the chairs and table and lotions and oils. You may also require equipment for hydrotherapy, or for the application of heat or cold. Some therapists swear by infrared sauna treatment prior to the massage to maximize results. It is important that you remember that is can take a couple of years to get your business up and going. Some therapists have been able to make an upward of $70 for one hour of massage. If you are working for someone else’s business, you may be able to make $20 or more for an hour not including tips. For part time workers, they have been able to make $30,000 or more a year.

Once you have decided that massage therapy is the right choice for you, you are going to have to find the best school to get your training. Many schools are starting to offer this kind of degree and it can be done with in as little as year. Research the schools and what all they have to offer so you know you are getting the best deal for your education with the best program. Choose the one that has the most training so you can get all you need to be the most successful and make the most salary each year.

Massage Therapy is a rewarding field that can help you build one of the biggest businesses in the world. In order to maintain the best customer relations, you always take the time to make sure that you strive for the best work possible with every client that you have. Before starting into your career take the time to understand your goals and what all you want to accomplish. The most important aspect of being a Massage Therapist to always have a warm, friendly, inviting personality and you should have no problem building the business of your dreams.

The benefits of massage have long been recognized in almost all cultures. Its use is even reported on in the Bible. (Esther 2:12) “Massage techniques play an important part in traditional Chinese and Indian medical care,” observed the British Medical Journal (BMJ) of November 6, 1999. “European massage was systematized in the early 19th century by Per Henrik Ling, who developed what is now known as Swedish massage.”
Massage is credited with relaxing the muscles, improving circulation of the blood, and removing toxins that have accumulated in the tissues. Doctors now prescribe massage for such ailments as back pain, headaches, and digestive disorders. Most people who receive massage therapy comment on how good it makes them feel. According to Dr. Sandra McLanahan, “eighty percent of disease is stress-related, and massage reduces stress.”
“As massage becomes more mainstream, consumers are becoming concerned about a massage therapist’s credentials, and they should be,” noted E. Houston LeBrun, past president of the American Massage Therapy Association. BMJ advised that to avoid unprofessional behavior, “patients should ensure that practitioners are registered with an appropriate regulatory body.” A report last year noted that therapists were licensed in 37 states in the United States. There are basically two types of certification tests. One is the National Certification Examination (NCE) for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. The other is National Certification Examination for Therapeutic Massage. You must check with state boards to see which type of exam they require for practice. Of course in order to take the exams you must have accumulated 500 hours of supervised instruction and graduated from an accredited school. In states that do not use the NCE, anyone applying for licensing must either take that state’s test or apply for reciprocity, which is usually on a case-by-case basis. Reciprocity refers to the exchange, recognition or enforcement of licenses, privileges or obligations between states of US or between nations.
Characteristics of Massage
Basically there are four kinds of movements used in massage. There is the stroking of the muscles of the body. This is performed with the palms of the hands and the pulps of the fingers. Kneading (actually the French word for massage means kneading) is accomplished by grasping the muscles between the thumb and the fingers, both hands working together. Then there is friction, which involves a rotation movement. And there is also percussion, which is performed by striking the muscles with the edges of the palms. While there is a trend toward using mechanical means, such as a vibrator, there are many in the profession who believe that only by means of the hands are these movements most beneficially and effectively performed.
These differing procedures of massage are, in turn, modified and varied by certain factors. There is the matter of pressure, which can be light, medium or heavy. The rate or pace, at which the massaging is done, as well as the rhythm, is also important, being governed by whether stimulation or relaxation is the goal. Still another factor is that of duration, the length of time involved, usually from forty-five minutes to an hour for a thorough head-to-foot treatment. How frequently one gets a massage is another consideration. Once or twice a week can be beneficial, if time permits, unless an injury is involved. Once a client is balanced, it may be once a month for maintenance. Then again, the use of baths and heat in preparing a person for a massage is considered by many to be essential for maximum results.
There is reason to believe that massage is undervalued, even as are other aspects of physical medicine. Of course, a massage is a time-consuming treatment. By way of contrast, a thorough massage may take sixty times as long as a chiropractic treatment. A massage also involves a great deal of physical exertion on the part of the practitioner. Additionally here are some tasks a massage therapist may undertake:
• Providing clients with rehabilitative exercises
• Conferring with clients about medical histories
• Developing client treatment plans
• Preparing clients for tests, therapy or treatments
• Maintaining treatment records
• Preparing and blending massage oils
So, if you want to become part of this growing industry, making people feel better and improving your own quality of life; enroll in an accredited school of massage therapy and bring your credentials to us so that we can begin long a meaningful relationship in the field of health care.