Bring Out Your Inner Massage Therapist

When you lying face down on a massage table, regardless of how great a job the message therapist is doing, you might always be tempted to assume that at the end of the day the entire job entails is a pair of hands. In reality, there is much more to a massage than that. A professional message therapist must know quite a few things. First of all, they have to know exactly which tools to use whether it is the hands, fingers, elbows and whatever else. They must also know exactly which oils to use, which scents etc. Most importantly, the message therapist always has to precisely how to handle the client's body. He or she must know where to touch, how to touch it and even how long to touch it.

This is not a simple thing and to be in tune with all this, all professional message therapists must attend massage therapy spa training. If you have also been wondering how to start off on a career in this industry, you will also need to start here in order to learn massage therapy. The time it takes in massage training varies according to what it is the student wants. Some simply seek the minimum requirements needed to get started while others go the whole way and seek to master the discipline. In some cases, this period of learning time is regulated by a stated body and can range anything from 330 to 1000 hours. This will translate to programs that last anything from between a few weeks to two years.

After attaining the necessary skills needed, the next step is to start building a career out of this. There are various approaches one may take. Some start on entrepreneurial ventures and start their own business such as massage parlors or massage therapy spas while others seek employment from already established businesses. Some of the places in which a massage training graduate can attain employment include but are not limited to Spas, resorts, hotels, hospitals (as medical massage therapists), private offices, fitness centres, country clubs etc. The tourism and hospitality sector is the place where it would be easiest to find employment because massages have become an important part of most peoples relaxation routines thus the best place to find them would be where they go to relax.

Even if you are not interested in a full time job as a message therapist, it can also make for a great part time job which is a great idea for somebody seeking to make a little extra money. It is also the kind of skill that is great fun to have handy in the bedroom as a sensual massage can make for a great experience in the bedroom.

In case you wish to learn massage therapy for other reasons other than getting a job or just to simply expand your knowledge then you are in luck because this is a field that has as many variations as it could take you to learn in a single lifetime. You could take a massage continuing education and seek to learn as many different techniques as you can learn. Massage practices from the east will give you an especially good amount of work to do as they have many varying types of massage therapy ranging from Japan's shiatsu, Thailand's Hilot, the stone massage among others.

Massage continuing education may seem basic but it can also be an education in healing as many massage therapists will testify to at least one patient who claimed that the message therapist hands are what cured them after many years of ailment. When you learn massage therapy, you also learn to heal.

Why 5-Star Hotel Spa Massages Are So Bad

What would you say if I told you that these 5-star Hotels put this poor quality out on purpose, would you be shocked? I was.

Oh don't get me wrong, these Hotels are first rate as far as their non-spa services, ambiance and amenities, so why do they go out of their way to hire fresh-just-out-of-school massage therapist?

• Profit margins




• Easily trainable for their "Spa Culture"

I'm positive that they have more reason for this other than what I listed, for instances, I know that these 5 star hotels impress upon newly graduated massage therapist, the allure at working such a prestige luxury spa. Once this is accomplished, they throw in a bunch of fluff "employee benefits" to make their massage therapist think, "wow" I am special.

By design someone needs to pay for that terry robe.

These 5 star hotels are very smart they know their industry. They purposely avoid hiring massage therapist with experience as they know most likely this massage therapist is "set in his ways" and will not work for such low wages. These Hotels lose a lot of money for instance if they hire a veteran massage therapist, who specializes in deep tissue and delivers that massage to all guest. Advance massage therapist may also find a problem and spend more time there, which the guest did not pay for.

Let me explain have you ever noticed how much they charge just for a 50 minute Swedish Spa massage and have you noticed how much that price jumps when you get anything extra (i.e. aromatherapy, reflexology, deep tissue or scalp massage), I don't need to tell you folks. If you had gone to a hotel to a massage then you know what I am talking about it. A 50 minute deep tissue massage with aromatherapy and tip will be over $200 easily, and all that goes to your hotel. Your massage therapist might be lucky to make 15-18% of that total.

Your veteran massage therapist on the other hand may find a problem that needs that extra attention and not care if their customer only paid for a Hotel Signature Spa massage. The massage therapist with experience often will know that in this spa business, your tips may be well over what you get hourly from the Hotel. Your veteran massage therapist will be more customer service orientated than your newly graduated massage therapist will be more likely to do what is required no more no less, until they become smart.

All fluff and no substance, 5-star ambiance, 2-star massage service

Even with their reputation at stake here, I am amazed that these 5-star Hotels would not want to put the best quality experienced massage therapist on their payroll. I cannot tell you how many times customers of certain Hotels have come to me and express their disappointments. Do these spa's think that they can win you as a repeat customer, just on fluff alone, but hey if fluff is what you like, I can give the names of many places to check out.

Becoming An Effective Massage Therapist

Our body needs to be pampered right after a long and tiring day at work. You have to free your mind from several stress stimuli and be comforted by a therapeutic massage that promotes utmost rest and relaxation period. Pressures, tension and anxiety can be present anywhere. Therefore, you have to counter it with a touch of comfort in order to bring balance.

Being a therapist has a lot of things to consider. She must have the desire and willingness to do the job with a whole heart since kneading could greatly affect a client's mood and general health condition. Body massage could be that simple but its health benefits are tremendous. Every pressure point has a definite equivalent to the body. Therefore, rubdown must be performed with care and delicacy. Once you've decided to become a therapist, an extensive training must be acquired. As mentioned earlier, each pressure point has an equivalent effect to the human body. That's why it is very important to learn the dos and don'ts of this therapy. By undergoing necessary trainings, you will definitely improve your skills in rendering therapeutic care, eventually.

There are different courses being offered in order to become a credible therapist. You can even choose a modality as to which area you want to specialize. The modality you're going to use in rendering a therapeutic care would always depend on the physical condition and health needs of the patient. There are some techniques intended for relaxation while others are used for aiding body impurities and impairments. Keep in mind that the main goal of your job is to rejuvenate the body and be able to attain freedom from pain and stresses. For this reason alone, a therapist must really take necessary measures with enough knowledge in order to satisfy the needs of the client.

In using special techniques to delicate patients such as pregnant mothers, infants and stroke patients, adequate knowledge and skill is also a requirement. You cannot just give anything to the mentioned clients above. Remember that circulation and nerve endings are greatly affected in every pressure that is being introduced to the body. You have to make certain that acupuncture or other stroke movement is not contraindicated to your client so that complications will be avoided.

Health clubs and spa clinics require highly qualified personnel so that the treatment they would render to the clients are surely comforting. Be aware that a therapist who does not obtain enough skill could actually add to the stress that the patient feels. Therefore, as personnel who provide therapeutic care, be very sure to give comfort and alleviate the patient's suffering and not to aggravate his condition. Ensure patient's safety too and always aim for a good feedback.

Do not confuse yourself to physical therapists and massage therapists because they have different job descriptions. Physical therapists are more focused on previously injured or disabled patients. It requires thorough knowledge and a college degree in order to complete the course. You must also obtain the license to practice.

More Observations And Concerns of A Massage Therapist Working From Home During Holiday Season

None of us is content to have "the passive neighbour", as we are all affected by the things that go on in the neighborhood and among those with whom we live. Let's explore the tendency to pay casual attention only during the holidays, while going about one's business unconcerned and unaffected the rest of the year. As a licensed and certified massage therapist who also works from home, I am affected on both sides of the scenarios. Neighborly relationships should matter all year, not just on holidays. One neighbor just might be called upon in a life-and-death scenario and if we have all been paying attention, we will answer this call.

Holiday seasons are some of the loneliest, most depressing times across the world. This has been my experience and observation of those I have lived among. As the season changes to the fall, it's almost as if the Universe and our bodies prepare for a long, expensive, debt-ridden, dismal, boring and aggravating portion of the year; which brings with it the grey gloom and early darkness and the feeling that as soon as possible after work you should be wearing your pajamas and hugging a pillow and the remote. "Strangers" start wishing you all kinds of things and giving "friendly" invitations to their parties (but never to network); whereas other times of year, they don't even answer when you say hello. They look the other way and pretend not to hear. Business is slow and so I have more time on my hands. So I observe people more closely... LOL

In the Spring and Summer months, you can walk about, go to the parks, the malls, bookstores, coffee shops, etc., and smile at people genuinely... or ignore people genuinely (with no one taking offense), or simply sit amongst them and listen to the buzz and not feel obligated to speak, while still feeling "part of" the aesthetics of that area. Not so the rest of the year. Everyone and their grandmother are out and about spending money they don't have (our culture is known for spending a dime while earning a nickel... ) and wishing everyone all kinds of holiday greetings. They don't care whether you celebrate holidays or not. Most people will be offended and think one's rude for not wishing the greetings back, and it doesn't matter whether you mean it or not, just as long as you "play along".

There are many who have received, and will yet receive invitations from "people they don't know"... people who don't, and probably won't, speak the rest of the year... They are buying you presents, expecting presents, and/or are acting especially friendly "in the spirit of the holidays", but have ignored you as you come and go all year... until now. If you live in a small town, then some of this might not make sense to you. Everyone usually knows everyone else and is somehow connected, so it's not strange to get or give invitations to things. However, when you live in the cities with their large apartment and condo complexes, and where most people mind their daily businesses practically oblivious to the person next door or across the hall, you understand how strange the "spirit" can be. Even networking opportunities are difficult to find within these communities and it's weird because everyone needs a "sample" back or shoulder rub as soon as you say you are a massage therapist... i.e. until they learn that you work from home, then things get really weird.

I have a neighbor who has this little dog... well in my community there are probably more pets than people but that's not the point... This woman walks the dog a few times a day as she appears to be retired. I just always seem to be heading out my door or coming in just as she's coming in or going out with the dog or we pass each other at the park. I say hello, but never get a response. Sometimes I chuckle to myself as I come upon her and see her try to busy herself with the dog or turn to look at the sky or anything, just so she doesn't look at me... the last time she looked at me I smiled and said how are you today and that was "uncomfortable" as she swooped down and pet her dog and said nice things to it... It's people like this that offer you a pie at holiday time! The woman whose door is immediately in front of mine seems to watch me through the peephole. If she's walking her dog in and sees me coming, she either hurries in or stops a ways away to "watch the sky," waiting for me to get in ahead of her. If we happen to open our doors to leave at the same time, she goes back in and waits for me to go down the stairs. At first it was weird, but now I ignore her or occasionally it's funny in my mind. The woman who walks this neighbor's dog for her during the days does the same thing... well, she'll respond when I say hello, but if I follow-up with a "how are you doing today?", then she turns and begins addressing the dog instead of responding to that... no further conversation is necessary, I guess.

I have greeted a few in the community who knew me by name and that I am a massage therapist (yes your neighbours do talk about you); which is even weirder than the prior experiences because they have never stopped to introduce themselves. I'm so surprised that they call me by name and stuff that the moment passes before I can shake hands and ask their names... A lot of people have lived here for years and some even have keys to other people's apartments. Actually, I had the locks changed when I moved in because I kept coming home and wondering whether someone had been here snooping. These are the people who will probably be having the home parties during the holidays and will want to invite me... to play along. All of this is o.k., as long as it's o.k. for me to simply smile and say thanks (good manners) and make mental note to approach after "the spirit of the holidays" has passed. I do realize people take strong offense and might not be cordial after I have politely declined a holiday invitation. Neighbours don't have to be friends, but casual and cordial conversations should be the norm, not just for a season. Since I work from home from time to time, it would be nice to get to know my neighbors, because of the need for security in the kind of work that I do. I look out for them and they look out for me... and we both benefit professionally and socially...

Single people and the elderly are some of the loneliest around holiday times. Even the clubs hike their prices so as to increase their profits. Many migrants, as well as others in the community don't celebrate/observe the holidays. Some people do celebrate but are away from their families and friends, and/or are unemployed and can't afford to observe them. Cordial and casual conversations with these people could give insight on these situations throughout the year, if we are truly neighborly. This way we can cordially check on and look out for one another, whether they look like us, speak like us, believe what we believe or celebrate what we celebrate or not... in a "spirit of reality and community".

Unfortunately, people are suspicious of others, but not suspicious enough to befriend a person to find out first hand who he/she is. I am still trying to find out what is so interesting about a single, black, woman with locs living alone in her apartment; coming and going with her hippie-like sack on her shoulder. Foreign blacks are different from American blacks, but to Americans, we all look the same and do the same things. Neighbors appear to be mostly interested in how/whether one can afford the rent, what someone does for work (which you will be judged by), where the neighbor is going or coming from; how many men or women come and go from that apartment and what do they do in there... Great, if they would talk directly to you.

Massage therapists working from home must realize that a majority will assume that you are involved in more "raunchy" and exciting stuff than just giving professional massages. In my case, how else am I able to afford to pay my bills and be home a lot with only a few clients, some wonder. My business cards and related advertising are removed from the community board as fast as I put them up, while other materials seem to stay for months after people have moved out. People wonder "quietly" whether I will have all kinds of other black people over and play loud music and have loud fights... or whatever other stereotypes one may have of black people... I can see the shock and almost "ease" on some faces when my patrons are white, like my neighbors, affluent, and that there are many females among them. All of these things may determine whether or not they speak to me, notice if they haven't seen me for a while, or sense something out of "the norm". This kind of scrutiny can prove helpful when it counts... if not just in the imagination of the suspicious neighbor. However, imagination and judgment should not replace facts or a cordial and good rapport within the community.

I believe neighbors should exchange phone numbers. This way if the music is loud, just call up or knock next door... instead of slamming doors, calling the cops, or banging on the walls/floors. I've given my card to a few but I wonder whether they haven't given me theirs because "they're just not into me"... LOL You don't have to send wine and food. You don't have to ask me out on a Saturday night date, but you can smile and make casual conversation. I like to leave my card with the new people when we meet but if I don't have one on me and it's inopportune, I leave it later with a note under the door. One never knows, whether I may be available to help them get settled in in some way... or give a therapeutic and spirit-based massage when the boxes are empty... LOL. Invite a few over for a game of cards and have a potluck. Go to the gym or go jogging together. There are so many things to do and so many ways to get to know your neighbors. Making acquaintance before and without the holidays will make invitations around the holidays much easier and more genuine. In my case, it might prove important and therapeutic for your home, health and personal care.

How to Work With a Massage Therapist at a Spa With Massages

A day at a spa with massages is a day for health and relaxation. A massage therapist will help you achieve your goals for the day, with various general massage techniques as well as hot and cold stone therapy if you choose. The process works best if you participate in making the spa day go more smoothly.

1. Introduce yourself.

A massage therapist nearly always introduces herself, or a spa staffer introduces the therapist to you. She might even give you a brief overview of her experience and services if it is your first time at the spa. Do yourself a favor and interact with your massage therapist long before she reaches for the massage stones. Introduce yourself when you walk in, and mention the type of massages you like to have.

2. Talk about problem areas.

Before a massage, it is always helpful to talk about any pains and strains you have in your muscles. Discuss with the massage therapist whether hot stone therapy will loosen up the muscles and make them feel more comfortable. Chat about the possibility of combination therapy with both hot and cold massage stones to bring the blood to the surface and flush out inflammation. If you have painful joints or wounds, it is also a good idea to warn the massage therapist before she begins.

3. Set the tone for the session.

Some people like their massage to be all work. They want to talk about clinical effects of massage and the workings of the muscles. Others like to focus on relaxation in a quiet atmosphere. Still others like a friendly ambiance in the room. Decide before you go into the spa setting which kind of environment suits you best, and set the tone right away. If you want friendliness, strike up a conversation. If you want quiet relaxation, stay as still as possible and do not talk much.

4. Give feedback during the massage if there are discomforts or problems.

Your massage therapist will tell you when to move as she places the massage stones on different parts of your body. She will rub your body with basalt stones for hot stone therapy or marble stones for cold stone therapy. As she massages the muscles of your body, you might feel unexpected tenderness in a tendon or joint. Always mention it to the massage therapist so that she can adjust her general massage to accommodate your special needs of the day.

5. Thank the massage therapist after the massage and tip if it is customary.

When the massage is over, it is important to acknowledge the good work of the massage therapist. Thank her for her services and tell her how the massage has benefited you. Before you even went into the massage room, you should have asked the front desk staff the customs of that spa regarding tipping. Tipping amounts vary, and some massage therapists do not like to be tipped if they feel that their services should be classified as medical treatments. By knowing ahead of time, you can do the right thing to make your therapist happy, and end your day well at the spa with massages.

Massage Therapist Business Plan Models - What You Should Put Most of Your Focus On

If you're starting out as a massage therapist or you're looking to take your practice to the next level by creating an effective business plan, I want to give you a couple pointers so you can focus your efforts in the right places.

When entrepreneurs (which is what you are if you own a massage business) create a business plan, it is very common that they waste a lot of time working out the details of their financial projections and all of the mechanics that go into running a practice. Don't get me wrong: Having a business plan is a good idea. I just don't want to see you waste your time on creating something that doesn't end up having direct relevance on your ability to run a successful practice. As a business owner, it's so easy to sit around doing things that feel productive in the moment but are ultimately NOT directly related to the bottom line profitability of the business.

With that said, the most important part of your massage business plan is your marketing plan. About 80% of your business plan should focus on how you are going to market your services to your local community. If you know how to market well, you will do fine and have plenty of clients. If you focus on other things, however, you'll find that you never have enough clients and that your finances are always a struggle.

That's why I say you are not in the business of giving massages; you are in the business of marketing your massage services. That is the most important mindset you can embrace in order to succeed.

Create a detailed marketing plan for your practice and be consistent about implementing it. This is the main key to your success.

Keeping Musicians Pain-Free With Massage

Musicians: small muscle athletes

I once read an article about musculoskeletal pain among professional musicians. A survey of several thousand symphony musicians revealed that approximately 80% of them suffered from either chronic or intermittent pain directly related to their profession. The highest incidence was reported among the violinists. This was not surprising since they not only hold their instrument in a position that is challenging to the muscles, but they spend more time playing than any other instrument in an orchestra. Other instruments often get breaks or play only intermittently but in most orchestral pieces, the violins play most of the time.

Musicians are small muscle athletes. Their profession requires endurance, strength, and precision. The right kind of massage can help them play with less pain and more agility.

Tight muscles inhibit performance

When muscles are tight, movement is inhibited. When muscles are in pain, they become tense and there is less control. Maintaining maximum range of motion and eliminating pain allows a musician to play in comfort and can improve performance.

I've worked with a number of musicians over the years and they fascinate me. Those of us sitting in the audience marvel at their skill, but we seldom think of the endurance they must have to play for hours without a break. I once worked with a couple of conductors and, until that experience, never thought about what it must be like to stand with your arms raised in the air for a couple of hours. Try it, especially while making short, quick, precise movements. It's not easy.

Each musician is different

Each instrument has their own challenges. Horn players can get spasms in the muscles of their cheeks and lips. Violinists suffer from neck and shoulder ache. Guitarists, banjoists, and mandolin players will get pain in their forearms or elbows.

A good massage therapist who understands these problems can go quickly to the source of the pain and begin to dissipate the tension and discomfort. They cannot only help to relieve the acute pain, they can help a musician to continue to play without pain in the future.

Improve performance

Regular massage therapy really should be a part of every professional musician's life. It will improve their performance, help them to play with comfort and ease, and extend the length of their career.

Corporate Massage At Work

There are a variety of types of massage and they also take place in different kinds of settings. Some of the types of this therapy include Swedish, Thai, hot stone, deep tissue, and corporate massage. The Swedish technique involves a lot of rubbing of the skin's surface. The pressure is normally light to medium as it focuses on the superficial layers of the skin. Often times the therapist uses creams or oils to lubricate the skin to ensure that the masseuse's fingers can more easily glide over the skin's surface.

The Thai type is typically associated with a lot putting a lot of pressure onto the client through the use of chopping and patting motions. Sometimes the therapist actually walks on the back, arms and legs of the participants. Thai massages are recommended for people who like deep pressure because to other folks they can even be perceived as painful. The hot stone technique is a relaxing way to sooth the tension of the muscles and melt away the pain through the use of heat therapy. After the stones are placed into a warmer, the masseuse places them on tense parts of the body. He or she checks with the client to make sure that the temperature of the stones is comfortable. After the rocks are taken away, the therapist may perform another type of relaxation therapy. Another type is deep tissue. This features a higher amount of pressure put onto the muscles. It is used to aide in the process of getting rid of knots and overly tense or tightened muscles. Because all people have different preferences, some may consider this treatment to be too rough for their liking. In this case the light pressured Swedish may be a better option.

A corporate massage is a little bit different from the others. The participants remain fully clothed and lay face down on a special chair. This differs from the other forms that involve removing clothing to one's level of comfort and lying on a table while covered with a sheet. These services take place in the middle of a busy workday. A corporate massage can last anywhere between five minutes and thirty minutes. They usually are no longer than this considering they are meant to squeeze into a busy work schedule. These therapies are paid for by the employer rather than the employee and are often part of an employee wellness plan. Stress reduction techniques like corporate massage are an important part of ensuring employee happiness and well-being. Partaking in a corporate wellness therapy is likely to give workers a way to cope with the everyday tension of the job. That tension can start to cause negative physiological and psychological effects if it is not kept in check. Treatments such as these are one way it can be managed. Sometimes employers also provide these services as a reward, staff appreciation day, or a holiday event to give the workers a special treat. While each person has different preferences when it comes to massages, most people admit to enjoying them in one form or another.

Massage Therapist Jobs - Positive Aspects

Many people have interest in massage therapist jobs. Individuals that are interested in this industry appreciate the opportunity to help other people. People that are looking for this type of opportunity usually are trying to find a way to provide for themselves and help others at the same time.

Usually individuals involved with this industry will rent out space in order to provide the service. Building a client base can be a very positive challenge. Working on the bodies of individuals who have various levels of pain can be very gratifying. Once a person has established a relationship with the client they will try to retain the individual to the best of their ability.

Helping people to manage their pain is the main goal of a person that is involved in the profession. Using their hands to work through any physical discomfort that a person is having is the main service that a person in this industry provides. These individuals can work as part of a group or start their own business.

People involved in this industry can set their own hours. They also have the option of choosing to set their own pay scale. This is advantageous for any person that is trying to expand their financial portfolio. People also have the opportunity to work in a health club or other fitness related facility.

Making sure that people are as comfortable as they could possibly be is the main goal of this kind of professional. Accomplishing the goal is a gradual process that people enjoy taking part in. The service provider will be able to help people to maintain a greater quality of life. These individuals also will be trying to encourage a person to live a healthy lifestyle.

The job market is growing. More than ever before insurance companies are starting to cover the service. This is advantageous for people who choose this career because it means that the number of clients that they are doing business with is constantly expanding. People that are able to expand their business will have an enhanced quality of life.

It is fantastically easy to understand the positive aspects of the massage therapist jobs. People in this profession help others and get paid in the process. They also have a chance to help their fellow members of mankind to live a healthier life. This is an amazing opportunity for anyone that seeking in order to find a solid career choice.

How to Become a Massage Therapist

Do you desire to help others? Does the thought of placing hands on another with the intent of facilitating healing and stress relief appeal to you? Are flexible hours, rewarding compensation, and a positive job outlook top priorities for your career choice? If you are like so many that answered yes to the above three answers, a career in massage therapy may be for you.

Over the last ten years, the need for skilled massage therapists as well as the interest in becoming a massage therapist has increased. Whereas, before massage was mostly a second career choice or side gig for stay at home moms or "peace loving hippies" now massage therapy careers appeal to the masses. Because massage therapy is a perfect blend of art and science it seems that individuals from such diverse life experiences are drawn to it.

So if you are interested, what do you need to do? There are three basic steps to becoming a professional massage therapist. I assume you will do your research about the industry (Continue reading articles like this and visiting websites) as well as,speaking with successful massage therapist. In other words make sure you have decided this is something you want to do before you get started. Agreed?

Now that you are ready let's begin:

1. Attend massage therapy school - Every state has specific requirements for the number of massage education hours you must complete. The hours range from 200- 1000. Keep in mind more isn't necessarily better and less isn't necessarily best. Do your research. Look for schools that are accredited by COMTA (Commission on Massage Therapy Schools) and ACCSCC (Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges). Schools with these distinguished credentials have established themselves as leaders in massage therapy education. They have agreed to be held to a higher standard of accountability and professionalism. COMTA and/or ACCSCC accreditation doesn't guarantee that the school you are looking into is a great school but it's a good start. Ask questions. Speak with the faculty and staff and most importantly speak with current students and past graduates.


2. Become Nationally Certified - Thirty-five out of fifty states, as well as the District of Columbia, use the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork Exam as a part of the State licensure process. The cost of the exam is $225. Once certified, you will need to participate in approved continuing education courses in order to maintain your credentials.


3. Get your license - Most states require massage therapist to obtain a state massage therapy license that is issued by a specific board (usually a massage therapy or nursing board). For those states that have yet to implement that requirement you will most likely need a standard business license, especially if you are self-employed. The best way to learn about the specifics of getting your local license will be to inquire of your massage therapy school. As the rules continue to evolve, massage therapy schools are usually the first to learn of the changes.

So, that's it. To become a massage therapist you must attend a state approved massage therapy school, become nationally certified (in most states), and get your local state, city, or county license. Once you have completed these three task you are well on your way to being able to pursue those dreams you originally had of having a rewarding career that would allow you to help others through touch.

Massage Therapy - 7 Tips to Picking a Great Massage Therapist

You've heard a lot about therapeutic massage and pain relief.  Now you're thinking about finding a massage practitioner. 

Or, maybe you've already had massage therapy but are not quite sure it was as effective or good as you thought it should be. 

Maybe the pressure felt too light or too deep.  Perhaps you were uncomfortable for one reason or another.  Maybe you even thought that you would never have another massage again!

Massage therapy can be extremely effective for relieving almost every type of pain.  I must admit that I'm highly biased, but a really good massage therapist can deliver the best and most effective therapy you can get.

So, how can you find a "really good massage therapist?"

1. Ask around.  If you know someone who is very happy with their massage therapist, ask for the therapist's name.  If your friend feels better because of their massage, that's a pretty good sign that you will, too.


2. Massage therapists who have their own office, use the word "clinic" in their business name, or work in a medical facility will more likely practice "medical" or therapeutic massage.


3. Go to the website for the American Massage Therapy Association.  It is the largest professional massage organization and has listings of members.  Membership requirements are fairly strict, and there is a wide mix of members.  Some have a ton of training and experience, some are new to the profession and have had entry level training.


4. Go to the website for the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork.  They also have a listing of therapists who have passed the NCTMB examination.  Almost 80% of the states are licensed now, and many of them use this exam for licensing.  In states which are not licensed, massage practitioners who want the best credentials available often take this exam on their own.


5. Interview the massage therapist you choose on the phone.  Ask them as many questions as you can think of.  Tell them about your pain, where it is, how long you've had it, and what you've done for it.  Please give them the short version.  Listen carefully to their response and see if it sounds as if they can provide the appropriate massage for you.


6. You can interview the massage practitioner in person if you make an appointment to do so.  He or she will be glad to set aside 15 minutes to discuss your situation, explain their probable treatment and show you their office.  If they have trigger point charts on the walls (which show pain patterns and the muscles that most like are causing the pain) that is usually a very good sign.


7. Ask the massage therapist about their training.  Are they new to the field, have they been in practice for many years, have they had any advanced training, especially in pain relief for your specific complaint?  Listen carefully.  There are people who do massage who will say that they can take care of you, but don't have the training or background.

When you have selected a massage professional, remember that it is your body.  You are the expert.  If you have questions or concerns, or the massage doesn't feel right to you, speak up!  A good, competent massage therapist will be glad you did.  They want to do their best, and input from you will help.

All About Massage Therapist Training

A massage therapist is a professional trained in one of the arts massage therapy, which varies in relation to style, atmosphere, education, and personality. The field of promoting well being and general heath is quire broad, which can run from therapists performing one of the basic massages to those, trained or specializing in a particular field, health condition, or muscular problem.

If wishing to get started in the profession of massage therapy, it's vital to research the training and certifications required to become qualified in this field. Requirements often vary from one region to the next, so be certain to review the requirements of your own local authority or jurisdiction prior to enrolling at one of the massage therapy schools.

Schools accredited to teach massage therapist programs are quite easy to come by today, although not so easy to get into. Each of these learning centers have a list of qualifications a student must process, such as a general education degree or high school diploma, in order to gain entry in a particular program.

Some of the more prestigious schools will also require that a student attends a pre-entry interview or supplies a written submission prior to being accepted at that particular institution. If a school is confident a student is serious about enrolling, and pleased with the results of the interview or written submission, than they are more often than not accepted into the program.

Most of the teaching schools start out with teaching the fundamentals, which can consist of a student having a working knowledge of the physiology and anatomy of the human body, the different types of muscle groups, and how those particular muscle groups function. With the basics learnt, students can progress to more advance matters, such as deep tissue massage and muscular tension, as well as learning how a massage therapist can use their skills to help with certain other health conditions, such as those relating to acupuncture, aromatherapy, and Reiki.

Besides learning about the human body, a student on a massage training program will also be instructed on how the mind is able to interact with the body. Also, a respected school provides information on the best business practices, ethics of running this type of business, caring for a client base, and providing exemplary customer care.

A trained therapist can expect to meet a wide-ranging mix of patients throughout a typical business day. A lot of patients visit a trained therapist for the more common purpose of comfort and relaxation, although others will walk in requiring more intense work. Each client is likely to be different; a therapist therefore needs to rely on their own training and past experience to treat patients on a one-on-one basis.

Once qualified, a therapist has the opportunity to work fulltime in medical clinic, luxury spa, or as a freelancer in their own practice, with fees varying for the different types of services provided. With experience, other services might be offered, such as those relating to other body treatments or facials.

Naked Massage - To Cover With a Towel Or Not? (Revised 2008)

Nakedness and what it evokes is a real issue for bodywork therapists, especially female therapists because of how some clients, men or women, will use the massage session to display sexual behavior.

For this article we are not dealing with how bodywork therapists and massage persons can attempt sexuality with their clients, but only about clients displaying sexuality during the session.

I speak as a former Licensed Marriage, Family and Child Relationships counselor in the State of California, USA. I have done bodywork myself as part of the therapy I do. I have had many years of bodywork done with me, as well as a number of training courses in bodywork therapy.

I speak from counseling massage therapists in my own practice. I also am familiar with psychotherapy for sexual uses, including therapeutic sexual massage that is effective.

Sexual massage is more practiced outside the United States than in the States because of severe sexuality issues and attitudes in the United States differing from Canada and Europe.

Here is a sexual issue example:

A man asks the woman massage therapist over the phone: do you include the genitals in your massage work? This is rather direct. The presenting problem may be more, do you work with sexual problems as part of your massage work?

How is a male or female massage therapist to respond? Is this a sexual come-on? Or is this a cry for help?

A massage therapist comfortable with their own sexuality may be willing to take on a client who does have sexual problems. Many females are upset that they cannot orgasm. Males may easily get erections, but while in a woman be unable to orgasm.

It would be unusual indeed if at least half the people who come in for massage treatment do not have sexual problems. What is the massage body-worker to do?

Some forms of massage do include massaging the naked body of the client, with a towel over the pelvic region or not. Other forms work with light clothing on and consist more of stretching movements.

Rolfing works with the naked body so as to see the alignment. There is hardly a chance in this form to feel pleasure responses because Rolfing itself is to break up muscles and facia that have been emotionally tense for years, and so the work can be extremely painful.

It is rare that a male client will directly attack a female massage therapist, but it is still considered good practice not to give massage to persons you do not know fairly well in places where you have no protection should you need to call for help.

WARNING - It is the generally accepted practice to never work alone with a massage client in a building alone. Always work were there is someone who knows you within calling distance. Work where your live-in partner is at home next room over, or in a building with other therapists or businesses.

Once I did a screaming session with a member of a therapy group in a new place and the motor car salesmen and manager from downstairs came running up and loudly banged on the door. They thought someone was being murdered. We had not told them yet that we did therapy with people!

Of course a male client may not tell you he has sexual problems on the phone, but just come in and then tell you.

ISSUE EXAMPLE - The Man Who Spontaneously Orgasmed

- Was this on purpose? And how should the therapist handle it?

One female massage therapist reported to me about a male client who would get an erection every time and have spontaneous orgasm. She never touched his genitals. She had to have a box of tissues nearby so that he could clean himself up. This was Essalen massage combined with Shiatsu pressure-point massage, which deals especially with freeing blocks in the body.

The male client did not try to have sex with her or get her to touch his genitals. Was this a genuine case of being too orgasmic? What would be the best treatment?

I advised her to instruct her male client to practice full-body awareness as he was being massaged.

Indeed, a chief value for anyone being massaged in many different styles of massage is to relax totally into sensual, bodily awareness. Some fall asleep during this relaxation, which is not necessarily healing for the client but acceptable.

For this male client orgasming he was either impressed with his ability to orgasm spontaneously without touching himself, and needed a female to witness this, or he was indeed a seducer. However, what if he simply was by nature a spontaneous orgasm type male?

Let's deal with seducers first!

Men who fixate on being seducers are only interested in getting a female so open to them through their ways of seduction that they do succeed with having intercourse with her.

Thus some men have developed a seduction technique and try to make it work to perfection on female massage therapists. They are not interested in an ongoing life relationship. They want only seduction and conquest and are willing to pay the massage fees to set up these kinds of situations.

To my knowledge with the female massage therapists I have known, they were never trained through role-playing in how to handle seductive clients.

The massage therapist should keep a massage session always on a professional level with a client, not just for reality reasons of keeping one's license to practice, but to keep the massage situation objective and therapeutic.

With the man who spontaneously orgasmed while his body was being massaged he was emotionally and physically too focused on his erect penis and its ability to display and spray sperm.

So what, we might say. The therapist has to accept many peculiarities with clients, whether it is a massage session or not.

I also counseled the massage therapist to take the first five or ten minutes to talk objectively about the client and his behavior. How does it feel to orgasm here? Are you making it happen? Is it spontaneous? What happens with your own lovers?

These simple questions make the client an object of treatment. They de-potentiate the session of its potential sexuality. The female therapist asserts her professional role as a helper and not a partner. Things are kept within structure. The client is made to feel responsible for his own behavior.

In this real-life example, when my friend, the massage person, made the massage sessions objective as suggested, the man stopped coming. The object to seduce the therapist was no longer possible.

Of course, unconsciously, some do get fixated on seducing mother or father substitutes as a way of 'getting back, getting even,' an unconscious power-play that makes the seducer feel dominant in self-esteem, whether truly so or not.

ISSUE - EXAMPLE - The Man Who Spontaneously Orgasmed During Massage Who Was Not A Professional Seducer

The first edition of this article has in its first year been tremendously popular, and as author I have wondered why. Could it be that there are enough men and some women out there who do spontaneously orgasm while receiving a massage? One concerned man about the first edition of this article thought it implied that someone who spontaneously orgasmed was a seducer.

I thank him for giving his concern and I revise this article here to make it clear that for those who spontaneously orgasm, male or female, IT MAY BE A SOCIAL PROBLEM, BUT IT IS NOT WRONG, NOR EVEN A SEXUAL PROBLEM. NOR SHOULD YOU BE CONSIDERED A SEXUAL SEDUCER OR PERVERT.

Sorry for the implications I made in my original article. And many thanks to the reader who voiced his concern with me.

I would suggest that all massage body-workers have paper tissues, or even clean hand towels available, if a male or female spontaneously orgasms. Approach such a situation with positive feeling, acceptance and awareness.

"Oh, it looks like you have had a spontaneous orgasm. Don't worry about it here. Massage is meant as relaxing, and sometimes this happens, and can happen with most anyone. Would you prefer paper tissue or a hand towel to clean yourself up."

"I feel ashamed to do it in front of you. It just happens . . ."

"We can talk about it if you like. Massage is for knowing your body better and accepting it. Relaxing and letting go is a process of self-awareness and accepting your own body."

"Thanks, I'll take the towel. Maybe if you don't look for a moment."

"Fine."

"Why does it happen?"

"Try not to stay in your head as you receive my massage. To let go means letting go control, and that may mean pleasure feelings start happening, including with your genitals. If you feel an orgasm rising, just say so to me as I massage you, and see what happens. You are learning self-acceptance of your body."

"Does that mean you will massage my genitals?"

"I don't do genital work in directly touching your genitals. But I am certainly not against your having orgasms as part of your process. Are we clear? Or do you have any questions still?"

"Let's get on with it."

FOR THE CLIENT WHO SPONTANEOUSLY ORGASMS

Of course, it is your process that is important, however it happens. But why not pre-select the massage body-workers you work with?

Simply tell them on the phone, or in person is better, that you sometimes spontaneously orgasm and it embarrasses you. Ask that person you are meeting for the first time, how they might handle such a situation with you. Then make your decision on the spot, saying you will try out a session or not. You are buying the service. It is your right and necessity to feel safe with the person you work with.

Tell that person that you feel either safe or unsafe with them. Be honest and straightforward. Reality is best. Reality is healing.

ISSUE - The Massage Therapist's Responsibility

The bodywork therapist is also responsible for the effects of her treatment with any of her clients. A bodywork therapist should not think of themselves as just giving a good massage. The effect on the client is also their responsibility.

Thus I have counseled therapists on the issue: can you as a therapist handle this behavior on the part of a client and work with it to some resolution?

If you are a real therapist of course you want to take on challenges and handle every situation. But can you?

Working on the body is often a temptation to be or feel sexual. Relationships have started up between client and therapist, and always will, such is the human condition.

It is important to keep the therapeutic situation non-sexual, unless you are trained in sexual massage therapy and can practice this form, certainly a developing form in Europe and even America, despite repressive attitudes everywhere.

Thus our advice is to keep defining your boundaries as a massage therapist. It will not be just acting out sexuality that you will sometimes be dealing with. Other clients may be more into anger and you will have to structure your relation to this other great instinct as well.

We have raised some issues here. Instead of giving rigid rules we have explored the issues in terms of their human meaning and trying to be the best massage therapist you can be. You know full well it is more natural than unnatural to face the issues of human sexual feelings and expression inherent to living in a body, your body, and the bodies of your clients.

When faced with unusual or intense situations in your practice, do your best to bring the dynamics into reality.

The Man Who Never Came Back - Some Questions

Remember the man who used spontaneous orgasms to seduce?

Was he then just a seducer, using as his field of available women female massage therapists, some of whom might well be seduced by his genital expression?

He exhibited seductive innuendoes in his conversation.

Or did he simply get the point that maybe he could get over his fascination with his own behavior and seek intimacy with a sexual partner he also ate dinner with, showered with, and slept in bed with.

For in the end much of sexual expression is the expression of the need for bonding and intimacy with another human being. The goal of most massage therapy is not simply bodily expression but body-awareness that is relaxing, pleasurable most of the time, and balanced in its expression, sex, sports, sensual expression, caring, anger expression, whatever.

Sexual Expression

Why do we all mostly seek sexual expression?

Ah, you want to know everything, don't you?

So do I!

Right now I am working with the concept that at essence we are all seeking sexually to have tremendously intensified sexual experiences to know and to maximize our experience of existing.

We exist but we want to know that directly as experience of existing.

But more on that elsewhere!

Feel free to visit our web sites and explore.

Massage Therapist Saves a Life!

We all know massage offers great benefits to clients, everything from physical to emotional wellbeing, but I was as surprised as the doctor, when a massage turned out to be a lifesaver. While giving my athletic firefighter husband a relaxing massage, I found a melanoma on the bottom arch of his right foot, the last place you would expect to find it. I began my career in massage therapy 15 years ago after many years working as a para-medical professional in mainstream and complementary medicine. As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) for 19 years, I have performed CPR and other lifesaving maneuvers in my volunteer career. Imagine my surprise when my husband's dermatologist told him that I saved his life when I spotted something strange on his foot. The site was actually a four year-old fire ant bite that had healed, but changed suddenly. The discovery led to several surgeries and precautionary procedures to ensure that the 1mm thick melanoma has not spread to the lymphatic system. I, as many massage therapists and practitioners, take Continuing Education classes to keep licensure current, but the amount of education I have received while accompanying my husband, in just one visit to UW Hospital in Seattle was as "priceless" as the Master Card commercial.

"Swelling of the supra clavicular lymph nodes are often the first sign of a problem within the lymph system of the body," according to Sydney R. Lillard, MD the surgeon working with my husband, at UW Hospital in Seattle, WA. She said, "Massage Therapists spend a lot of time working in that general area with the neck and shoulders. An interesting physiology of the body is that the right node drains only the upper right side of the lymph, while the left supra clavicular node drains the rest of the entire body. Swelling or nodules in lymph nodes warrants a physical examination and medical workup by a physician," "Just because you have sun burned your ears, let's say, doesn't mean that's where a melanoma may develop. Melanoma is more likely to develop if you have had one or more bad sunburns in your lifetime may and develop anywhere on the body. Areas of the skin that may have been injured are also potential melanoma sites." My husband, fair-haired avid outdoorsmen, always wears SPF 50, so this was news to us.

What Is Melanoma? Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. However, if it is recognized and treated early, it is nearly 100 percent curable. But if it is not, the cancer can advance and spread to other parts of the body, where it becomes hard to treat and can be fatal. While it is not the most common of the skin cancers, it causes the most deaths. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2007, there will be 8,110 fatalities, 5,220 in men and 2,800 in women in the U.S. The number of new cases of melanoma is estimated at 59,940; of these, 33,910 will be in men and 26,030 in women. Melanoma is a malignant tumor that originates in melanocytes. the cells which produce the pigment melanin that colors our skin, hair, and eyes. The majority of melanomas are black or brown. However, some melanomas are skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white.* In my husband's case it was a dark purplish brown, like that of a blood blister that changed to black, and grew irregular borders quite rapidly.As a precaution, doctors performed a procedure called Lymphoscintigraphy or mapping of lymph nodes to ensure the Melanoma did not spread to any of the closest nodes near where the melanoma has been removed. In the outpatient surgery, he then underwent further surgical resection of the melanoma area, and a skin grafting at UW Hospital in Seattle, WA. All of that over a tiny change in a very old injury.

Who is at Risk? Everyone is at some risk for melanoma, but increased risk depends on several factors: sun exposure, number of moles on the skin, skin type and family history (genetics).* Here are things to watch for when working with skin: Beware of these danger signs of Melanoma (skin cancer)·

• No New Moles After age 35.


• Pigment Changes of Moles.


• Moles Larger than a Pencil Eraser.


• Moles or skin growths that may bleed.


• Irregular Borders and shapes of Moles.


• Have a women and a man check your skin for changes, Women are better at seeing pigment changes, men at shape and density.


• Supra Clavicular Lymph Nodes Swelling.


• Take precautionary pictures every 3 months. Date and compare them to the next one.


• Sun Screen every time, everyplace and everywhere!

There are a number of natural sunscreens on the market, and clothing to prevent UVA/UVB damage. I have been known to pick up the phone and schedule appointments for clients if I have found something suspicious. I always follow up the appointment with a letter to their primary doctor and the client. I love what I do, and I take my responsibility very seriously. I never dreamed that I'd have to do this for a family member.

How to Prepare Yourself to Pass the MBLEX NCETMB & NCETM Exam Using an Online Study Guide

Stop wasting needless time and money by not being able to pass your national massage therapy certification exam. Learn how you can get your massage therapy license fast that is required to obtain your state massage therapy license. First of all, I highly suggest that you take the nation exam as soon as possible. Don't wait long after you have graduated and then attempt to take the test. More than likely the more time that goes by the more knowledge that you learned in massage therapy school will escape your brain. Also, I highly suggest that you go over notes, read your books, look over old school exams, and read current massage therapy magazines. Sometimes students who even do this, still find it challenging to pass the national certification exam.

If you live in a state where the MBLEx is accepted, I would jump all over that. Most states do accept the MBLEx exam and offer it to all massage therapy student graduates. I have found that thousands of future massage therapists prefer the MBLEx hands down over any other exam. The MBLEx is and can be and overwhelming exam and an exam you will not pass if you think you can just take it without any preparation. Its a 200 question test that cost about $200.00. Many people fail this test and cause themselves a lot of needless expense, grief, and a feeling that is not very good for this kind of profession. I highly recommend that you get some kind of study guide, tutor book, online study practice exam, or anything else that will help you pass the national certification exam.

I have been a massage therapist and instructor for many years and have found future massage therapist simply have to prepare to pass any massage exam whether it be the NCETMB, NCETM, or the MBLEx. Please check your state massage therapy board to see what exam they will accept. Again, I highly recommend taking the MBLEx if your state offers this exam. On the day of the exam, be well rested, use good rationale when reading a question, eliminate right away the wrong answers in your mind and go with your gut feeling on questions that your are unsure of the answer. Again, if your prepared correctly, you will not have any problem passing the exam or any massage therapy exam. The massage certification exam in taken on a computer, and is a multiple choice exam. Like I said, there are many good study guides and I highly would use one for preparation. I have guided many successful massage therapists to use an online study guide that has practice exams that helps prepare you, as well as gives you the computer online feel where you will fill comfortable using a computer on the day of the exam. For more information visit the link below for successful result's in your massage therapy certification and gaining a passing score.

What Are Some Concerns Of A Work-From-Home Massage Therapist? We Want To Be/Have Good Neighbours

However you answer to these question, you are not alone. I read a news article about a man who allegedly strangled his wife, bent her in half, and placed her in a drum, which he then filled with cement. No one saw or heard from her since she left work at a diner where they both worked. Shortly thereafter, the husband left town, having moved about 50 or so miles away in another town. The drum was discovered in the basement of the apartment building in which they lived. One can almost bet that no one saw nor heard a thing, although this building is presumably occupied with many other renters. If other tenants observed a domestic dispute, they dismissed it as none of their business. They worked together, so I don't believe that other employees didn't notice her with bruises, see them fighting, heard any abusive arguments, etc. This woman was a mother of an 11-month old.

I wonder, where were the neighbors? Did anyone report any abuse or did they simply listen through the walls as they fought and/or peep through their windows and the holes in their doors? Did the locals simply gossip about this woman, make jokes and call her names behind her back? Where were her friends and/or family on both sides, and why didn't they step in before a child was left motherless...a child that may have been traumatized by the domestic abuse and may have seen what happened to its mother. The complex now holds a candle-light vigil in honor of this woman. "Honor" when she's dead and can't know nor respond. It makes me think of the Island saying which means, "give me flowers when I'm alive and can appreciate them, not when I'm dead and don't know a thing"...

To me, male tenants seem to have it much easier than female tenants (well except maybe for parents since the kids are great at mingling at the pool, etc.; and parents make extra efforts to provide association for their kids, especially if the kids in the community don't go to school together). In the case of the men, people look them in the eyes and invite them over or out for dinner or to watch the games (they are single and probably won't cook often so why not...). For especially the single women, it appears other women look past them straight ahead, look at their own kids or pets, some even "pretend to be doing something" so they "don't hear" the greeting. Others, if they are with their men, simply pretend the woman passing is invisible and keep eyes on their man just in case he looks or says hello, which they usually do, because the men speak even if the greeting was meant for both people. I sometimes wonder whether the men get into "trouble" because they acknowledged a greeting...risked being in the "dog house". LOL Whether or not people know that a woman is working from home as a massage therapist or not, they, in general will usually view the single woman next door in a weird light.....and learning she's an MT might make things even more weird.

Regardless, it appears men have it easier moving in next door. Just this past weekend my colleague, who's recently moved into his apartment complex, told me he was invited out on a Saturday-night dinner date by two females who share an apartment immediately next door. These are people he says nothing more than hello to while passing. He was sitting at the pool in front of both their apartments a few weeks prior and one woman sent her child to ask whether he drank wine. He was puzzled, but said yes, so out came a glass of wine. Next, he was provided dinner to go with the wine. He thought WOW, how nice! When he told me, I thought, uh huh, grooming for a three-some. He almost vowed to me that he "has no interest in any of these women..." well "he kinda would sleep with the Latina, but she has a kid and he swears off sex with women with kids...; and the black girl has ugly tattoos all over and is totally not his type." I told him to believe whatever he wants, but neighbors don't ask each other out on a Saturday night, a prominent "date night," without intentions.

It's not the holidays, and it's not like they need his company...two of them and one of him. He's already told them he doesn't have a girlfriend and that I am "just a good friend," hence he is "fair game". I have never heard of this kind of neighbor. A social meet-up between neighbors is more like getting together for a game of cards, softball, poker, watching sports, or even having dinner as a group in the complex; but not going out as a three-some on Saturday night, where you get a baby-sitter for your kid and "dress up sexy-like" with your roommate and a really cute man on your arm. Huh? What's that about? However, I bet he feels more secure at home now that he knows there are two willing and friendly women just next door, if he ever gets sick, falls and can't get up, or "worst reality," die in his apartment alone. Maybe they feel more secure knowing who lives next door and that they have begun a relationship of sorts with him. He's cute if they ever need a date, you know...to those holiday parties and family gatherings that they will need to show a boy "friend" for; and he is probably very helpful if they find themselves in an abusive situation...or if they've fallen and can't get up....

I think I'd better start asking my neighbors out to dinner and such. Would it be weird for a single girl neighbor, me, to ask a couple out for drinks? The new people who just moved in next door seem nice. They actually introduced themselves to me and smiled and stuff. Hmm...I wonder whether they play poker or dominoes...or whether they make friends with people regardless of whether it's holiday season or not....
It is almost a certainty that the woman mentioned in the earliest paragraphs had neighbors who were religious and who probably celebrated holidays. She, herself, probably attended a church with some of these neighbors. None of this should matter when it comes down to ethics, morality, and being kind and cordial to another human being. None of this should matter when it comes to the life of another person. I believe that if this man was observed mistreating a dog or some other "treasured" pet, someone would have called the authorities. Folks are very passionate about their animals.....hardly so about their neighbors and other humans..."a crying shame."

If I were the manager of an apartment complex, I would plan monthly meet-ups for tenants. They should come out, say on the 15th of every month, and eat, drink, play games, and talk regardless of whether it's the holidays or not. This way, genuine friendships are formed without the overtones of the holidays and people get into the habit of checking in cordially with each other. This means there is more room to formulate the facts about who our neighbors are, what they do, and to what extent we can trust them. This lends to a generally positive experience living in the community and among people of different mores and lifestyles. Families, single people, elderly people, virtually everyone will find support, community and friendships easier in these scenarios and especially in Los Angeles County, one of the loneliest places on earth. This we will have all year, because we care about and want to associate with our neighbors, not just because of any "spirit of the season".

No doubt, if everyone is socializing in general, there will be ample opportunities to even network with neighbors. I often wonder how many single people are in my complex who go out alone and would probably welcome company. How many people would love to have a professional, licensed, massage therapist within reach after lifting and moving and cleaning or after a very stressful day at work. If you get to know the therapist living and practicing next door, you might even get a deal since they don't really have to travel to you, etc. You probably have assigned parking so parking issue's fixed and it's a short walk to your flat afterwards or, better yet have him or her do the short walk to you. One must agree that this is important to home, health and family life, right?

If you are a good neighbor, maybe this female MT will appreciate your being a "security contact" wherein she will call or indicate to you when she has a male client scheduled. I like to let someone know the name of the person coming over, where they're coming from and how long their session will last (sometimes even physical and ethnic description too). I do this before the client comes and then confirm with my "contact" when the client gets here. It's for my own safety. This way someone knows who and what's up, and my client knows someone's looking out for me. My "contact" will call or show up about 5 minutes past the end time to make sure I'm o.k. Being the "security contact neighbor" might bring you all kinds of props, e.g. free or discounted professional massages! All the suspicion that usually causes the peeping out the holes in the doors could then be unnecessary. You now know only legal, dignified and professional work is going on next door and it's proven unrelated to the porn industry. The therapist's safety, as well as your safety in the neighborhood is important. Everyone is affected when something happens in the neighborhood. Above all, you would have made a friend and have proven to be a good neighbour to your neighbor.

Appointment Scheduling For Massage Therapists

As a massage therapist you spend a lot of time giving your clients a relaxing good time. What could be more relaxing than a quiet phone and a couple of scented candles? Keeping the phone ringing to a minimum is one of the best benefits of switching to web based Appointment scheduling.

In the last few years, the numbers of massage therapists using scheduling software to accept appointments online have grown rapidly. Today your clients expect you to be bookable online, and it gives you a competitive edge over your competition. Imagine a client having a back pain in the middle of the night, and he wants to make an appointment. With online appointment scheduling, your online booking is always open, and you can get a good night's sleep.

A lot of massage therapists are hired by big companies to give their employees massage at work. For this to be efficient, scheduling must work. Today most companies use a paper on a wall where you as a massage therapist don't have much control. Who's coming today? You have no idea! Online scheduling makes it easy for the employees to book a massage. And if it's easy to book, you'll make more money. And you'll always know who's coming and when.

Benefits of Appointment Scheduling

When giving a massage to a client, you can rest assure that the online scheduler takes care of your appointments.

Less no-shows - Your clients get reminders by e-mail and text
No double bookings - With an online scheduler it doesn't happen
Clients can book 24/7 - You don't even have to answer the phone
Available everywhere - Since your appointment calendar is online, you can view it at work, at home or even if you are on a vacation half way across the globe.

Easy to use

Do you know how to check your e-mail? Then you can use a web based scheduler. As a massage therapist, you can concentrate on what you do best, and let the scheduling service handle your appointment scheduling.

Quick setup - You'll be ready to accept appointments in minutes
No installation - Instantly available in your web browser
Super-fast booking - Your clients make an appointment in only three clicks

What to look for when choosing a service

When switching to online scheduling, you'll be staying for a long time. That's why it's important that you choose a really good service to handle your online scheduling. They never want to go back to paper and pen, and the constantly ringing phone. Here are some things you should look for.

Great and fast support - Send a couple of e-mails before signing up, and see how the attitude is and how quick they respond.
Attractive design - When you've spent money on awesome business cards and a great website, why accept anything other than the best looking appointment scheduler?
Affordable price - It shouldn't cost you more than $29/month if you're a single therapist. The low fee is quickly returned from all the extra appointments you'll get

Three quick marketing tips

As soon as you have started using appointment scheduling software, you should start marketing your new way of accepting massage appointments online. Here are some clever tips for you.

Sell gift certificates - Get the money right away, and ensure a future booking
Connect with your clients on Facebook - Spread the word about you to their friends
Send mini-newsletter to your clients cell phones - Remind them how to book online

I'm sure you feel a little more confident in switching to online scheduling software. Now it's time to decide which one.

Massage Therapy for Couples

Massage Therapy for Couples can refer to both individuals receiving massage at the same time, in a single room, or adjoining rooms. It can also address couples taking turns to massage each other.

When both partners receive massage at the same time, they will be moving the same speed. It can be a bit tough when one person returns home really relaxed, and the other side of the couple has been in high gear! We have had a number of couples in our practice in the last decade who have had regular appointments for both of them to receive massage at the same time. They both have similar views on the necessity of taking care of their bodies, reducing stress on their systems, and maintaining their muscles in a healthy way. The couples are also able to share some of the 'moves' they receive from their massage therapist with their partners, when they exchange massage in their homes.

We have a lot of experience with massage therapy for couples, when they share massage as part of their connecting to each other. One of the realizations we had years ago, in relation to touch, added to the importance of massage as a means of communication for a couple. We read in an article how rarely do we, as a society, experience touch that is without expectation. We have people tap us to move aside, we have people position us for pictures, or appearance, we have people guide us in a direction, but rarely do we receive touch, just for the sake of connection to another person. Massage *can* be touch, just for the connection. When a couple uses massage as a means of expanding their communication, it opens up a deeper level of safety and connection.

Participants in Couples Massage classes often share that when they slow down, just for that short time they are exchanging massage with their partner, they reconnect from their crazy weeks. We've heard that they feel like they were able to begin speaking a different language with their partner, because they were picking up on cues from their partner, often non-verbal. Often a Couples Massage class is the first time that a partner was given permission and tools to give non-judgmental feedback to their partner about the quality of the touch they received. Many times we are told that giving their partner a massage was the first time they were able to be comfortable in the silent, peaceful space together, and just BE. We've also been told that they learned a lot about their partner by simply observing them through a massage, as well as learning more about their body, and what their partner really likes in relation to the quality of touch.

The health benefits of massage address many of our modern ills. Assisting in circulation, deepening and slowing respiration, reducing heart rate and blood pressure, as well as reducing secretion of stress hormones and increasing those feel-good hormones, endorphins.

Massage Therapy for Couples brings a lot of connection and health benefits with it...so, learn a new way to communicate today!

Equipment Requirements For a Traveling Massage Therapist

Massage therapists use their skills to help relieve their clients' stress and physical pain. They will also provide relief of soft tissue injuries with little or no pain to the client.
         
Most massage therapists work not only in clinics, wellness centers, sports facilities and such, but many travel to the private homes and the businesses of their clients. This requires them to take their office with them. So, armed with a desire to make people feel better and teach clients how to care for their injuries, the traveling massage therapist needs to have their own equipment.
 
The most important piece of equipment is a massage table. Since there are dozens of designs to choose from, this is not always an easy choice. A portable table is preferable and needs to be comfortable for the client and not agitate any injuries. Side pockets are very useful and make it easier to work on the client. The face cradle will need to be considered. The padding should be relaxing for the client and the size should be adjustable. The table should hold 550 pounds comfortably. This sounds like a great deal of weight for the table, but it is more of a safety factor. In addition to all these factors to consider, one should also not forget to think about the weight of the table as well as how easy it will be to transport. You do not want to buy a top of the line table only to discover that it is too awkward or impossible to carry.
 
The next important piece of equipment for the massage therapist is a chair or stool. Choosing the wrong chair can result in the therapist needing their own massage therapist. The chair needs to be adjustable. Many therapists will buy the massage table and the stool or chair at the same time so that they are sure they will work together. Do not scrimp on the cost of a good chair or stool. There is nothing worse than being stuck hunching over clients all day in a painful position.
 
Depending on the therapy method that the massage therapist chooses to offer, other items to travel with can include a variety of massage oils, hot stones, a portable stereo, and a few relaxing music CD's to help the client relax. The more benefits a therapist offers, the larger the client list and demand for their services.
 
Having an assortment of oils is important because it helps to enhance the client's experience. Scented oils can be used to calm, relax, or rejuvenate the mind and body's senses. When choosing oils, make sure that you consider the type that you buy. Some oils do not keep well for very long and can turn rancid, leaving a very unpleasant odor. Others may cause a negative reaction to the client's skin so make sure that you ask about any known allergies before applying oils or lotions to the client's skin. Sweet almond is the most common and popular. The price is very reasonable, so this would be a good oil to start out with.
 
Because stress is rising not only in the workplace, but in life in general, massage therapy has become more popular over the last few years. Stress can also cause pain and injury to the body, and as a result, the demand for high quality and professional massage therapists is on the rise. Being prepared with the proper equipment and attitude can make massage therapy a very satisfying and lucrative career.

Ashiatsu Massage: A Modern Technique With Ancient Roots

Ashiatsu massage with overhead bars has not been practiced on a widespread basis until recently. The roots and history of ashiatsu, or barefoot massage, go back further than one might think.

Barefoot Massage is Nothing New!

Before we had memory foam padded massage tables and portable massage bars, there were other massage practitioners using their feet to perform massage therapy all over the world.

Is it an Eastern or Western Technique?

In the Kerala region of India, home of Ayurveda, a practice called "Chavutti Thirumal" is believed to be the one of the earliest ancestors of ashiatsu. "Chavutti" means foot and leg, and "Thirumal" means massage. Chavutti Thirumal practitioners use generous amounts of oil on the body and a single rope hung from the ceiling for balance.

This region of India is the home of the ancient art of Kalaripayattu, a martial art ancestor to Kung Fu, and Kathakali, a classical style of dance. Students of Kathakali and Kalaripayattu have used foot massage techniques (e.g. Chavutti Thirumal) to make their bodies supple and flexible.

Although it is rare, there are a few massage professionals in the United States that practice this ancient form of barefoot massage.

Chavutti Thirumal spread to surrounding countries and continents of Asia. There, it was combined with the study of meridians and the ancient practice of shiatsu. ("Shiatsu" translates to "finger pressure" ("shi" meaning finger).

When broken down, the word "ashi" means foot and "atsu" means pressure.

Around this same time, there were also many forms of barefoot Thai massage that developed from Chavutti Thirumal. Barefoot techniques are still a common staple in most Thai massage sessions.

In the mid/late 1990's Ruthie Piper developed a trademarked form of ashiatsu. This trademarked form is called Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy™, or AOBT. She began training practitioners in the United States. Although she was not the first barefoot massage therapist in the US, she is credited with the recent, widespread growth of ashiatsu techniques. She trained Michelle Mace-Lambert of Barefoot Masters, who also conducts Ahh...Shiatsu™ training.

Today, there are many other massage therapists practicing un-trademarked forms of ashiatsu, barefoot, or gravity assisted massage. These practitioners use this modality to protect their hands and bodies, as well as provide a fantastic massage for clients.

Ashiatsu massage, unlike most other barefoot methods, is performed on the western-friendly massage table instead of a floor mat. The massage table set up allows clients to put their face down comfortably in a face rest (not off to the side). Since ashiatsu is performed on the table, overhead bars are needed for balance. Other barefoot practitioners may utilize physical therapy walking bars, a staff, ropes from the ceiling, ropes across the ceiling, stools, or benches.