Fingertips Massage

Fragarance of the gods....Roses...

2012-02-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

Rose Heaven For Skin and Soul

By Iris Brooks

Originally published in Massage & Bodywork magazine, February/March 2006. Copyright 2006. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

For thousands of years, roses have been symbols of love, beauty, and spirit. They have also been used as universal healers in oil, water, and tea, as well as a flavoring and food. Once considered the "fragrance of the gods" in ancient Egypt, roses have a history that can be traced to Persia, Babylon, and China. In ancient Rome, roses were used for blessings, as garlands, to decorate war ships, and to float in wine as a tribute to Venus, the goddess of love.

Nowadays, roses are revered as the flower of choice for Valentine's Day and in all matters romantic. But its uses have blossomed to more than just symbolic gestures. Rather, the rose is used to produce many therapeutic benefits. But creating products from roses -- including essential oil, creams, and moisturizers -- is very labor intensive. In fact, it takes 20 roses to produce only one drop of rose oil. And rose hips or haws -- the fruit of the rose -- only develop after the petals have fallen. This prized fruit is exclusively gathered after the first frost.

At the Hills Health Ranch in western Canada, the harvest is a family activity involving nearly 150 people. "Rose hips are good for your insides and outsides," says ranch owner Pat Corbett, as he tours me around the crop. The picking area is 300 to 400 miles in length, and it is at an ideal 3,000 to 4,000 foot elevation. The wild crop is organic. No pesticides are used. And the hips -- all picked by hand -- are dried on racks without heat. The entire process takes approximately 9 to 10 months from picking to bottling the rose hip oil.

The real challenge comes in the extraction practice. That's what led the Corbetts to an agricultural lab in Manitoba for research and development of rose hips. They are also working in partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia, researching healing indigenous plants as well as planning a on-site lab at the Hills Health Ranch.

In my quest to further understand this complex growth and extraction process, I discovered Rudolf Hauschka, Ph.D., a Viennese chemist. His techniques involve growing plants biodynamically, according to the planetary cycles of nature. His company, WALA, hand harvests roses before sunrise (when the oil content is at its highest) and incorporates the results into 56 products, including mascara, where the rose helps protect fine lashes.

Hauschka's holistic and organic skin care line (sold internationally and used in select spas) relies on the damask roses grown and harvested by a cooperative of 2,000 people in southwestern Turkey. After the harvest, the roses are mashed with a mortar and pestle, put in a liquid ice bath, and aged for a year. The final products include a rose day cream (for dry, sensitive, or mature skin) using a combination of both rose petal and rose hip extract along with avocado to soothe red, irritated skin. The rose body moisturizer blends rose ingredients with almond, jojoba oil, and quince extract to hydrate and soothe even a baby's skin. And the rose oil is recommended for rubbing in the heart region, to create a calming effect.

Healing Benefits
The therapeutic benefits of roses are vast when flavoring a bath or applied to the skin. In Tibet, rose hips are put in a tub to help people with arthritis. In India, rose water is considered an ideal toner for skin as well as a gentle eyewash. When applied topically, rose oil is effective for a variety of skin conditions, including acne, thread veins, varicose veins, capillary damage, scars, burns, and wrinkles. Hans Harbst, M.D., head of the radiology department at the Chilean Air Force Hospital in Santiago, has successfully used rose hip oil to treat dermatitis resulting from radiotherapy and to reduce scarring.

Herbologist and organic chemist Claudio Dario -- who developed a memory serum from the skin of the rose hip seed-- believes rose hips are helpful for wound healing and for ulcerated areas in diabetics. He explains, "Rose hips have an anti-aging effect against the sun, and with their omega-3 and omega-6 properties, have the ability to reverse damage. But you have to be careful about oxidation," he warns. He suggests keeping it in the refrigerator or a cool place in a dark bottle.

Roses are said to be emotional uplifters, curbing stress. But a range of additional properties are also associated with the rose. They have a high nutrient content -- including vitamin C, which is used to treat infections and heal wounds -- as well as anti-microbial, antiaging, and circulatory benefits.

The healing properties of rose hip tea run the gamut from antidepressant and aphrodisiac to circulatory aid and infection fighter and are used by cultures around the world. Consumed either hot or iced, it is said to be a tonic for energy, a protector from disease, and a cleanser for the respiratory tract. Chinese medicine uses the rose hip for urinary disorders and kidney energy, while in Indian ayurvedic practice, roses act as a mental tonic. Rose hip tea even helps with menstrual difficulties.

The Oriental karkade tea mixes rose hips with hibiscus, black currant, apples, and spices. Native Americans drink the rose hip tea and also eat the fruit. Edible rose dishes are found around the globe, ranging from syrup in India and vegetables in China to a delicious petal jam in France. Rose hips may also be found in soups, stews, puddings, and pies. The most tasty variety is said to be rosa rugosa.

***

The rose means many things to many people. For some, it is a symbol of completion and perfection. For others, it is the mystic center of the heart and an emblem of Venus, associated primarily with romance. Perhaps you think of the rose in relation to the garden of Eros or the paradise of Dante. Or maybe it is simply a way to calm yourself with a cup of fragrant tea. Whether or not you use rose oil or rose products, try to make time in your day to just stop and smell these powerful healers.

Dealing with the Winter Blues By Mary Kathleen Rose

2012-01-04T13:56:00.000-08:00

Ask a Therapist...

Q. Winter can be difficult for me. Do you have any ideas about how to ease the seasonal blues?

A. Just one fresh rose in a room can help ease winter's chill, according to Colorado bodyworker and aromatherapist Mary Kathleen Rose. "In the winter, when there's less light, there's a tendency for people to get a little depressed. One way to alleviate these "blues" is by integrating fresh flowers into your home. A couple of flowers or a stargazer lily in a bowl can make a difference. That ongoing connection with nature helps give us a feeling of hope for the spring.

"In the winter, I really like the infused oils that have an evergreen scent. An evergreen infused in a light olive oil reminds us that there are things that stay green throughout the winter and carry us through the season. Cut little boughs from your yard and add them to fresh flowers. Beeswax candles also give off a really nice scent -- very soft. Just their mellowness is comforting.

"Take advantage of the things you've gathered earlier in the year like dried roses. Dried lavender is wonderful. I always have a little basket of rose petals around.

"Remember that enjoying a massage in a nice atmosphere during the winter allows us to really appreciate this as a time of rest. As nature is at rest, so should we be."

Make Your Appointment for Relaxation...Today
Schedule Online-wwww.fingertipsmassage@gmail.com
EVERY BODY KNEADS A Massage !!

Hope to see you soon on my schedule

Fabulous Fall Masage.....Just For You

2011-09-08T19:02:00.000-07:00

Fall is a time tot slow down a little bit, and begin to settle in for the Winter Months...the fast paced fun in the sun of summer is about to begin as Daylight Savings..makes our days shorter...

Massage can be a Wonderful Celebration of Yourself. Yes, Usually this Blog is an Educational Article that has Inspired me to keep Growing my Massage Business.
This Month...
I want to offer to you that Fabulous Fall Massage...and Give you an Experience that will Bring a Smile to your Face, and some Relief to your Achy Muscles...

Fall Special for the Fabulous Fall Massage is $39 for a 50 Minute Massage...Schedule your Massage online...and Guarantee your Time for Relaxation.

" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage !"

Releasing your Monkey Mind through the Art of Massage

2011-07-02T15:39:00.001-07:00

The Healing Effects of “Massage Mind”

By Karrie Osborn

Originally published in Body Sense magazine, Spring 2011. Copyright 2011. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

I used to sit at the edge of the ocean to find my rhythm. When planning my annual vacations, it was the water that called me--not so much to be in it, but to be by it. Maternal and soothing, the comings and goings of the tide was my "reset" button--you know, the one that allows you to deal calmly again with the world. Along came twins, and my exotic vacations were replaced with ventures closer to home. Being in a land-locked state, sitting by the ocean was no longer an option. How was I going to hit my reset button now? The answer was right in front of me--massage.

The Stillness
As a massage enthusiast, I have learned about and tried a great variety of techniques over the years, but some of my most profound and restorative experiences on the massage table have come in the "stillness" of the moment.

Massage therapist Bruce Hopkins calls this stillness "massage mind," something understood by those who've experienced it, but difficult to explain to those who have not. The easiest analogy for massage mind might be the quiet state the mind enters into the moments before sleep, or the place of stillness one reaches during meditation. "Massage mind is immediately recognized by clients who are experienced meditators," says Hopkins, who works exclusively with cancer patients in his Portland, Maine, massage practice. "It is the same mind-state that is accessed in deep meditation. And, as in meditation, practice makes getting there easier."

For Hopkins, helping his clients reach massage mind is paramount to his work. "When I am working, I am coaxing the mind to go deeper and deeper," he says. "The music I choose reinforces the work: no melody, no loud passages, always changing, no repetition, interesting, but ultimately boring." The massage itself mimics the music criteria, all with the intent of lulling the mind. Any deep-tissue work or range-of-motion tests, for example, would interfere with that sedative space, he says. "I want it all to be seamless and mindless. I don't want anything to cause the mind to stop and say, 'What is that?'"

But what can reaching the quiet stillness of massage mind actually do for clients? Plenty. "When the brain is in this meditative state, it is able to sort through the clutter and focus on any areas that need it, allowing healing to occur at the cellular level," says Pat Crozier, a massage educator and therapist in Chandler, Arizona. "I honestly believe that in those quiet, restorative moments, the brain has 'all power' and can hugely impact the massage experience. The meditative mind is a wonderful place to hang out. It's calming, strengthening, restorative, and clearing."

Quieting The Mind
In Buddhist tradition, the phrase "monkey mind" refers to the chatter that often goes on in the personal dialog we undertake with ourselves every day, every moment. Like a monkey jumping from limb to limb, monkey mind is the process of jumping from thought to thought without a singular focus. When our busy mind can do nothing but be chaotic, stressed, and scattered, it is in the throes of monkey mind. Calming the monkey mind, and realizing instead the massage mind, can have profound effects.

Many massage therapists say that some of the most therapeutic work that happens on the massage table is when the mind "gets out of the way." Hopkins says that's exactly his goal when working with the cancer patients who come to him for massage. "The mind has a profound effect on all physiological processes," he says. In fact, when you can get the mind to quiet itself, Hopkins says the body will heal faster on its own. His clients affirm that notion every day. "I have cancer patients coming from extreme stress who have broken down in tears of joy after the massage is done. They may remember it for a long time as the day life changed dramatically."

Hopkins has had many of his clients report the life-changing effects they found after an hour on his table: "Because of massage, I've come to be at peace with my mastectomy," "I'm not quite sure where I was, but I didn't want to come back," "It's a vacation from cancer," "I felt an overwhelming sense of peace," "The euphoria of the mind during my sessions transcended the quiet horror of cancer."

Now, after seven years working with cancer patients, Hopkins says to heal the body, ideally you want the mind going in the same direction that the body goes, if that's not working, then it's time to turn the mind off. He offers this bit of advice for clients who have a hard time getting there: "If the client is not letting go, I encourage them to focus on my hands. My hands become their mantra. I tell them that when their mind grabs something and tries to run with it, focus instead on my hands, where they are, and what they are doing at the moment."

This "between-the-ears" massage, as Hopkins calls it, is simply a traditional Swedish massage sequence of strokes that offers non-intrusive, gentle therapy. "It's a vehicle to lull the mind to go where I want it to go," he says, adding that most types of relaxation massage provide a framework within which clients can reach this quiet state. "Unwind the mind and the body unwinds on its own."

Emotional Release
Sometimes, by reaching the stillness of massage mind during your session, you might venture to a place you've never been before. If you've long ago buried emotional issues or traumatic experiences (whether it's the physiological impact of a car crash or the psychological turmoil of a parent's dying days), they might decide to rear up in these quiet moments. It's OK, and it's normal. Don't be afraid to venture along the path and address these challenges head-on.

During the process, if you find yourself unexplainably in tears while on the massage table, don't fret. Tears have been spilled there before and certainly will be spilled there again. Even if you don't feel like you're carrying emotional baggage, massage can sometimes unleash buried obstacles and ask you to address them if you're ready. "It is [the massage therapist's] job to get the body into a parasympathetic state to allow calm and clarity of mind," Crozier says. This is where massage mind lives. Once there, the healing begins on so many other levels. "Some clients will experience emotional release--being able to let go of baggage that is cluttering the mind and that they are sometimes not even aware of--and feel 'many pounds lighter' after the experience." Crozier says it's important to note that an emotional release will never happen without permission from the mind first. As the obstacles/traumas relinquish their hold, the body finds a clearer path toward wholeness and health.

It's Good For You
If you have already found your path to massage mind, then I'm preaching to the choir, but if not, ask your therapist to help you get there next time. Even if you see it as nothing more than giving your mind a one-hour vacation from the chaos of your day, or putting your worries aside for a few moments, accessing this place of therapeutic stillness is good for you.

Massage can be a journey in many ways and it can take you along a restorative path, both physically and mentally. That hour, when the sounds of the world surrender to the breath of client and therapist and the music lulls you into a meditative state, see if you can access your massage mind. In finding that place of therapeutic stillness, you too can reclaim your own rhythm, and hit "reset" without needing to find an ocean to do so.

Every BODY KNEADS a Massage....Schedule your Appointment for Relaxation today.
I look forward to helping you release your Monkey Mind....

Massage: It Does a Mama Good! ---author unknown

2011-05-05T05:40:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day.....

I was on one of my new favorite social sites, Baby Bump Fitness when I read this post. Anna, a massage therapist originally from Canada and now living in Hong Kong, wrote clearly and succinctly about the benefits of massage before, during and after giving birth. “Massage can be used for relaxation, but also to work out those muscles that may get tight while your body goes through the many changes during pregnancy,” Anna says. “It can also keep those muscles supple for labor and delivery.” Like many massage therapist, Anna has chosen to specialize and has advanced training in pre and post natal massage. She knows of what she speaks.
So why should expectant mothers incorporate massage into their prenatal care? Pregnant women go through a complete metamorphosis as they prepare to give birth. The uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus. The tendons and ligaments of the hips and pelvis stretch to support the growing uterus. A pregnant woman’s entire center of gravity shifts as she endeavors to support the extra weight and girth in front of her, resulting in added stress on the lumbar spine. As I experienced, the ribs can expand to allow for more room as the top of the uterus rises higher in the abdominal cavity. My foot bones spread in an effort to better support me and give me a more stable foundation. (I now wear a size larger shoe than before I became pregnant.) I could go on but you get the picture. The body’s natural instinct is to stay in alignment, but with all of the changes of pregnancy, it fights a losing battle. We women experience this as the “common aches and pains of pregnancy.”
Massage is an effective combatant of the common aches of pregnancy. It not only feels good, but it is good. A good massage stimulates circulation of both the blood and lymphatics so that more nutrients are delivered via the blood and more waste is removed via the lymphatic system. Massage relieves muscle tension and and can relieve connective tissue that has become over stretched . It helps a pregnant woman relax and, if even just for the duration of the massage, to fully rest.
For women on bed rest, Massage is even more important. Because many women are instructed to lay on their left sides, imagine the stress place on that one side? A good massage therapist who is trained in prenatal massage can skillfully position a woman so that she can not only comply with her physicians instructions but also receive relief from developing aches and soreness.
If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend you have a prenatal massage. Many Massage therapists will come to your home which is an added benefit if you are on bed rest. You’re doing something great for your baby by staying on bed rest. Now do something great for yourself and have a massage. You won’t regret it!

"Every BODY KNEADS a Massage!"

Massage For Mother's Day

2011-04-22T14:39:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is fast Approaching and I can only imagine trying to find a caring way to show your mother you care.
Why not give the gift of a Massage. Allow your Mother who has cared for you, washed your clothes, helped you through those wonder years, and now is your confidant and friend while you're managing your way through your Career days...Give her 1 hour of the attention she deserves.

And, those men, who have wives that are pregnant? they would appreciate a Massage to ease those aching backs, and those feet that may be swelling and the hips of having the weight of the baby imposing on their muscles. I am a Certified Pregnancy Massage Therapist, also.

The Gift of Massage for Mother's is a Wonderful Gift. The Gift Certificate is good for them to schedule their time of Relaxation at their Leisure; and they will know that you are ok with them spending and giving themselves some ' Down time'.

Gift Certificates can be purchased directly on my website, and printed from the comfort of your own home to present to her on Mother's Day.

Give the Gift of Massage and see how in turn that Gift keeps on Giving.

Schedule Your Massage Today..

"every BODY KNEADS a Massage"--why not you or your loved ones...
Hope to see you on my Table soon !

Massage: It Does a Mamma Good !

2011-03-28T06:20:00.000-07:00

Massage: It Does a Mama Good!
--Author uknown
I was on one of my new favorite social sites, Baby Bump Fitness when I read this post. Anna, a massage therapist originally from Canada and now living in Hong Kong, wrote clearly and succinctly about the benefits of massage before, during and after giving birth. “Massage can be used for relaxation, but also to work out those muscles that may get tight while your body goes through the many changes during pregnancy,” Anna says. “It can also keep those muscles supple for labor and delivery.” Like many massage therapist, Anna has chosen to specialize and has advanced training in pre and post natal massage. She knows of what she speaks.
So why should expectant mothers incorporate massage into their prenatal care? Pregnant women go through a complete metamorphosis as they prepare to give birth. The uterus expands to accommodate the growing fetus. The tendons and ligaments of the hips and pelvis stretch to support the growing uterus. A pregnant woman’s entire center of gravity shifts as she endeavors to support the extra weight and girth in front of her, resulting in added stress on the lumbar spine. As I experienced, the ribs can expand to allow for more room as the top of the uterus rises higher in the abdominal cavity. My foot bones spread in an effort to better support me and give me a more stable foundation. (I now wear a size larger shoe than before I became pregnant.) I could go on but you get the picture. The body’s natural instinct is to stay in alignment, but with all of the changes of pregnancy, it fights a losing battle. We women experience this as the “common aches and pains of pregnancy.”
Massage is an effective combatant of the common aches of pregnancy. It not only feels good, but it is good. A good massage stimulates circulation of both the blood and lymphatics so that more nutrients are delivered via the blood and more waste is removed via the lymphatic system. Massage relieves muscle tension and and can relieve connective tissue that has become over stretched . It helps a pregnant woman relax and, if even just for the duration of the massage, to fully rest.
For women on bed rest, Massage is even more important. Because many women are instructed to lay on their left sides, imagine the stress place on that one side? A good massage therapist who is trained in prenatal massage can skillfully position a woman so that she can not only comply with her physicians instructions but also receive relief from developing aches and soreness.

---FYI---It can also do the Daddy Good !!--- Make your appointment for Relaxation...I look forward to seeing you on my Table..

"Every BODY KNEADS a Massage!"

Massage March Maddness

2011-03-01T19:30:00.001-08:00

Massage March Maddness Begins with you...

This Month is one of my favorite months...winter is beginning to move along, and spring is coming around the corner..and Basketball Season is my favorite sport..

so this Month I'm featuring a Massage Maddness Special.

Purchase (1) Massage at Regular price and your next Session is $40.00. This is maddness to me, yet I believe Massage is something the BODY KNEADS...and I desire to make it Affordable and to become part of your healthy lifestyle.

Why not purchase your Massage and give the second one to a friend or family member, or why not use it for yourself?

Massage has so many benefits, and i want to be able to provide you with the pleasure of 60 minutes of undivided attention.

Schedule your Massage online or feel free to give me a call

" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage ! " Why not you?

Why DO i feel SOO Good After A Massage?

2011-01-31T05:34:00.000-08:00

By Mary Kathleen Rose

Originally published in Body Sense magazine, Spring/Summer 2006. Copyright 2006. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

Q. I'm a relative newcomer to massage and I've been trying to describe the experience to my friends. Why do I feel so good after a massage?

A. As a massage therapist, author, and consumer of bodywork, Mary Kathleen Rose of Longmont, Colo., took this question to heart.

"I walk into the session thinking, 'I'm really too busy to take this time. I've got to make those phone calls, schedule the next meeting, write that article, do the laundry, clean my house, and run a few errands. Oh, but my shoulders do hurt, my back aches, and I didn't get enough sleep last night!' An hour later, walking in slow motion, I come out of the massage therapist's office. I notice the smell of fresh air and the warmth of sunshine on my face. 'Maybe I'll just go for a little walk. I'll get back to work soon enough,' I say.

"Massage provides me an opportunity to take a break from the stresses of life and relax in the caring hands of a competent therapist. With just the right amount of pressure and skillful manipulation, patterns of tension are released in overworked muscles, fascia is loosened in areas of strain, and lymph is encouraged in its circulation. These effects on the tissues give rise to sensations of pleasure, creating a new experience in my body. I can only begin to imagine the complex of effects on the neurochemical system of the body, as touch receptors carry messages to the brain for interpretation, influencing brain wave patterns and a myriad of hormonal responses.

"While the physiology may be complex, the value of the human interaction is simple. Someone just treated me with respect and care, listened to me without judging me, and touched me with the authority born of her training and experience. It's no wonder we feel so good after a massage.

Make your Appointment Today...
"Every BODY KNEADS a Massage ! "

Fingertips Massage: Massage May be the Change your BODY KNEADS this Year...

2011-01-02T07:50:00.000-08:00

Fingertips Massage: Massage May be the Change your BODY KNEADS this Year...

Massage May be the Change your BODY KNEADS this Year...

2011-01-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

Change can be Scary...yet Changes are what we Try to Accomplish as the New Year Begins...So I decided to share some Quotes on Change...
EMBRACE Change...and Change will EMBRACE you....
Enjoy....

1) You must be the change you wish to see in the world. -Mahatma Gandhi

2) One cannot manage change, one can only be ahead of it. -Peter Drucker

3) We must either find a way or make one. -Hannibal

4) Great changes are easier than small ones. -Francis Bacon

5) Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself. -Leo Tolstoy

6) Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. -Nelson Mandela

7) People don’t resist change, they resist being changed. -Peter Scholtes

8 ) If you have always done it that way, it’s probably wrong. -Charles Kettering

9) If you always do what you’ve done, you will always get what you’ve always got. -Ed Foreman

10) Some men look at things the way they are and ask why? I dream of things that are not and ask why not? -George Bernard Shaw (I think this one isn’t exact; I think it’s been paraphrased)

11) Progress is a nice word. But change is its motivator. And change has its enemies. -Robert Kennedy

12) When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one that has opened for us. -Alexander Graham Bell

13) The world hates change yet it is the only thing that has brought progress. -Charles Kettering

14) Consider how hard it is to change yourself and you’ll understand what little chance you in trying to change others. -Jacob M. Bra

Massage May be the Change your Body KNEADS this YEAR....
Why not schedule your time for Relaxation? 60 Minutes of Time totally devoted to you? Schedule online and Save $10.00 immediately...

I look forward to seeing you on my Table...

" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage ! "--this includes you !!

Thankfulness/Gratitude Attitude

2010-11-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

Thankfulness/Gratitude Attitude

This month always brings me to review my wonderful Blessings of the Year...and how much i want to let the people that have supported my dreams, my ambitions, and my goals know how much i truly appreciate their love.

Along the way I've met some people that truly have inspired me and allowed me to make new choices and I am grateful for all that have entered into my world.

I get teary eyed, and sentimental about the wonderful times I've enjoyed with family, friends, and co-workers, neighbors along my journey this Year. I smile because of all the good times, I may shed a tear because of some of low periods in my life, yet through those times...I've always been able to see the Rainbow upon the Horizon...

So during this Season of Thanksgiving...Take the time to share with your family and friends, co-workers with the Gift of Massage...
Massage is a wonderful way of showing love towards a person because the time on the table is truly time well spent. When was the last time someone gave you their undivided attention for 60 minutes?? Sounds wonderful, relaxing and very enjoyable.

Be Thankful for your Many Blessings this Year...
and Share the Gift of Massage....Gift Certificates are a Great Way to Express this with family, friends and are available online on my website.
Schedule your 60 Minutes of Relaxation Today....

" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage ! "

Learning About Massage

2010-09-02T05:29:00.000-07:00

Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, the benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.

So What Is It Exactly?
Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies are defined as the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the human body. Specifically:

Massage: The application of soft-tissue manipulation techniques to the body, generally intended to reduce stress and fatigue while improving circulation. The many variations of massage account for several different techniques.

Bodywork: Various forms of touch therapies that may use manipulation, movement, and/or repatterning to affect structural changes to the body.

Somatic: Meaning “of the body.” Many times this term is used to denote a body/mind or whole-body approach as distinguished from a physiology-only or environmental perspective.

There are more than 250 variations of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies and many practitioners utilize multiple techniques. The application of these techniques may include, but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. This may also include non-forceful passive or active movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect the energetic systems of the body. The use of oils, lotions, and powders may also be included to reduce friction on the skin.

Please note: Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies specifically exclude diagnosis, prescription, manipulation or adjustments of the human skeletal structure, or any other service, procedure or therapy which requires a license to practice orthopedics, physical therapy, podiatry, chiropractic, osteopathy, psychotherapy, acupuncture, or any other profession or branch of medicine.

Make your Appointment for Relaxation...Today...

Every BODY DESERVES a Massage Week--July 18- July 24, 2010

2010-07-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

Come participate in a Week of Massage--This week only ALL Massages are $60.00 to Celebrate our Annual ' Every body deserves a Massage Week '...why not you?
Just think about all the wonderful things your body allows you to do every day, every minute and hour? Roll over and hit that snooze button in the morning, drive your car in Atlanta traffic? Give your children or spouse a hug?, go to the gym and workout, paper push all day at the office? So many things...
So why not Celebrate with me and schedule your Massage during this week?
Thursday and Friday I will have day time hours of 10am - 6pm....so book your time today...sessions for massage are filling up fast...

" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage "

What do bodywork and Yoga have in Common?

2010-06-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

They both:

"Allow the breath to rule, leading inevitably to elasticity.
Approach pain as a teacher.
Embody fluid expressions of life as change.
Increase self-awareness and self-knowledge.
Increase the speed of healing from injuries and accidents.
Maximize human potential.
Present opportunities for the mind to rest and the body to speak.
Provide mirrors for an individual's life journey.
See the body as an expression of the soul.
See the body as interactive and unified.
Seek to erase traumatic imprints through practice and experience.
Share the perspective that our histories are in the fibers of our connective tissues." by Stephanie Mines, PhD

I recently gave HOT Yoga a try and let me tell you it was challenging for all the above reasons. Due to the fact that I became claustrophobic, unable to breathe and allow my mind to rest...I quickly made the decision that possible I should have begun with regular YOGA and graduated to Hot Yoga. I must admit once i made it through the 90 minutes of torture....my body felt Fantabulous.
Bodywork and Yoga do go together..hope to see you on my table soon..
" Every BODY KNEADS a Massage !"

Father's KNEAD Massage, too

2010-05-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

Think of all the men in your life that would benefit from a relaxing 60 minute massage? Your brother, your mate, maybe a co-worker, or even your Dad. Men sometimes will neglect making the time to take care of themselves.
Treat the Man in your life...to a Massage...Contact me for a Gift Certificate and he can schedule his appointment on his own schedule..And just in case he chooses not to use the Gift Certificate? You will have the freedom to use the Gift Certificate yourself for a Smashing Swedish Massage...

Massage Tidbit: An hour massage is the equivalent to 7 hours of sleep. Now who couldn't use that kind of rest with a 60 minute massage!!

Every BODY KNEADS a Massage..

Mother's Day Gift Certificates

2010-04-18T08:39:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day

What a Wonderful Gift to Give the Person that gave you Life?
A 60 minute Massage!
Purchase a Gift Certificate on the Website under Book it

Massage, Now More than Ever---is not a Luxury...

2010-04-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

Massage, Now More Than Ever
Consumers may be tempted to trim their
wellness budgets when economic times are
tough. Yet a recent national consumer survey
showed most massage-minded Americans are
committed to maintaining the health benefits
they experience with massage. It makes sense—
the better you feel, the better job you can do of
caring for yourself and your loved ones.
Massage should play a role in reducing stress
and strengthening the health of Americans.
When people feel their best, they are more likely
to be able to face the challenges difficult times
present. With greater health and peace of mind,
consumers can face difficulties with poise, clarity
of purpose, and strengthened emotional reserves.
Truly, massage is more than a luxury—it’s a
vital part of self-care that has a positive ripple
effect on us as we work, play, and care for others.

Invest in yourself and those
you love
If you think about it, massage is an excellent
value. The price of massage has remained stable
in recent years, as the cost of movies, dining
out, and sports events has risen. Which of these
has the power to improve your health and your
outlook on life? In economically challenging times, it is vital
to invest in preventative healthcare. The last
thing you want is to get sick, have to take time off
work, and pay expensive medical bills.
Following are health reasons all American
adults should be including massage in their family
budgets and schedules. Massage therapy:
• Boosts the immune system.
• Reduces anxiety.
• Reduces the flow of stress hormones.
• Improves sleep.
• Improves energy levels
and reduces fatigue.
• Improves concentration.
• Increases circulation.
• Improves self-esteem.
• Reduces frequency of headaches.
• Releases endorphins.
Positive Effects
The positive effects of regular massage can
have benefits in many areas of your life.
Home. Massage therapy
helps families under
stress create healthy
households with clear thinking
and more
relaxed moms and
dads. Individuals taking
care of themselves are
better equipped to be
responsive caregivers
who can provide a sense
of security—to children,
partners, aging parents,
or other family members.
Work. The health benefits of massage can help
forestall illnesses and lost work time, especially
when you may be asked to produce more with
fewer resources. Decision-making skills will
be better and your performance is likely to be
improved with a clear focus and more energy.

A hint for the boss: Research shows employees
exhibit improved performance and less stress
when given twice-weekly, 15-minute massages in
the office.
Health. Those with existing health conditions
can continue to reap benefits in the following
ways. Proactively caring for health through
massage may help reduce costly doctor visits
and use of prescription and over-the-counter
medications.

Massage and Chronic Pain

2010-02-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

by Sylvia Carlson

Massage can ease chronic pain. Massage therapy research shows how chronic pain can be relieved.

Everyone probably knows at least one person who is suffering from some form of chronic pain.

It is a very debilitating and isolating experience because you cannot actually see pain. Massage therapy can be effective in reducing pain.
Pain Statistics

In Canada, one in ten people suffer from chronic pain. According to the 2001 Ipsos Reid National Canadian Pain study, that's about 31% of Canadians. In the U.S., the American Pain Association estimated that chronic pain affected approximately 86 million Americans (2001).
Can Massage Relieve Pain?

Pain is noted to be the most frequent complaint brought to physicians in North America. Medical authorities define pain as a subjective feeling that cannot be observed or even measured directly, and it is often explained away by the stress concept or as a result of mental stress. It comes as no surprise then, why so many people seek alternative ways to deal with their pain. In 1997, a U.S. health survey showed that consumers spent between 4 and 6 billion dollars on massage. The American Massage Therapy Association noted that 47% of the people polled in a consumer survey used massage therapy to relieve and manage their pain, and 91% said massage therapy was effective in reducing pain.
Pain Relief

In ancient Greece and Rome, it was actually the physicians who utilized massage as one of the primary methods to treat pain. Today, massage therapists are some of the best trained people to deal with myofascial and musculoskeletal pain syndromes. Why? Because that's what they are trained to do.

Massage therapists are trained in anatomy, physiology, and pathology, and they spend many hours physically palpating and manipulating the muscles and soft tissue of the body. Whether it is lower back pain, arthritis or fibromyalgia, massage may be able to relieve the associated pain.
*******************

Make your Appointment to Release some of the aches and pains of your hectic schedule with me soon.
Book online and save $10.00 on your Appointment...Hope to see you soon !!

Valentines Day Gift Certificates A Lovely Gift

2010-02-01T12:07:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day Gift Certificates are available to purchase online !
Make this Valentine's Day Special with the Gift of Love, with Purchasing this online in increments of 60/ 90 minutes. Make your appointment online. Go to Book It Now Page on my website. I look forward to seeing you on my table. "Every BODY KNEADS a Massage" which includes you. Just as a Special note, say if your recipient does not use this Gift Certificate...you can redeem the Gift Certificate yourself. No worries.

Valentines Day Give the Gift of Massage

2010-01-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is a time to show the ones you love that they are appreciated.
Giving a Wonderful gift of a massage. When was the last time someone spent quality time with you for one full hour, with all the focus on you and no interruptions? Purchase a Gift Certificate and allow your mate, your family members, a co-worker to experience my Smashing Swedish Massage, or my Hurts So Good-Tension Easing Massage.
Valentine's Day comes once a year, make this Year Special with the Gift of Massage. Hurry and book your appointment online---slots are filling fast..By the way, if they choose not to use the Gift Certificate please feel free to redeem the Gift Certificate for yourself !! So you have nothing to lose yet all to gain in the pleasure of a Massage- I believe--Every BODY KNEADS a Massage !!

6 Tips to Ward off Parched Winter Skin

2010-01-17T15:09:00.001-08:00

Keep Skin Healthy and Radiant Using Some Simple Steps

By Christine Spehar

Originally published in Body Sense magazine, Autumn/Winter Copyright 2008. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

When the weather outside is frightful, is your skin less than delightful? Unfortunately, dry winter skin is a common problem for most people, due to lower moisture levels outside and the drying effect of heating systems inside. If dryness, flaking, itching, cracking, and redness increase for your skin during the winter months, you're not alone. According to a November 2005 study published in Dermatology, seasonal outbreaks of eczema in the United States are prominent, with most patients presenting symptoms in the winter, especially in climates where indoor heating zaps all the humidity from the air.

Instead of covering up the problem with sweaters and scarves, keep skin healthy and radiant all year long using some simple steps.

Get Advice
First thing's first--even though most people's skin reacts poorly to the harsh conditions of winter, that doesn't mean all skin should be treated the same for seasonal dryness and itching. Everyone's skin and conditions vary. Seeking out the advice of a skin care professional will give you the right answers.

Typically, if you have chronically dry skin, the condition can get worse in the wintertime, if your skin is typically more oily, you will want to moisturize more during the colder months, but be careful not to over-moisturize with too oily a product.

To protect against harsh conditions, choose an oil-based moisturizer, but make sure the oil used in the product is noncomedogenic, meaning it doesn't clog pores. Avocado oil, primrose oil, or almond oil are all non-clogging, as is jojoba wax ester. "Jojoba wax ester has the unique property of being chemically similar to human sebum, so it's nonallergenic, doesn't clog pores, and is assimilated into the epidermis very easily," says Bob Butler, founder of Jojoba Company, based in Waldoboro, Maine. "It's a great emollient. You could add a couple drops of jojoba ester to your normal summertime moisturizer to turn it into a great wintertime protector."

To find out which wintertime skin regimen is best for you, talk to your esthetician and see what he or she recommends.

Consider Climate
Taking location into account is also an important part of winter skin care. Even though temperatures have dropped across the country, not all places are created equal when it comes to wintertime climates. If you live in an especially dry area, it's sure to get even dryer in the wintertime--think high altitude alpine environments or deserts. In overly dry areas like these, it's vital to use the right kind of moisturizer--one that doesn't contain humectants. "Humectants, when used in the right environment, work wonderfully. But they require moisture, and if there is none in the air, they have to take it from the skin. This is a big issue with people who live in dry climates because there is little moisture in the air," says Victoria Rayner, founder of skin care facilities in San Francisco and Washington, D.C., that provide esthetics training and esthetician licensing preparation. If you do not have oily skin, Rayner recommends using an occlusive product that will seal in moisture while in a dry environment. "An oil-based product is best in this situation," Rayner says.

Try Magical Masks
If your daily moisturizer isn't doing the trick, try a high-intensity hydration mask once a week. "Hydration masks are key to long-term results when addressing winter skin complaints," says Celia Lang, spa manager and licensed esthetician for Weleda North America, a natural skin care company based in Palisades, New York. "If you are not properly hydrated, then you can't expect skin cells to normalize or respond to a problem." Following a moisturizing cleanse, Lang suggests leaving a hydrating mask on the skin for at least 10 minutes and up to a half hour to allow the healing properties to fully penetrate the epidermis. Masks should be performed about once a month. For daily care, be sure to use a moisturizing day cream that contains sun block to prevent further sun damage and dryness.

Heal From The Inside Out
It's not just what we do on the outside that counts, but also what's happening inside our bodies that can affect skin health. According to Bev Maya, medical herbalist and owner of Maya Natural Health in Vancouver, British Columbia, elimination organs like the liver and kidneys play a key role in skin health, if these organs are not functioning at their best or are backed up with toxins, your skin can suffer.

According to Maya, certain herbs support efficient liver function in relation to skin problems, especially dandelion root, burdock root, blue flag root, and chickweed herb, which are especially good for itchy skin. For improved kidney function, which would result in the increased flow of urine to speed removal of water-soluble toxins from the body and provide necessary minerals for healthy skin, she suggests dandelion leaf and plantain herb. Useful lymphatic drainage herbs, which support healthy immune function and removal of toxins from the skin, are cleavers and red clover, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Finally, herbs to aid digestive function are slippery elm, which Maya says decreases inflammation of mucous membranes and skin, wild yam, which is also a strong anti-inflammatory, and marshmallow root which soothes irritated membranes and skin.

Give A Hand To Humidity
Another way to combat the drying effect of your heating system is to invest in a humidifier to bring moisture into your home. Placing several small humidifiers throughout the house will have the best effect, but even one placed by your bed and turned on while you sleep will create a noticeable difference. Plants will also increase the moisture content of the air surrounding them, so go green this winter with some houseplants.

Turn Down The Heat
Lowering the temperature of your showers and baths will help your skin survive the winter with fewer traumas. It turns out that the concentrated heat of a hot bath, shower, or hot tub session can actually rupture the lipid barriers in the skin, thereby reducing its moisture content. Instead, use warm water and stay in the shower for a shorter amount of time. A soothing, lukewarm bath with oatmeal and baking soda can also help combat dry, itchy skin.

Like the song goes, winter can be "the most wonderful time of the year!" Make sure it stays that way this season by treating your skin well and protecting it from some of winter's not-so-wonderful elements.

Epson Salts Foot Baths for Relaxation

2009-12-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

Epsom salts footbaths may be helpful for bruises, sprains in the early stages of soreness after exercise, after a massage, chronically cold feet, edema of pregnancy, or arthritis pain.
What you will need: A Water Thermometer, a chair, a plastic tub, 2 cups of Epsom salts for an adult, (1 cup for a child) 1 bath towel, and a bath mat.

Procedure: Place a bath mat on the floor in front of the chair.
Fill the tub with warm (not hot) water, about 98 - 102. Pour the Epsom salts directly under the spigot as soon as you begin filling the tub, to make sure they dissolve completely. If essential oils are wanted use them after you have filled the tub.
Keep your feet in the water for 15- 20 minutes.
At the end of your foot-bath, rinse and dry your feet.
Apply a moisturizing lotion to your feel and then put your socks on.

This is the perfect time to treat your feet with all the aftermath hustle of the Holiday shopping, and family time.

Aroma Therapy to Calm you during the Holiday Season

2009-12-04T06:04:00.001-08:00

Frankincense to Calm a Harried Soul

News Note

By Lara Evans Bracciante

Frankincense has a long history of intimating peace and well-being. Believed in many religions to bestow divine blessings, this aromatic resin native to Oman has a rich history. In ancient times it was traded for porcelain by the Chinese, used for embalming by the Egyptians, presented to the baby Jesus as a sacred gift and burned by Roman emperors during the height of their reign.

Today, frankincense is heralded for easing tension and anxiety. Roberta Wilson, author of Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty (Avery Books, 1995), writes: "Frankincense oil can help to fortify a mind burdened with mental anxiety, nervous tension or stress. It revitalizes the body and mind comforts and soothes the emotions and helps you sever ties with the past that are hampering your personal growth."

Available as resin granules or essential oil, the granules can simply be tossed into a burning fireplace, or add a few drops of the oil to your bath. One note: Frankincense is contraindicated during pregnancy due to possible uterine-stimulant effects.

Five Myths of Prenatal Massage

2009-11-10T13:00:00.000-08:00

1. Massage can cause a Miscarriage-------FALSE----
Truth IS-------Abdominal work would have to be extremely deep and rough to dislodge the placenta. About 90% of miscarriages occur within the first 8wks of pregnancy; which has nothing to do with whether the mom received a massage or not

2. Massage is Contraindicated (should not be performed) during the 1st Trimester-----FALSE-----
Truth IS-------Reasoning most miscarriages occur in the 1st Trimester Most Women suffer from nausea/vomiting, therefore, they would not receive Massage due to the 'morning sickness'----not because massage will cause a miscarriage.

3. Abdomen should never be Massaged during the 1st Trimester-----FALSE----
Truth IS-----Massage will not dislodge the placenta

4. Feet and Hands should be Massaged during Pregnancy-----FALSE----
Truth IS------massage on specific acupuncture points on the feet, lower legs, and hands is contraindicated---deep sustained pressure must be avoided. Hands/ Feet can be massaged, just not to focus on acupuncture points.

5. Pregnant women should lie only on her LEFT side, whether in bed or on the massage table.---FALSE--
Truth IS-----it is not a requirement to lie only on the left side. Right side lying is appropriate for moms with heartburn/or indigestion.

------from Prenatal Massage by Elaine Stillerman, LMT

Come and Enjoy a Massage Today---Every BODY KNEADS a Massage !!! This includes you !!

Massage for the Holidays

2009-11-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone....

The Holiday Season is fast approaching, and I may be the answer to endless hours in the mall, trying to figure out what size doesn't fit all.

Why not give the Gift of Massage---I offer Gift Certificates for 6o minute massages. Purchase 4 Massages and Get the 5th one complimentary ! a savings of $16 per massage.

Package is $320.00 and all your Holiday Shopping can come to a small crawl...

Give me a call (614) 554-7260 or email me...." Every Body Kneads a Massage "
Book Your Massage Now!!!

Expecting Moms Embrace Massage

2009-11-04T15:00:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy Massage Contributes to Nine Healthy Months

During pregnancy physical and emotional changes cascade throughout the body. Nausea, fatigue, swelling, heartburn, headache, and emotional turbulence are just some of the symptoms that come with the territory. Fortunately, massage can help ease these issues, so that the mom-to-be can focus on what's most important: her baby.

The First Trimester

"In the first trimester I see a lot of cases of nerves," says Megan O'Connor, a New York-based certified prenatal massage therapist. "Massage can give reassurance." This is largely because newly pregnant women may experience a range of emotions--elation, anxiety, contentment, and even fear--made more poignant by the hormonal changes that accompany pregnancy. Fortunately, massage therapy can help ground an expecting mother and ease the emotional roller coaster that comes with pregnancy. But is massage safe in the first trimester? According to Susanrachel Condon, founder of Niara Healing Arts Massage Therapy and Perinatal Support Systems, "It is absolutely safe and can be very beneficial for an expecting mother." Having said that, there are some precautions to take when considering prenatal massage.
If it is a high-risk pregnancy or there's a history of complications--diabetes, high blood pressure, miscarriages, placenta previa, preeclampsia, or any other medical condition--a midwife or doctor should be consulted before scheduling a massage. In addition, it is very important for pregnant clients to speak openly with their massage therapist about any concerns or issues.

On the other hand, bodywork techniques like shiatsu access the meridians used in acupuncture, including trigger points that can relieve nausea. According to O'Connor, a good therapist will also teach a mother-to-be how to activate the trigger points herself, as most nausea treatments are more effective when applied at least three times a day. Techniques such as this can be a great relief to a woman navigating the early days of pregnancy.

The Second Trimester

A woman in her second trimester may begin to have trouble with circulation, sometimes because the baby's weight begins to pinch the major veins in the mother's legs. Poor circulation can cause swelling of the extremities, headaches, and exacerbated carpal tunnel syndrome. Massage will increase circulation and help create space in the body to relieve the pressure from the baby's weight. Condon explains that weight gain and joint laxity can cause women to feel off balance and clumsy. Massage can relax the muscles around the joints and ground and balance a pregnant woman.

The Third Trimester

As the baby grows heavy in the final trimester of pregnancy, major changes are likely to occur in the musculoskeletal system, and massage can become even more essential. "A lot of women feel discomfort in their lower backs because the womb is moored to the sacrum, which is that triangle of area at the base of the spine," O'Connor says. "The weight of the womb pulls on that mooring and can be very uncomfortable." Women may also experience discomfort in their abdomen. As the baby grows, the mother's muscles are stretched, her organs are compacted, and her lungs are compressed. Massage can minimize or prevent abdominal muscle tear, a complication that happens with some women. A practitioner can also help reposition the baby to alleviate discomfort and ease breathing. And when labor finally begins, massage can help facilitate the birth, perhaps especially appealing for women considering natural childbirth.

On the Table

But how exactly does a pregnant woman--complete with enormous tummy and tender chest--receive a massage? Many prenatal massages are given with the pregnant woman on her side, semi-reclined, briefly on her back, or on a specially designed pregnancy massage table, and often with a network of pillows for support. Condon explains that prenatal massage is not simply a regular massage except in a different position. A qualified prenatal massage therapist will know the changing physiognomy of a pregnant woman and will tailor the massage to the needs of the client.

Postpartum Massage

Now that baby is here, mom needs a massage more than ever. Says O'Connor, "I think postpartum massage is extremely underrated." After baby arrives, bodywork can help a new mother ease back into her body again, relax sore muscles, address any abdominal muscle strains or tears that occurred during pregnancy, and cope with the life changes and lack of sleep that come with a new baby. In addition, the uterus will sometimes linger low in the abdomen instead of returning to its proper place. A Maya abdominal massage therapist can help restore the uterus to its proper position. Nursing moms may feel reluctant to book a massage due to leaking breasts, but O'Connor says not to worry. "Women shouldn't be concerned about massage while they're nursing, even if they feel like an uncapped fire hydrant!" she says. Practitioners will accommodate nursing women, with proper draping and towels. Pregnancy is an important time that needs to be honored, and prenatal massage plays an important role. As the body goes through miraculous changes, bodywork facilitates pregnancy and helps the expectant mother stay comfortable, connected and healthy.

The Art of Prenatal Massage

2009-11-04T11:17:00.000-08:00

Learn the Art of Massage During Pregnancy

Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork, which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. It is a fast-growing field in the United States that has attracted the interest of labor and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators and obstetricians. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.

The popularity of prenatal massage is the result of a trend toward a higher level of wellness, especially during pregnancy. Many women are postponing childbirth until they have achieved other goals, such as careers and relationships. Because of this, pregnancy is anticipated and enjoyed to its fullest for the wondrous experience it is. Today's pregnant women – along with other health care consumers – are looking for alternative approaches to support traditional health services.

Benefits of Prenatal Massage
In addition to the fact that massage during pregnancy just plain feels good, there are many other benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually
reduces stress hormones in the body. Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image. Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman's body is challenged, changed and stressed in many ways. Massage gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her.

Is Prenatal Massage for You?
Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Your massage therapist will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin. If you are, then your therapist will require approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding with any bodywork.
Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image.

The following are circumstances in which massage should not be performed:

• heavy discharge (watery or bloody)
• diabetes
• contagious illness
• fever
• vomiting
• unusual pain
• pre-eclampsia
• high blood pressure
• morning sickness
• abdominal pain
• diarrhea
• any malignant condition

Areas of the body that should not be massaged include:

• skin rashes, open sores, bruises
• inflammation
• raised or distended varicose veins
• local infection sites

In addition to these areas, one other precaution needs to be mentioned: Direct and sustained pressure should not be applied to the area between the ankle bone and heel. This area is considered by many massage therapists and reflexologists to relate with the uterus and vagina, and it is thought that heavy pressure to this area could promote early labor. Assuming there are no other precautions or considerations, it should be all right to massage the rest of the feet.

Massage can be performed anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on how much time you have and how much discomfort you are experiencing. Once a month during the first trimester is fabulous! Once a week during the second trimester is great, and twice a week or more, during the third trimester is wonderful. In my practice and in my teaching, I have found that my pregnant clients appreciate their massage therapy appointments because they know relief is at hand. They look forward to their weekly appointments to ease recurring problems, such as sciatica, leg cramps, and back and round ligament pain. I hope pregnancy massage eases any discomfort you may be feeling, too.