Chair Massage - A Quick Way To Relax And Relieve Stress

With the busy day to day lives that most of us lead, it is hard to schedule time in for a full body massage. This lead to David Palmer creating the chair massage around twenty years ago. This technique was first known as the "on-site massage". It was and still is because the chairs are portable and can be easily brought into the work place. It was a quick way for corporate employees to relax during a stressful work day.
These types of massages can be performed anywhere. The massage is done over the clothing, which makes it possible for it to be done in public. This service is still typically offered in corporate offices. These massages are usually short, lasting from around five minutes to half an hour.
This type of massage is very popular for many reasons. Convenience plays a major role in it's popularity. You can find a chair and a professional willing to give a good massage in many places that you may visit, or at least visit places nearby on a daily or weekly basis.
If you are a shopper and you visit the mall a lot, you may have noticed areas in the mall where a few therapists have chairs set up for the shoppers' benefits. You may have also seen this same set up at a health or natural food store. If these are not places you visit often, spas also offer massages this way, or you could even have a therapist visit your office.
There are many reasons why people go for a massage like this. For one, a lot of people feel threatened or uncomfortable taking off there clothes and lying naked while having a complete stranger massage their bodies. In other words, nudity is not allowed when going for this type of massage, and many people find this a relief.
Another reason why people like this type of massage better is because it is easy on their wallets. Because it is not a full massage, it is usually quicker and professionals charge for the amount of time they spend massaging a client. Therefore, money is not usually an issue when it comes to having this type of massage done.
There are many other reasons why you should consider getting a chair massage. The ones I have mentioned are just a few on the list of many. Next time you are out and about and you see an area set up for massages, go ahead and have a seat. You won't be disappointed; you may even keep going back.

The Importance Of Licensed Massage Therapy

With a range of national massage therapy professional regulations, and states with little to no professional massage therapy requirements, it is easy for consumers to get lost. But quality licensed massage therapy as performed by a true massage professional is essential to getting not only the best results, but the safest as well.
Many people looking for massage therapy services are not even aware that they should be looking for licensed professionals. The incongruity between state requirements and a lack of federal regulation has resulted in confusion for the massage-buying public. And though it is in no way practical for a potential client to research every detail of his or her state's laws regarding the requirements for licensed massage therapy, there are some questions a consumer can ask of a prospective therapist before committing to his or her care, and there are some additional steps that can be taken to further research qualifications for a given therapist.
Questions For Consumers To Ask
Starting very simply, ask outright
• Are you licensed in massage therapy?
• Who granted your license?
• Is your license valid in this state?
• Where did you complete your training in massage therapy?
• What did your training include?
• If you are interested in specialized massage therapies, ask about the therapist's background in specific types of massage. You might ask, do you specialize in any types of massage? Do you have specialized certifications?
• Are you certified by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB)?
It is important to understand that not all states have a requirement for licensure to practice massage therapy; only 37 states and the District of Columbia have requirements regulating it. While this means that a therapist may not be legally required to hold a license, it does not mean that receiving therapy from an untrained "therapist" or "masseuse" is a good idea. If the answer to the first question above is 'no', ask 'why not', and continue to ask what training and certification (such as an NCBTMB certificate) proves his or her professional abilities and expertise. Certification by the NCBTMB and membership in a professional organization (namely, the American Massage Therapy Association, or AMTA) can be taken as a respectable substitute for a state license, as these are the standards that are used by most states that require licensed massage therapy for the licensing of massage therapists (just be sure the certification is current and in good standing).
Certain safeguards online can be used to double-check information as provided by a massage therapist. In most states, licensing status for licensed massage therapy providers is accessible through state databases, and the AMTA can also be queried regarding certification status of individuals. Of course, an easy online search is a quick way to determine whether a training program looks legitimate as well.
Surely, taking the steps to learn about licensed massage therapy does take some added effort, but the time is worthwhile; after all, more than relaxation is at stake, health and safety are as well.

Massage and Corporate Wellness

Businesses across America are discovering something that athletes have known for many years--massage improves performance. Not just athletic performance, but performance in general.
Most people have a pretty good idea about the health benefits of a massage on a massage table in a spa. But you may not know about chair massage.
Seated chair massages can reduce stress, fatigue and pain. They also can improve function of the immune system, improves a depressive state, and increase a person's ability to concentrate. Seated chair massage has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation while simultaneously enhancing employee alertness.
Physicians and health care providers have now come to the conclusion that there is a correlation between stress and disease and stress related ailments are the main cause of productivity decline in the workplace. More than half of all employee absence can be attributed to stress induced high blood pressure, headache, and even chronic pain. Massage as a stress management tool fits well into the corporate world's business leaders.
Major corporations including the Ford Motor Company, American Airlines, and Bank of America are enjoying the benefits of on-site seated, fully-clothed chair massage. They are finding that massage optimizes employee performance and mental alterness. But you don't have to be a major corporation to benefit from a seated chair massage. If you have one employee or many, all will benefit from a seated chair massage.

How An Employee Can Benefit From Seated Chair Massage

As an employee, would you like to improve your immune system, relieve chronic pain and alleviate stress-related ailments? Do you want to break the cycle of stress and tension in your life? Do you want relief from muscle aches and spasms in the neck, shoulders, back and arms? Do you want to feel better about your job? Are you ready to take control of your physical and emotional well being?
The statistics are in:
70% of our workers agree that job stress causes frequent health problems.
75% - 90% of all visits to primary care physicians are for people seeking help with stress related health problems.
Stress keep over a million people from going to work every day in the United States.
Job stress and subsequent related problems cost companies over $300 billion last year.
Stress is the number one cause of disability.
More and more is required of employees and employers every day, contributing to workplace stress.
These facts are alarming and as an employer, we found a great, workable solution:
This is a progressive step in reducing workplace stress, thereby reducing absenteeism. This method is simple and quick. Seated chair massage is a very dynamic method to help employees and employers to relax, refresh and refocus. When stress is reduced, productivity increases, absenteeism is reduced and interpersonal relationships between everyone at the workplace improves. We guarantee all our employees will feel better and thus perform better after receiving their 10 - 15 minute professional seated chair massage on a regular basis.
We are talking about de-stressing and we want this to be as easy as possible for our employees because the office still has to keep on working. With an on-site seated chair massage, everyone benefits. You, the employee, will have better morale and that will improve our bottom line.

The Amazing Benefits Of A Full Body Massage

There is nothing in the world like the feeling you get after a full body massage. That sense of peace and tranquility pervades every muscle and seems to be just the thing to help you get a good rest. But a full body massage can do more than just feel good. There are a whole host of benefits that massage can give you when delivered by a licensed professional massage therapist.
The number of benefits associated with massage therapy is enormous.
Humans need touch. It's as simple as that. Without touch, we get depressed, ill, and stressed. A newborn who is not touched will not thrive. A well done massage takes our need for touch to a new therapeutic level. It can not only relieve tension and stress, it can help rehabilitate a muscle injury. It can also help prevent injury. Massage helps keep muscles loose and well-nourished, so they respond better when stressed. Massage improves circulation, which can aid healing and cell growth. The lymphatic system benefits as well through massage... like your circulation, it flows through channels throughout your body. Manipulating the muscles and these channels help clear up blockages and keep the lymph fluid flowing. Regular massages can contribute to a healthier immune system. Regular massages can also help you overcome sleep problems; enabling you to get more rest and be more alert while you are awake.
If you've never had one, you are in for a treat. Here's what you can expect.
A professional massage may cost you anywhere from $50 to $100 or more for an hour-long treatment. Once you've experienced one by a licensed masseuse, you'll know it is worth every penny. When you arrive at the massage therapist's office, you will be shown to a private space. Once there, you will need to undress and lie on the massage table. Sheets are wrapped around you, both for modesty and to keep you warm. Only the portion of your body that is being massaged will be uncovered at any one time. When you are ready, the massage therapist will come in. They may use oils for the massage that enable their fingers to slide more smoothly over your muscles. These oils are easily absorbed by your skin, and may be mixed with aromatherapy oils for additional benefits.
The therapist may start at your feet, loosening the muscles one by one with a series of strokes, pressures and other manipulative movements. They work their way up the legs, into your hips, releasing tension and restoring full circulation as they go. Most methods of massage will focus on moving the blood back towards the heart. Depending on what method of massage you choose, you may experience more methods of applying pressure, or more stroking... each method is different.
The therapist will work their way through your back, shoulders, arms, hands and neck, finishing at your head.
Sounds wonderful doesn't it? But remember to always use a licensed therapist for a full body massage. A licensed massage therapist has undergone rigorous training in the systems of the body and how they work together. They have studied how to apply pressure and stroking techniques to various parts of the body to increase circulation and loosen muscles without causing harm to the client. And they have passed a stringent written and practical exam by their state to qualify to provide massage therapy to the public.

The Essential Must Have Massage Equipment for Massage Therapist

Every massage therapist that is thinking about getting into this business needs to have the right massage equipment in order to perform their best. While many massage therapists will prefer not to spend the extra cost of acquiring all what that is needed, I would not cut too many corners if you want to succeed.
Many people benefit from massage therapy. It is not just used to relax people anymore. When we think of massage, we often imagine luxury spas where people are pampered and spoiled. This is no longer the case massage therapy is now used to improve performance in athletes and help people with chronic pain, injuries and even for anxiety and other emotional disorders
A massage therapist just beginning in practice may benefit from being available at moment's notice often visiting homes of those who are in need of a massage. So the first essential item, a portable lightweight massage table. And I would also considering purchasing a portable massage chair for marketing purposes and corporate accounts. This is huge I brought in aprox. 50% of my clientele from using the chair alone, the chair offers many advantages that a massage table will not.
Business cards and a website
You must have a way for your potential clients to contact you, get more information and learn about your massage techniques that you specialize in, a website allows this potential client to gain valuable insights about your services without having to stay by a phone even if you are with another client. Today our websites can now book clients, and send a text message with that confirmed appointment to your cellphone without you ever taking a call.
Your massage therapy business cards should have all the general information on it name, phone number, services offered and a call to action. Your call to action can be something very simple like, come in this month and save $20 off your next massage. Or get 30 minutes free when you buy 30 minutes, but be sure to have an expiration date ending in a week or two, you can always extend it.
Your website need not to be anything real expensive of fancy due to the reason that you will probably be making a lot of changes on it as you grow your business. You do need to make sure that it has an email optin form, this is for building your network of clients. If you have their email address, then at anytime you move or have a special offer, letting your all clients know is just a few keystrokes away. Your website should once your busy, have an online scheduling system, this way your clients can book right from their computer plus you can set it up to capture a physical address, phone number, birthdays and get informed of any special considerations that the client may have prior to them coming in. This alone can make a huge impact, our clients love it. Consider offering gift certificates, it is not too difficult to set up.
For those who wish to set up an office practice, it is necessary to have all the necessary equipment such as proper stationary, tables, mats, chairs and other misc. items. But if want to make a winning impression, get a good lotion, I prefer Biotone Dual Purpose. Do not buy some cheap oils they will make your clothes have oil stains on it so will your sheets. And if you do not have a shower available; chances are pretty good that your client will get oil stains on their clothing as well. Last key equipment would be a table heater or pad for your massage table, have it on prior to your client coming in, they will love you for it.

Massage Therapist Need To Understand Golgi Tendons & Muscle Spindle Cells

As a massage therapist it is vital to know the various parts of the human body and understand their significance. Two terms that you should know and understand are Golgi tendons and muscle spindle cells. As a massage therapist it is important to know these two sensory neuron proprioceptors and know what they do. The muscle spindle, for instance, is a proprioceptor that relays information regarding changes in the length of muscles. The Golgi tendon is a different type of proprioceptor that relays information regarding muscle tension changes. These two proprioceptors are important for stretching muscles and conditioning muscles. Together they help to protect the muscles from overstretching and becoming injured. First, though, it is important to know what each is and its particular function.
What are Sensory Neurons
Neurons are cells that work to carry messages through the body. The neurons are responsible for telling you to bend your finger or flex your foot. They also make sure that you don't overstretch your muscle or apply too much tension to a tendon, thus avoiding injury. Every neuron is comprised of a cell body and nerve fibers. It is the nerve fibers that receive impulses from other neurons and then send that information to the cell body. The fibers then send the impulses away from the cell body to other neurons.
The Golgi tendon organs and muscle spindle cells are both sensory neurons called proprioceptors. These sensory neurons are located in nerves and tracts but their cell bodies are found just outside of the spinal cord. They move messages from sensory organs in the tendons and muscles to the spinal cord. Some of these neuron fibers are called proprioceptive fibers. These fibers monitor the way that a muscle contracts and stretches as well as measures the tension that is in a tendon and transmit's that information to the spinal cord so that the information can be processed. This feedback allows the body to know positions and postures of the limbs even when they cannot be seen.
What are Golgi Tendons
Golgi tendon organs are located in the collagen fibers of the tendon at the point where the tendon fibers merge with the muscle fibers. While they function in a manner that is similar to muscle spindle cells in that they measure muscle changes, they only become activated when there is contraction of the tendon. They also monitor changes in the tension of the muscle that comes from a change of the muscle length. When the tendon or muscle is overstrained, it sends a message to the muscle which causes it to relax. This is important for preventing injury.
What are Muscle Spindle Cells
Muscle spindle cells are located in the muscle fibers, parallel to them. Their function is to monitor and measure muscle length on a continual basis, both when the muscle is at rest and when it is stretched as well as the speed of changes in muscle length. The muscle spindle cell is located inside the muscle while the Golgi is located at the end of the muscle.
How the Golgi Tendon Organs and Muscle Spindle Cells Work Together
The muscle spindle cells have a very effective working relationship with the Golgi tendon organs. The muscle spindle monitors the changes in length and the speed of those changes within the muscle. It sends the message to the spine to convey the information to trigger the stretch reflex. This stretch reflex, for which the Golgi tendon organs are a part, tries to stop the change of the length of the muscle. This is a protective feature of the human body that prevents injury. The more the muscle tries to stretch and the faster it tries to stretch, the more the Golgi tendon organs cause it to contract. Over time, the muscles can be trained so that the stretch reflex allows for more and more of a stretch before contracting.
As a massage therapist it is important that you understand how the Golgi tendon organs and muscle spindle cells work together to prevent injury to muscles. As you work and stretch the muscles of your client, you must pay attention to the response of their body. Learn to detect the muscle spindle cell's span and ability to stretch, but also learn how to detect when the Golgi tendon organs begin to work to prevent injury. Then learn how to work with that push-pull action to help lengthen the muscle and increase the muscle spindle cell's ability to stretch the muscle until the Golgi tendon organs attempt to stop the stretch. This will help you prevent injury to your client and help them work with sports injuries.

Aromatherapy An Essential Tool For Massage Therapist

Aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years and using aromatherapy along with massage techniques has always been popular in Asian countries. It is now finding much success in the west as well. More massage therapists are incorporating this ancient healing art into their therapy techniques.
By using essential oils that are derived from plants, flowers and other natural products, the massage therapist can not only treat a client with massage techniques, but because the oils contain healing powers, they are absorbed into the skin giving additional relief.
There are many reasons why people enjoy getting a massage. Many seek out a massage for relaxation. A relaxing massage will ease away all of the stress and tension not only in your body but your mind. There are many different techniques that massage therapist practice to relax clients in this manner. Combining them with aromatherapy only makes the experience more pleasurable or helpful.
Essential oils are very concentrated and should never be used directly on the skin. They are usually mixed with a carrier of oil for dilution. There are many different types of essential oils and all have different uses. These oils have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and are quite effective. Many people are finding that a massage with aromatherapy can relieve such things as stress, depression, anxiety, symptoms from respiratory colds and many other conditions.
Another way a massage therapist can incorporate the use of aromatherapy into the massage is by using an infuser in the room where the massage is being performed. The infuser heats the oil and the client breathes the fragrance, which is usually pleasant, into his or her lungs. This enters the blood stream and goes right to work on the process of healing. In the meantime, the massage therapist is also working on the muscles and other parts of the body that need tending.
If you are going to practice a Thai massage, you will most likely incorporate aromatherapy into your treatment. Prior to using aromatherapy massage, a massage therapist should be quite familiar with all of the essential oils and for what they are used. They should understand how to dilute the oils using carrier oil or know how to heat them with a diffuser. It is very important that a massage therapist be knowledgeable in all aspects of aromatherapy before practicing upon a client. Some essential oils that are very popular to use include lavender and rose as well as tee tree extracts. Lavender is actually one of the few essential oils that is safe to put directly upon the skin, but this should only be done by a licensed massage therapist.
By using aromatherapy along with massage a massage therapist will be doing double duty for his or her client. This is essentially like getting two treatments at the same time. Many people who suffer from migraine headaches can find instant relief by this type of therapy treatment. Massage therapists who have not yet practiced this ancient art of aromatherapy should seek to further their education into this area so that they can provide additional benefits for their clients.

Body Massager

Body massage is a way to awake you senses and improve your blood circulation of the body. The massage works on the human body's tissue and helps to reduce the muscle pain and also get relief from tensions. Not only muscle pains but all body pain also is cured by this massage. The body massage is usually done with hands. But now there are massagers available on the market which help you to massage yourself.
Normal massage is starting from limbs to face. That is from upper and lower limbs first and then moves to upwards and finally to face and head. Most of the massages are heading towards a person's chest or heart part. Once your full body massage is over you can feel the relief and you feel energetic. This therapy improves the flow of vital energy.
If you use a body massager the advantage is that you can do your massage yourself and do not have to go to any therapy centers. There are different self massaging machines are available with different costs. You will get a body massager machine also. You will be careful about these massager, because as in every devices there also duplication available which may cause an opposite result in massage. So be careful to buy a standard massager with good quality and affordable price. There are foot massager; head massager etc are also available. Massager for animals like horses are also available. Except these massaging devices massage cushions are there. You can use it in home as your normal cushion.

The Many Benefits Of Massage Therapy

It's not hard to sell most people on the benefits of massage therapy - who wouldn't want to lose themselves in an hour of therapeutic relaxation? But since it does carry some moderate expense, it helps to know about the many benefits.
Some people seek out the services of a massage therapist simply because they need some down-time to relax and refresh; certainly, this is enough of a reason to frequent the massage therapist's office in itself, but there are also many health benefits; an increasingly large number of clients find their way to the table in search of relief modern medicine has been unable to manage. Likewise, clients also seek massage therapy services to supplement and enhance both modern and alternative medical treatments.
The Many Benefits Of Massage Therapy
Regardless of the impetus, clients find numerous incomparable benefits; it is not at all uncommon for a client to come into massage therapy for the treatment of one symptom or condition, only to find wide ranging benefits that treat a number of other conditions.
The most notable advantages include:
Improved blood circulation
Stimulation/relief of muscle pain due to lack of activity (often caused by sedentary jobs)
Increased alertness
Decrease in back pain (one of the leading reasons for seeking massage services)
Improved mood
Reduced stress levels
Reduced instances of stress-related illness including tension headaches
Decreased muscle stiffness/increased mobility
Improved ability to heal (in part due to circulation/stimulation improvement)
Reduction in muscle spasms
Increased physical performance/athleticism
Improved deep breathing
Improved posture
Strengthened immune system
Reduction in anxiety levels
Lower dependence on medication
Improved joint flexibility
Lessened risk of depression
Promotes healing of soft tissues, including scars
Improved delivery of oxygen and nutrients
Increases pain tolerance by releasing endorphins (natural pain killers of the human body)
Eases pain of childbirth
Relieves sleep loss/insomnia
Increased energy, reduction in frequency and severity of fatigue
Netting The Biggest Benefits
Even a one-time visit to the massage therapist can net excellent benefits; but for the most lasting benefits, regular sessions are recommended. Regular therapy ensures that the body continues to enjoy the increase in circulatory health and relief of muscle tension which directly contribute to the benefits. Over time, the expense of sessions is easily mitigated in increased health and well-being, and in a large number of cases, in the savings enjoyed between decreased use and cost of medications, doctors' visits, and time lost from work.

There are many places where students can study massage therapy in the United States. One of the most prominent among them is the Austin School of Mass

It's not hard to sell most people on the benefits of massage therapy - who wouldn't want to lose themselves in an hour of therapeutic relaxation? But since it does carry some moderate expense, it helps to know about the many benefits.
Some people seek out the services of a massage therapist simply because they need some down-time to relax and refresh; certainly, this is enough of a reason to frequent the massage therapist's office in itself, but there are also many health benefits; an increasingly large number of clients find their way to the table in search of relief modern medicine has been unable to manage. Likewise, clients also seek massage therapy services to supplement and enhance both modern and alternative medical treatments.
The Many Benefits Of Massage Therapy
Regardless of the impetus, clients find numerous incomparable benefits; it is not at all uncommon for a client to come into massage therapy for the treatment of one symptom or condition, only to find wide ranging benefits that treat a number of other conditions.
The most notable advantages include:
Improved blood circulation
Stimulation/relief of muscle pain due to lack of activity (often caused by sedentary jobs)
Increased alertness
Decrease in back pain (one of the leading reasons for seeking massage services)
Improved mood
Reduced stress levels
Reduced instances of stress-related illness including tension headaches
Decreased muscle stiffness/increased mobility
Improved ability to heal (in part due to circulation/stimulation improvement)
Reduction in muscle spasms
Increased physical performance/athleticism
Improved deep breathing
Improved posture
Strengthened immune system
Reduction in anxiety levels
Lower dependence on medication
Improved joint flexibility
Lessened risk of depression
Promotes healing of soft tissues, including scars
Improved delivery of oxygen and nutrients
Increases pain tolerance by releasing endorphins (natural pain killers of the human body)
Eases pain of childbirth
Relieves sleep loss/insomnia
Increased energy, reduction in frequency and severity of fatigue
Netting The Biggest Benefits
Even a one-time visit to the massage therapist can net excellent benefits; but for the most lasting benefits, regular sessions are recommended. Regular therapy ensures that the body continues to enjoy the increase in circulatory health and relief of muscle tension which directly contribute to the benefits. Over time, the expense of sessions is easily mitigated in increased health and well-being, and in a large number of cases, in the savings enjoyed between decreased use and cost of medications, doctors' visits, and time lost from work.

Austin School Of Massage Therapy - A Full-Service School

There are many places where students can study massage therapy in the United States. One of the most prominent among them is the Austin School of Massage Therapy in Texas.
What The School Has to Offer
The Austin School of Massage Therapy (ASMT) has been educating massage therapists for more than twenty years. They were among the first schools in the nation to recognize the viability of a career in massage therapy. More than 8,000 students have graduated from the program at Austin.
ASMT has gained international recognition for its programs and boasts the title of the largest massage therapy program in the United States. Innovative program offerings prepare students for a number of lucrative careers in massage therapy; with the inclusion of an online store, the ASMT has truly proven themselves as a full-service school.
ASMT offers students
Choice of class locations
Exclusive programs of specialization (which can greatly increase earning potential up to as much as $75.00 per hour) including pregnancy, childbearing, and infant massage, spa massage, sports massage, clinical and pain management massage. Specialization certifications are open to new students and to practicing professionals.
The "500-hour Clark Comprehensive Program"
Full tuition scholarships
An online massage therapy supply store
Support for ASMT students does not end with program completion. Austin offers career assistance and job placement assistance for life to its graduates. Also, ASMT offers continuing education programs and classes that help students meet licensure and certification renewal requirements, and helps them to stay updated in the latest industry and professional techniques and advances.
Austin School Of Massage Therapy - Location, Location, Location
Austin has been able to earn its designation as the largest U.S. massage therapy program by expanding its program outreach. It operates at 12 different locations throughout Texas. Students can attend classes in 12 major cities in the Lone-Star state.
And a fun added benefit? Both students and private citizens can book an appointment to schedule a massage! Austin has made every effort to streamline their offerings, and has included a convenient online scheduler for this task.
The reputation of the Austin School of Massage Therapy precedes it far beyond the borders of Texas; with an internationally recognized program dedicated to the field of massage therapy and to student success, ASMT is one of the most sought-after schools for massage therapy in the United States and beyond.

Using Professional Associations to Find a Massage Therapist

Choosing a massage therapist can be challenging. Knowing their professional affiliation can be of great help in making your choice. There are a number of professional organizations that promote high standards for massage therapy. Find out if your therapist is involved in any of the following organizations.
All of the following organizations provide some level of professional insurance, a directory of members, a newsletter for members and have a code of ethics and/or standards of practice.
The American Massage Therapy Association, (AMTA) founded in 1943,"represents more than 56,000 massage therapists. AMTA works to establish massage therapy as integral to the maintenance of good health and complementary to other therapeutic processes; to advance the profession through ethics and standards, continuing education, professional publications, legislative efforts, public education, and fostering the development of members." Members must have 500 hours of massage training, (or equivalent) to join and complete 48 clock hours of continuing education every 4 years. (Source: AMTA)
Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals is one of the largest massage associations in the United States. There are over 61,000 members total. Established in 1987, the ABMP is a membership organization of professional massage therapists, bodyworkers, physical therapists and nurses. ABMP's "Certified" members must have 500 hours of massage education from an approved program (or equivalent) to join and 16 hours of continuing education every two years. ABMP offers a "Professional" membership that also requires 500 hours and the same amount of CE hours. (Source: ABMP)
Both the AMTA and ABMP allow massage therapists to become eligible by getting a passing score on one of several National Certification Examinations.
The International Massage Association (IMA) originated in 1994 in Washington DC. Today over 70,000 people have joined the IMA Group, Inc. "Therapist" memberships "require 500 hours of training by either a school or apprenticeship. Sixteen CE hours from IMA approved vendors are required to be completed every two years after joining." A much lesser "Practicing" membership only requires 100 hours of training by either a school or apprenticeship and 16 CE hours. "Their mission is to get massage in every home in America." They continually teach their members how to build their practices successfully and keep costs low." (Source: IMA)

Helping Your Spa Clients Relax From the Moment They Hit the Door

A spa is a relaxation retreat that can help even the busiest, most stressed people relax, rejuvenate, and regain balance. To accomplish all that, your spa needs the environment and the right tools to facilitate relaxation. Make the most of your customers' visits with these simple tips.
Creating a relaxing environment
Environment is probably one of the most important aspects of a spa. Certain atmospheres invite relaxation from the moment a customer steps inside the building.
Give your spa guests the relaxing environment they need by utilizing natural elements such as plants and water fountains. Natural light or soft light is also a great way to add a soothing atmosphere. Instead of soft rock on your sound system, try natural sounds, like rain, waves on the beach, and forest sounds. (Just make sure there aren't too many noisy animals breaking the ambiance.) If you're able, consider cultivating a small garden.
Avoid clutter in your search for fun accessories. A simple, clean, natural atmosphere will encourage customers to clear the clutter from their minds and focus on relaxing.
Meditation tools
Consider offering complimentary meditation tools for customers to can use during their stay. For some people, it takes a long time for people to clear their minds of the little daily details so that they can enjoy their time at the spa. By the time they manage to do it, their appointment could be almost over.
Meditation tools offer something physical for them to connect to. Instead of just trying to relax and focus on an abstract idea of peace and tranquility, they have a tool that they can direct their focus to. One such meditation tool is the Zen Stick, a smooth wooden stick that you toss and catch while your eyes are closed. It can help people quickly enter a more peaceful state of mind, which will in turn help them better enjoy your spa services.
What to avoid
Fluorescent bulbs and harsh lighting should never make an appearance at your spa, as they can aggravate guests with sensitive eyes or headaches. If you're near a street or are amidst other urban features, consider something like paper screens to block the view but not the light. You want people to forget they're a part of the modern world, if only for a short time.
With a few simple ideas, you can create a spa that encourages even the most wound-up, stressed-out patrons to leave their worries at the door and pamper themselves for an hour. Combine meditation tools and nature to create a truly unique and memorable relaxation experience.

Massage Therapy and the Female Athlete Triad

The needs of male and female athletes are very different, and these differences are apparent in all phases of athletic medical care -- from diagnosis, to treatment, to massage or physical therapy efforts.
An ailment exclusive to female athletes is the female athlete triad, a triumvirate of disorders that have a domino effect on one's overall health. The three components of this affliction are disordered eating, amenorrhea (or loss of menstrual periods for three consecutive months), and osteoporosis (or a thinning of bone tissue and loss of bone density). Affected athletes are best helped when each component of the triad is addressed and treated separately - and massage and sports rehabilitation therapy are helpful treatment options for this condition.
Athletes of both genders must focus on developing many of the same attributes in their bodies: strength, balance, endurance, precision. However, women are more likely than men to participate in sports and athletic endeavors that focus on body weight, size, and appearance. Gymnastics, figure-skating, ballet, and cheer-leading/color guard are some examples of these image-focused sports. In ballet, for example, the pre-pubescent figure is regarded as ideal, and bodily markers of adult female estrogen levels, such as visible breasts and hips, are taboo at many dance schools.
Many adolescent girls and women become image-obsessed, focusing on cutting their caloric intakes as much as possible, while continuing to train at the same vigorous, competitive levels. Once a person begins a calorie-restricted diet, it can be difficult to stop - many dieters report starvation-induced euphoria and delight at their shrinking bodies. The starvation method of weight loss is detrimental to training athletes, who typically have lower-than-normal body fat levels to begin with. A girl or woman needs at least 18 percent body fat to menstruate, and once body fat drops below this level, menstruation can cease. In girls who have not yet begun their periods, the onset of menstrual bleeding (menarche) can be delayed for years.
The cessation of menstruation is problematic because it upsets the female body's natural estrogen levels. As estrogen levels drop, bone density loss and bone weakening can occur. Estrogen in women has a protective effect on the skeletal system, enabling bone development during adolescence, and halting bone loss throughout early- and mid-adulthood. Adolescent amenorrhea can prevent a female athlete from building peak bone mass; adult amenorrhea can speed up the process.
Even worse, weakened bones are susceptible to fractures and injuries. Coupled with inadequate nutrition from calorie-restrictive diets, female athletes might wind up injured and unable to train or compete. The more headstrong among these athletes continue to train despite multiple injuries and amenorrhea, setting themselves up for long bouts of poor health. Medical intervention is critical for these types of athletes.
Massage therapy can work in several ways to help individuals suffering from the female athlete triad get well. Some types of massage therapy are instrumental in helping athletes recover from injuries, including injuries sustained as a result of low body weight and over-exercising. Massage and sports rehabilitation therapy performed upon the recommendation of a sports physician can be helpful to recovery from physical symptoms of the female athlete triad.
It can also help female athletes relax. Lowering levels of physical and mental stress can assist female athlete triad patients in feeling better overall. Appetite recovery and sleep restoration can help these athletes to begin menstruating regularly again, and will assist in faster recovery from injuries. Some athletes will feel less of a compulsion to exercise to the point of exhaustion once their cortisol (stress hormone) levels are lowered.
Finally, massage therapy can help female athletes feel better about themselves. They might become more comfortable with their bodies, and learn to appreciate their strengths and athletic skills. Massage also releases endorphins, or feel-good hormones, that can replace the euphoria often caused by starving. Whole-body relaxation can also contribute to an improved sense of self - when the athlete feels her life is under control, she might no longer feel a drive to focus on controlling her weight and appearance.
As the athlete recovers, she often institutes a better diet, at the recommendation of a trained nutritionist. This improved diet provides enough nourishment for her athletic endeavors. Improved nutrition also helps her to recover faster from injuries sustained from amenorrhea and over-training. As her period returns, so, too, will her bone density, and finally, her strength and stamina.
Recovering from the female athlete triad can be difficult. However, with the aid of a professional team, including a sports physician, nutritionist, and massage or sports rehabilitation therapist, affected athletes do not have to suffer alone.

Relax, Recuperate, and Rejuvenate - Get the Most Out of Your Spa Treatment

No matter how much we enjoy our work, our family and our friends, they can still stress us out. That's why we all need a chance to get away, relax and pamper ourselves, even if it's just for an hour.
Few things cater to that need to relax and pamper better than a spa. Massages, facials, body treatments, steam rooms...who couldn't de-stress in a place like that?
Of course, sometimes it can take the entire hour just to get your mind to settle down enough to enjoy your visit. By that time you've got to get up and return to the real world. If that's the case, why not consider starting your relaxation period before your spa visit?
Whether you're at home or already at the spa, you can find other ways to soothe your mind and spirit. That way, you're already in the process of calming your mind, and by the time your get to the spa, you'll be ready mentally, physically and spiritually for your treatment.
Get there early
One of the best ways to make sure that you can fully enjoy your time at the spa is to get there at least 20 minutes early. That way, you've got plenty of time to check in, change into your robe, and enjoy any other amenities they offer, like a hot tub or a sauna. You won't have to rush around and worry about being late. Plus, you'll also have time to shower so that you're fresh and clean before your treatment.
Start relaxing at home
Sometimes it's just not possible for you to be able to get to your appointment as early as you'd like. In that case, try to do things at home that will start relaxing you before you go. One way is to take a hot shower or bath before you go. Even if it's only 5 or 10 minutes, that's 5 or 10 minutes that you're starting the process of calming your mind. If you can just get into that mindset, it will make relaxing at the spa worlds easier.
Another way to start decompressing in your home could involve your favorite meditation tool or technique. Do your meditation technique right before you go, and you'll be carrying that tranquility with you when you enter the spa.
For some people, though, time is of the essence, and some meditation can take more time than they have. If that's the case, a meditation tool can help you focus quickly. One such tool is the Zen Stick, a polished wood stick that you simply toss and catch with your eyes closed. Having a physical connection like this with your meditation can clear your mind faster than a breathing meditation alone.
Even better, a meditation tool is portable, so you can take it with you to the spa. That way, you can use it both before your treatment to attain serenity, and after to extend it.
Time at the spa calms even the most harassed mind, re-centers the spirit, and helps erase the little stresses of the day. By adding meditation tools and techniques to your spa repertoire, you will be able to extend your peaceful state of mind even if you can't extend your massage beyond 60 minutes.