Massage Professionals Update

The latest news, articles and information related to massage therapy and techniques.

A Smart Way to Practice: Cooperative Marketing

May 31st, 2005

A massage therapist can promote his/her practice in a myriad of ways. While word-of-mouth is the way most practitioners build their clientele, it is definitely not the most effective. At first glance, a joint marketing venture may sound like an intimidating concept, but it’s actually very simple and, even better, it’s cheap.

The New Food Pyramid Reflects a Growing Consciousness

May 31st, 2005

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has finally abandoned the “one size fits all” theory of consumption. Combined with an emphasis on exercise, the new Food Pyramid has us heading in the right direction.

Proof that Laughing Does a Body Good

May 12th, 2005

Finally – scientific proof that laughter reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. University of Maryland medical researchers demonstrate that vasodilation, and its medical benefits, increase significantly following a good laugh.

The Epitome of ‘Practice What You Preach’ for Massage Therapists

May 12th, 2005

As massage therapists, we are familiar with what constitutes a healthy lifestyle. We recommend these applications all the time. But how easy is it to get caught in the hubbub of life, and ignore our own health? A massage therapist shares his story, and encourages us to stay conscious of our body and the environment that we function in.

Educate Your Clients About Electric Massagers

May 12th, 2005

Properly trained massage therapists know to avoid the carotid artery with direct, vigorous and/or repetitive massage. Handheld electric massagers are sold everyday to the public, and many of those customers don’t read the accompanying directions. Make sure your clients know about the danger of these products in the neck region.

Crucial Safety Information for Massage Therapists

March 22nd, 2005

According to the AMA, about 2 million people suffer from DVT each year. Knowing the signs and symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis could ultimately save you from a malpractice lawsuit or more importantly, save a client’s life.

How to Turn Winter Depression Around

March 3rd, 2005

About 35 million people in the USA suffer with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). You will find practical information – ranging from aromatherapy to furniture placement – that can be used by anyone suffering from this common depression.

Massage for Long-Term Pain

February 18th, 2005

This article describes a study done in Sweden on the effectiveness of massage on those suffering with chronic pain. This sizeable study (117 participants) is done from a subjective perspective and would be a great source of information to relate to a client who is tentative about trying massage for chronic pain.

She followed her nose to a new career

April 21st, 2004

The following article appeared as a feature of the Miami Herald business section called “Job File”. This feature apparently focuses on career opportunity ideas. At the bottom of the article they put a box with highlights including the typical salary range. I found this quite enlightening from the perspective of adding aromatherapy counseling to a massage practice. It seems like it would be a great way to help more people (and help people more) while also helping to assure the fiscal viability of any massage therapist’s professional practice.

Essentially, Aromatherapy Works

April 21st, 2004

This next article gives quite a bit of credibility to aromatherapy in a very simple and straightforward way. The orangutan story is particularly telling. Please note that the article references NAHA (The National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy). This association is the most highly regarded for healthcare professionals in the aromatherapy realm. Incidentally, the Institute’s distance learning Aromatherapy Essentials program was designed specifically for massage therapists and is approved by NAHA.