Massage Therapy: Being Prepared PDF

30 G ET T I N G STA RT E D BEING PREPARED Aside from honing your massage techniques, there are other important ways to prepare for and develop your practice. Being properly equipped and spending some time on your mental and physical preparation (see pp.32–35) will ensure that when it comes to th...

30 G ET T I N G STA RT E D BEING PREPARED Aside from honing your massage techniques, there are other important ways to prepare for and develop your practice. Being properly equipped and spending some time on your mental and physical preparation (see pp.32–35) will ensure that when it comes to the actual massage, you will be able to place your focus solely on the receiver, knowing that all of the accompanying elements are in place to allow treatments to run as smoothly as possible. TOOLS OF THE TRADE Whether in a practice, a dedicated space in your home, or at the receiver’s home, a A padded face hole keeps the massage environment should be welcoming, body aligned, clean, and calm. In addition, being properly avoiding strain equipped will ensure the comfort of both you on the neck and the receiver, allowing you both to relax. ESSENTIALS A massage table or comfortable, supportive - surface is key. A dedicated massage bed is ideal. For occasional massage, a well-padded, supportive floor-based futon can be used. Most beds are too soft for a massage and at an awkward height that puts pressure on the back. When choosing a massage table, look for the main features (see right) and make Table legs can be sure it is stable. Some tables state a weight adjusted manually limit, so check if this suits your needs. If you or by hydraulic or need to travel, a lighter, portable table is ideal. electronic control Clean - towels and table covers are a must. A cover offers hygiene, while towels ensure - comfort, warmth, and privacy and provide - a safe boundary between practitioner and - receiver. You will need the following: - A protective cover, clean cotton sheet, or  B E I N G P R E PA R E D 31 Cleanliness large towels to cover the table. used (see p.26). These are easily absorbed, is important A disposable paper cover can be used on top skin-nourishing, and can be stored in a of the couch cover or towels; otherwise, pump bottle for quick, hygienic access. launder towels and cover after each client. A table that can They also warm up quickly. Two large towels to cover the receiver (see be raised at the Waxes are firmer and provide more grip if head to semi- - p.81). Only one part of the body at a time— upright allows desired. They are often combined with oils the part about to be treated—is uncovered. you to adapt the for a semisolid texture. massage to a - Extra towels to roll up or fold for support Powders may be used in reflexology, person’s needs - and comfort. These can be placed under providing a nonslippery medium. - the ankles when the receiver is face down (prone); under the knees when face EXTRAS up (supine) to alleviate pressure on In addition to the core items above, you may the hips and relax the lower back also want to include the following in your and stomach; and under the massage practice: head for support. Pillows to enhance comfort and offer Lubricants such as oils, lotions, waxes, - additional support. They can be used in and powders help the hands to glide. - place of rolled towels under the ankles Vegetable oils, such as grapeseed - and knees. and sweet almond, are commonly A chair for a head and shoulder massage or - for a back massage with the receiver sitting - astride it if possible, using cushions as - comfortable padding if needed. Essential oils to blend with base oils to - enhance the massage (see pp.24–29). - Meditative music, if welcome, to create a - relaxing, peaceful environment and/or to block out background noise. Unscented candles may be used to create - an inviting environment. COMFORT AND CARE Look for a well- cushioned table with a wipe-clean surface.  32 G ET T I N G STA RT E D PRACTICAL AND PHYSICAL Have at hand previous notes, a pen, any PREPARATION relevant reference material, and have a clock in view. As well as ensuring you have all the right I equipment in place (see pp.30–31), consider apple practicalities, such as room temperature and wers MASSAGE POSTURE what you are wearing. During the massage, Body mechanics and posture are extremely - - - your posture, balance, and how you move - important for massage therapists to ensure - - around is key, both for facilitating the massage balance and fluid movement and to avoid - and to ensure that you don’t injure yourself. injury. Depth of stroke should come from - - Check the list below to make sure you are using body weight and should be driven by - prepped and take some time to practice the the lower limbs, not by tensing or pushing - postures, opposite. from the hands, arms, or shoulders. When standing, both feet should be in - - BEFORE YOU START contact with the floor, the back should be - A comfortable, warm, peaceful environment straight, the shoulders relaxed down, and the - - will help promote a relaxed atmosphere for chest open. Avoid overstretching, always face - both you and the receiver. Make sure that you in the direction of the strokes, and don’t stay - are both suitably prepared and that any in one position for too long. - possible distractions have been removed. Adopt the positions, opposite, to suit Keep the room warm enough for the - different techniques. Work on the head can - receiver when he or she is undressed, but also be done while seated, with the legs not so warm that it is unbearable for you. spread wide and feet flat on the floor. Massage should be as relaxing and my body should be in a comfortable position. therapeutic to give as it is to receive. Turn your phones off and, ideally, make m e n - sure that these are out of sight. APPLYING OILS Don’t wear jewelry and ask the receiver - - to remove theirs. Rings, watches, and Just a small amount of oil is needed for a massage. Too much oil can be slippery and prevent good control, while too little can m e r- bracelets could catch on skin and irritate skin by pulling the hairs. Generally, long effleurage strokes potentially scratch one of you, while noisy (see p.40) require more oil to allow the hands to glide. Always oil jewelry can be a distraction. your hands rather than placing oil straight on the body, following Ask the receiver to remove glasses or, if - the guide below: massaging the face, their contact lenses. - Apply a small amount of oil hand, returning the Keep your nails short so they can’t dig into - to the palm of one hand. Rub bottle to a safe, reachable the receiver’s skin. - your hands together to warm place. Lay the other palm Wear comfortable, nonrestrictive clothing. - - the oil before using it. - on the cupped one and Cotton is preferable to synthetic fibers to gently spread the oil -- Carry on adding small amounts stop you getting sweaty and overheated. between them. Turn of oil as needed. To avoid Adjust the table to suit your height. Stand - both hands over to breaking contact when - straight with your hands at your sides and resume strokes. Done reapplying oil, rest one cupped - properly, the receiver make a fist. The table should be level with hand, palm up, on the back. - may not even notice. your first set of knuckles. You may need to Squeeze a little oil into the lower the table for deeper tissue work.  B E I N G P R E PA R E D 33 Stretch the Joints before starting to worm up the muscles before their use to preventEture dysfunctions. TRAPEZIUS STRETCH SIDEWAYS LUNGE Turn from your hip rather than Ensure your back twisting the waist; is straight, and line keep hips aligned, your hip up with facing the stroke the table Angle your back foot to provide a stable base Draw your shoulders down while you make this stretch Try this arm stretch, alternating arms, before - Use this position for gliding effleurage strokes (see p.40). Step back you start to open up the chest and stretch the with the leg closest to the table, then bend your front knee to lunge. trapezius to release tension and improve mobility. Lunge back and forth to work up and down the body. KNEELING STANCE SQUATTING SIDE ON Keep your back straight, Keep your hips aligned, neck straight, your leg not craned straight behind with the knee cushioned Facing the table and adopting a squatting position allows you to - work across to the opposite side of the - body, which is useful for deeper petrissage - - - work (see p.56). Align your pelvis with the table and squat so that your arms can work across the body without Place your legs flexing the wrists. wide to balance and A kneeling stance at the top of the table can be help movement Sway your legs side used for head work. From kneeling, step a leg in to to side to work up and 90 degrees, keeping the knee aligned with the foot. down an area. Done sep. 22 Sunday 34 G ET T I N G STA RT E D MENTAL PREPARATION In addition to physical and practical preparation (see pp.32–33), preparing yourself mentally—“getting into the zone”—is an essential part of the practice. Being grounded, calm, and focused will allow you to give the massage your undivided attention and in turn help the receiver to let go and completely relax. Before you begin a massage, your mind needs to feel calm and free from distractions. Different techniques and lifestyle practices can help you master the stillness and focus you need to optimize your practice. GIVE YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME Building in sufficient time so you can take stock before a session will ensure that you don’t feel rushed and out of sync and that you are in a calm state of mind. Create a schedule that gives you a quiet interval between appointments so you have time to carry out any relaxation or stretching techniques (see opposite and p.33) if you wish to do so; too many back-to-back appointments should be avoided. If you need to travel to a practice or client, arrive early so that you don’t feel rushed and you have time to prepare—checking that the room is clean and warm and that everything you need is at hand. Making sure that the environment is restful, welcoming, and comfortable will be mentally soothing for both you and the receiver. STAYING GROUNDED As a massage therapist, your calm demeanor is an important element. Being grounded and feeling mentally “still” will set the receiver at ease from the outset, helping him or her to step back from the emotional state they arrived in. Maintaining this stillness throughout the massage will enhance the feeling of relaxation. The ability to stay grounded will also help you not to take on  B E I N G P R E PA R E D 35 the emotions of the receiver or carry these treatment if the receiver is happy for you through the day into other appointments. to do so, which can also help relax them You may want to try some of the following and ensure that he or she doesn’t feel the techniques and practices: need to make conversation. Practice meditative breathing exercises (see below) to calm the mind. Breathe from LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF the diaphragm and focus on your breath, Massage can be physically and emotionally letting go of any intrusive thoughts. Breathing demanding, so to ensure that you feel into any areas of tension also helps you to mentally resilient and able to relax during release physical stress. As you relax with the treatment, you need to look after yourself. your breaths, you will feel tension ebb away. Staying fit and agile, eating healthily, avoiding Try the following yoga breathing exercise. alcohol, and getting sufficient sleep will all 1 Sit in a comfortable position, close your enhance your ability to massage. Part of eyes, and breathe quietly through your looking after yourself is learning how to nostrils, observing the sound of your manage everyday stress. Try to make time breath as you breathe in and out. for activities that energize, revitalize, and, in 2 After a minute or so, lengthen your turn, relax you, such as being out in nature. inhalation slightly, followed by a Try to limit screen time, too, perhaps usual exhalation. Do this for allocating a set time of the day to five breaths, then breathe catch up on news or social GIVING AND normally for a few breaths. RECEIVING media. Also be aware of your 3 Next, lengthen your body’s natural rhythms and Massage is a reciprocal exhalation, followed by try to schedule appointments practice. Your deeply a normal inhalation, for relaxed state influences a for when your energy levels five breaths. treatment; likewise, sensing are optimal. 4 Return to normal the receiver’s relaxation breathing once more, helps ground you. STARTING THE SESSION then finally lengthen both Starting the session off inhalation and exhalation for with a friendly yet professional five breaths before returning to conversation will help build a normal breathing to end the exercise. relationship based on trust. Introduce Try visualizations to calm your mind. yourself and ask how the receiver is feeling Imagine a warm light enveloping your body and why they have booked a treatment. This to help you relax. Or imagine that your feet friendly introduction and inquiry, followed have roots deep in the ground while your by a discussion of your treatment plan spine and neck float up like the top of a (see pp.176–177), will relax both you and the tree to help you embody spaciousness receiver. Tell the receiver to give you feedback and feel grounded. Or try your own if they wish, letting you know where pressure visualizations to help you feel present, is too soft or hard and any areas that need calm, and responsive. more attention. Listen to calming, meditative music to prepare and focus before a treatment. You may wish to play this throughout a 36 G ET T I N G STA RT E D Sep 22nd Sunder y A SAFE PRACTICE. Massage should always be a positive and therapeutic experience for both giver and receiver. To ensure that this is the case, it’s essential to be aware of contraindications that mean massage should be avoided. Also think about how you can maintain professional boundaries between yourself and the receiver to make sure that you both feel completely comfortable and safe. CONTRAINDICATIONS - possibly contagious condition, such as Massage should be avoided where it could athlete’s foot, a wart, or a cold sore. - aggravate a complaint or impact health. Also, If there are areas of major inflammation - never try to diagnose a health problem; instead, with heat, redness, or a burn. - advise the recipient to visit a qualified medical Where there is swelling caused by arthritis. - practitioner. Avoid massage in these situations: - If someone has epilepsy—refer for medical If either you or the receiver has a fever or - advice before a massage. - is in pain, or if you feel unwell or very tired. You may wish to avoid massage until the - PERSONAL If someone has thrombosis. DrT second trimester of pregnancy, when the - PRESENTATION - With open wounds, broken bones, bruises, risk of miscarriage is reduced. - Maintaining personal joint dislocation, or soft tissue ruptures. Avoid aromatherapy on breastfeeding - - hygiene is crucial; If you have broken or damaged skin (even - women unless supervised by a professional. keep nails neatly minor damage) on your hands or forearms. - If someone is under the influence of trimmed and hands On local areas where the receiver has a alcohol or recreational drugs. scrupulously clean. - - MASSAGE HYGIENE A crucial part of providing a safe treatment is ensuring hygiene. to prevent Be clean and presentable. Wash Keep your nails short. - serarching your hands before and after a > - Avoid wearing strong-smelling -treatment and before touching - perfume or cologne. the face. - Make sure the towels do not - Tie long hair back and, if you - are likely to sweat, wear a head -touch the floor at any point - before or during a treatment. band to create a barrier. - -  A S A F E P RAC T I C E 37 THINKING ABOUT personal, this is known as transference. This BOUNDARIES may be happening if he or she suggests a Establishing boundaries between yourself and meal, contacts you outside working hours, the receiver helps avoid confusion and ensure asks for a reduced price, or brings you gifts. a safe practice. Some practices are down to Being aware of this means you can steer the personal choice—for example, how much you relationship back to a professional level. talk to each other, what you wear, the Countertransference is when the therapist products you use, whether to exchange gifts, offloads problems or finds it hard to separate and how you communicate when arranging a personal feelings from a therapeutic massage. There are also physical, emotional, relationship. A therapist may think excessively and social boundaries to be aware of. about someone after a treatment or believe that they can remove all of their pain. If this PHYSICAL BOUNDARIES occurs, it’s important to check these feelings. Setting physical boundaries is very important. Practitioners may find that committing The receiver is in a vulnerable position during to periodic professional supervision or a treatment, so proceeding with care and mentoring will help maintain and refine their sensitivity ensures trust. Using towels own best practice. correctly, covering the body and uncovering just the part you SOCIAL BOUNDARIES CARE AND need access to, maintains the SENSITIVITY These are most commonly modesty of the receiver and crossed. Talking is a normal Properly applied, massage helps them to feel secure interaction, but as a therapist, is unlikely to cause an and comfortable. adverse reaction, but too you should control the urge Tell the receiver to let you much pressure or over- to ask about work, home life, know if they are not happy treating an area could or vacations. Likewise, if the with anything and explain what cause inflammation. receiver drifts toward you are going to do before conversation, this may be a sign moving a towel. Never expose the of nervousness, so you need to bring genitals, breasts, or buttocks and adapt the receiver back to a relaxing, therapeutic techniques around the upper thigh to avoid the environment where silence is comfortable genital area. Tell the receiver if you need to and the focus is on the massage only. move the towel lower to work on the gluteals. If someone is a colleague, family member, Just as the practitioner should not touch or acquaintance, it can be hard to maintain the receiver inappropriately, the receiver also boundaries. You may feel obliged to offer a should not touch the therapist inappropriately. discount or greater flexibility, which can be If this happens, make it clear that this demotivating. You may wish to limit or avoid behavior is undesired and, if necessary, end such relationships, perhaps recommending the session and do not reschedule the person. a fellow therapist to avoid any awkwardness. EMOTIONAL BOUNDARIES Emotional boundaries help keep massage relationships on a professional footing. If a receiver tries to make the relationship