Another cute massage meme with cats :)

Another meme I got from the web. I love cats. Enjoy! :)

And this funny one for my fellow science nerds:

Massage Therapist Meme...Just wanted to share...

Found this on the web and just wanted to share...

Reflexology -- What is Reflexology?

If you're like me, you're probably on your feet for most of the day. Maybe you're in food service, work in sales, or another job where you're standing all day. The hard wood or linoleum floor feels like concrete. Maybe you're in construction, or you're in the military, running miles and miles with a giant, heavy backpack weighing and pulling down on your shoulders. Either way, you're in pain...your arches are aching, your ankles are sore, or maybe you feel your knees give out. Even your back is starting to hurt and you can't wait to sit down and relax. Well today's your lucky day my friend, because there's a massage for that!

Let me first explain that your entire body is connected. The health of your feet can affect the alignment of your knees, and the position of your knees can affect your back, which is connected to your neck and shoulders. Your entire body is one, it is truly whole, and reflexology is a beautiful example of this. It's not just a regular foot massage, although your feet will feel amazing either way.

According to Eastern philosophy, various points in your feet (and hands) correspond to the organs and structures in the rest of your body. Some believe you can "massage" your eyes and ears, and even your heart, liver, and intestines through certain areas of your feet. The idea is that a "blockage" in any of these places can be felt and treated through different pressure points in the foot. While I can't personally validate the science behind this, it's been accepted in the massage community and many Eastern schools of thought. So why not give it a shot? It's worth a try, right? Even if you're not healed of your inner ailments, the aches and pains in your feet will definitely be relieved.

I do a full hour foot massage/reflexology session and often use hot stones to further soothe and ease any built up tension. The heat penetrates the deeper muscles and helps you relax that much further. And really, who doesn't love a foot massage?

Happy birthday to my fellow therapist, Katana Bell, LMT

I just want to take time to say Happy Birthday to a fellow massage therapist. Katana Bell is an amazing person, skilled therapist, and her dedication and passion are what make her stand out among the rest. Her enthusiasm is unparalleled and her deep tissue massage is the best! She's currently not booking appointments, but I invite you to please "like" her page on Facebook for when she's back up and ready to go. She's located in Guam and definitely worth the wait!

"I know, it's only rock n roll, but I like it..." What kind of music relaxes you?

                                               

Let's talk about music today. I LOVE music! Just this afternoon I was learning something new on piano and guitar. Music can really pump you up and make you feel alive!

Music can also relax you. Most spas play nature sounds, new age, or soft instrumental "elevator music" for ambiance. I used to play mixed CD's during my sessions and people loved it. I've massaged to Pink Floyd's "Wish You Were Here" album many times.

My questions to you are:

How do you feel about....

...traditional spa music?

...Pandora?

...bringing your own music?

...requesting specific music? 

...meditation or guided imagery? 

I can't wait to read your comments!

Neck pain -- How can you manage neck pain between massages?

Neck pain is extremely common...Especially after slouching, sleeping the wrong way, or sitting at a computer for too long. Chronic tension in your neck and shoulders can also lead to headaches. So what can you do between massage appointments?

I often recommend light stretching to my patients. Of course, it's important to talk to your doctor or therapist for more individual instructions because you don't want to over stretch your neck if it's recently injured. There's head and shoulder rolls and other gentle movements to keep your joints moving freely.

You want to stretch slowly, and only to your level of comfort. Don't ever push yourself more than what you can handle. Do a little bit at a time, and try to make it equal on both sides. Hold for no more than 20 seconds at a time. Your doctor will tell you which stretches to do and which ones to avoid.

Another thing I advise is a hot compress...even better if you do this before you stretch. You can use a heating pad from the pharmacy, or moisten a hand towel for a minute in the microwave (or until hot...but not too hot) and place it around your neck and shoulders. You can do this safely up to 20 minutes to melt the tension in these areas. Your muscles love heat and will thank you for it.

If you have a strain or inflammation, however, you'll want to use ice instead. Ice is good to reduce swelling and redness. There's a 20 minute time limit for this as well, and eventually you can alternate between heat and ice, but always start and end with ice.

Warning: If you have been in an accident or suffered a severe injury, I require my patients to see a doctor first and get a note before seeing me for treatment or before trying any of these tips. This is for your safety and to minimize any further harm. Take care of yourself. Til next time...

Sports Massage -- What is a Sports Massage?

If you're an athlete, workout junkie, or love outdoor adventure, a sports massage keeps you on top of your game. Because your needs come first, it's important to let your massage therapist know what your goals are for each session. Whether you want to prepare your muscles for a big game, need help recovering from an injury or a long workout, your therapist will help you go the distance. It's also great for basic maintenance and upkeep. Getting regular massage as part of your fitness routine may be the edge you're looking for, if only because you can go longer and recover faster each time. Plus, it just feels good. Got massage?