tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62408564718592788312024-03-18T21:51:05.607-07:00Krista's R.M.T Blog. Table TalkThe challenge: to post a blog for 31 days in a row. The reward: "A badass blogger" trophy, a pat on the back, a way to vent, and share stories about my Massage Therapy career. Hopefully it will become a hit TV series.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-45422476076010504612012-09-15T09:56:00.000-07:002013-02-22T11:50:41.494-08:0031 Days Later...<!--StartFragment-->
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This is the last day I have to post in order to complete the “31 in 31 days challenge.”</div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.bodyworkbiz.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Eric Brown</span></a>, R.M.T., for proposing this challenge to the Massage Therapy community. It has been a great experience for me personally and professionally.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;">I have a feeling that I will continue to use this blog to post more adventures in Massage Therapy, though maybe not on a daily basis. I have received such positive feedback from readers and I really appreciate it. I have also received some wonderful suggestions for future blog posts, and I am grateful to be encouraged with new material</span></div>
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For a very long time I have wanted to write a blog about my experiences as a Registered Massage Therapist. Even if no one read it, and it was just for me. Under the advice I read in <a href="http://www.success.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Success</span></a> magazine from <a href="http://www.sethgodin.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Seth Godin</span></a> he said, (and I’m paraphrasing here) “you should have something interesting to write about your profession everyday. If you have nothing interesting to write about, maybe you should find a new profession.”</div>
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The blog idea came up again in the book <i><a href="http://www.happiness-project.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The Happiness Project</span></a> </i>by Gretchen Rubin<i>, </i><span style="font-style: normal;">where the author wrote a blog post each day for one month. This blog became the start of her best selling book, and a successful franchise.</span></div>
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I knew I wanted to start a blog, but hadn’t put it into action yet. Then Eric Brown came along with his “badass blogger challenge.” I had seen the emails for a few weeks announcing his challenge, but brushed it off for “later.” Then, the day before the challenge was about to start, he posted a 5-minute how-to on how easy it was to set up the blog site (one of my excuses), and he promised a “badass blogger trophy” if we completed the challenge. He simply wanted us to take action each day. Do something. Move! Challenge accepted.</div>
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It was difficult to post each day. I was not lacking in content for the blog, but I was going to be away on three different occasions during the 31 days. I participated in Tough Mudder, Toronto August 18<sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup>, 2012, which meant I traveled for the weekend to Barrie to visit family and participate in the event. I was whisked away to Tremblant August 24<sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup>-26<sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup>, 2012 with my boyfriend and he enforced a “no electronics rule.” I also traveled to Washington DC for a vacation with my mom and dad from August 29<sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">th</span></sup>- September 3<sup><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">rd</span></sup>, 2012. I never once missed a blog posting.</div>
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Knowing I would be away, I prepared a few blog posts at a time and was able to schedule them to automatically post on the dates I would be away. No electronics? No problem. I heart <a href="http://www.blogger.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Blogger</span></a> for this feature. While I was in Washington, I woke up early and wrote the blog daily from my mom's laptop in the lobby of the hotel. I must have looked official each morning because one day a lovely woman tried to check-in for breakfast with me haha. I also recruited a guest blogger to cover a post when I knew I was going to be traveling and unable to post. According to Eric, it still counts as a daily post</div>
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I started this blog 31 days ago with a real frustration about myself in the profession of Massage Therapy. It is true that it is what I have always wanted to do thanks to the encouragement of my late Grandmother. On day one of this challenge I was feeling so restless and “stuck.” I was ready to use the blog as a release for my frustrations and expose the truths about Massage Therapy. I am blessed with a gift, and I feel that I am using this gift to the best of my ability, but so what? I feel that I have so much more to contribute and accomplish. Maybe I have a bigger purpose? Maybe there is more money on the table somewhere else? Can I support a family in this profession? Can I maintain a relationship?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">By day 31 I realize that yes, I can. It’s not always easy, it could always be worse, and it is always worth it. Writing the blog, and having conversations with those reading my blog, including a wonderful woman who owns </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><a href="http://www.alignyourbody.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Align Massage Therapy</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">, Jana Veltheim, I have come to realize Massage Therapy is where I am meant to be. This may not be forever, but that is not a decision I need to make right now. Right now, I need to wait. I will continue to be the best Massage Therapist I can be, and appreciate the lifestyle I have because of this profession.</span></div>
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I must appreciate that I only have to maintain a 20-25 hour work week to make an exceptional living. I only work a six-hour work day--if I work at all, and I am free to take time off when I want. Because I have the time, I am continuing to pursue my business on the side. I am grateful I have it because it has continued to encourage me to grow personally and professionally, while providing residual income that is there to support me every month, whether I massage or not. I have met the most incredible friends through this business and even gained a few new massage clients. Everyday my side business grows, and one day I will make the decision to quit massage therapy, pursue my business full-time, and have a lot more free time on my hands! What an awesome day to look forward to!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">For now, I choose to enjoy each day and focus on the future, continuing to help people achieve their financial, life, and health goals.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse;">Special thank you to my guest bloggers: Mark Perry, Melanie Stewart, and Bianca Wahab for contributing to my challenge. I appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experiences surrounding me and Massage Therapy</span></div>
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Thank you all for reading and supporting me. It has meant so
much to me to hear that I have inspired you to start your own blog, or that you
can relate to me and now you feel you are not alone. With your encouragement, I look forward to posting again in the near future. </div>
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Krista Dicks, B.A., R.M.T., C.L.T., E.T.T., Firework. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Catherine and I emerging from "Mud Mile" at Tough Mudder, Toronto. </span></td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-77297332612044299362012-09-14T09:55:00.000-07:002012-09-15T14:20:03.702-07:00Education<!--StartFragment-->
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Earning a Massage Therapy diploma has been described as the equivalent of First Year Med School. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The program I graduated from was eighteen months in total. It can be three years if you take the summers off. We didn’t take summers off, and we had approximately two weeks off at Christmas. We were at school six days a week between class and our student clinic on Saturdays.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">It's more than just giving a good massage; it’s knowing how the body works inside and out. Understanding how everything is connected and the effect a massage can have on someone at the cellular level. This is not something everyone realizes, even those interested in becoming Massage Therapists.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Sixteen students started in my class. Twelve graduated with a diploma (There would have been thirteen, but one of them walked out during the final exam). Ten passed the Ontario Board Exams and became Registered Massage Therapists, and Nine are practicing today.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">We had over 2200 hours of Theory, and practical courses. We also worked on the general public public. This included a student clinic at the school, shadowing an R.M.T. in his/her practice, and an outreach program where we volunteered our time at office health and wellness events or race weekends. We were eager to get as much hands-on time as we could.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Courses included: Anatomy, Physiology, Ethics, Remedial Exercise, Pathology, Assessment, Kinesiology, Treatments, Neuroanatomy, Massage Techniques and Advanced Massage Techniques, Nutrition, and many more. You had to maintain a 70% average.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">By the end of the program we were a small, close group of students that ate, slept, and breathed massage therapy. I carried cue cards for studying on the bus, and when it was slow at work. We supported each other through countless emotional experiences and drama, but we had fun too...a LOT of fun! By the end of the program, I was the winner of “most likely to throw buckets, most likely to bite her classmates, best abs, best looking in scrubs, most likely to have silk sheets, best cartoonist, and most like Jesus award.” I guess you had to be there. lol</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">We practiced Massage Therapy techniques on one another, as it is the best way to receive feedback. We each experienced when we went too far, and it’s important that we found out on each other rather than finding out on a client.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I appreciate when clients recognize the amount of knowledge we have accumulated through our training. It is also mandatory that we continue to upgrade our skills by learning new techniques or participating in seminars, workshops etc.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">We also have yearly Registration dues in order to maintain good standings with The College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (<a href="http://www.cmto.com/" target="_blank">CMTO</a>), and we must present proof of liability insurance.</span></span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times-Roman;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The CMTO supervises the profession of Massage Therapy to ensure that it remains in good standing with the general public, and it will protect the public if a Massage Therapist is in violation of any of the regulations. The CMTO are also there to help educate the public that Massage Therapists are recognized in the medical community as health care practitioners.</span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-34717007260928288712012-09-13T09:10:00.003-07:002012-09-13T09:10:39.144-07:00Chiropractic Care and Massage Therapy: A Perfect Couple <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Hello everyone,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Thank you to Krista Dicks for inviting me to do a guest blog. Krista and I have been colleagues and have been co-treating patients for a while now. She also happens to be my Massage Therapist too!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Friends, family and patients who have </span><strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">aches and pains </span></strong><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">will often ask me, "I</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">s this a chiropractic problem or something massage can deal with?"</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> The answer in most cases is BOTH will help. Chiropractic care and massage therapy are very complementary to each other. I have the pleasure of being both a Chiropractor and a Registered Massage Therapist, so I see first hand how well the two work together.</span></div>
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The scope of practice for Chiropractors and Registered Massage Therapy is often misunderstood. Most people think a chiropractor just “cracks joints” and RMTs can only massage tight muscles. This is very far from the truth. There is so much more to both professions. Chiropractors use adjustments or manipulations as one part of their treatment plan along with other techniques such as soft tissue therapy, light muscle massage, modalities, acupuncture, orthotics, and exercise prescription. Likewise, RMTs will use traditional swedish massage techniques along with lymphatic techniques, joint mobilizations, trigger work, breathing and stretching techniques. Both practitioners are well equipped to treat a wide range of injuries and should not be limited to the general belief that joint problems are for Chiropractors and muscle problems are for Massage Therapists.</div>
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So if both Chiros and RMTs can help you, the question becomes: Who should you see for an injury? Most people would think one or the other. I would suggest seeing both practitioners. Most health care plans will provide coverage for both therapies allowing for greater care and fast recovery from your injury. And even if you are not injured, but simply experience mild strain because of long days at the office or lots of stress, you can still benefit from both chiropractic care and massage therapy. Regular maintenance visits will help maintain proper function of the body and nervous system and help manage your stress! As a general rule of thumb, for wellness, I would recommend a chiropractic visit once a month and a massage every 1-3 months.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">It is truly a gift and blessing to be able to do what I do. I hope my amateur blogger entry was informative. I hope this inspires all of you to call your favorite therapist and book your next massage and chiropractic appointment.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Have a healthy and happy day,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Melanie Stewart</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Melanie is also my Chirpractor :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Visit Dr. Melanie Stewart at <a href="http://www.kentchiromed.com/" target="_blank">Kent Chiro Med</a> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-82011452561921438032012-09-12T04:51:00.000-07:002012-09-12T04:51:51.766-07:00B's Blog <br />
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Guest Blogger: Bianca Wahab</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Bianca</td></tr>
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If you don’t know Krista (and have been reading her blogs), I’m positive you can gather by now that she is an inspirational woman!! If you haven’t, well, we need to chat.</div>
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I have known Krista for a few years now, and can tell you she is one of the MOST inspirational women I know. Even though she works so hard as an RMT, which is demanding enough in itself, she finds time to volunteer (her and Mark run Bingo night at a local retirement residence - how FREAKING CUTE is that!!!) and takes on numerous other projects and hobbies. Not only that, she has always been an amazing friend.</div>
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Recently I became an Independent Consultant with Arbonne--an amazing company that creates pure, safe and beneficial beauty and skin care products. I told Krista about my new venture and she was immediately 100% behind me. So much so, she even offered to host an event for me in hopes of me reaching my next goal within the business. When I saw Krista was doing a blog challenge, I immediately knew I had to write something for her. Not just to blab about myself, but to help her achieve her goals, like she is with mine.</div>
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Overall, Krista inspires me to be a better person. Sometimes it's her stories of visiting a local farm that takes in abandoned animals, which she also supports financially. Sometimes it's how she picks up a penny she finds on the sidewalk and says, "This is where I’m supposed to be at this moment!" There is so much goodness in this woman, I don’t know how she doesn’t self combust! It is sometimes difficult to see the positive in everything, and not just focus on oneself, but Krista does it with ease and grace.</div>
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I wanted to write this to help Krista complete her blogging challenge, but also to say thank you to her. Thank you, Krista, for your determination and perseverance. Thank you for your endless positivity. Thank you for introducing me to Cold Stone Creamery. Thank you for calming me down while waiting for a massively delayed flight - even when you had to endure that as well. Thank you for snagging those cheap tickets to Wicked. Thank you for inspiring me to do better in all that I do, particularly Arbonne.</div>
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And most importantly . . .</div>
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Thank you for being you, Krista,</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;"> . . Because a friend like Krista, is hard to find.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Krista says: Thanks B :) </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">I happily support Arbonne as their quality products are vegan :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">Learn more about <a href="http://www.biancawahab.myarbonne.ca/" target="_blank">Arbonne</a>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial;">You can also email <a href="mailto:biancawahab@myarbonne.ca" target="_blank">Bianca</a> </span></div>
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Want to try the products for yourself? Come to my brunch party and support B!<br />
Sunday Sept 16th, 2012. Email <a href="mailto:kristadicks@gmail.com" target="_blank">me</a> to get the details<br />
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2 more ways Bianca is fabulous:<br />
<a href="http://www.hartby.com/" target="_blank">Hartby</a> and <a href="http://www.leonemagazine.com/" target="_blank">Leone Magazine</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-77504688366916670422012-09-11T14:29:00.000-07:002012-09-11T14:29:38.810-07:00Different Strokes for Different Folks <br />
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Understanding the needs of your client, and respecting those needs, is one of the best ways a Massage Therapist can help to build a regular client base.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Disrespecting those needs, or “doing what </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">you</span></span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> feel is best” is not going to fly.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Every Massage Therapist can tell you the story of the monster truck sized man who whimpers with even a hint of pressure, or the petite Asian woman who will pound the table and say, “harder!”</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">It is usually the monster truck man who will say “Oh, I can handle a lot of pressure” ...until you bring him to tears because, as a good therapist, you tried to give the client what they thought they needed. Key word “thought.”</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Many clients receiving a massage for the first time, or have had a few massages, expect that a massage is not “good” unless it is deep, they feel worked on, and they feel sore the next day. It is not easy to explain to a client that deeper, is not always better.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">If the muscle is not responding well to deep pressure, then it will guard and resist the pressure applied. It is possible that the muscle can bruise, feel sore the next day, and possibly have some limited range of motion. Pushing past these barriers is not going to help the muscle. A great Massage Therapist will explain this to the client, and even though it can be difficult to not give the client what they want, it will look better on you and the profession for doing so.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Some clients may have experienced a massage where they did feel “beat-up” afterwards and had to seriously think about trying massage therapy again.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">It is common for a client to ask for deep pressure, but then they look at me (5’5”, slim build, 125lbs) with some uncertainty that I will be able to deliver the pressure they want. It is always nice to prove them otherwise.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">After any massage, even if it was fairly light to moderate pressure, it can be very common for the client to feel sore up to 48 hours after a massage. This is not usually because of something the Massage Therapist did, but how the body is reacting to the massage. It’s just like after you exercise, the muscles may feel a bit tight and sore, but you are proud of yourself because that feeling means you actually worked out! Telling your clients ahead of time that they might feel sore, and that drinking water and having a hot bath with epsom salts can reduce the likelihood of muscle soreness, will mean less angry clients storming into your clinic accusing you of malpractice.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Finally, as a Massage Therapist, if you reach your capacity for pressure with a client, but you know that another R.M.T. can give them the type of depth they really want, please refer them. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Ask the client if they could have used more pressure in the massage? If the answer is yes, admit that you are at your limits physically, but you know a great therapist who would be able to give them the type of massage they are looking for. You are not doing anyone a favour if you continue to keep them as your client. </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-40848470935750294862012-09-10T09:53:00.000-07:002012-09-10T17:43:33.079-07:00Research and Massage Therapy<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">There is a growing amount of research accessible to the general population and physicians on the topic of Massage Therapy.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">These studies are helping to give credibility to the profession of Massage Therapy. It helps us be recognized as knowledgeable health care practitioners who are capable of so much more than just a relaxation massage or tension release.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Although the client will feel better physically, reporting their muscles are more relaxed at the end of a massage than the beginning, there is so much more going on in the body that will continue to help the client feel better long after the massage is over. The massage itself is only “skin-deep”.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">There are so many examples of the many health benefits of massage, and many you can look up with credible resources. It really is fascinating that a massage can have a greater impact on the overall health and wellness of an individual. Pick anything: depression, anxiety, weight-loss, improved memory, etc., and I am sure you will find a study that shows how a massage can help. Search <a href="http://www.pubmed.com/" target="_blank">PubMed</a> for examples </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I have already mentioned in a previous post on Neo Massage that massage</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> therapy encouraged weight gain</span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> in pre-term infants. How does massage encourage weight gain? In short, when the body is relaxed, the “rest and digest” nervous system, or parasympathetic nervous system, is activated. A relaxed digestive system will facilitate better absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. This increased absorption of nutrients will be used as needed in the body of a pre-term infant to grow healthy and strong. Pretty neat, right? You can see more of these amazing examples on the website for <a href="http://www6.miami.edu/touch-research/" target="_blank">The Touch Research Institute</a> (TRI) founded by Tiffany Fields. </span></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> </span></span></span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I have been very fortunate to contribute to the ongoing research in the field of Massage Therapy with my first publication: </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21589683" target="_blank">Massage Therapy Techniques as Pain Management for Erythromelalgia</a></span></span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">. </span></span></span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Being published for research was not something I had planned on when I began my Massage Therapy career, and I had a lot of help and support to complete this daunting task. I am grateful for the experience and I hope it will help educate those with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Erythromelalgia" target="_blank">Erythromelalgia</a> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">and medical professionals who seek complementary therapies for this rare disease.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">There are many Massage Therapists locally and globally participating in research everyday. Please consider supporting further research into the benefits of Massage Therapy. As a complementary therapy, and with enough research behind it, I believe massage can be as effective as pharmaceuticals for treating some of the worst diseases and illnesses many suffer from today.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-9307640238241557662012-09-09T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-09T19:46:42.216-07:00Les Perks<!--StartFragment-->
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">There are so many great perks to being a Registered Massage Therapist. In no particular order, I will salute a few.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I am my own boss. I am self-employed and therefore I get to set my own hours and decide where I want to work. I want to book time off? Done!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">My days are not nine to five (thank God), and I almost always enjoy traveling in the opposite direction of rush hour traffic.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">A massage therapist cannot work an eight-hour workday. I typically work six hours a day and see approximately five clients.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I am typically busiest on evenings and weekends. Therefore, when I go to the grocery store on a Wednesday morning, it’s as if they opened it just for me! The same goes for the mall, going to the gym, and getting a haircut etc.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Have you ever wished that your keyboard would turn into a fluffy pillow while you nap at work? A massage therapist always has access to comfy massage tables, pillows and blankets to nap on... not to mention soft lighting and relaxing music. Yes, I have been so tired some days that I have taken a nap at work if I have a large break between clients, and I did not get in any trouble for doing it!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I have access to a massage therapist in my workplace. So if I need someone to quickly squeeze a tight trapezius muscle, or stretch out a scalene, I can just ask.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Most of my clients are very happy to see me, as I am happy to see them.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">There are typically fifteen minutes between clients to change over the sheets on the massage table. There is not usually a “dinner” break scheduled, so I eat small bites such as veggies and dip, yogurt, or fruit. This keeps me in good shape because there is absolutely no time to sit down to a full meal.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I work in a low stress environment.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">I know I have missed a lot, so please share some of your perks about being an R.M.T.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Have a great day at work!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-49328966430829419512012-09-08T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-08T11:35:51.292-07:00Neo Massage<!--StartFragment-->
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">What? Why would a baby need a massage?</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">For the same reasons you get a massage and more!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I learned in school that newborns who received massage in the neo natal unit were able to come home earlier, were stronger, and healthier than the newborns that did not receive massage. This is great news for mom and dad who get to take their little one home, and great news for the hospital as it will save tens of thousands a day, amounting to millions per year.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Can a healthy and happy baby receive massage? Absolutely! Massaging your infant is a great way to bond, especially for dads.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Massaging an infant can help improve sleep (longer, deeper, and more restorative), digestion (better nutrient absorption), reduce gas (ease colic and constipation), is excellent for the immune system, and so much more.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The best part about my training in infant massage is that I teach mom and dad (sometimes grandma and grandpa) how to massage their infant. This gives them an extra tool that they can use anytime they need.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">As Massage Therapists, we are trained in infant massage, and it is common for a therapist to see infants as part of their practice. However, it is always more beneficial for a familiar face to do it. The infant will relax easier and enjoy the massage more if they know the person massaging them.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The ideal time to learn infant massage is between newborn and just before they can crawl away, although busy toddlers are great candidates for massage too.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I see parents and their infant one on one or sometimes in a group setting. It is a lot of fun to see these babies interact with their parents while enjoying the massage, and to hear the positive stories from parents about how the massage is helping them day-to-day.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.neomassage.ca/">www.neomassage.ca</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-62039698337556163442012-09-07T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-07T15:18:37.641-07:00Lymphatic Massage<!--StartFragment-->
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What the heck is Lymphatic Massage?</div>
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It is a gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system and moves excess fluid and swelling out of the body. The lymphatic system is responsible for the removal of toxins in the body, and is a large part of our immune health. It is also known as Manual Lymphatic Drainage (M.L.D).</div>
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Having a lymphatic massage is beneficial for everyone. This type of massage will stimulate the movement of toxins, and create a healthier environment in the body if the lymph is free flowing.</div>
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I see many clients for lymphatic massage and each one has a different need. As it is designed to move excess fluid, my clientele consists mostly of clients with a condition called lymphedema. This is visible swelling in the limb(s) as a result of a congested lymphatic system, or the complete removal of lymph nodes in a specific area, making the system inefficient. Cancer survivors and patients seek this type of massage after surgeries, such as mastectomies, as the cancerous lymph nodes have been removed.</div>
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Lymphatic massage can help reduce swelling and therefore reduce healing time. This type of massage is beneficial for anyone after any major surgery, including plastic surgery if they are experiencing swelling. A few of my clients love the technique because it just feels good. It is the most analgesic and non-invasive type of massage therapy and so I use it with many of my clients who are palliative to provide them with a gentle, relaxing massage. I even use it with a few clients who are on a detox program or weight loss program, as this type of massage will encourage the removal of toxins and the movement of fat cells.</div>
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The body is naturally designed to stimulate the lymphatic system when we move. So being active, even moderately, can help the lymph system from becoming stagnant. Jumping up and down, especially on the trampoline will make your lymph system very happy!</div>
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What happens to a stagnant lymphatic system? It can create a toxic environment in the body. The body can develop allergies, sensitivities, and it may feel fatigued and sluggish. This is where Cancer can form if the body harbours the foreign substance for too long. If the lymphatic system is impaired, edema can begin to build up in the limb that is affected. My role is to re-train the lymphatic system to be effective and if pathways have been damaged, I can teach the lymph to flow on a new pathway.</div>
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Other ways you can help the lymphatic system is to wear compression stockings or garments to create tension around the limb and it will therefore encourage movement of lymph. This is most important if you will be standing for long periods of time, or traveling by air to prevent any pooling of fluid in the legs.</div>
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For more complex cases of lymphedema, I am trained to wrap the affected limb with foam and tensor bandages to encourage effective lymph flow. This wrap is worn for 24 hours and the results are very encouraging for the client. It is also one of my favourite parts of lymphedema therapy. Fun Krista fact, I love to wrap ;) </div>
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<a href="http://www.lymphaticclinic.ca/" target="_blank">www.lymphaticclinic.ca </a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-28405611192014373962012-09-06T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-07T15:21:44.372-07:00Passive Income<!--StartFragment-->
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">It is common for Massage Therapists to look at additional sources of income, preferably sources of passive income -- earning money even when you are not working.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">As you may remember, Massage Therapists are paid for the clients they see. If they do not see any clients, they are not receiving income. Massage Therapists are limited to the amount of hours in a day they can see clients, and therefore there will always be a limit to how much income they will earn in a day. There is no pension, and no paid maternity leave. It is a physically demanding profession, so even working long hours can lead to repetitive injuries or burn-out.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Having a source of passive income without taking time away from your Massage Therapy practice will ease financial, physical, and emotional stress.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Passive income can come from various sources, and it is important to find one that feels right for you and provides results. Let’s look at a few of them briefly.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">1. Selling a Product in your Clinic</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Many Massage Therapists will sell a product to their clients. It is typically a product relating to Massage or Health and Wellness. It can be a muscle cream like Biofreeze or Traumeel, and it can even be vitamins that also benefit the client.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">How do you make money from this?</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">By buying the product at a wholesale, you can sell the product at a retail price and make a profit.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">What to think about in this venture</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">You have to pay for the product upfront and then have it in stock in order to sell it to the client. You will have to educate your client on the benefits of the product and why they will need it, and therefore why they should buy it from you.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"> </span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">2. Real-Estate</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I know the least about this stream of income, but I do know it is one of the best ways to bring in passive income. I am very eager to learn more and invest.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">How do you make money from this?</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">By owning a property that brings in monthly rent, which covers the mortgage, taxes and bills. There is often extra money left over for profit each month, even before the property is sold for a profit.</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">What to think about in this venture</span></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Obviously there is a large upfront cost, down payment, and a mortgage commitment. You may need to hire someone to act as a landlord for the property, to fix repairs and manage tenants...unless you want to do this yourself.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The best place to start if you are interested in learning more is in the book “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki. It is one of the best books you will read (also available on audio).</span></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">3. Network Marketing</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Bringing it back to Robert Kiyosaki, he has created the lifestyle he wants through real estate. However, he said that if he had to start all over again, he would join a network marketing company. Network marketing is a profession I know a lot about from personal experience.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I owe a lot of my personal development, and business knowledge to the company I stand behind today. It has given me a true residual income that allows me to think about life after Massage Therapy.... just in case.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">How do you make money from this?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">In my business, I earn passive income by referring friends, family, colleagues, and my business network to save money on their essential services (i.e. electricity, natural gas, Internet, cell phones, home security and more) and earning 10% of those bills every month. I also show them how to make money back on those same bills like I do.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">What to think about in this venture</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">It truly is a no-brainer. Offering services that people already use everyday means I don’t have to convince anyone about the benefits of the products. They already know they can’t live without their cell phone. I’m helping them save money and they get to keep the same service. It’s different than Massage Therapy or Health and Wellness, and that’s why I love it. I get to work the other side of my brain. It gives me a whole new perspective on business and I am meeting a whole new network of individuals. What is the same, however, is that I am helping people everyday.</span></span></div>
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Robert Kiyosaki briefly explains the financial benefits of shifting your mindset</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">There are a lot of great network marketing companies out there, so you should do yourself a favour and look into a few. You honestly never know what is around the corner for your profession. It is critical to build a back-up plan now. Ask questions about the compensation plan, the founders and the support to build your business the right way. Then, get started. If you would love to learn more about what I do, please feel free to ask.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Do you have another way to earn a secondary source of income outside of your full-time career? I would love to hear about it! I would also love to hear if you have any additional suggestions than the ones listed here. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="mailto:kristadicks@gmail.com" target="_blank">kristadicks@gmail.com</a></span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-34003517797299148002012-09-05T09:37:00.000-07:002012-09-05T09:37:02.841-07:00A Healthy R.M.T. is a Happy R.M.T.<!--StartFragment-->
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">http://doitforjillian.tumblr.com/</td></tr>
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So what do you do to stay in shape? </div>
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Have you noticed that Massage Therapists look really good
from behind? Or their arms make Popeye look like a wimp? </div>
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Obviously the profession of Massage Therapy is physically
demanding and one can maintain a certain level of fitness just by working. </div>
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In order to perform our profession well, we have to be
active, healthy, and in good shape. We need the physical endurance and the
energy to provide effective care for our clients.</div>
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Maintaining good health sets an example for our clients and
those meeting us for the first time. </div>
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I am fortunate to be someone who enjoys working out and I
reap the benefits of it. I realized early in my career that my regular fitness
routine at the gym was helping me in my profession. My muscles felt stronger,
my posture and mechanics were good, and I had energy even after five massage
clients. I know that keeping active will also help to prevent injuries. </div>
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It is not surprising that my colleagues are healthy and active
individuals enjoying a variety of activities. Some are Triatheletes and some
have even participated in an Ironman event. Many enjoy yoga classes, pilates, salsa
dance lessons, and even Pole Fitness. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Shout out to <a href="http://www.cherryblossomstudio.ca/" target="_blank">Cherry Blossom Pole Dancing Studio</a> <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span> </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-78880236279556052742012-09-04T18:11:00.003-07:002012-09-05T10:08:44.789-07:00Many Hands Make Light Work<!--StartFragment-->
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So is it better to only work with a Massage Therapist? Should I see a Physiotherapist? What’s your opinion on Chiropractors?</div>
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Massage Therapy is a great place to start for muscle tension and chronic pain. Give me three sessions. If at the end of the third session, you do not feel that Massage Therapy is helping you feel better, let’s talk about either working with a different Massage Therapist, or working with a Physiotherapist. I love Chiropractors!</div>
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I firmly believe that every BODY needs a massage and if you are unsure where to start, start there. It is common to work with a Massage Therapist in combination with a Physiotherapist and/or Chiropractor to help the body heal more efficiently.</div>
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It is important, however, to not dive into all three at the same time. Why? How will you know which one truly made the difference for you?</div>
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When a Massage Therapist is practicing in the same facility as a Physiotherapist and/or a Chiropractor, it is beneficial to the client to have these practitioners under the same roof as they do not have to travel to a separate location. When there is cross referral happening in the clinic space, it also increases the credibility and trust between these practitioners.</div>
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The Massage Therapist can also benefit greatly from having these practitioners accessible to them. If there is a question, or one needs clarification, it is great to be able to ask for a second opinion just around the corner or in passing. It is great to know what the client has been experiencing so far, where one practitioner is working, and their opinion on a good place to start. It means the client doesn’t have to spend a lot of their time re-explaining their therapy history. It is wonderful to see practitioners from different backgrounds working together because it wasn’t always this way.</div>
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When I was in school in 2006, Massage Therapy was not always well received or understood by Chiropractors, Physiotherapists, or even Physicians. There was also the fear of loss. What if the client gets a Massage and it makes them feel better than getting Chiropractic adjustments or taking a muscle relaxant? Well, hopefully the client would respect you more for referring out.</div>
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The truth is, Massage Therapists need Physiotherapists, and Chiropractors. Physiotherapists and Chiropractors also need us. Let’s think about simple anatomy for a second. Muscles attach to bones. If the vertebrae that make up the spine are not properly aligned for example, the muscles will always be misaligned. The muscle may be twisted, shortened or stretched. A massage may help to release these muscles temporarily, but in a short amount of time, those misaligned vertebrae will pull those muscles tight again. If a muscle is constantly tight, over time it can pull the vertebrae out of alignment. Therefore, the body needs someone to work on the foundation, AND someone to work on the frame. </div>
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For more information about some of my favourite Chiropractors and Physiotherapists in Ottawa, please see Dr. Melanie Stewart at <a href="http://www.kentchiromed.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #249fa3;">Kent Chiro Med</span></a> and also visit <span style="color: #249fa3;"><a href="http://www.physiotherapyonkent.com/" target="_blank">Physiotherapy on Kent</a></span><a href="http://www.physiotherapyonkent.com/" target="_blank">. </a></div>
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If you love your Chiropractor or Physiotherapist, please let me know so I can add them to my list of trusted practitioners. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-65244815454649285852012-09-03T04:00:00.001-07:002012-09-12T05:04:49.465-07:00Dating a Massage TherapistGuest Blogger: Mark Perry<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tough Mudder. Toronto 2012</td></tr>
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When people find out I date a massage therapist, their eyes light up with envy and mine roll. They always say "WOW! You're SO lucky!!" I tend to agree with them, I am a pretty lucky guy in terms of who I am currently dating, but it's not at all because she is a massage therapist. The fact is, I don't let her near me when she is in massage/sadist mode. I have tried to enjoy massages, but I just can't seem to find the pleasure or therapy surrounding this therapeutic technique. I have been in severe pain after some races and I have let her "caress" my tender muscles as a last resort, but this often leads to writhing, screaming, jumping and cursing. The "massage" ends soon after.</div>
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Krista has also mentioned in a previous blog post that the last thing she wants to do when she gets home from a day of massaging is do another massage. I agree with her professionalism that I should book an appointment at her clinic and pay the receptionist just like everyone else. In a profession that struggles to gain credibility in society, people don't need to be hearing that I get special massages at home whether I pay for them or not.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Years</td></tr>
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In all seriousness, it is not easy dating a massage therapist. It is a very difficult profession that takes its toll on one's body and emotions. It is not easy seeing your partner come home from a long day of work nearly broken--physically and emotionally. It's not easy learning about another client of hers who died today. I don't know them, but I see the toll it takes on Krista. She's the strongest and most compassionate woman I know, but everyone has a breaking point. Her forearms are stronger than most mens', but at what cost? I brag about them to try and be positive, although something tells me that Krista couldn't care less about ripped forearms.<br />
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Krista has home clients as well. This is common for such a profession. When a massage therapist works as hard as Krista does, it's not easy to find time to spend with someone else. It's easy to plan around my 9-5 job, but it proves quite difficult to catch a movie around her home and clinic clients...forget a last minute weekend getaway. We make it work using google calendar and day planners. It also gives us something to look forward to. We sit down every month or two to plan out activities we can do together. If you're a fly by the seat of your pants type of person, you won't see much of Krista. In addition to me, friends and family must also be scheduled into her agenda. She's not Hollywood, it's just how the profession rolls. When you are as good at something as Krista is at massage therapy, you are in high demand.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Tie Event for Team Christmas Party. Montreal 2011</td></tr>
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I have learned to adapt. There are positives and negatives associated with dating a massage therapist. This can be said about any profession, especially those that are physically demanding. If you want to date a massage therapist, be prepared for a chaotic schedule. If you can handle that, you will find yourself in ....good hands. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-24110154007242929912012-09-02T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-02T20:09:47.301-07:00Home Visits<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">This is a very rewarding piece of my practice.<br /><br />Home visits refer to me being able to go into the home of a client and provide them with a Massage Therapy treatment. I bring everything needed for the massage--portable massage table that weighs approximately 30-35 pounds (it practically lives in the trunk of my car), sheets, and lotion. It can be benefical financially for an R.M.T. to see home clients but one has to factor in travel time and set-up. </span></div>
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<br />I am fortunate to be trusted in so many clients' homes. One benefit of getting a massage in your home is that you, the client, doesn't need to be on time for an appointment--I must be. After a massage, many clients feel relaxed and ready to rest or even go to bed. Having a massage in your own home is great because you don't have to worry about going outside, or getting home to relax because you are already there.<br /><br />I have a few home clients who are able bodied and very healthy who just prefer to enjoy their massages at home. I also have clients who find it easier to have an R.M.T. come to their home because they may have a medical condition or mobility concerns that make it difficult for them to leave the home without some great effort. I find these clients to be very rewarding for me.<br /><br />Sometimes, I may have a client recently involved in a motor vehicle accident (M.V.A.), or maybe they have a condition such as Amyotrophic Lateral Schlerosis (A.L.S.), more commonly known as Lou Gehrigs Disease. Since I also specialize in Lymphedema Therapy, I see clients who have Lymphedema as a side-effect to cancer treatments. Those clients who have cancer may have low energy and find it exhausting to leave the house. I also see clients who are terminally ill and are looking for a gentle massage to bring comfort and relaxation to their body, or to reduce edema from an underlying condition. </div>
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I feel blessed to be trusted by these clients and their family members. It is not an easy time for anyone surrounding that individual. Being invited bedside gives me a direct view of the emotions, and decisions the client and the family are going through. I feel so much love surrounding this individual.<br /><br />It may seem that this type of client is very difficult to see for me as a therapist, emotionally. I do know that many therapists have said they would not be able to do it. Do I get sad? Yes, but I feel that I am also playing a vital role in their journey. No one should be in pain or discomfort at the end of their life. A massage can ease pain and discomfort for an individual even if it is only temporarily. Family members are watching me very closely. I feel the relief they feel when they see that their loved one is sleeping comfortably or has a relaxed smile on their face because of the touch they receive. I had one woman whose eyes lit up when she saw me come into the room after I had seen her a few times. She knew why I was there, and I hope I provided her with some comfort.<br /><br />For those who know my family, you know that my dad is a Funeral Director. I was raised in a home that taught me death is a natural process of life (with some exceptions). I also learned families grieve the loss of a loved one differently, and how we must show</div>
</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> respect a</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">fter death. Since</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> it was common conversation around the dinner table, I must say, without hesitation, that I am comfortable speaking about the topic of death and dying. </span><div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br />When one looks at the larger picture of working with the terminally ill, you can't help but feel grateful for your own life. You will feel grateful for your own health, for the loved ones you have with you, for our health care system, and for life insurance, or critical illness insurance. It will push you to pursue your purpose, your goals, and to reach out to others more because you never know how long you will have on this earth.<br /><br />Leaving you on a happier note: Homes occasionally have pets, and many pets are curious about my arrival. Some could care less. I am always entertained by animals that need to be close to their owner; Picture a pug that needs to be on the table with its owner while I give the massage. I frequently use olive oil as my massage oil, and the pug would constantly be licking the olive oil off my client while I was giving the massage. Cats love my massage table </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">bag </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">and can't wait for me to get it off and on the floor so that they can climb in it. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-42294188596278179722012-09-01T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-01T14:44:59.468-07:00CompetitionAs mentioned in the last post, colleagues in Massage Therapy may see others in the profession as threats to their practice. Therefore they didn't want to meet with me so that I could learn more about them as individuals and as practicing Massage Therapists. <br />
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If you look around the city you will probably see a lot of Massage Therapy. Maybe a Physiotherapy clinic offering a Massage Therapist on site, chair massage at the airport, a Massage Therapy only clinic, in room massages at a hotel, and maybe even a neon sign that says "Massage" and "Open" at curious hours for regular business. <br />
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"Massage" is everywhere and therefore the competition is large. However, I don't feel threatened by any of it. I know that it is only a matter of time before the competition weeds themselves out. Someone will decide that Massage Therapy is not for them, someone may practice un-ethically and they are suspended, or their neon sign gets turned off.<br />
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Since getting a massage is such a personal preference, it is really up to the individual to decide where and with whom they choose to receive treatment. The best I can do, and every Registered Massage Therapist can do is to practice morally and ethically, while continuning to educate the public about the various differences and what the client should be looking for before booking a massage. Once you have that client on your table, it is up to you to give them a professional massage to ensure they have a good impression and becomes a regular client.<br />
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In Ontario, if one is looking to have their massages covered by their health insurance plans, a Registered Massage Therapist (R.M.T) is the only one that will be able to provide them with a receipt containing their registration number and will be recognized by insurance companies. I am jumping ahead of myself, but I wanted to make it clear that the R.M.T behind a name means that the individual has gone through extensive training in theory and practical in a supervised, professional, and recognized college to complete their training and treat the public safely with the knowledge they have acquired. A Massage Therapist must also participate in a very extensive practical exam overseen by our College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO) asking the Massage Therapist to demonstrate different treatment protocol for different muscle injuries or assessments of these injuries etc. This is where we become "Registered." It is a test that I studied very hard for, it was very stressful, and for those reasons I wanted to make sure I would never need to take it twice. So I did it right the first time. <br />
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A few examples of ways that competition can really affect the public perception of Massage Therapy is to list services they offer but, have not been trained or certified to actually perform. The client will be drawn to "hot stone massage", or "lymphatic drainage" only to discover mid treatment, that this person has no idea what they are doing. Clients have told me stories of "Massage Therapists" burning them with hot stones, or giving a massage claiming it is "lymphatic drainage." I don't need to tell you that this is wrong and hurts our public perception on the profession.<br />
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Much love being sent to those R.M.T.'s practicing with their hearts today :) Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-83576115886479293112012-08-31T04:43:00.000-07:002012-09-01T14:40:53.987-07:00Colleagues<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial,Tahoma,Helvetica,FreeSans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">There are so many great things I can say about my Registered Massage Therapy Colleagues. The best ones are the ones I work with in the clinic. Each bring their own unique touch to the profession. Each one has a speciality from Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Bowen, or MyoFasial Release. Surrounding myself with those who have these additional skills is an asset to any client visiting the clinic. Surrounding myself with R.M.T.'s who have something different to offer than I can provide, is an asset to me.<br /><br />I have my own "tool box" to work from, but the beauty is that if the client is still not satisfied with their progress, or if my skills have reached their limitations, I consider it a sign of professional strength that I can refer my client to another professional. Especially since the professional is within the same clinic, the client can remain where they have established a level of comfort, trust, and it benefits the clinic overall. I also try to get massages from each of my colleagues at the clinic (tough job, eh?). This way, I get an idea of the style that each Massage Therapist provides. If the needs of a client come up, I will know exactly who to send them to. If they have a question about a particular technique they saw on the clinic website, I can speak about it from experience. If I am going away, and the client would like to continue massage with a similar style, I know the therapist that can provide them with the pressure and technique that is most like mine.<br /><br />It is even better when the colleagues I work with are like friends and family and we can spend time with each other outside of the clinic. It is great to see the support when celebrating events such as a new baby, a bachelorette, or even a going away brunch. It doesn't always happen that the R.M.T.'s I work with mix so well together, but I am very fortunate we do at our clinic.<br /><br />It has happened that I have been curious about the skills of an R.M.T. in the city and reached out to them to get together for a coffee or tea in order to get to know them better. On occasion, surprisingly, I have been met with resistence and he/she would question my motives for meeting with them. "I'm really busy, Krista" or "What is this really about?" Seriously, I just want to know more about them and their practice. This way, if I ever have a client that can benefit from his/her services I can refer accordingly. Some Massage Therapists have been known to be competitive and possessive of clients. This doesn't help the client or the profession as a whole. Sadly, some do not understand. I am truly sorry that you are too busy to network since word of mouth is our best way to advertise.<br /><br />To learn more about my fabulous colleagues, check out <a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alignyourbody.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE7xd4_2abViwaW0t_K_zcyrn22KQ" style="color: #249fa3; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Align Massage Therapy</a> </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-21878845174027012862012-08-30T04:00:00.000-07:002012-09-01T05:17:58.569-07:00Race Across America <div class="im" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: #500050; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Greetings from Washington, DC. (Aug 30-Sept 2nd) </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of the most incredible experiences I have had in my profession was to work with a team of extraordinary individuals who all came together for one event, one cause, and one bus.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I was so fortunate to be invited to join Team Xstrata as a volunteer Massage Therapist for Race Across America in support of The Children’s Wish Foundation.</span></span></div>
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Some background on Race Across America: The Race Across America (RAAM) is the mother of all endurance bike races. It’s 30% longer than the Tour de France and more grueling than any of the 24- or 48-hour sufferfests out there. Heck, in 1992 Outside Magazine ranked it “the world’s toughest sporting event.”</div>
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In over 4,800 kilometers—from Oceanside, California to Annapolis, Maryland—riders will experience extremes of weather, terrain, pain, doubt and every kind of logistical challenge imaginable as they endeavour to make it safely across the country as fast as they can. Over multiple mountain passes, across deserts, through the flats of Kansas and into the cities of the east, cyclists compete against the clock and themselves, racing 24 hours a day for five to eight days.</div>
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Teaming up with Registered Massage Therapist and Chiropractor, Melanie Stewart, we spent a total of 11 days maintaining the 8 riders and 12 crew's bodies and minds. Since the race is 24 hours, Melanie and I were giving massages approximately every 8 hours when there would be a change over in riders. Four riders would come off the road, tired, sore, hungry, and did I mention tired? And four new riders would be going out. The massages were very specific to the muscles the riders were using for cycling, the muscles that were compensating, and they were no longer than 20 minutes each. Lots of legs, low back, neck, and shoulders. It was a rewarding experience to bring some relief to the tired muscles of these riders working so hard each time they went out on the road.</div>
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I can honestly say that I can give an effective massage anywhere, and anytime! Melanie and I set up our treatment station in all sorts of locations and would get to work unphased--Wal-Mart parking lots, shoulders on the side of the road at 4am, generous business parking lots that enjoyed a front row seat to all the organized chaos of a change-over...literally anywhere!</div>
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Melanie and I were also considered part of the elite “bus crew” as we were riding on the bus each day with a transition master, 2 chefs and a hired bus driver to get ahead of the riders and set up for their arrival. The amount of work that each person put into this event is nothing short of amazing. It was a team I would gladly work with again. I have made some incredible friends and made some incredible connections through this event. It became so much more than I anticipated.</div>
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Team Xstrata successfully completed Race Across America in 6 days 9 hours and 42 minutes.</div>
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This incredible event was also raising money for The Children’s Wish Foundation. Team Xstrata took home the award for raising the most money for their charity out of all of the RAAM cycling teams.</div>
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It was more challenging than I thought to put my entire RAAM experience into this short post, so if you would like to learn more about our adventure, here is an incredible blog written by crew chief Anne Sasso who tracked the team and crew each day on the journey. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.xstrataraam.com/">http://www.xstrataraam.com/</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-90872815468947004552012-08-29T04:00:00.000-07:002012-08-29T04:00:08.129-07:00Best Ever<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">So what was the best massage you have ever had?</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Was it a specific Massage Therapist that really knew what they were doing to relax tense muscles, or was it a specific atmosphere that made it an ideal setting for a massage?</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">I am very fortunate to have heard many times that I was “the best massage” a client ever received. It is a huge boost to our professional confidence when a client says this. I have heard this from regular clients who may have seen me a few times, new clients who have had many massages, and I have even heard it from those with a celebrity status. Those are certainly highlights in my career.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">The fact is that it is all individual preference. Finding a good Massage Therapist, the one that is right for you, is the same as finding your perfect hairstylist. Once you find them, you don’t want to let them go. On the other hand, if a Massage Therapist is not the right fit, there should be no hard feelings if you want to continue your search. I am continually amazed that each Massage Therapist in Ontario has more or less gone through the same instruction necessary to complete their diploma, yet how the Massage Therapist interprets it, and makes it into their own style, is completely different in the outcome. It’s not right or wrong, but it is very unlikely you will find two massages who will be exactly the same.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">There are some massage sessions where I will feel that I could have given the client more and feel that I wasn’t at my best. To my surprise, the client will come out of the massage beaming and very happy with their treatment. There will be other times when I feel that I am giving everything I have to a client for his or her treatment, and when I ask how they are feeling at the end they might respond “ok, I guess.”</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Some of my favourite stories of “the best massage ever” usually involve the client on vacation and they get a massage on the beach. Trust me, I have been there and yes it was an incredible experience but I wouldn’t say it was the best massage ever. Believe it or not, even with my favourite Massage Therapists, I am still searching for “the best massage.”</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;">Any suggestions? </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-90870715763179719602012-08-28T04:00:00.000-07:002012-08-28T04:00:03.721-07:00Yeah, but do you like It? <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">“Do you Like It?”</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Surprisingly, I do hear this question from clients a lot and usually during a massage. I should hope that one would be able to tell whether I liked it or not because you should be able to “feel” it coming through in my massage, or not. And what if I answered, “No, I hate it”? How would the client feel during the rest of the massage? I can imagine there are therapists who would tell the truth if they didn’t like it. The same way a cashier at the grocery store will tell me how they can’t wait to be done for the day when I ask “How is your day going?”</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The real truth for me as a Massage Therapist is that yes, I do like it...for now. I have realized that this is not a profession I will be in until I retire. Many of my instructors had been practicing for at least ten years and this was encouraging. All of them are still practicing today, even more encouraging. But for me, I feel that there is more to come. I was blessed with the gift of massage and I am sharing this gift with as many people as I physically can. However, there are limits as there are only so many hours in a day, and so much energy I can expend on clients. I am feeling restless and I feel that my gift is approaching its expiration date. I have never considered my profession to be “work” or a “job” and I never want to feel that way about it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">While I am still struggling with my next step into a career that combines my passions and talents, I have been fortunate to have a Plan-B that is easing the transition. It is remarkable to me how many R.M.T.’s are confident they will be in this profession forever at the pace they are going. They won’t even entertain the idea of another career. While many may have a spouse to lean on, for those who know me, spouse or no spouse, I am fiercely independent. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">So, what do you think my next move should be? </span> </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Has anyone ever confronted you and asked if you like what you are doing? How does that make you feel? </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-16206131997534624852012-08-27T05:14:00.000-07:002012-08-27T05:14:39.234-07:00What Soft Hands You Have...<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">“You must have soft hands”</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAuPrVqLx7fI8XHGoJiREuYvV_XYfmAse0YBxbv0_xWb3CHBflIBmKLHtWseAatbuqDVH8WQD-ACC79SdnRFEdccI3U3rzxEOm42pypOTrgqU2oSr_PqNmU2cdu0yUtxJ49TQ-Sf38RML/s1600/pg-hospital-massage-lotions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAuPrVqLx7fI8XHGoJiREuYvV_XYfmAse0YBxbv0_xWb3CHBflIBmKLHtWseAatbuqDVH8WQD-ACC79SdnRFEdccI3U3rzxEOm42pypOTrgqU2oSr_PqNmU2cdu0yUtxJ49TQ-Sf38RML/s320/pg-hospital-massage-lotions.jpg" title="http://www.whattoexpect.com/pregnancy/photo-gallery/what-to-pack-for-the-hospital.aspx#/slide-1" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Another common phrase I hear from a client. It makes sense, right? I am constantly applying lotion to my hands so I must have silky smooth skin. This is not true. For one, the lotion we work with is specific for Massage Therapy. It is meant to glide on the skin and will take time to absorb. As Massage Therapists we will wash our hands at least twice per client--before we re-enter the room to begin the massage, and immediately after the massage. We must wash our hands with an antibacterial soap and warm water. No matter the season, we will never have soft hands.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The really neat thing is that our hands are superhero sensitive! We can astound you with our knot finding abilities through even the densest tissue! One of my instructors demonstrated how he could find a piece of hair under a piece of paper. It seemed unbelievable at the time because as students we were in the infancy of developing our sense of professional touch. We have strong grips and although I might not be good in a fistfight, if I can get close enough to squeeze someone into submission, watch out!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We are frequently asked by our boyfriends to open jars (unless he works out) . But, if the jar has some sort of ridging on it, it will feel like glass under my hands and I will be rendered helpless in its presence because my hands are so sensitive. Also, my fine motor skills, such as holding a pen in my hand for a length of time can be tiring to the muscles. The larger muscle groups are so over developed that the finer ones have lost their touch. It’s easy to tell which hand is the strongest, as it will have a larger thenar (thumb pad). Yes, mine is bigger than my boyfriends...even if he works out ;)</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-46879863685860878382012-08-26T04:25:00.000-07:002012-08-26T14:09:48.968-07:00Thank God for Elbows<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">“Do your hands get sore at the end of the day”?</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A common question I hear from clients. Massage Therapy is a fascinating profession to many people. How can one person manage to work with their hands all day long, stand, bend, lunge, and squat, while (gasp) touching people for a living? As mentioned in an earlier post, one of my instructors referred to Massage Therapy as “educated manual labour.” Seven years into the profession, I can see how accurate his reference was. However, I am not close to the exertion that is involved in construction or roofing, Massage Therapy, as a profession, will still take a dramatic toll on your body.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Yes, my hands could be sore at the end of the day, along with my lower back and shoulders. It depends on the type of massages I am doing and the density of tissues I am working on. The benefit to being a trained Massage Therapist is that we have learned numerous techniques that save our hands. Many of us will opt to use forearms and elbows, which arguably work better than our hands for pressure, and reducing tension in the muscles. The best part is that many of my clients can never tell the difference when I use my forearms, elbows, or hands. Yes, I’m that good </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">J</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Remember how the burnout rate of a Massage Therapist is 2-5 years? Relying solely on your hands is a sure way you will fall into this statistic. Massage Therapists do have a high rate of early onset arthritis, carpal tunnel, and nerve impingement syndromes. Many Massage Therapists may have had a scare that forces them to take a step back and get back to the basics of our techniques. Some problems however will not go away until you leave the profession. One Massage Therapist I know is now a radiologist after tingling and numbness in her hands would not go away. Some Massage Therapists may not have a plan B, and wearing a pain patch to work becomes their only option. Yes, I know one Massage Therapist doing this. An early lesson in Massage school was that we cannot sacrifice our own body in order to help others. So why don’t we listen?</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-26880290231200284942012-08-25T04:23:00.000-07:002012-08-25T04:23:00.205-07:00Sick<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">If you are feeling sick, stay home. It’s common sense, but so many clients don’t want to miss out on their massage and they might think it will help them feel better. It won’t. In fact, it could make you feel worse. If you are at the beginning of “feeling sick”, then you will likely experience full blown symptoms within 24 hours of having your massage. Why? Because getting a massage stirs up circulation and the lymphatic system and you will be mucous city the next day. There is some good to this. It means you won’t be sick for long because we are literally pushing it out of the body faster than it would take to naturally appear. </span><div class="im adL" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">
<br />There are many types of massage that may help reduce mucous and congestion. If you are past the point of being infectious, I encourage you to come in for a massage to reduce these symptoms. The types of massage may include <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Craniosacral_therapy">Craniosacral Therapy</a> or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manual_lymphatic_drainage">Manual Lymphatic Drainage</a><a href="http://./">.</a> A Swedish Massage with Tapping or Cupping on the back can also be very effective.<br /></div>
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So, you come in for your massage feeling sick and you are looking forward to relaxing for an hour while the perfectly healthy Massage Therapist is stuck in the room with you. One of the ways we protect ourselves is by wearing a surgical mask. It doesn’t look friendly, and you might be insulted, but I don’t have sick days so I need to protect my immune system!<br /><br />It is a difficult decision for a Massage Therapist to not come in to work when they are feeling sick. As mentioned in an earlier post, we get paid per client. If we choose to stay home and rest, we make no money that day. Our job is physically demanding so it’s not easy to massage when you are feeling under the weather. If we are feeling sick and choose to come to work, we will be wearing a surgical mask for all our clients. Our clients should be contacted in advance to let them know that they may choose to reschedule their appointment. This is especially true if the client is pregnant or elderly. Fortunately, I have not had to cancel too many days because I was sick. If it does happen, I pray you have a receptionist to handle those calls ;) </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-58194340139381156522012-08-24T04:22:00.000-07:002012-08-24T06:26:45.798-07:00Etiquette<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NOy02lRwzcyaPIpO0Dc-ny1ibbABJlbFRHWIQpVF8KtrbT3kDzfUFHeWlC1OFOHaItGTdg5aB6AFD6y8PPFYtYjKs1CMtpnpXQE1DIG6UKHnmR6d7XZM7l9qNs-e228-mQFQqM7XQHXi/s1600/Masswelcomemat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6NOy02lRwzcyaPIpO0Dc-ny1ibbABJlbFRHWIQpVF8KtrbT3kDzfUFHeWlC1OFOHaItGTdg5aB6AFD6y8PPFYtYjKs1CMtpnpXQE1DIG6UKHnmR6d7XZM7l9qNs-e228-mQFQqM7XQHXi/s320/Masswelcomemat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Rules as a houseguest: Make your bed, help with the dishes, and bring candy.<br />
Rules as a Massage Therapy Client: Turn off your cell phone (not on vibrate), don’t leave your clothes on the floor (hang them up or put them on the chair so the Massage Therapist does not trip on them), keep your voice down (no need to yell into the face cradle), and bring candy (just kidding).<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif;">It’s also common courtesy and a sign of a professional R.M.T. if he or she keeps conversation to a minimum and only responds to questions the client asks. It’s not that we don’t want to engage in conversation, actually it’s a lonely profession and like the elderly, we love someone to talk to! The point is that this is your massage, and every client relaxes differently. Some clients are very talkative and I am lucky to know the details from their latest vacation and where their kids are thinking of going to University. Other clients prefer to relax with no conversation after the “how do you do's.” A great Massage Therapist will respect and respond to each client's needs individually. I have heard from many clients who changed Massage Therapists because the Massage Therapist talked too much. Surprisingly, I have also heard that some clients try to engage the Massage Therapist in conversation and the Massage Therapist will tell the client not to talk, as it is better for the overall relaxing atmosphere. Seriously? Who are these Massage Therapists?</span><br />
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So, as a Massage Therapist, do you prefer a talkative client or an hour of complete silence to be in your own thoughts? As a client, would you prefer to engage in some conversation, or appreciate a quiet Massage Therapist? </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-8787637991874061482012-08-23T06:18:00.000-07:002012-08-23T06:18:59.585-07:00Knotty<br />
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Once I get hands on with a client, they will typically comment, “I’m really tense right?” Or “I have a lot of knots right?” As a professional, it is always best to agree with the client. Knots and tension are common for every body type and lifestyle. I have a few clients who have wanted to be known as my “knottiest client”, but to be honest I don’t compare because each body is so different. I’m sorry to say, there is no prize for winning “most tense” nor should you be proud of winning it. My goal for each session is to try to manipulate the tissue, relax and release the knots and tension. Some tension is completely normal in order for the body to feel stabilized. We don’t stop moving our bodies, so there will always be something that feels tense and needs work. Many of my clients are involved with repetitive activity (<em>i.e.</em>sitting at a computer desk all day) so the muscles involved with this activity will be more tense, and it may actually be difficult to relax them in the long-term. Knots can also be the result of stress. Even if we do not feel stressed, our body finds ways to manifest it. Women tend to hold stress in their upper back and shoulders, while men typically hold stress in their lower back.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">One of my favourite questions is, “how do I get rid of the tension?”</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">My advice is usually “more massages” and “stretch the muscles during and after the activity that aggravates them.” The alternative and my favourite answer is, “move to a secluded island and drink piña coladas everyday.” I have yet to hear of a client who has taken me up on this advice.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6240856471859278831.post-20168333170768705952012-08-22T05:37:00.002-07:002012-08-26T14:15:15.779-07:00Table Vs. Bed<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's called a Massage Table. It's not called a Bed. That is all.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13362089378476074387noreply@blogger.com0