Do your hands, arms or shoulders hurt?

Without being insulting to any massage therapist, I would like to know why you are hurting? Frankly, if my body was hurting after giving a massage I would not wait until I was in excruciating pain to find out what I am doing wrong. All too often, I hear about Massage Therapists that burn out because they can't give any more. They are hurting constantly!

Did you know this does NOT have to be the way??? Honestly, I want you to consider some things:


1. Do you know how to correct your body mechanics?

2. Do you give yourself a break?

3. Do you receive massage on a regular basis (more than once a month if you are working full time)?

4. Are you sure you are applying your techniques appropriately?

5. Have you ever had an instructor make sure you were performing your techniques correctly?

6. Have you adjusted your table at different heights to see what works best? Don't do what someone else told you, do what works for YOU!

7. What do you do for yourself at the end of the day to "clear" yourself AND relax ?



Recently, I saw a post on FaceBook and I was delighted to see that two massage colleagues have written the following: (PLEASE READ)

This was taken from Art Riggs and Whitney Lowe, two of the experts in the field of Deep Tissue work! Deep Tissue: deep tissue work is the specific manipulation of the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep Tissue manipulation therapy uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage as well as cross fiber, pin and stretch, active and passive movements with others, and the depth is more intense. It is also a more focused and slow, as it works to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as "adhesions.") Although it is more uncomfortable then Swedish massage, it shouldn’t be painful. The presser used should not exceed a 4 to 6 (the client’s tolerance) and is only performed on one or two parts of the body. The term “deep tissue” is often misused to identify a massage that is performed with sustained deep pressure. Deep tissue massage is a separate category of massage therapy, used to treat particular muscular-skeletal disorders and complaints and employs a dedicated set of techniques and strokes to achieve a measure of relief. It should not be confused with “deep pressure” massage, which is one that is performed with sustained strong, occasionally intense pressure throughout an entire full-body session, and that is not performed to address a specific complaint. If a practitioner employs deep tissue techniques on the entire body in one session, it would be next to impossible to perform; and will lead to injury or localized muscle and nerve trauma, thereby rendering the session counterproductive. This type of work is done, in no more then 1/4th of a massage session.

This is so important to understand!

  I privately mentor massage therapists and one of my students did not know this until she worked along with me. She was taught to apply more pressure by her instructors and her trainors at her place of employment and believed this was deep tissue work aka muscle mashing. Her hands and arms and now shoulders are painful on a daily basis. Several of her colleagues have actually left massage for the same reason. Fortunately, she didn't give up! She wants to continue massage and she sought out the proper help!


Deep tissue work can actually be so easy for us to do when the application is performed correctly and the client feels like you are 'really deep'. You have to actually be more careful in your application because of this. You may even think you aren't doing anything that would feel deep because you are working with ease. Remember work SMARTER NOT HARDER!

If you are hurting, please seek out someone that can train you appropriately! Make sure you get personal attention. If you attend classes with large groups, please realize you may not get that  attention you are seeking.

There is no reason to be in pain!!! How can you possibly enjoy what you are doing and give your best to a client? I have never hurt in my entire career because of giving massage.

Why?

1. In my early years I had a mirror nearby my table so I can check in and see what I might be doing incorrectly.

2. I invested in an hydraulic table and I highly recommend this to all therapist! Oakworks even came out with the pro lux convertible whereby you can take your portable table and place it on this unit to make it an electric lift!!!

3. I did weekly trades with my colleagues. I received a variety of types of massage too. Not the same old type. This was so beneficial because I got to experience what other people were learning. This led me to pursue more continuing education

4. STRETCH!!! You must take care of your body. Being physically able to give massage is a necessity!

5. Proper Nutrition! If you don't put healthy things in your body, how can you feel good?

Best of Luck to you on your career path.

If you are interested in private sessions with me, please email me at massageproce@gmail.com Please take care of yourself, so you can take care of others!

Shine Your Light and you Will Always be Bright ~~~ Gloria Coppola www.MassageProCE.com

Practicing what I preach - Self Care

I have to practice what I preach!

So, I booked a silent yoga/chakra retreat to welcome in the New Year!

It was exactly the kick in the gluteus maximus I kneaded!

We, in the healing profession spend so much time giving. Giving physically, emotionally, mentally, physically and energetically. Some of us may realize how this takes a toll on our being and some may not realize it yet.

I can tell you, that even with all I do to stay in balance, I realized this weekend that I, too, kneaded more!

The times are shifting and energy is moving fast!

Truthfully, I had no idea exactly what I was getting myself into, however , I 'knew' intuitively I kneaded to go.

Our first evening started with 2 hours of vinyasa yoga. I wasn't quite sure what that meant, as it wasn't the typical name for yoga I 've done in the past. With a back injury that incapacitated me with pain from any vigorous workouts for almost 5 years, I was happy to be going and hoping that I could keep up. ;)

The first evening brought revelations! First, I was happy to move without pain and try to keep up with bodies 20-30 years younger than me. The program was designed to flow with and open the chakras. The first meditation reminded me how much I missed being the student again and connecting with spirit in such a divine healing space.


The following day we did (3) 2 hr. sessions of yoga. WOW! Yes, I was exhausted at moments, inspired, sweaty, happy, sad, joyful and amazed! All of this while pushing through an upper respiratory cold too.

Yes, I was determined to LET GO of what I no longer wanted and open up to a path that will shine bright.

One of the rocks they had in their lounge, jumped out at me and on it was printed "LET GO"! For those of you who have taken my Lomi classes, you know this is a SIGN :).


The path? What is it? Obvious some might think. However, after 25 years of being in the healing profession, with its up and downs and all arounds I was wondering??????? Still????


The final day brought more revelation and the guided meditations took me to a mountain and a path and symbol and a release and so much more!

I am renewed! I am inspired! I am ready ~~~~ to continue on this healing path and to provide my students with all that I have been shown

Welcome 2012! I am ready! A New Beginning is emerging. Watch me grow and shine my light! Come along with me, if you like!

In order to inspire you must be inspired!

I am continually dedicated to the healing path ! I have much more to share.

What Self Care Practice will you begin in 2012? Join me for a Self Care CE workshop this year!

Gloria

Tips I've learned along the way and other things I want to share

In case you don't know this already, I am a massage snob. :)

While I don't expect every massage therapist to give the same massage or have the
same skill level; I do look for certain things that I would hope were taught in massage school. Apparently not ? Or you missed that day?

So, in the event you were sleeping here are a few tips. (Please keep in mind I am writing this because all of these things have happened to me over the years).

1. Review your client history form (MAKE THE TIME), especially when they tell you they have an issue. Sounds simple but many do not do this :(

2. Find out what they like or don't like, including pressure, techniques, creams or lotions. Clients may have an allergy to your products or prefer no parabens, etc.
(Maybe they left their previous massage therapist because they didn't like something)

3. Make sure you ARE NOT RUSHED - that really does transfer in your touch. You don't think you are rushed ?- take a step back and breathe - it always helps to slow down even more and get yourself centered!

4. Know and understand how your techniques effect the body and the outcome. Seriously. What ones do you use to relax a client vs. therapeutic treatment. By the way relaxing strokes are not performed vigorously.

5. Please don't plop your hands on a body. You think you don't - Just pay a bit more attention to this please. Honor the body! It really is a privilege to touch another person.

6. Lay on your table and get a massage. Is it comfortable? Are the sounds in your room conducive to relaxation? Is the face cradle comfortable? It's important to know what your clients are experiencing. Ask others too.

7. Please have experienced massage therapists critique your massage as you continue to learn. Don't "assume" you are performing techniques correctly.

8. Temperature is relative. Just because something doesn't feel hot to you it doesn't mean the person on the table perceives it the same way. You are working and building up energy. They are relaxing and 'chillin' out. BE CAREFUL please with stones, hot packs and hot towels

9. Don't apply an essential oil or product that may cause a reaction without asking your client first.

10. Please don't keep walking away from the table, especially with body parts exposed to get cold. Keep your products within arms reach, on a shelf or use a holster.

11. Please don't leave the room in the middle of a massage, unless the fire alarm goes off. Very disruptive. If you must for some reason, please remember to come back onto the body with ease and respect.

12. Give yourself more than 5-10 minutes in between massages. Why rush? Seriously is this what massage is all about.

13. Put some extra padding on your massage table. It feels so much better.

14. Don't freeze your clients out with the Air conditioner, just because you are hot. Have extra blankets. Don't tell them "really, it's cold?". If you notice a body part is chilly, warm it up!

15. SO you like to work barefoot, that's ok . But please groom your feet and if you have band aids etc., wrapped around your toes, put socks or clogs on please. We do look through the face cradle ;)

16. If you want to use an elbow, please learn how to use it. Don't poke into someone's hip or buttocks and think that will feel good, especially in a relaxing massage.

17. Just out of massage school? You think you deserve $60-80/hr? Please think twice. You are not up to the skill level of experienced therapists. Go get some continuing education first.

18. Take a class in communication and listening skills, pretty please! Pay Attention!

19. Check in to see if your client is cold or hot, pressure more or less? Don't assume they are comfortable because they don't say anything.

20. Business is slow? Maybe it is you or your massage?
Seriously, take a business class or two with an experienced and successful therapist.

21. If you think you already address all of this very well - think again? It is always good to re-evaluate ourselves no matter how much experience we have in the profession. (Including me)

22. Oh and while I am at it: Please don't put your hands on a face after you touched the feet!!! Clean your hands. Get a sanitizer or keep wipes near your table. Wrap the feet in warm towels and you can wash your hands while the feet are staying warm. Or Start with the face first.

23. Please do my abs or at least ask? I get so disappointed when my abs aren't included, it's part of my body and helps my back.

24. Get used to starting in either position. Your client may have a preference and it is 'their' session. Don't tell them you prefer to start a certain way.

25. My time and money is just as valuable as yours - don't waste either. Try giving a feedback form --- anonymously. (I unfortunately have wasted much time and money on massages. How many others feel that way out there?)


So, when I hear therapists tell me there business isn't thriving or they can't make a living doing massage, perhaps these are some of the "smaller" reasons.

Remember, MOST people, in my experience, WILL NOT tell you how they really feel.

Are you open to critical feedback from your client? You need to be or they may not come back and they definitely won't refer anyone .

Get massages from experienced therapists too - you can learn A LOT!

I have also heard therapists say they don't want someone telling them how to do their job. Hmmmm? Are we that "IN TUNE" and knowledgeable? I understand we may know more than our client, but what if they are a massage therapist or have been receiving massage longer than you have been practicing? Especially one that knows what they want. When I say I want to relax, I expect to receive that - simple, I think.

When I hurt, please Don't try to "fix" me, I don't need fixing. All too often, I have had therapist think their modality is the way to 'fix' me. Please don't hurt me in your process.

I have also heard from 'sources' in schools, that instructors are not allowed to give critiquing that is termed 'negative' - because the school needs to get paid. They don't want students upset. So students believe they are good! Not all schools are like this, but some are, sadly. (Students don't even know this by the way)

Touch is truly an art and a privilege- master it. Don't assume you have - ask your colleagues.

The General Public does not or cannot always give you valuable critique on skills. Most are happy just to be touched.

Ok, I will stop now and leave you to comment on the things you like or dislike when getting a massage. Thanks for listening!

I want to see you be successful - so if I can give you any hints or suggestions, it will be my pleasure.

I thank all the people in my life that made suggestions and continue to do so - you should too!

Happy Massaging!

PS For those of you who don't know me, I have been a massage therapist for 25 years and a massage instructor for 20 years.

I am also offering a Post Grad Mentoring Program Beginning January 2012. (Earn up to 50 CE's). Applications are being accepted now. Only the serious, dedicated individual need apply.
www.MassageProCE.com

Why Massage Therapists are in Pain

Dear Massage Therapist

I am writing this blog for all those that are in pain after giving massage.

In 25 years of my career I have never had pain in my hands, wrists, arms, shoulders etc
after a massage.

Nowadays I hear so many LMT's tell me they are hurting. They have carpal tunnel symptoms.
I hate to hear this.

It is so easy to prevent these problems.

So I am reaching out to my colleagues who are in pain.
Please take care of yourself! Why would you allow yourself to hurt? Would
you let your clients feel this way?

Simple daily things to do:

1. BREATH!!!! It's FREE. Inhale to a count of 5 FULLY (Expand and stretch your muscles, get oxygen moving). Hold for 5, Exhale FULLY to 5, hold and repeat for 5. Do this regularly

2. STRETCH!! Remember all those stretches you learned in massage school for your client? Why aren't you doing them for yourself?! DAILY!

3. Love yourself enough to take care of yourself! EVERY DAY
Eat Healthy, Get Fresh Air, Have Fun, Pace Yourself


4. Massage your own hands and arms at the end of each day.

5. Water you say? Drink "GOOD" water ! pH balanced water , oxygenated water. Avoid cheap bottled water.

6. Salt baths. At the end of the day soak in a sea salt bath. It's very healing!

7. Check your table height. Is it too low? Put a mirror in your office. See if you are leaning over too much? Raise the table PLEASE!!!

8. Deep Tissue? Hurting your thumbs? Don't push harder - work smarter! Learn how to access muscle tissue from different angles by changing the angle of your thumb pad. MUCH EASIER!

9. Pace yourself. I know many of you work for companies that 'crank' them out. See if your manager will give you more time in between or not over book you. JUST ASK. Doesn't work - find a new place to work.

LASTLY:
GET REGULAR MASSAGE!
No time you say? No Money? Honestly? Really?

Do you have time for parties? Do you pay for tattoos? Do you pay for cable TV?
Do you buy junk food? Do you go to movies?

Need I say more???


These are JUST some of the tips I can offer for longevity of your career!

Please take care of yourself and make it a priority today!

Yes, I do take appointments on occasion to help my fellow collegues.

Have a beautiful day - be well - enjoy your massage,
Gloria

The Healing Arts

I am sitting reflecting upon my path in the massage field and with 25 years flashing by quickly, I have seen so many changes.

I often wonder how many people actually enter the massage field because it is a 'calling' or because they 'think' they found a way to make a lot of money?

For me, massage was a calling. For this I am grateful.
My path has brought me to many places of self healing.

As a former owner of a holistic center and massage school, I have witnessed so many beautiful revelations and transformations from clients and students.

Today, however, as a continuing education provider I wonder how many of you have chosen this path because it was a calling?

Why am I asking? Because I have seen a great change in the quality of massage therapists and student. It seems that with more Tech schools and colleges offering massage programs, SOMETIMES there are people in these courses that truly were not 'called". They don't seem to take it seriously and have no clue of the depth of this healing 'art'.

I have been trained in many traditional styles of bodywork and healing methods and have found that the depths go far beyond our basic training. Have you experienced this yet in your profession? Are you stuck where you started? Do you love what you do or dread it daily?

The Healing Arts can bring so many valuable components to your life and your practice. Allow yourself to experience the healing process that you can go through to enhance your own life first!

Consider taking classes that will support your growth personally and professionally.

Don't complain about money aka the economy. If you have money for socializing and cable TV, mobile phones and parties and clothes you don't really need, you should have money for the investment into your future too!

The Healing Arts is a path. A journey. It is a gift that is given to us and deep respect and gratitude should be held for it daily.

Do you thank your mentors?
Do you honor the lineages that have gone before you?

I wonder how much you realize the privilege it is to "touch another life"?
Every breath one takes, every touch one receives is a connection to the divine source of creation! Think about it!

To touch a life, to have someone in your hands can change their life forever!

Massage is not just about working out the stress in muscles. It goes deeper. It goes to the core of one's being. It goes to the heart and soul. Remember that!

To all the new graduates in massage, I wish you much success, healing and wellness on your path of healing.

Take a moment to view my video especially made for all Massage Graduates!
~ Gloria