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Increases
circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into
tissues and vital organs
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Stimulates
the lymph system, the body's natural defense against toxins
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Relaxes
and softens injured or overused muscles
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Reduces
muscle spasms and cramping
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Increases
joint flexibility and range of motion
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Reduces
recovery time for strenuous workouts and eliminating subsequent pains
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Releases
endorphins to control and relieve pain
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Provides
stretching and increasing muscle tone for atrophied muscles
What is the difference
between a Certified Massage Therapist (CMT) and Licensed Massage
Therapist (LMT)?
A CMT has been educated and graduated
from an accredited school and working under a Chiropractor's
license and/or offering in-home visits. A CMT can begin working
with 100 hrs. of coursework and minimal practical field work.
The
main difference between a CMT and an LMT is public awareness
and proven skills in the massage therapy occupation. As an LMT,
I still carry the CMT certification which is a minimum of 500
hours of education from an accredited school of massage, passed
the National Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodyworkers (NCBTMB),
submitted an extensive application including a complete employment
history, a full consent to run a background check with the Department
of Justice, fingerprints are on record, and I've been medically
cleared for any contagious or communicable diseases. California
enacted this legislature, via the California
Massage Therapy Council (www.camtc.org) in September 2009
as a voluntary licensing program. As a licensed therapist, I
am able to perform therapeutic massage therapy under the guidelines
set forth by the state of California and CEU’s (Continuing
Education Units) are required to be completed within the 2 year
renewal period.
Where
does the massage take place?
Your session can be in the privacy of your own home or at a
treatment room that I’m authorized to use in South Orange
County if a home visit is not convenient.
What do I need to do
to prepare for a massage?
As the receiver of massage,
first and foremost, drink plenty of water, especially after a massage. Massage
therapy releases naturally occurring toxins into the bloodstream and drinking
water helps to flush them out and also rehydrates muscles.
Aromatherapy candles, light music, and dimly lit room will enhance your massage
experience and are at the discretion of the client.
Have a clean, well-groomed body prior to my arrival. A warm shower is recommended
to start the relaxation process.
What is draping?
Draping is a
term used by massage therapists to ensure the client is always covered and only
areas of the massage are exposed.
How often should I
have a massage?
Since
every client has individual needs, the amount of massage recommended will also
vary. To ensure the massage continues to be effective, a minimum of a once a
month appointment may be recommended.
What
is the purpose of completing a Health History Questionnaire?
Each client has certain issues or ailments
that may need to be addressed and to address those areas of concern a questionnaire
is the most effective means to determine the state of your body. Since massage
affects all major systems of the body, i.e. digestive, nervous, muscular systems,
etc., I need to be aware of the type of pressure given during a massage in cases
of injuries, medications taken on a daily basis that may interact with blood
pressure or heart condition, and general physical health of each client. My
concern for each client goes beyond the massage, but more as a total body analysis
to ensure the client is receiving the best care and massage as possible.
Are
gratuities necessary?
Gratuities or “tips” are
an extension of gratitude based on how you feel after your appointment, how
well the massage was performed, and if the service went beyond your initial
expectations. Gratuities are not expected, but are appreciated in this profession.
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