Everything we do is for your maximum benefit. It’s never a matter of why, it’s a matter of why not.

ON-SITE CHAIR MASSAGE: Recipient is seated and fully clothed; no oil is used Massage focuses on upper body-head, shoulders, back, arms and addresses common problems of today’s workers; lasts 10-20 minutes and is made available for your convenience.

IN-HOME MASSAGE: The most popular service provided. Therapist comes to you where you are most comfortable and relaxed. Clients have had the pleasure of receiving their massage on their private terraces overlooking the ocean as well as quite private areas where silence is the key. Your request is paramount.

COUPLES MASSAGE: Great for a romantic getaway without leaving the city! It is also a wonderful relaxing way to spend time with family and friends. This is really popular with girlfriends who want to spend quality time together pampering themselves.

What role should touch play in our daily lives? It has been well researched and documented that positive touch, that being touch from someone you trust done with your consent and agreement, can affect us at a cellular and hormonal level. The release of endorphins makes us feel good, and actually contributes to not only our physical health, but also our emotional health as well. Much to our detriment, however, the inclusion of touch in our daily lives has taken a back seat to other priorities.

We live in a society where touching on a social level has become increasingly taboo. In a nutshell, we are touch deprived. A world-wide study done in the 1960′s noted the number of times pairs of people touched each other when out at a cafe. Peurto Rico was at the top of the list, with 180 times an hour; at the bottom of the list was Britain, at 0 times per hour (yes, that’s right,  ZERO). This would seem to indicate that a normal, healthy social gesture seems to have become degraded to something which is not appropriate and needs to be avoided. In our own culture we seem to be becoming more touched deprived; according to “The Touch Deficit” by Patti Wood, 15% of Canadians go for 3 or more days without touching another human being. Could this be a contributing factor to our soaring levels of depression and anxiety?

How might we change this unfortunate trend? In addition to changing other lifestyle factors, the inclusion of regular, positive touch may very well help turn the tide on our cultural downfall. Massage therapy has been extremely well researched, and we all know it can assist our function at a physical level, by relieving headaches, back pain and other common complaints. But did you realize that massage therapy also improves our function at an emotional level, contributing to decreased depression and anxiety, improved sense of well-being, and improved sleep?  The Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami Medical School has devoted itself since 1992 to the qualitative and quantitative research of how touch affects us at every level.

I would suggest that if you are feeling even a little (or a lot) anxious, that Massage Therapy may be able to help you. If you feel great, I would hazard a guess that you may feel even better by taking an hour out of your day and taking care of yourself. Think of it as a preventive therapy, and enjoy the power of touch.

If you’ve ever had a massage, you know that you can start to feel better within minutes. We are biologically wired to respond to welcome human touch. The massage therapist begins to spread oil over your back. Skilled hands begin to massage tight muscles. Right away, you feel better and begin to slip into a state of relaxation. That alone is worth the price of admission. But there’s more!

People come to massage for a variety of reasons. Many come primarily for relaxation and wellness. Experts estimate that at least 80% of doctor office visits are for health problems that are caused or aggravated by stress. Headaches, backaches, and many other of life’s most common complaints are aggravated by stress. Anything we can do to counteract and alleviate the effect of stress is going to have a beneficial effect on our health. In The End of Stress As We Know It, author Bruce McEwen describes the effects that chronic exposure to stress hormones have on the body. Among other things, continued elevated levels of these hormones lead to higher cholesterol, a higher incidence of Type II diabetes, and increased accumulation of belly fat.

Sore muscles from overexertion respond quickly to the right kind of massage. Chronic muscle aches can often be alleviated by the right kind of massage. Athletes find that regular massage can help to naturally improve their performance and minimize injuries by eliminating unnecessary tightness in muscles.

Touch Research Institute

The Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami Medical School has conducted over a hundred studies documenting the beneficial effects of massage. TRI has found that massage therapy improves weight gain in premature infants, enhances attentiveness, alleviates depressive symptoms, reduces pain, reduces stress hormones, and improves immune system function. In fact, Dr. Tiffany Field of TRI has said that in every study they’ve undertaken, massage has been shown to be beneficial. That’s amazing.

We don’t need to wait for scientists to confirm what we already know from our own experience. Massage feels good and it’s good for you.

About Depression

Depression is a brain disorder, and research has shown that the brains of depressed people look and act differently from the brains of people who aren’t depressed. The causes of depression are not well understood, but most likely involve a combination of genetic, biochemical, environmental, and psychological factors.

Depression comes in many types. For example, major depression is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally in daily life, while dysthymia is a milder, usually long-term, depression where a person can still function but probably isn’t living a normal and full life. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which usually affects people during the winter months, is also a type of depression.

Often the most obvious symptom of depression is an overwhelming feeling of sadness, but depression has many other possible symptoms that vary depending on the type of depression and the individual. Common symptoms include:

• Appetite changes
• On-going physical problems, such as aches and pains, headaches, or digestive problems that don’t improve with treatment
• Fatigue
• Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, helplessness, or irritability
• Insomnia or excessive sleeping
• Loss of interest or pleasure in life, including lack of sexual desire
• Trouble concentrating and making decisions.

The two most common depression treatments are medication and psychotherapy. Another treatment, primarily used for SAD, is light therapy, which involves exposure to a strong artificial light that mimics sunlight.

Massage for Depression

Touch is important to human beings – babies die without touch. Lack of touch may even contribute to depression. And, if a person is depressed, massage may help.

First, dealing with depression presents a lot of stress, and relaxation is one of the best benefits of massage. Depression can also lead to muscle tension and pain that massage can help relieve.

Beyond helping a person relax, massage may reduce the body’s production of stress hormones, such as cortisol and norepinephrine, and may also increase the body’s production of pain-killing endorphins and mood-altering serotonin. Studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami have shown:

• Lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol immediately after massage.
• Increased serotonin, dopamine, and endorphin levels, helping elevate a person’s mood, after massage.
• Increased production of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and promotes relaxation, after massage.

These effects may occur because the skin and muscles contain many millions of nerve receptors that are linked to the nervous system. Touch and massage can stimulate the nerve receptors, causing the release of chemicals in the brain.

The benefits of massage for depression are further supported in a review, published in the March 2010 Journal of Clinical Psychiatry. The authors reviewed 17 studies of massage for depression and concluded the studies supported the ability of massage therapy to significantly lessen symptoms of depression.

Plus, a great benefit of massage therapy is that it rarely has side effects, when received from a trained, qualified massage therapist. People who want to try massage for depression should always let their massage therapist know about their condition and other treatments and tell other healthcare providers that they are receiving massage.

Done with two massage therapists, both clients (wife and husband, two friends or Mum and daughter) experience a massage session each at the same time. Day spas have now set up special couple massage rooms with two tables especially so these clients can enjoy the experience of a relaxing massage together.

The styles of massage can vary depending on the client. Sometimes one person will have a deep tissue, remedial style massage whilst the other one may have a more relaxation Swedish style massage. The main element with the couples massage is that is a shared experience, and a way for couples to take some time out of their everyday lives and rejuvenate their bodies. The intention is that this shared experience will bring the couple closer together, allowing them to reconnect with each other without the distractions of the outside world.

Couples who have massages together also enjoy many physical health benefits which can not only benefit them physically them but also bring feelings of relaxation and well being.

Massage increases the amount of serotonin and dopamine in the body, the “feel good chemicals” that is important for sleep, they slow your heart rate, reduce blood pressure and helps your body heal. Research at the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine show these chemicals also reduce depression, stress and anxiety. Massage has also been shown to reduce PMS and mood swings.

Massage also reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol which is the stress hormone in the body. Couples who get massages at the same time experience feelings of deep relaxation and well being at the same time, allowing an opportunity for them to relax together and reconnect.

Couples massages have also become a way for couples to enjoy a “time out” with each other, similar to going away for a short vacation or going to a restaurant for dinner. Often couples massages are booked as a celebration, for example for a birthday or anniversary. With soothing music in the background, the relaxation of two massages at the same time, and a glass of champagne afterwards, day spas are promoting these as mini romantic getaway, suited to busy people who need some quiet time with each other.

Couples massage are also not just for husband and wives or girlfriends and boyfriends. Often they are popular with mothers and daughters wanting to enjoy a relaxing experience together, or two girlfriends wanting to spend some time together. They can also be a great way to introduce someone to massage who has not had one before. Sometimes sharing that first time massage can reduce apprehension. Most men find that after having a couples massage with their partner they are more likely to then book a massage on their own.

What to Expect

Relax. Do your best not to worry about all the “what if this”, and “how are they going to be able to do that”. Your massage therapist will work out everything so you will be as comfortable as you can get. There are different ways you can get a pregnancy massage. You may lie on your sides, and you can actually lie on your belly. Since a specifically designed pillow has made it possible for expectant moms, no matter how far along they are, to lie flat on their stomachs. The pillow features a deep center cutout, so that bellies are accommodated and moms-to-be is relaxed and comfortable. You can also lie on your back; however it’s not a good idea after 22 weeks because the weight of your uterus puts too much pressure on the vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart.

During the massage you shouldn’t experience any pain from deep pressure massaging. The most effective guide for determining proper pressure is open communication between you and your therapist. The massage can last anywhere from 10 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how much time you have and how you are feeling. It is safe and enjoyable to receive a massage a couple times a week, especially towards the end of your pregnancy. This will also help you to get the most out of the benefits. However, it can get costly. Prenatal massages can run anywhere from $50 to $110, depending on where you live. Look into your health insurance benefits. Some plans cover part of the cost for the massage if you have a medical reason, such as back pain, and can get a prescription from your midwife or doctor.

Benefits

Ooo Ahh, the feeling alone will be good enough. Prenatal massage is like breast feeding for your baby, but for your body. There are many benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami, School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones in the body. Reducing stress can help an expectant mom physically and emotionally as she adapts to her new body image, which in turn nurtures the new life within her.

Aches and pains start to pop up everywhere due to all the physical changes you will be going through. Carrying a baby inside you changes your center of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments so that your pelvic joints are less stable, and changes your posture by pulling your pelvis forward. Added to that the extra weight you’re carrying and you’ve got yourself an aching lower back. A trained prenatal massage therapist knows where a pregnant woman’s sore spots are likely to be and may be able to provide some relief. Just communicate with your massage therapist and tell her where you need special attention.

Pregnancy massage will benefit your baby as well because massage increases blood flow to the uterus, placenta, and fetus. Also, since massage improves lymph flow, which helps flush out toxins. More nutrients and oxygen promote healthy tissues of both mother and the baby.

Massage can also be useful for labor. Techniques can be done by your partner or a doula. Of course the time to learn the techniques is while you’re pregnant before you go into labor. It is a great idea to take your partner or friend with you when you get your massage, any professional therapist will encourage this, they can show your partner many comfort measures he or she can use at home and will also explain why some techniques are unsafe. These special touches will really help out when you’re in labor!

Is prenatal massage for you?

Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Be sure to inform your massage therapist of any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin. If you are, then your therapist may require approval from your primary health care provider before proceeding, just to be safe. The following are circumstances in which massage should not be performed:

· Heavy discharge (watery or bloody);

· Diabetes;

· Contagious illness;

· Fever;

· Vomiting;

· Unusual pain;

· Pre-eclampsia;

· High blood pressure;

· Morning sickness;

· Abdominal pain;

· Diarrhea;

· Any malignant condition.

Areas of the body that should not be massaged include:

· Skin rashes, open sores, bruises;

· Inflammation;

· Raised or distended varicose veins;

· Local infection sites.

In addition to these areas, one other precaution needs to be mentioned: Direct and sustained pressure should not be applied to the area between the ankle bone and heel. This area is considered by many massage therapists and reflexologists to relate with the uterus and vagina, and it is thought that heavy pressure to this area could promote early labor. Assuming there are no other precautions or considerations, it should be all right to massage the rest of the feet.

A massage during pregnancy is definitely something you don’t want to miss out on. Even if you are only able to get it done once during your second or third trimester, it will be an experience you won’t forget.

Today massage is used in many ways, by professionals wanting to relax after a hard week at the office, by people wanting to treat their aches and pains or just to pamper themselves, and by nurses and therapists in hospitals to treat the sick, the elderly, the terminally ill and those in pain. Swedish, or Western, massage is the most common form of massage and is often used in gyms and health clubs.

Therapists usually use their hands and concentrate on easing tension in the muscles. Oils are often used to prevent friction, and aromatherapy oils can provide added benefits. Oriental massage involves the therapist stimulating the acupressure points with his elbows and knees as well as hands and palms. Sometimes oils are used and the aim of the treatment is to release vitality and promote harmony in both mind and body.

The four main forms of Oriental massage are Thai, Shiatsu, Reiki and Tunica. The University Of Miami School Of Medicine’s Touch institute has shown that massage has many benefits. It makes people more alert, relieves anxiety and depression, increases the number of killer immune cells in the body and lowers the levels of the stress hormone cortical.

Whenever I go to the gym to work out I see a lot of people that need a good massage. There are many body types presenting many different conditions. I see the huge guys that need massage because their muscles are so hyper-tonic (chronically contracted), and at the opposite extreme, women over 40 that never worked out habitually throughout life and so their large back muscles and core muscles are weak, which causes low back or thoracic pain. I notice many people working with personal trainers that need Deep Tissue Massage Therapy to help them balance certain muscle groups, which would help them get more out of their training.

Lactic acid build up is the muscle soreness you feel when you start a new weight training routine or do something strenuous you don’t usually do, like kayaking or sprinting. This is the kind of sore feeling that we have all experienced, and it actually makes you feel like you did something. This lactic acid build up is common, harmless, and goes away quickly. It is easily treated with Tiger Balm, ice, and stretching. Deep Tissue Massage Therapy will help the lactic acid soreness go away more quickly too.

In relation to strength training, though, I want to talk about the other part of the soreness combination — muscular imbalance. This is not what makes you feel like you did something, but the feeling that you did something wrong. This is the painful, constrictive feeling you get between your shoulder blades when you do rows, for example. Most people experience this feeling of muscle spasm at some point in their strength training routine, and it holds them back from advancing because it is not common lactic acid soreness, but a serious muscular imbalance that can lead to injury. Balancing muscle groups increases strength and flexibility; for example, the pecs are commonly short and hyper-tonic which protracts the scapulae causing neck and upper back pain.

Deep Tissue Massage helps to balance the musculature so that the body can perform optimally. No one is perfectly symmetrical. We all have our areas in which one muscle group is elongated, and another one is shortened. For example, look in the mirror and see if one shoulder hangs lower than the other or look at yourself sideways and see if your shoulders sit in front of the body’s coronal plane. Imbalances are very common in the lower body too. Lay on your back and see if one foot naturally splays out more than the other. In addition, one leg usually is slightly shorter than the other.

There is nothing wrong with this and it is perfectly normal, but when left alone it is not optimal for the advancement of one’s strength training routine. Deep Tissue Massage Therapy will help balance the muscle groups by releasing chronically tight and constricted muscles and getting to the root of the disequilibrium. Many common factors cause muscular imbalances; for example, repetitive motions at work, incorrect postural habits, scoliosis, old injuries, and emotional holding patterns. A good massage therapist will be able to identify the areas of imbalance, release hypertonic muscles, and balance the whole group (both agonist and antagonist).

A good way to get strong is by lifting weights to work both the agonist and antagonist muscle groups for a given area. Let’s use the pectorals (chest) group and the latissimus dorsi (back) group as our example. While doing pull-downs, some people might feel a spasm as if one side of the lats were shorter than the other, like the left side goes down before the right side and is tighter. This could cause a shortening of the left side of the latissimus dorsi, and might even cause the trunk to twist slightly left, with the right pec and anterior deltoid being shortened. This can cause pain that prevents a person from doing this exercise, even though it is good under normal circumstances.

One effective treatment is to have this client lay on his right side, and for the massage therapist to lengthen the left lat and serratus anterior. The therapist also has to release tight muscle bands in the deltoid and the rotator cuff, as well as under the shoulder blade. Then, with the client supine, the massage therapist works to release tight pectorals and the anterior deltoid of the right side. In this example, the SCM and trapezium would also need attention because the entire shoulder girdle and neck area will be affected and in need of relief.

Deep Tissue Massage Therapy also hydrates the tissues, increases blood flow, and makes the fascia more open and supple, increasing the muscles’ potential for growth. All of this makes people stronger faster, makes you feel more energetic, and look fantastic. It can help you become more flexible and aware of how your body balances. It is important to get a good Deep Tissue Massage on off days so you can feel the benefits and realize that deep tissue massage is vital to your strength training routine, health and wellness.

Unfortunately, it is very difficult to fix muscular imbalances yourself. If you work out regularly and have hit a plateau, are sore too often, or get muscle spasms frequently, please call a licensed massage therapist that specializes in Deep Tissue Massage Therapy to help you.

Networking with Massage Therapy Instructors

Massage therapists should take advantage of the opportunities offered to them by the instructors and administrators in massage school. Chances are that these professionals have years of varied experience in all facets of massage therapy, anywhere from spa management, to human resources/hiring, to working as a therapist, skin care esthetician, chiropractor, or doctor. Whatever their experience, they can provide you with a wealth of massage networking opportunities and knowledge about the industry, and can give you invaluable advice about starting off in your career. Who knows? Maybe they even have an ‘in’ at a local practice or know other massage therapists who can provide you with a recommendation that can help you land your first job as a massage therapist.

Even after you finish massage school, stay in touch with your classmates and massage therapy instructors either by meeting for a monthly lunch or seminar, or even by simply staying in touch via LinkedIn or Facebook, or some other type of social network for massage networking. LinkedIn is an excellent way for massage therapists to learn about opportunities in the field and network with a limited amount of effort – by adding instructors and classmates to your network, you can give and receive opportunities that come your way just with the click of a button.

Massage Networking with Continuing Education Courses

Massage therapists are required to take continuing education courses every two four years, depending on where they live, to maintain licensure. You should not take any type of classes available just to get the credits out of the way, because you might be missing out on an excellent massage networking opportunity. For example, say you have an interest in sports massage, but there are no sports massage courses available within your recertification cycle. Instead of taking something you are not interested in, think about taking a course in Thai massage or reflexology. Yes, it is not quite sports massage but these are both types of therapeutic manipulation that could come in handy during a sports massage event. And chances are, there will be massage therapists or instructors in these classes who are also interested in the same types of modalities as you, and could help you with massage networking opportunities that can assist you with following your career path further down the line.

It is also important to know that the instructors who teach continuing education courses often travel between regions or sometimes across the nation at the request of schools who want them to teach their specialized courses. Because these instructors are so experienced, in-demand, and well known, consider politely asking them how they became a subject matter expert in their field, and ask if they have any tips they can give you to help you excel within your preferred modality.

Massage Networking with Massage Therapists at Conferences

While massage therapists are not required to attend conferences, these types of events are incredibly resourceful and beneficial to novice and experienced massage therapists alike. Conferences are like giant massage networking conventions -you not only have the opportunity to earn continuing education credits, but you also have the opportunity to meet with renowned massage therapists, interact with the widest variety of massage therapy suppliers nationwide, get to experience videos and seminars you may have never even heard of, and can witness some highly educational demonstrations that you can take back to use in your practice.

While you are at these seminars, follow the same type of thinking as previously mentioned for continuing education courses to get the maximum benefit from massage networking. Consider the fact that many attendees at these conferences are seasoned massage therapists who have a variety of knowledge and experiences that they can bring to the table. Whatever your preferred modality or level of experience, by networking with other professionals at these events, you can gain a great amount of knowledge in a short amount of time that you may not have gotten from simply reading industry journals or books, or even attending continuing education courses within your state.

Finally, the wonderful thing about massage networking at conferences is that you get to travel as part of your profession, and can experience the different types of modalities practiced by massage therapists around the country. Attending a conference on the west coast or Hawaii? Look into learning about the healing art of Lomilomi to expand your knowledge about your practice. Booking a hotel for a conference in Miami? Make sure to stay an extra day or two to see if you can schedule a tour of the Touch Research Institute, founded by Tiffany Fields, Ph.D. If you find yourself in Boulder, Colorado, see if you can visit The Guild for Structural Integration, founded and named by Dr. Ida P. Rolf, founder of the structural integration method known as ‘Rolfing.’ These are not massage networking opportunities in the way one traditionally views networking as a face-to-face opportunity, but through the knowledge that massage therapists gain from this direct experience, one can bring invaluable first-hand knowledge, discussions, and experience back to his or her practice.

Earlier this week, I put the word out on my fan page that I was in the hunt for a new place to reopen for business. I would be open to suggestions that afforded foot traffic, signage and which was low-budget and unencumbered by anything porn related. A male colleague sent me an email, reiterating his earlier advice that I get out of any business connected to the porn industry since landlords are less willing to rent space to these businesses. This, although my colleague knows I am not doing pornographic massage, and that there are legal and reputable places here for legitimate bodywork. He has not been to my practice, because he prefers to have a happy ending after his massage and so he goes to these other places that offer that. Not really “my loss”….

At a stage in my career/business where I, as a single woman with no support from anyone, am struggling to survive along with everyone else who don’t want to “cross over,” these suggestions sort of well…break my heart. It isn’t enough to be concerned that some psychopath or pervert is going to request a massage that I get chosen to go out and do; or worst, maybe he comes to my home for the massage and does something to ruin my sacred space. I am not better than doing pornographic massage and actually I would make better money and live better if I were to cross over. This I have been told by many of the male colleagues in this area. Some people I played poker with were very frank with me and indicated that if I offered happy endings, they’d be there three times per week. I am a good-looking woman and I can’t change that this is how men think and it is mostly who request massages. How disheartening for those who want their chosen field of work to be anything but salacious, lecherous, and pornographic. All I want to give is clean, healthy, therapeutic healing and rejuvenation delivered by a healthy, clean conduit with amazing, loving hands and heart. These scenarios are the reasons I despise the words masseuse and masseur. They imply erotic touch, something immoral and, well,…shameful…unless you are a “person of the night,” an escort, a prostitute who is proud and happy about being that. I AM A MASSAGE THERAPIST, OFFERING MASSAGE THERAPY; NOT THE SAME THING AS THESE PROUD PROSTITUTES.

Understandably, the Wikipedia says: “Those who practice massage as a career are referred to as masseurs, masseuses, or, if certified, as massage therapists.” The words masseuse and masseur are from a French word, Masser, which means “to massage,” “to knead” (as in bread), “to rub down,” “to mass or to throng together.” Hence the masseuse (female) and the masseur (male) does the “rubbing down” or [therapeutically] “mass or throng together” your broken spirits, bodies, energies, so that you heal, become whole again to go back out and face your challenges. These are the sentiments behind my massage practice. I desire to help people become whole again, if even for a moment, so that they can heal little by little and face their challenges with a loving feeling and maybe loving thoughts in their hearts. This was the original import of those words, although somewhere along the way they became popular in the whore houses of Europe, Asia and the Americas.

I belong to a religion in which modesty is a big deal. I have told many therein that I am a massage therapist and I watch for the look on their faces. Some have taken my card/number, possibly to “investigate” while others take it but will never call. Others have chosen not to associate with me because well, (1) I wear dreadlocks, which is to some an immodest, rebellious hairstyle among other things; and (2) they imagine that I am doing something “unholy” in my massage business and God knows where else I am unholy in my path and hence I must be ruled a bad associate. If I say I am a therapist, they instantly assume “physical therapist”…and that’s o.k…, but not massage therapist…they don’t know about that….

I have wondered what they would do if I said I was a gynecologist or urologist. Hmm…I wonder whether they would have a similar reaction. After all, these professionals look at vaginas and penises, etc. all day! These are the same people who go to the doctor and strip down for examinations and have no idea whether the doctor is a pervert, child molester, rapist, or whatever or care whether he or she shares their beliefs. They simply trust that he or she is a “doctor”, hence it’s fine and they assume no sexual connotation to this job title. Yet, our society has become so debased that people believe that sex and sexuality must be attached to every loving feeling or touch outside of that. It is “normal” to believe that one cannot touch another in a massage setting with only “therapeutic, non-sexual intentions.” One client told me I was being “absurd” and “unbelievable”, when I responded that I wasn’t thinking about any such thing when I massaged him or any other client. He couldn’t believe that I could have no sexual reaction to him or any other sexy men or women for whom I provided therapy. How unfortunate….

Recently, I renewed my certification with the California Massage Therapy Council. The recertification questionnaire asked the following questions (among others), the answers to which would determine my, and any “legitimate therapist’s”, legal qualification:

“Step 2-Professional Status Questions: A “Yes” answer to any of the following questions requires a separate statement explaining in your own words the complete details regarding the incident or event. All supporting documentation must be attached to your recertification application at the time it is filed with the California Massage Therapy council (“CAMTC”). CAMTC reserves the right to request additional documentation as needed. Failure to disclose information is considered an attempt to procure a certificate by fraud, misrepresentation, or mistake and is grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation of a CAMTC Certificate. All questions are required to be answered before being allowed to continue.

1. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you received an administrative citation related to, or been refused a license, or license-renewal to practice massage therapy or any other profession in any city, county, state, country, or jurisdiction?

2. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you had a license, certificate, or permit to practice massage therapy, operate a massage establishment, or had any other license, permit, or certificate to practice any other profession revoked, suspended, or otherwise acted against (including administrative citation, probation, fine, reprimand, or surrender of license, permit, or certificate)?

3. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you had, or is there currently pending against you in any city, county, state, country, or jurisdiction, a complaint against your professional conduct (sexual misconduct or otherwise) or professional competence?

4. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you been arrested and had criminal charges filed against you for penal code section 647(b) or any other act punishable as a sexually related crime?

5. Since the date you signed and dated your initial application for certification to CAMTC, have you been convicted of any offense other than a minor traffic violation? Convictions MUST be reported even if they have been adjudicated, dismissed, expunged, or if a diversion program has been completed. The definition of “conviction” includes a plea of nolo contendere (no contest), as well as pleas or verdicts of guilty. You MUST include misdemeanor as well as felony convictions.

If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, please give us your written statement describing the complete details regarding the incident or event.”

This one was exceptionally notable: “I understand and agree that renewal of my CAMTC certificate may be denied based on unprofessional conduct if I practice massage at a massage establishment, or own a massage establishment, that advertises in any adult and/or sexually oriented section of any form of media, whether print or digital.”

Yes, some people will lie in response to these questions, but for how long, since it is the D.O.J. and F.B.I. that are behind the CAMTC and our documents are scanned. It is then, very clear to me that there is a mass movement to garner a greater respect for the craft of massage therapy and for legitimate therapists to stand united, separate from the “rub ‘n tug” houses with their masseuses and masseurs. If you are not French, then don’t use “masseuse or masseur” to describe your therapist unless they perform erotic massage. Heck, even if you are French and you know these words have a negative connotation in the field of bodywork, don’t use them to describe this legitimate craft. Follow the lead of the CAMTC and set the bar for your practice and for what you, as a consumer, expect of your massage establishments.

Therapists must consider whether they are providing a service they can be proud of in any discussion? Are you a very happy and willing rub ‘n tug masseuse/masseur? Set the bar and draw the line. Do you want patrons to respect you and your skill set. People say who they are in the same breath as saying what they do. I’m Dr. So and So; I’m Professor so and so; I’m Detective Jones. Never once have I inquired what someone did for work and the response was that they were an escort, erotic masseuse, etc. I proudly declare I am a legal and certified massage therapist. I have no desire to do anything shameful in this business. I seek to nurture and build a clientele that appreciates what I do for them, their health and who is generous in spirit to keep the circle of love going. I seek clients who have not sold into the idea that loving touch must be sexual. Together, maybe, we can contribute to healing the world, one body at a time and make it so that love, loving, healing touch becomes such a positive and popular thing that one doesn’t need to associate it with sex regardless of the parasympathetic responses to this well-needed therapy.

I gave my card to someone I met just days after writing this post and he called to find out “how long have I been a masseuse.” When I said I wasn’t a “masseuse”, he corrected himself and asked what’s the difference…. Hopefully, this discussion helps to clear up many things for the other inquiring minds and help to dignify those that are real and legal.