Result for ‘massage’ in Articles

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Healing and Hope: A Holistic Path to Addiction Recovery

...massage, can be used as a way of releasing stored trauma and tension in the body by means of movement and mindful touch[16,17]. Naturopathy & Nutrition: depletes the body ...

Natural and Holistic Ways to Heal Skin from Within

...massage should be a part of your routine. Procedures such as gua sha or even your own hands can assist in enhancing the lymphatic drainage to remove the fluids and toxicity...

Manual Lymph Drainage - What’s all the ‘buzz’ about?

...Massage therapists may be unaware of the full depth MLD may achieve for both themselves and their clients. Added to this, quite often, initial training may not give them the confidence to successfully apply the technique. The reality is that MLD is a multidimensional discipline. What may MLD do for your clients? It could be used as part of a post-sporting and post-injury RICE protocol when clients are unable to receive deep tissue or other massage techniques that would otherwise be contraindicated. It can be included as a valuable ‘add in’ to the massage treatment plan and used as a prequel to other techniques, such a myofascial tension technique and deep tissue. “With the use of MLD, we gently and specifically engage the fascia and the fluid, simultaneously releasing the tissues of the lymphatic-extracellular fluid and fascial planes. In one movement, we may negate many of the negative side effects of fascial work, that may lead to bruising and inflammation[1].” It can be used pre- and post-surgery to prepare tissues for incision and also to promote healing and tissue health post-surgery, preventing infection and other post-surgical complications[2]. MLD not only stimulates the vital functions of the skin, tissues and internal organs, but also serves to assist with the elimination of possible cellular waste and stimulate the parasympathetic relaxation response, inhibiting muscle tonus and pain[3]. It could be performed as a preventative technique that bolsters our bodies' ability to rejuvenate and resist all types of stress. “This results in the speeding up of the fluid’s movement throughout the lymphatic system and through the major organs, enabling the increase of lymphocyte transportation and production[4].” A common list of massage room pathologies that may benefit from MLD includes: Fluid retention, lymphoedema, sinusitis, hay fever, pain relief, IBS and fibromyalgia, post-sporting, carpal tunnel syndrome, golfers and tennis elbow, bruising and oedema. What does MLD do for the therapist? Most importantly, it takes a load off! When delivered in a relaxed, confident and precise manner, MLD as a modality allows the practitioner to work at a much lighter and slower pace. The pressure used to perform MLD has been compared to the pressure used to roll an uncooked egg across a bench, slowly; in other words, it does not require much pressure at all. This in itself is a bonus to the massage therapist who can often spend a full day delivering treatments that require more pressure-intensive techniques. MLD is all about moving fluid, and moving fluid requires deft touch, gentle manipulations of the surface of the skin and super slow movements, as the reality is that the lymphatic system moves SLOWLY. As a result, your body moves in a more relaxed and easy manner, allowing you to find some rhythm in your work and softness for your wrists, hands and arms. If you are reading this and you don’t know anything about this amazing modality, get curious. Do some research and find out exactly how the lymphatic system works, and why it is such an important add in to your massage...

How To Become an Acupressure Practitioner

...massage therapy laws, necessitating licensure. Completing a program that meets local regulatory standards is crucial. For example, certain states in the U.S. require a minimum of 500 to 600 hours of training for massage therapy licensure, which may encompass acupressure techniques[7]. In Australia, the regulatory landscape for acupressure differs from that of acupuncture, which has national registration requirements through the Medical Board of Australia or the Chinese Medicine Board of Australia[8]. While there isn't a specific national licensing framework solely for acupressure practitioners, they can often gain recognition and credibility by registering with professional associations like the International Council of Reflexologists[9], Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA) or Massage & Myotherapy. It's essential for aspiring acupressure therapists to thoroughly research the specific legal and certification requirements in their intended area of practice to ensure compliance. Career Opportunities and Growth Certified acupressure practitioners can pursue diverse and growing career paths, including: Private Practice: Establishing their own independent clinics offers practitioners the autonomy to provide personalised treatments tailored to individual client needs. Integrative Healthcare Settings: Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as chiropractors, physiotherapists, and medical doctors in integrated clinics allows for a holistic approach to patient care, combining the benefits of different modalities[10]. Wellness Centres and Spas: Providing relaxation and therapeutic acupressure services in wellness centres, spas, and resorts caters to clients seeking stress relief, pain management, and overall well-being in a soothing environment[11]. The demand for acupressure therapy is steadily increasing as more individuals seek non-invasive, complementary, and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments for a variety of health concerns, including pain management, stress reduction, and improved sleep[12]. This growing interest translates into expanding job opportunities and the potential for a fulfilling career. Furthermore, the flexibility often associated with this profession allows practitioners to tailor their work hours and settings to accommodate their desired lifestyle, whether pursuing part-time, full-time, or weekend work[13]. Much of the opportunity lies in helping people take up the reigns of their own health, imparting your own understanding to others with simple routines and self-help strategies. How Much Does an Acupressure Therapist Earn? The earnings of an acupressure therapist can vary based on location, experience, work setting, and the breadth of their practice (i.e., whether they also offer other modalities like massage). Here's a look at potential earnings in Australia, Canada, and the UK: Australia: In Australia, acupressure is often a skill utilised by massage therapists. The median hourly earnings for massage therapists in Australia are around AU$ 42[14]. Annual salaries depend on the number of hours worked. While specific data for acupressure therapists is limited, those who incorporate it into their massage practice would likely see earnings within the broader massage therapy salary range in Australia. Canada: Canada suggests an average salary of $54,600 CAD per year, or $28 CAD per hour[15]. Entry-level positions may start lower, while more experienced therapists could potentially earn slightly more. This figure aligns with the general salary range for massage...

A Day in the Life of an Ayurvedic Health Coach

...massage oil into my feet. Once a week, I do full-body Abhyanga, especially in cooler seasons. Screens off, lights low, and I’m in bed by 9:30. Not from discipline, but bec...

A Day in the Life of a Colon Hydrotherapist

...massage with essential oils and hot stones to help stimulate peristalsis and to further ease any tension, and promote release through the large intestine. It's a delicate...

How to Become an Energy Healer

...massage therapy, acupuncture, or counselling, to provide a comprehensive approach to well-being. For most practitioners, their work isn't just about working with others, ...

Footnotes from the Heart: My Life as a Reflexologist

...massage therapist, myotherapist, aromatherapist and educator, reflexology holds a special place in my heart—and under my thumbs. It’s more than a therapy; it’s a dialogue. A foot-to-heart connection that never ceases to amaze me. Reflexology isn’t just about rubbing feet (although that’s part of the magic). It’s an intricate map—a storybook of the body and soul. One gentle pressure point can calm a busy mind. Another might ease a belly in knots. And sometimes, it’s just about making someone feel held. Really held. I still remember one of my early clients—a stoic older man, ex-army, not one for small talk. But once his socks were off and my thumbs found his solar plexus point, tears welled. “I don’t know why I’m crying,” he whispered. I just nodded and said, “That’s okay. Your body does.” That’s reflexology in a nutshell: it bypasses the mind’s chatter and lands where healing is most needed. There’s something incredibly humbling about working with people’s feet. You see everything: vulnerability, tension, resilience. Some clients are shy—apologising for not having had a pedicure, or for the callouses from years of physical work. I always tell them the same thing: “Your feet are beautiful. They’ve carried you through life. They’ve done their job.” And in return, I do mine—with respect, presence, and intention. Over the years, I’ve developed what I jokingly call “foot intuition.” It’s the ability to read what’s going on beneath the surface. The big toe might hint at a stubborn tension in the neck or jaw. A sensitive heel might speak to past trauma or unresolved emotion. I don’t claim to be psychic—but there’s an energetic language to the feet that I’ve come to understand deeply. Some days, I blend in myotherapy techniques or massage and aromatherapy into the session. Other times, I keep it purely reflexology. The beauty of having a few modalities under my belt is that I can truly tailor each session. No two clients get the same treatment, because no two people need the same thing. That’s the art of it. Teaching reflexology has been just as meaningful as practising it. I’ve taught hundreds—maybe thousands—of students over the years. Many come in unsure. “Feet? Really?” they say. But then they start to understand: this is not just about anatomy—it’s about connection, presence, and trust. Watching someone’s hands learn to listen—really listen—to another person’s body is one of the most satisfying parts of my work as a teacher. I’ve taught nurses wanting to offer gentler care, massage...

A Day in the Life of a Rapid Transformational Therapist

...massage table, or daydreaming. Let's stop here and talk Ads. Do you know why advertisers love to show you products during a movie? It’s because your subconscious m...

A Day in the Life of an Energy Healer

...massage table, as they help to amplify energy flow and balance the body’s energy centres (chakras). Before each session, I ensure all my tools are within reach, though I never know which ones I’ll need until the session begins. I also take time to meditate, which helps ground me and ensures I remain calm and focused. Unscented candles for soft lighting and soothing meditation music complete the atmosphere, creating a serene space conducive to healing. The Client Arrival When my clients arrive, they often feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. It’s completely understandable because healing is a vulnerable process, and many people are unsure of what to expect. I always reassure them that they are in a safe space and that everything shared with me will remain confidential. My goal is to create an environment of trust and support, so they feel comfortable throughout the session. As a “healer”, I must ask for permission before placing my hands on their body, as consent is crucial. After offering them a glass of water and engaging in a calming chat, I have them fill out an intake form so I can better understand the issue that brought them to me. I listen carefully, take notes, and tune into their energy to sense what needs attention during the session. Once we’re ready, I guide my clients onto the massage table, cover them with a blanket, and give them an eye mask to help them disconnect from the external world and focus inwardly. From here, the healing work begins. The Healing Work I begin by making sure my client is comfortable—some may need a pillow under their knees, others might prefer one under their head. I start by using my pendulum to scan their body, paying particular attention to the chakras (our main energy centres) and I am looking for knots, blockages or hot spots. I then strategically place crystals and/or stones around their body where I believe the energy needs to be strengthened or amplified. I also use feathers to sweep through the aura, which has an immediate effect on moving stale energy. As I am a “hands-on” healer, my approach involves applying light pressure along the meridian lines and chakras to clear any blockages and restore the energy flow. It’s like receiving a very gentle and calming massage that starts around the head and finishes at the feet. Throughout the session, I may also use sound healing tools like singing bowls or seed shakers. The vibrations from these instruments penetrate deep into the body, impacting the cells, tissues and organs, further assisting in clearing blockages and restoring balance in the energy field. As the session progresses, I focus on grounding my client and this is achieved by applying medium-strength pressure from my hands to their thighs, calves, ankles and feet. This helps to balance and stabilise their energy after the shifts that have taken place. I give thanks for the healing energy that flows through the session – I am always grateful for the energetic shifts that take place to improve the health and well-being of my clients. Wrapping Up the Session After the healing work is complete, I leave my client to rest for a few moments. When they’re ready, I assist them in getting up from the massage...