We’re in Demand and Expanding – Help Wanted – (Indeed Ad for New LMT)

Danielle

“NYS Licensed Massage Therapist looking for PT/FT for very busy and well established practice. Preferred 2-3 years experience and must be dependable and motivated. There is a great potential, as an independent contractor to build ones own clientele base here. Interviews in person after receiving & reviewing resumes. Please send/email to dtrobillard@gmail.com or you can send an attachment via text to 518-888-1751 Danielle”

Massage in Glens Falls at the Crandall Park Car Show

Danielle

 

massage-glens-falls-ny-e1436926167592-535x450

Here I am working the Adirondack classic car show at Crandall park. No better way to relax and soothe tired muscles after a day wandering among all the impressive cars in the park than a session in my massage chair. It was a beautiful summer day, and I met lots great new people!

pregnancy-massage-1

Therapeutic Massage for You and Your Baby

Danielle

When it comes to massage and pregnancy, there’s not one reason I can think of to not get a massage. I know, from experience, that pregnancy can cause A LOT of unfamiliar feelings or “stressors” to our physical as well as emotional state. The physiological changes our bodies endure from conception (for some) to labor and delivery, and after, can be tremendous.

Spiritually and emotionally, a montage of experiences begin. First of all, are we ever really prepared for the things people tell us we should expect to happen!? …especially when that big day comes. Many women will just suffer through all the challenges that come along with our ever-changing bodies, and are told to just “grin and bear it.” From the swollen feet to our growing, swollen bellies, nothing about pregnancy is easy… but massage can and does help!

Increase Energy, Reduce Nausea

Pregnancy massage is beneficial throughout every phase of pregnancy, and after. It can relieve some of the ill effects of first trimester low energy and nausea to end of the pregnancy swollen ankles and feet.

Some people wonder if pregnancy massage differs from regular massage, and it does, but not by much. Pregnancy massage is very similar to a regular Swedish massage, but in a pregnancy massage, there are certain pressure points you should avoid, referred to as points of elimination. Also, certain lotions, oils, and creams have certain bi products that are contraindicated during pregnancy. The therapist will want to use an unscented, possibly hypoallergenic oil or lotion to perform the massage, just to be safe.

You need to consult with your doctor before receiving any alternative treatment (massage) and get a written release. You should also seek out an experienced massage professional who is familiar with prenatal massage. They should be able to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have. There are specific guidelines as well as contra-indications for pregnant women. Your therapist should ask you a series of basic questions, from your massage history and experience to any health issues or concerns. Be sure to tell your therapist what symptoms you are or have been experiencing throughout your pregnancy…they will know what to do.

What to Expect During a Pregnancy Massage

A pregnancy massage is similar to a typical Swedish massage in that it can go anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes in length. In a pregnancy massage sometimes a pregnancy pillow will be used, that’s a pillow specifically designed to accommodate a pregnant woman’s growing belly as well as chest and head. It’s a great way for the mother to be able to lie prone in late-term pregnancy. It is placed on a regular massage table and can be used in conjunction with other massage apparatus. Sometimes, if the therapist does not own a pregnancy pillow, side lying is just as comfortable and beneficial. The massage will feel exactly the same, it’s just how the therapist has to execute his/her techniques, as well as the pregnant woman won’t be able to lie face down.

Always remember, if at any point during the massage you feel uncomfortable or need to take a break from the massage, always, always speak up and tell your therapist. Some women have experienced feeling light headed or have had hot flashes. This is due to the increased blood flood and oxygen throughout the body created during every massage. Don’t panic, it’s perfectly normal… just have your massage therapist help you sit up and maybe take a sip of water. Sometimes, everything already going on inside your body, on top of the effects of the massage, can all be overwhelming and create some feelings that may cause you to need to take a break for a moment. Like I said before, an experienced therapist will know how to address any issues that may arise throughout your session.

Also, it is important that when lying on your back (supine), you must be elevated so that the pressure from the baby is not pushing down on the deep, venous blood vessels located between your baby and the spine. If not properly addressed, this can cause a restriction in the blood flow and oxygen to mother and baby. Again, keeping an open line of communication between you and your therapist is the key to a wonderful and stress-free experience.

Prenatal Massage Benefits

Some of the most recognized benefits of prenatal massage include:

  • increased blood flow and circulation of oxygen and nutrients to mother and baby
  • increased lymph flow which helps eliminate toxins which cause fatigue
  • can reduce swelling in hands and feet
  • lessens effects of sciatic pain
  • helps reduce low back pain
  • eases muscle tension and leg cramping
  • can help relieve anxiety associated with prenatal delivery
  • strengthens immunity and builds resistance for both mother and baby
  • helpful during labor and delivery relieving muscle contractions
  • post-delivery massage reduces stress, anxiety, and tension that can come along with being a new mother



reflexolgy

Reflexology as Part of a Healthy Lifestyle

Danielle

Reflexology is “the art of foot massage,” originating from China, also known to the ancient Egyptians. It was believed that the energy channels of our bodies, also known as meridians, can be accessed through the feet. These energy channels are stimulated by massaging the feet, creating a flow of energy produced from the therapist, to the client. Through the therapist’s work and intentions it is said that blocked energy can be released, allowing for our bodies to heal themselves, naturally. There are specific parts of the feet which correspond to the parts and organs of the body. Some people say, after a good reflexology session, they feel like they’ve received a full body massage. Just like any massage, there are endless benefits of a reflexology massage. A reflexology session can last anywhere from a 30 to 60 minutes.

Restoring balance to your “chi”

Reflexologists say that illness is caused by blockages in the energy channels of our bodies. Blocked energy causes an imbalance in our body and it’s natural ability to heal itself. The systems and functions of our body can be infringed upon when there are blockages in our energy or “chi,” also preventing our natural ability to deflect illness. When an accumulation of blocked or negative chi happens, then pain and illness can (and usually do) develop. That’s what so many doctors forget to tell us, If we were to address our mental and emotional imbalances, alot of times we would be able to prevent long term ill effects on our physical bodies. Our bodies are designed to heal themselves, naturally. With some assistance from your body worker, acupuncturist or herbalist, finding where the imbalance lies is when the healing begins.

Our feet have over 7,000 nerve endings that are connected to our central nervous system. Massaging the feet not only stimulates all those nerve endings, but our body’s natural ability to heal itself and restore harmony. Our body’s delicate chemistry must be kept in check in order for equilibrium to be maintained, and then restored. When there is an imbalance, consequently pain and illness is the result. Reflexology is designed to restore the delicate balance between the different body systems and their functions, thereby restoring harmony throughout. Reflexology also increases circulation and digestion because of the increased energy flow throughout the body. It is highly effective in relaxing and relieving tension throughout the whole body. I also know, that after a nice, long foot massage, it feels like you’re walking on air!