Hey Everyone!
Check out Old Goat!
People know that we, as massage therapists, are usually some of the first people to try out new products, especially when it comes to "pain relieving" stuff . Many of our clients use pain relieving gels and ointments when they feel occasional pain and soreness after workouts, athletic activity or activites where they have overstretched. We have seen literally hundreds of products, and we have recently found one that really outshines them all.
We are very focused on only using products that are all natural, are not tested on animals, and are simple - not a lot of unnecessary preservatives or other chemicals - simple is best. When we received a sample of Old Goat, we were somewhat skeptical - yet another "all natural" product that promises relief from muscular pain, made from essential oils, but we gave it a shot, first testing it on ourselves.
Christopher had spent a hard weekend gardening, and had really overdid it in his mid back and shoulders. Even though he stretched and drank his water, he was sore. So we took the opportunity to try "Old Goat", and Xerlan applied it sparsely to the affected area. "I wanted immediate results - I wanted to feel great right away, and the scent was pleasing, but I didin't feel the real effects for about 5 minutes. But when I did - WOW!" Christopher said, "This is by far the best pain reliever that I have used !"
We will be adding "Old Goat" to our practice, in addition to our Lush© massage bars and Biotone© dual purpose cream. If you are interested in getting a free sample of "Old Goat", drop us a line at ManualTherapyInc@sbcglobal.net , including your phone number, and we will gladly set you up!
Is the AMTA Defining Medical Massage?
Evanston, IL (March 27, 2006) -- The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) would like to clarify for everyone in the massage therapy profession that it has no plans to define the term medical massage. AMTA’s Board of Directors continues to be concerned about the potential for a definition of medical massage to restrict the practices of massage therapists. AMTA believes discussion needs to continue among all stakeholders in the profession to verify definitions for a variety of massage therapy terms.
AMTA believes all massage is therapeutic. Clearly, medical massage may include, but not be limited to intended purpose and outcomes, massage as part of a treatment plan determined by a licensed healthcare professional and/or practice setting. However, it’s important to point out that empirical evidence hasn’t been provided to support or refute the concept of medical massage as a distinct area of specialization within massage therapy practice. This would be a necessary step if the profession tries to define it.
In 2005, an AMTA volunteer workgroup examined how the term medical massage is being used. They examined published definitions of the term used by many of the groups that give certifications in medical massage; surveyed AMTA members on their views of the term (816 members participated); collected input from about 30 other massage therapists (not all AMTA members), who have a strong interest in medical massage issues, through emails, phone calls and letters; and held a hearing at AMTA’s Albuquerque convention to get more member input on the term. The workgroup reported its research to the AMTA Board in December 2005.
AMTA will continue to gather information on use of the term medical massage and has already participated in discussions with some of the stakeholders in the profession regarding the potential for defining it.
With more than 55,000 members, the American Massage Therapy Association works to serve its members and to advance the massage therapy profession through ethics and standards, public education, and promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists in all 50 states. The association is directed by a volunteer Board of Directors, chosen through a national election and encourages members to participate through its 52 chapters.
What Have You Done for You Lately?
By Lisa Erawoc
Before I give someone a massage, I ask if they’ve ever had a massage, then I conduct a health assessment to make sure massage is not contraindicated. My next question is, “Do you get regular massages?”
I’m always amazed how many people seem to have the same reasons for not getting regular massages. They're too busy with work, family, and other obligations to make the time for something so beneficial to their health.
Women especially are busy playing the roles of mother, wife and caretaker to so many that we forget our own needs. I am guilty of trying to balance it all and not having enough time to nurture myself spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally. Not only is massage something my body needs, it’s also a requirement for longevity in my profession. I cannot give away what I don’t have to give; my health has to be a top priority in order to constantly give my heart and soul to my work.
Many people think of massage as a luxury and only indulge on special occasions such as vacation, anniversaries, birthdays or weddings. But in many cultures massage is a way of life. Touch is so important because it lets us know we are cared for and loved.
Many of us think about our health only when we're sick or the doctor gives us an unfavorable diagnosis. My heart has been broken lately for so many people who cross my path with all kinds of diseases.
Many people I love live with cancer, diabetes, arthritis and other diseases. I want to reach out to them and make it all better. I try to help by alleviating their symptoms with aromatic oils, but I wish I had a miracle potion to cure their diseases. Although I don't have that potion, I do have the touch of massage, which allows me to reach out in a different way.
If you can’t afford a massage on a regular basis, I urge you to find other ways to take care of yourself that allow you to escape the stress of daily life. Meditation, reading, yoga or a stroll in the country are other wonderful ways to unwind and do something for your health.
One of my favorite things to do is take a long walk by a river, lake, the ocean or on a trail. I find this to be very therapeutic and relaxing. It gives me time to reflect on where I've been, where I am now and where I want to be. I really connect with myself and it brings out my creativity.
We all owe it to ourselves to take care of this beautiful body we so often neglect. Make the choice today to do something for yourself and for your health. Give yourself the gift of massage, not because it’s a special occasion, but because your health is important.
Remember prevention, not treatment, is the key to good health and longevity. Besides, you deserve to be pampered and nurtured. Here’s to your health!
Lisa Erawoc is a massage practitioner at Spa Minerale in Lansdowne, Virginia. She is also a freelance writer, and has a private practice in Leesburg, Virginia. She can be reached at P.O. Box 650293, Sterling, Virginia, 20165, or LVVErawoc@aol.com.
More Legislative Activity!
Xerlan and Christopher have been very busy with the Oklahoma Chapter of the AMTA and the Oklahoma Massage Coalition developing and promoting a state wide licensure for Massage Therapy. Check in with the AMTA Oklahoma at www.AMTAOK.org and www.OKCoalition.org !
