Vocabulary Lesson

In the Jan./Feb. 2012 issue of the "Massage & Bodywork Magazine" (P.15) Kathleen Adams
wrote that one of her pet peeves is people referring to her as a masseuse instead of a massage therapist.

To me the term masseuse, a female providing professional massage, and masseur, a male providing professional massage are antiquated terms. And, even though they seem to have some nefarious connotation in the back of my mind, I was not able to find any dark definitions upon a cursory search on the internet. Yet, it seems some people, including me, seem to think the two terms have some sort of sexual connotation.

In conclusion, it is best these days to refer to legitimate massage therapists as being massage therapists. This is especially true when the therapist is providing legitimate and proper service to his , or her, clients.

Ben Gustafson; LMT
MASSAGE THERAPIST

"Nuff Said"

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

When making your resolutions and goals for 2012 consider getting a massage every month or two. This can help you feel your best as well as clear your mind for the work ahead.

Have a great year.
Ben Gustafson

Goldilocks Revisited

Goldilocks found the extremes of the things in the house unsatisfactory, while one was"just right." In biomedicine, too much or too little of the same substance does not produce the desired effect. Success lies within desired margins, not outside it. *Douglas Nelson, The Goldilocks Principle; Massage & Bodywork; Nov./Dec. 2011, p.86.

The Goldilocks Principle is important in massage therapy because every client is different and has their own likes and dislikes. Therefor, let your therapist know if they need to make adjustments in the following areas to make your massage a memorable one.

• Is the pressure too hard, too light or just right?
• Is the room temperature too cold, too hot or just right?
• Is the music too loud, too quiet or just right?
• Should the therapist refrain from talking during the session?
• Is there a light shining in your eyes too brightly?

Your therapist should be checking with you from time to time to make sure everything is all right. Please let them know if things are not all right.

"Nuff Said"

So, by abiding by the Goldilocks Principle and getting your massage session "just right" you will end your session with a smile on your face.

Fibromyalgia: Its a Pain!

A Spanish study showed that patients severely affected by fibromyalgia showed improvement in activity levels, grip strength, social functioning, and vitality after an eight-week program that included massage therapy, aerobic exercise, ischemic pressure on tender points, and thermal therapy. * Massage Eases Fibromyalgia; Massage & Bodywork Magazine; Nov./Dec 2011, p.16.

Other information suggests muscle imbalance causing a head and shoulder and/or hip forward posture may contribute to fibromyalgia. But, whatever the cause massage therapy has usually helped suffers of the malady find relief.

"Muff Said"

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING

When spending long hours at the store looking for that perfect gift your legs and feet can get tired and ache. Furthermore, with the Christmas hustle an bustle your nerves can get frayed.

The Cure!

Thirty minutes of blissful Reflexology on the feet and lower legs can greatly calm your nerves and banish the pain from your feet and legs. In no time at all you are up and ready to have a Merry Christmas!

"Nuff Said"

Merry Christmas
and a
Happy New Year!