Take Home Massage

You know that old proverb, the one about how if you give a man a fish, he’ll eat for a day, but if you teach a man to fish, he’ll eat for a lifetime? I really don’t know much about fishing. My grandparents were pretty good with their fancy wading pants back in the day, but those skills were not hereditary (apparently, they really do need to be taught). What I do know is how to give a good massage. Man, I love a good massage. The skilled touch of a trained professional is unbeatable, and I’ve read some great pieces lately about prioritizing massage and working it into your budget. But the sad reality is that very few of us are going to figure out a way to get a massage every day, and maintenance in between sessions is a great way to keep yourself feeling good and to enhance the benefits of massage.

This is why I almost always give homework at the end of my massages. Nothing scary to be turned in or graded, no required assignments, no deadlines. It’s simple stuff — a stretch or two that will help open up a place that I’ve found to be stuck, or a self-massage technique. These self-care assignments do not replace massage, but they can help keep you feeling good between sessions.

I also do tutorials, mini-lessons for those who give back rubs at home. I know there are lots of you out there, and I think it’s great. Touch is a powerful tool for stress relief, and the more you can get, the better you’ll feel. Plus, I’m all about self-empowerment when it comes to wellness, and I love empowering people to feel better on their own more of the time. If you’re going to do it anyway, you may as well do it safely and more effectively, right?

Great lover of Valentine’s Day that I am, I’m offering a special for couples, friends, or any other loved ones this month, combining relaxation massage with take home techniques to complement your session. The best of both worlds.

Whether you take advantage of the special, schedule a straight tutorial, or come in for a massage and leave armed with stretches special for you, I am always happy to share some simple tools of the trade.