This assignment explores the differences between the development of massage in the eastern and western traditions including their origins, influences and massage techniques. The role of ancient healers such as Hippocrates and others is discussed and the traditional Maori method of Miri Miri and Romi Romi is compared to western methods. The negative association of massage therapy and prostitution is outlined and the development of the professional development of massage therapy is explained. The role of research and the benefits of contemporary massage and philosophical aspects of massage are discussed. These aspects incorporate the historical and cultural development of massage.
If we compare eastern and western massage traditions they are both very different. “Eastern traditions can be traced back to the folk medicine of China and the Ayurvedic medicine of India. Western traditions date back to ancient Greece and Rome.” (New York College, 2009) Western massage has a focus on the physiological side of massage whereas Eastern massage uses physical touch to balance the energetic system. “Western massage works on various parts of body, such as the digestive system, the nervous system, and the musculoskeletal system, for the purpose of realigning and restoring the whole system. It combines five basic strokes: effleurage friction, percussion petrissage and vibration.” (Tellefsen, 2009) Currently western massage is commonly known as Swedish massage and deep tissue massage. “Eastern massage addresses energy flow and balance within the body, stimulating and soothing specific points along the energy meridians to create effects at other sites along those meridians. Instead of stroking and kneading, Eastern massage therapists use pressure, rolling, rocking, and striking.” (Tellefsen. 2009) Eastern massage now days is commonly known as acupuncture and shiatsu.
Hippocrates: Was known for his role as the father of Western medicine. He said "A physician must be experienced in many things but assuredly also in rubbing." He said that massage - along with fresh air, good food, baths, music, rest, and visits to friends - is key to treating disease. (Kelly, 2009)
Galen: “Galen's works covered a wide range of topics, from anatomy, physiology, and medicine to logic and philosophy, both summarising what was known and adding his own observations.” (Galen, 2009)
Ling: “Per-Henrik Ling wanted others to benefit from what he had learnt and so developed a system of medical gymnastics, which became known as the Swedish Movement System. His ambition was to do everything he could to make the Swedish population strong and healthy in both body and spirit.”(Borseth, 2009)
Metzger: Johann Metzger introduced massage to those of the scientific community. He was also responsible for the start of the use of the names effleurage, petrissage and tapotment. (McQuillan, 2009)
Vodder: Estrid Vodder went on to develop Manual Lymph Drainage. “MLD is a potent adjunct in cleansing the body’s tissues of metabolic wastes, excess water, bacteria, large protein molecules and toxins; this includes long term use medications, anaesthesia in post surgery recovery, and harmful or poisonous substances that have entered the body through exposure or ingestion.” (Marabella, 2009)
Kellogg: “An American medical doctor in Battle Creek, Michigan, who ran a sanitarium using holistic methods, with a particular focus on nutrition, enemas and exercise.” (John Harvey Kellogg, 2009)
Travell: Janet Graeme Travell developed and popularized the diagnosis and treatment of myofascial pain syndrome secondary to trigger points. (Janet G Travell, 2009)
Cyriax: He developed the system off assessment for range of motion and was widely known as the father of Orthopaedic Medicine.
Miri Miri is a traditional Maori healing method which dates back centuries. There are three main types including; romi romi, toto and takahi. It is used to release stress or tension, pain relief, realignments, rejuvenation and improvement of one’s wellbeing. Miri Miri’s main purpose is to clean and clear the mind body and soul. Physical, spiritual, family and mental healths are all dimensions that make up miri miri. When it is performed herbal or animal oils are used. Romi romi is performed more for deep tissue which involves squeezing and pinching strokes. It is practised on adults. (Tuchtan , Tuchtan , Stelfox, 2004) Western massage has a similarity to that of miri miri as a purpose of it is realigning and restoring. Miri miri focuses on the mind, body and soul whereas western massage focuses particularly on the body (physiological).
The rise and popularity off massage had a huge impact on the professional massage industry as it brought about scandals. This popularity resulted in large amounts of therapist looking for work and false advertising. “Unfortunately, in England, some unethical people took advantage of the popularity of massage in order to open their supposed massage training schools. They lured poor women to the schools, offering them free training in exchange for future employment in the school clinics. These clinics turned out to be a front for houses of prostitution. (Tamar, 2009) Unfortunately this led to the association of massage and prostitution and the rise of massage parlours. This association with prostitution had a negative impact reducing the reputation of massage therapy from that of a healer of the mind, body and soul.
In the early 1900’s there were over 300 massage therapists practising in New Zealand. However development for therapists did not begin until 1985 when the first institute was formed. Bill Wareham formed the Massage Institute of New Zealand (MINZI). Their focus was primarily on the education of massage therapists and the standards of massage teachers. They also held annual conferences to build up and develop skills. Then in 1989 the New Zealand Association of Therapeutic Massage Practitioners (NZATMP) was formed by Jin Sanford. Sanford felt that therapeutic massage practitioners were in need of a professional association along the same line as the physiotherapy board. The NZATMP focused mainly on educational standards, promotion of professional image, dissemination of information and public recognition of massage. This organisation then developed into the Therapeutic Massage Association (TMA) in 1989. TMA’s focus was supporting and representing the needs of qualified therapists and being a voice for the industry. With the help and support for these institutes massage in NZ began to develop and grow the industry. The latest development for massage institutes is the merging of TMA and MINZI which became Massage New Zealand (MNZ). This merge happened in 2007 and has had both positive and negative outcomes. MNZ has major benefits for developing massage in NZ and is working hard to make the future of massage a professional, recognised and accountable professional body. (Tuchtan , Tuchtan ,Stelfox, 2004)
Massage plays a huge role in modern medicine. It is proven to be beneficial for all types of people and their medical conditions. Massage is commonly used for reducing stress and pain, decreasing depression, preventing premature birth, enhancing growth and development, increasing attentiveness, increasing neuromuscular function and enhancing immune systems. (Salvo, 2007) Modern massage types such as Swedish massage is used widely over the world. Swedish massage uses five basic massage strokes effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotment and vibration. Modern massage is being researched all the time and is becoming a lot more popular as a choice of profession. Massage therapists are now building up a reputable and recognised valued role in the field of medicine. The negative association with prostitution is disseminating. The general public currently have a better understanding of the massage therapists role in; aiding clients to achieve a deep level of relaxation, assisting with rehabilitation and the prevention of injury, slowing down the progression of illness and helping to make the life of those who are critically ill more comfortable. I personally feel that research into massage has assisted this process of educating the consumer and other professions in the medical model about the benefits of massage.
There are three philosophical approaches to massage that affect the way in which a therapist works with a client. These approaches are body, body-mind and body-mind-spirit. The “body approach” focuses mainly on the client’s body and the affects massage has on one’s body. This approach relates back to western massage with its focus being physiological. Galen’s work around anatomy, physiology, and medicine relate to this approach also. Body-mind your mind set and the way in which you think affects the body. When a massage therapist implements this holistic approach and considers the client thoughts or feelings they can figure out the affects it is having on their body. Clearing and cleansing one’s mind can improve the way in which their body feels. Body-mind-spirit incorporates a spiritual dimension into one’s health and wellbeing. Spiritual feelings and beliefs can affect your mind and your physical body. Traditional Maori massage relates to this as its purpose is to clear the mind, body and soul. Physical and spiritual dimensions also make up miri miri. Per-Henrik Ling role in massage also relates to building a strong healthy body and spirit. (McQuillan, 2009)
The historical and cultural development of massage therapy has been influenced and shaped by many aspects including ancient healers, western and eastern methods, traditional and contemporary practice. Research and the development of a professional body have ensured that this ancient art has maintained its role in therapeutic healing in modern day society.
References:
Borseth, K. (2009). Swedish Massage. Retrieved June 05, 2009,
from http://www.aromantic.co.uk/swedish-massage.htm
Galen. (2009). Galen. Retrieved June 05, 2009, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galen
Janet G. Travell. (2009). Janet G. Travell. Retrieved June 05, 2009,
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janet_G._Travell
John Harvey Kellogg. (2009). John Harvey Kellogg. Retrieved June 07, 2009,
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Harvey_Kellogg
Kelly, J. (2009). Holistic therapy - where did it all begin?. Retrieved June 04, 2009,
from http://www.jkholistics.co.uk/hmhistory.htm
Marabella, K. (2009). Vodder Method of Manual Lymph Drainage. Retrieved June05,2009, from http://www.shenshenhealth.com/linkvodder.htm
McQuillan, D. (2009). Fundamentals of Massage. Dunedin, New Zealand: Otago Polytechnic.
New York College. (2009). Massage Therapy for Professionals. Retrieved June o5, 2009,
from http://www.nycollege.edu/academics/professions_massage_therapy.php
Salvo.S.G. (2007). Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). Missouri, Saunders.
Tamar. (2009). History of Massage. Retrieved June 05,2009,
from http://www.myersmassage.com/history.htm
Tellefsen, R. (2009). Eastern Massage or Western Massage. Retrieved June 05, 2009,
from http://spa-wellness.spabeautyschools.com/content/article/eastern-massage-or- western-massage
Tuchtan, C., Tuchtan, V.,& Stelfox, D. (2004). Foundations of massage. Elsevier: UK.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Sustainability and Massage
“Sustainability seeks to provide the best outcomes for the human and natural environments both now and into the indefinite future.” (Scripps College, 2009) Sustainability has three main aspects social, environment and economic.
Social Sustainability and Massage
“Social sustainability is in essence about a shift from focusing more or less exclusively on the needs of the individual, community or country, to the needs that will meet the best interests of the whole.” (Nave, 2007) As massage therapists we have to show reliability, competence, trust, concern and empathy towards our clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship with them. Our focus is to be purely on our clients’ needs and not our own. We have to look further than ourselves and take others into consideration. Massage therapy can help with bonding and relationship building between the client and therapist. This can lead to the client forming positive bonds with others outside of the sessions. Relationships can be built with others in the community. It can also result in your client feeling happy and positive about themselves and their lives. This positive energy from your client can also encourage others to feel this way and can spread joy to those around you. Social Sustainability in massage is all about building and strengthening relationships. Positive relationships can then be passed on through communities, countries and to other individuals. Social sustainability and forming relationships with others will impact on the future generations and their perspective on life.
Environmental Sustainability and Massage
Environmental sustainability is the ability to maintain the qualities that are valued in the physical environment. (CES, 2006) As massage therapists starting new businesses we need to consider environmental sustainability. Are our products environmentally friendly? Is any of our out puts such as waste polluting the air, water and environment surrounding us? We want to reduce the impact on the environment so we have a safe and clean place to live. This will also impact on us and our quality of life. We need to research renewable and environmentally friendly products that we can use in our clinics. Recycling is a great way to start reducing the impact on the environment however this alone is not enough. Spreading the word to other massage therapists and helping them to build a business that is environmentally friendly will impact hugely on our community. We need to act now so that our future and the future of our generations can live in a healthy, safe and pollution free environment.
Economic Sustainability and Massage
“Economic sustainability is not just about achieving economic growth year on year. It’s about understanding that economic growth is only sustainable if it simultaneously improves our quality of life and the environment.” (NHS, 2009) For massage therapists starting a new business it is important to make enough money to cover the costs and also make some profit. The more profit made and the growth in a business economically can impact on social and environmental sustainability. With more profit the therapists business can afford to make improvements on their business and to buy products that are environmentally friendly. This would have an impact on the people as they will not only have a better clinic to go to but their environment will be cleaner. A profitable business will also help with the economic growth of the town or city it is situated in. Helping and supporting other industries will also be possible.
Making my practise more sustainable
I think that I could improve on sustainability when it comes to my massage practise. I think the first thing I could do is to recycle. I need to stop throwing away equipment after I use them e.g. wax containers and oil bottles. Setting up recycling bins and then taking them to the recycling centre once a week would be a good start in sustainability. When I next purchase any products I am going to make sure that they are environmentally friendly. I need to do some research into different products before purchasing them to make sure they are environmentally sustainable. Socially I think I could improve by building a strong relationship with other therapists. Building this relationship will benefit my business as they will be able to refer patients on to me. I need to build this relationship up so that they will trust me to take over any clients and put their needs first before mine. When I start up my own business I will consider economic sustainability and make sure that my business positively affects the environment and people. I need to learn how to build up a business and how to slowly build a profit off it. Social, environment and economic sustainability should be considered when setting up a massage business. I now know the impact sustainability has on me as a therapist, my clients and those of the community.
References
Class notes
NHS.(2009).Economic Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.pasa.nhs.uk/PASAWeb/NHSprocurement/Sustainabledevelopment/Economicsustainability/
CES.(2006).Environmental Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.ces.vic.gov.au/CES/wcmn301.nsf/childdocs/441BB07721D61152CA256F250028C5FB?open
Lisa Nave.(2007).Social Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009,from http://sociallysustainable.com/essays/essay-social-sustainability/
Scripps College.(2007).Glossary. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.scrippscollege.edu/about/strategic-plan/glossary.php
Social Sustainability and Massage
“Social sustainability is in essence about a shift from focusing more or less exclusively on the needs of the individual, community or country, to the needs that will meet the best interests of the whole.” (Nave, 2007) As massage therapists we have to show reliability, competence, trust, concern and empathy towards our clients to build a strong therapeutic relationship with them. Our focus is to be purely on our clients’ needs and not our own. We have to look further than ourselves and take others into consideration. Massage therapy can help with bonding and relationship building between the client and therapist. This can lead to the client forming positive bonds with others outside of the sessions. Relationships can be built with others in the community. It can also result in your client feeling happy and positive about themselves and their lives. This positive energy from your client can also encourage others to feel this way and can spread joy to those around you. Social Sustainability in massage is all about building and strengthening relationships. Positive relationships can then be passed on through communities, countries and to other individuals. Social sustainability and forming relationships with others will impact on the future generations and their perspective on life.
Environmental Sustainability and Massage
Environmental sustainability is the ability to maintain the qualities that are valued in the physical environment. (CES, 2006) As massage therapists starting new businesses we need to consider environmental sustainability. Are our products environmentally friendly? Is any of our out puts such as waste polluting the air, water and environment surrounding us? We want to reduce the impact on the environment so we have a safe and clean place to live. This will also impact on us and our quality of life. We need to research renewable and environmentally friendly products that we can use in our clinics. Recycling is a great way to start reducing the impact on the environment however this alone is not enough. Spreading the word to other massage therapists and helping them to build a business that is environmentally friendly will impact hugely on our community. We need to act now so that our future and the future of our generations can live in a healthy, safe and pollution free environment.
Economic Sustainability and Massage
“Economic sustainability is not just about achieving economic growth year on year. It’s about understanding that economic growth is only sustainable if it simultaneously improves our quality of life and the environment.” (NHS, 2009) For massage therapists starting a new business it is important to make enough money to cover the costs and also make some profit. The more profit made and the growth in a business economically can impact on social and environmental sustainability. With more profit the therapists business can afford to make improvements on their business and to buy products that are environmentally friendly. This would have an impact on the people as they will not only have a better clinic to go to but their environment will be cleaner. A profitable business will also help with the economic growth of the town or city it is situated in. Helping and supporting other industries will also be possible.
Making my practise more sustainable
I think that I could improve on sustainability when it comes to my massage practise. I think the first thing I could do is to recycle. I need to stop throwing away equipment after I use them e.g. wax containers and oil bottles. Setting up recycling bins and then taking them to the recycling centre once a week would be a good start in sustainability. When I next purchase any products I am going to make sure that they are environmentally friendly. I need to do some research into different products before purchasing them to make sure they are environmentally sustainable. Socially I think I could improve by building a strong relationship with other therapists. Building this relationship will benefit my business as they will be able to refer patients on to me. I need to build this relationship up so that they will trust me to take over any clients and put their needs first before mine. When I start up my own business I will consider economic sustainability and make sure that my business positively affects the environment and people. I need to learn how to build up a business and how to slowly build a profit off it. Social, environment and economic sustainability should be considered when setting up a massage business. I now know the impact sustainability has on me as a therapist, my clients and those of the community.
References
Class notes
NHS.(2009).Economic Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.pasa.nhs.uk/PASAWeb/NHSprocurement/Sustainabledevelopment/Economicsustainability/
CES.(2006).Environmental Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.ces.vic.gov.au/CES/wcmn301.nsf/childdocs/441BB07721D61152CA256F250028C5FB?open
Lisa Nave.(2007).Social Sustainability. Retrieved May 22, 2009,from http://sociallysustainable.com/essays/essay-social-sustainability/
Scripps College.(2007).Glossary. Retrieved May 22, 2009, from http://www.scrippscollege.edu/about/strategic-plan/glossary.php
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Task 7 Time management
“Time management is commonly defined as the various means by which people effectively use their time and other closely related resources in order to make the most out of it.” (Wikipedia,2009) For any studies it is important to use time management effectively to make sure you are organised and work is completed on time. Managing study, assignments, exams, social life and events will make life as a student more efficient. There are many ways of managing time whether it is using a wall planner, a diary or a “to do list”. We are all different and have our individual ways of managing time.
Personally I am a planner and this is the tool I use when managing my studies. I plan ahead and try my best to stick to it. I feel planning is the most well-organised way of managing time as I then don’t feel rushed or leave things to the last minute. I use a wall planner to highlight important dates such as; assignment due dates, examinations and social events. I also have a diary in which I plan each week. I work out what I am going to do each day and what is coming up that week. This way I keep to schedule and am up to date with study requirements. The week that I have classes I have to make sure I am really organised and have planned well so I can also fit in my own study. I think that planning ahead is a strength of mine and I have found it a worthwhile skill so far this year. Planning makes life less stressful and helps to complete work on time. This tool helps to motivate me and avoid procrastination. If I have not planned what to do for the day I tend to procrastinate. Having a plan motivates me to do my work as I feel satisfied when I have completed everything. Flexibility is required with this method of time management as no matter how well you plan ahead, unexpected events such as sickness may occur which requires reprioritisation and rescheduling.
Prioritising is an essential part of time management. Prioritise is “To arrange or deal with in order of importance”. (Free Dictionary,2009) I try to prioritise time for each different topic taught throughout this course. Prioritising study over social life is one of my strengths as I find it easy to say no to people and put my study first. For many students this is hard as they can easily give in to peer pressure but I know how important it is to put as much time as possible into study. I find that I struggle when it comes to prioritising study and practical work. I tend to spend the majority of time studying and less on practical. I recognise that I need to change this and create a more even balance as practical work is as crucial for my learning as study. To do this I need to set out a certain time each week for practical massage and then work my studies around this. Rewarding myself with a special treat for work achieved helps to maintain a healthy balance between study and social life, which I need to be aware of.
Completing this course would be extremely difficult without having any understanding of time management. For myself I find planning with both a wall planner and diary very worthwhile as I feel motivated to do the work set out for each week. Without this plan I would fall into bad habits such as procrastination. Prioritising is critical and is something that I am beginning to grasp. I need to put in some time to prioritise my study and practical work and with the help of more planning I will be able to achieve this.
Free Dictionary.(2009).Prioritise.Retrieved May 19,2009,
from http://www.thefreedictionary.com/prioritisation
Wikipedia.(2009).Time Management.Retrieved May 18,2009,
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_management
Time management learning modules
Personally I am a planner and this is the tool I use when managing my studies. I plan ahead and try my best to stick to it. I feel planning is the most well-organised way of managing time as I then don’t feel rushed or leave things to the last minute. I use a wall planner to highlight important dates such as; assignment due dates, examinations and social events. I also have a diary in which I plan each week. I work out what I am going to do each day and what is coming up that week. This way I keep to schedule and am up to date with study requirements. The week that I have classes I have to make sure I am really organised and have planned well so I can also fit in my own study. I think that planning ahead is a strength of mine and I have found it a worthwhile skill so far this year. Planning makes life less stressful and helps to complete work on time. This tool helps to motivate me and avoid procrastination. If I have not planned what to do for the day I tend to procrastinate. Having a plan motivates me to do my work as I feel satisfied when I have completed everything. Flexibility is required with this method of time management as no matter how well you plan ahead, unexpected events such as sickness may occur which requires reprioritisation and rescheduling.
Prioritising is an essential part of time management. Prioritise is “To arrange or deal with in order of importance”. (Free Dictionary,2009) I try to prioritise time for each different topic taught throughout this course. Prioritising study over social life is one of my strengths as I find it easy to say no to people and put my study first. For many students this is hard as they can easily give in to peer pressure but I know how important it is to put as much time as possible into study. I find that I struggle when it comes to prioritising study and practical work. I tend to spend the majority of time studying and less on practical. I recognise that I need to change this and create a more even balance as practical work is as crucial for my learning as study. To do this I need to set out a certain time each week for practical massage and then work my studies around this. Rewarding myself with a special treat for work achieved helps to maintain a healthy balance between study and social life, which I need to be aware of.
Completing this course would be extremely difficult without having any understanding of time management. For myself I find planning with both a wall planner and diary very worthwhile as I feel motivated to do the work set out for each week. Without this plan I would fall into bad habits such as procrastination. Prioritising is critical and is something that I am beginning to grasp. I need to put in some time to prioritise my study and practical work and with the help of more planning I will be able to achieve this.
Free Dictionary.(2009).Prioritise.Retrieved May 19,2009,
from http://www.thefreedictionary.com/prioritisation
Wikipedia.(2009).Time Management.Retrieved May 18,2009,
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Time_management
Time management learning modules
Ethical Considerations
“Most licensed health care professions have a code of ethics that members of these professions are expected to follow when working within their scope of practise.”(Salvo, 2007)
Client Centred Care
“When the therapist has a client-centred approach to care, the client feels safe and well attended.” (Salvo, 2007) As massage therapists we have an ethical responsibility to incorporate into our practice; respect, compassion, safety, be responsible for our client and their needs, and build a relationship based on trust. Taking a client-centred approach benefits the client and helps them to trust the therapist in forming a therapeutic relationship. At all times the focus is on the client and their needs. Effective communication with the client is essential for building trust and respect.
Informed consent
Obtaining informed consent prior to performing any massage on a client is a vital ethical consideration. This ensures safety for the client and the therapist. Communicating with the client is the best way of informing them about the information they need to know before they give consent to the massage. The client needs to be informed about the therapists; qualifications, payments types available and price of massage, record taking before the massage, contraindications, confidentiality and scope of practise. It is also crucial that the client is informed about your treatment plan, benefits and effects of massage and the feedback system. Client forms, handouts and pamphlets’ are an easy way to notify any relevant information the client may need.
Confidentiality
It is essential for a therapists to respects their client confidence. All client records and personal information needs to be kept confidential and in a safe place (Locked filing cabinet). Client records can be accessed by the client or other health care professionals if needed. No information can be given out to family members or other members of the public without the consent of the client. The Privacy Act 1993 states “ensure that personal information which the organisation holds is kept secure against loss or unauthorised use, modification or disclosure.”(Privacy Commissioner, 2009) Out of work the therapist cannot discuss any of their clients with their family or friends and if the therapist sees a client out of work it is best to wait for them to approach you first. Maintaining client confidentiality is an ethical responsibility and requirement of the therapist.
Scope of practise
“Therapists are required to know and practise only services stated in their scope of practise outlined in the state in which they practise.” (Salvo, 2007) It is important that a therapist only performs massage techniques in which they are qualified to do. At the end of this term we will have a Certificate in Relaxation Massage and it is crucial that we only perform relaxation massage. It is in the best interest of the client as we are ethically bound by the hipocratic oath to not want to cause any harm to them. We need to know our limitations, work within our scope of practice and can refer clients to other therapists that have different training or qualifications when needed.
Boundaries/ Power differentials
A therapist must have boundaries between themselves and their clients. Important boundaries to establish for a therapeutic relationship between client and therapist are; personal space, emotional distance and not building a relationship with a client that will be more than just professional. Establishing boundaries and respecting them helps to build trust and a feeling of safety and is an ethical consideration and responsibility for the therapist to maintain. Boundaries may not be crossed and communication is needed to prevent this from happening. There also needs to be boundaries put in place to prevent the client from feeling vulnerable or inferior to the therapist. As massage therapists we have the skills and qualifications but we do not want to show a difference in power because of this. From our experiences and knowledge we are able to stop a massage at any time if we feel uncomfortable with our client or if they cross any boundaries.
Transference and Counter-transference
Transference can occur if a client sees the therapists as a friend, family member or lover and not as the professional they are. As some clients are very vulnerable they can feel comfort, care and a sense of safety from the massage. This can result in feelings for the massage therapists. Clients may want to spend time with therapists outside of work or may even start sending you gifts to show their feelings for you. As therapists we cannot change the way our clients feel but we can try reducing transference from occurring. Counter-transference can occur “when the therapist has trouble maintaining his or her professional distance and detachment from a client.”(Salvo, 2007) A therapist can feel overly responsible for the needs of the client and can lose all the boundaries by having unnecessary feelings towards a client. Warning signs such as attachment to client and the desire for more than a therapeutic relationship can go unnoticed. It is important for therapists to put their personal needs and desires aside when at work so that they can be professional and run a smoother practise.
“In order to meet the trust placed in it by the public as a whole, the professional must have care for the setting in which the profession is practiced: the human setting of massage, the ethical setting, and the overall political setting. This involves the professional voluntarily accepting a code ethics that goes beyond that required of ordinary citizens by law.” (The Health Network, 2009) Client centred care, confidentiality, communication, scope of practise, informed consent, boundaries and power differentials need to be considered when building a professional and successful practise. Ethics are important when it comes to understanding and building therapeutic relationships with clients.
References:
Class notes
Salvo.S.G. (2007). Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). Missouri, Saunders.
The Health Network. (2009).Massage Ethics. Retrieved May 18, 2009,
from http://www.nzhealth.net.nz/massage/ethics.shtml
Privacy Commissioner. (2009). Privacy Principle Five. Retrieved May 16,2009,
from http://www.privacy.org.nz/privacy-principle-five/
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
The Effects of Massage Strokes
The Effects of Massage Strokes
Massage Therapy provides therapeutic benefits and effects for clients. There are a variety of strokes used in massage therapy to ensure that the client feels satisfied with the outcome of their massage. Strokes used by therapists include; touch and holding, effleurage, petrissage, compression, tapotment and vibration. Different strokes provide a variety of physical and psychological effects including stimulation and relaxation.
Massage has a physiological effect. The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. Both of these divisions are stimulated and affected by particular strokes used by a therapist. Massage can have other physiological effects on blood flow, lymph flow, muscle tension, connective tissue, sleep patterns, digestion, blood pressure, pain, mood, concentration, satiety and bonding.
The effects of massage on the autonomic nervous system
Massage can have different affects on the client’s autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system has two different parts; the sympathetic division and the parasympathetic system. “The sympathetic division is often referred to as the “Flight or Fright” system. It mobilises body systems during emergency situations.” “The Parasympathetic division is often called the “resting and digesting” system, it is concerned with keeping the bodies energies use as low as possible.” (Marieb,2001) Certain massage strokes are used to stimulate the sympathetic and the parasympathetic systems. Calming and relaxing strokes such as effleurage and compression effects the Parasympathetic system. These strokes work together to keep body energies low and relax the client. Tapotment and vibration which have faster movements stimulate the sympathetic system ‘Flight and Fright’ by acting on the nerve centres.
The effects of massage strokes
Massage strokes have vast effects on a client both physically and emotionally. Every stroke has its own purpose to either relieve the client’s pain or to relax them. Touch and holding, effleurage, petrissage, compression, tapotment and vibration are an example of massage strokes used by therapists. All of these strokes affect the client in a variety of ways. Touch and holding is an appropriate way of beginning a massage. It enhances security for the client which assists them to relax for the massage. Touching or holding a client prior to commencing massage assists them to feel your energy and to be comfortable with your touch. Effleurage, compression and vibration are strokes that have similar effects on the client. These strokes are used to relax the body and relieve stress. Effleurage “warms bodily tissues, relaxes client and calms the nervous system.” (Salvo, 2007) Compression and Vibration is good for stress reduction as this technique releases tension and aids relaxation. (eHow, 2009). Petrissage and tapotment are techniques used to stimulate nerve endings and increase blood flow. This reduces muscle stiffness and relieves pain. Fast effleurage strokes can also help to stimulate the nervous system. (Salvo, 2007)
Other effects of massage
Massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves sleep patterns, improves mental health and mood status, reduces pain and improves and promotes connective tissue healing (Salvo, 2007). This gives the client a feeling of satiety as their bodies and minds feel satisfied after a massage. “Therapeutic massage can be used to promote general well-being and enhance self-esteem, while boosting the circulatory and immune systems to benefit blood pressure, circulation, muscle tone, digestion, and skin tone” (Holisticonline, 2007). Personally I have found with some of my clients that their sleeping patterns and concentration have improved because of the feeling of relaxation they experience after the massage. I have also observed a sense of bonding and connection with my client at the beginning of the massage during the touch and holding. A therapist and clients bonding is improved each session as a sense of security and trust develops.
Massage therapy provides many positive aspects for the client. Stroke techniques provide a variety of physical, emotional and physiological benefits including stimulation and relaxation of the autonomic nervous system.
Referencing
Marieb.E.N. (2001). Human Anatomy and Physiology (5th ed.). New York,
Benjamin Cummings.
Salvo.S.G. (2007). Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). Missouri, Saunders.
eHow. (2009). How to Use Compression for a Swedish Massage. Retrieved March 27,2009,
from http://www.ehow.com/how_2300845_use-compression-swedish-massage.html
Holisticonline. (2007). Benefits of Massage. Retrieved March 26,2009,
from http://www.holisticonline.com/massage/mas_benefits.htm
By Sophie Halkett
Massage Therapy provides therapeutic benefits and effects for clients. There are a variety of strokes used in massage therapy to ensure that the client feels satisfied with the outcome of their massage. Strokes used by therapists include; touch and holding, effleurage, petrissage, compression, tapotment and vibration. Different strokes provide a variety of physical and psychological effects including stimulation and relaxation.
Massage has a physiological effect. The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. Both of these divisions are stimulated and affected by particular strokes used by a therapist. Massage can have other physiological effects on blood flow, lymph flow, muscle tension, connective tissue, sleep patterns, digestion, blood pressure, pain, mood, concentration, satiety and bonding.
The effects of massage on the autonomic nervous system
Massage can have different affects on the client’s autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system has two different parts; the sympathetic division and the parasympathetic system. “The sympathetic division is often referred to as the “Flight or Fright” system. It mobilises body systems during emergency situations.” “The Parasympathetic division is often called the “resting and digesting” system, it is concerned with keeping the bodies energies use as low as possible.” (Marieb,2001) Certain massage strokes are used to stimulate the sympathetic and the parasympathetic systems. Calming and relaxing strokes such as effleurage and compression effects the Parasympathetic system. These strokes work together to keep body energies low and relax the client. Tapotment and vibration which have faster movements stimulate the sympathetic system ‘Flight and Fright’ by acting on the nerve centres.
The effects of massage strokes
Massage strokes have vast effects on a client both physically and emotionally. Every stroke has its own purpose to either relieve the client’s pain or to relax them. Touch and holding, effleurage, petrissage, compression, tapotment and vibration are an example of massage strokes used by therapists. All of these strokes affect the client in a variety of ways. Touch and holding is an appropriate way of beginning a massage. It enhances security for the client which assists them to relax for the massage. Touching or holding a client prior to commencing massage assists them to feel your energy and to be comfortable with your touch. Effleurage, compression and vibration are strokes that have similar effects on the client. These strokes are used to relax the body and relieve stress. Effleurage “warms bodily tissues, relaxes client and calms the nervous system.” (Salvo, 2007) Compression and Vibration is good for stress reduction as this technique releases tension and aids relaxation. (eHow, 2009). Petrissage and tapotment are techniques used to stimulate nerve endings and increase blood flow. This reduces muscle stiffness and relieves pain. Fast effleurage strokes can also help to stimulate the nervous system. (Salvo, 2007)
Other effects of massage
Massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves sleep patterns, improves mental health and mood status, reduces pain and improves and promotes connective tissue healing (Salvo, 2007). This gives the client a feeling of satiety as their bodies and minds feel satisfied after a massage. “Therapeutic massage can be used to promote general well-being and enhance self-esteem, while boosting the circulatory and immune systems to benefit blood pressure, circulation, muscle tone, digestion, and skin tone” (Holisticonline, 2007). Personally I have found with some of my clients that their sleeping patterns and concentration have improved because of the feeling of relaxation they experience after the massage. I have also observed a sense of bonding and connection with my client at the beginning of the massage during the touch and holding. A therapist and clients bonding is improved each session as a sense of security and trust develops.
Massage therapy provides many positive aspects for the client. Stroke techniques provide a variety of physical, emotional and physiological benefits including stimulation and relaxation of the autonomic nervous system.
Referencing
Marieb.E.N. (2001). Human Anatomy and Physiology (5th ed.). New York,
Benjamin Cummings.
Salvo.S.G. (2007). Massage Therapy: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). Missouri, Saunders.
eHow. (2009). How to Use Compression for a Swedish Massage. Retrieved March 27,2009,
from http://www.ehow.com/how_2300845_use-compression-swedish-massage.html
Holisticonline. (2007). Benefits of Massage. Retrieved March 26,2009,
from http://www.holisticonline.com/massage/mas_benefits.htm
By Sophie Halkett
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
The Story of Stuff
I also believe this video should be shown to high school students. They need to be made aware of what they can do to help our environment. As teenagers we follow trends to fit in and always want whats new in technology. We need to be made aware of the effects of wanting these new things. I also think schools should recycle so they inforce the importance of this. I recycle now but only started a few years ago..it is extremely important to look after our environment and make it a happy and clean place to live!!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Massage Swaps
hi guys sorry i havent made any massage swaps. i have had a cold and didnt really want to share it with yas. hopefully its gone by friday. Good luck with working elluminate today
Sophie :)
Sophie :)
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