Massage Tips

Here are some massage tips:

The first type of massage you will be performing in your practice will most likely be Swedish massage, which means table and not chair massage. Until you take some classes in chair massage and other types of massage, this will be your only option in most states.

In Texas, Swedish massage is the only type of massage that you learn in basic massage school.

1. When performing table massage, make sure your hands are warm. Wash them in warm water, not cold, prior to massage.

2. Never pour massage oil or lotion directly on the client. Always pour it in your hand and rub both hands together to warm the lubricant. Your client will be much happier if you do this.

3. Keep the room temperature fairly warm since clients will be undressed when you perform Swedish massage. 74 degrees Fahrenheit is a good starting temperature. In the summer, do not blast the air conditioner on your client.

4. Play calming massage music or sounds of nature during your massage on a CD. Use the repeat button on the CD player so you do not have to stop the massage and push buttons on the CD player.5. Remember to use bolsters or pillows under the knees and ankles when appropriate. Your client's comfort is important.

6. Prior to performing massage, make sure that you that the client fills out a client intake form and that you interview him/her to make sure that there is no reason why the massage should not take place. Remember your list of contraindications from massage school and follow them.

7. Always wash your hands in between clients.

8. Always change sheets in between clients.

9. Wipe down your massage table according to what you learned in massage school at least once a week. If any body fluids come in contact with the table, wash it immediately.

10. Make sure that you have massage therapy liability insurance before you touch your first client.

11. Keep current by reading the latest massage magazines.

12. Take as many continuing education classes as you can. Keep learning all of the latest techniques.

As you gain experience, you will be able to think of a lot of massage tips to help other new massage therapists.

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