Gay Massage M4M Directory for Men

Massage Popularity Increases: Dramatic Jump in Use by Men

2009-10-22T22:37:00.000-07:00

National consumer research released by Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) again shows the increasing popularity of massage among American adults, continuing a 20-year climb in massage use and acceptance. There was a remarkable jump in the number of men reporting massage use, an increase of 5.3 million men from 2004 to 2006, or growth from 8 percent of male adults to 13 percent. The research was conducted by Boulder, Colo.-based Harstad Strategic Research in January.(1)
A full 33.6 million American adults aged 21 or older received at least one massage in 2006, up nearly 9 million from the 2004 level. That represents growth from 12 percent in 2004 to 16 percent in 2006.

It's pretty impressive that fully one in six American adults sought out massage therapy during 2006," says Les Sweeney, nationally certified massage therapist and ABMP president. "It reflects a steady increase in acceptance of, and respect for, massage therapy and massage therapists over the last 20 years.

Craigslist crackdown on masseurs

2009-05-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

Craigslist agrees to scrap erotic services ads amid AGs' pressures
BY CHRIS RIZO

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (Legal Newsline)-In a major win for a group of state attorneys general, the online classified site Craigslist.org has agreed to drop its erotic services section.

The company was pressed by such Democratic state attorneys general as Lisa Madigan of Illinois, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Chris Koster of Missouri to jettison the heading, which officials said was a platform to promote for prostitution. They met with Craigslist last week.

"It's clear to everyone that Craigslist's erotic services section was nothing more than an Internet brothel," Madigan said in a statement. "I'm encouraged that Craigslist has agreed to fundamentally change how they operate and monitor their site. The steps they're taking are the only effective way to prevent the exploitation of women and children."

In its place, Craigslist has created an "adult services" category for which new listings would be reviewed individually. Posts to the new section will cost $10, which is twice as much as the fee was for erotic services listings.

Nude or graphic photos will also be banned from the adult services section.

"This is a win for the safety and security of all who may access Craigslist -- especially children," said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, a Republican. "Making these changes is a step in the right direction, as Craigslist must work to eliminate prostitution and other illegal conduct on its site. We will continue to monitor Craigslist to ensure it establishes ongoing and meaningful safeguards."

Read the entire article here:
http://www.legalnewsline.com/news/220916-craigslist-agrees-to-scrap-erotic-services-ads-amid-ags-pressures

Where to shop online for sensual massage oils?

2009-01-18T23:20:00.000-08:00

Frisky night ahead wirh someone special? Here is one website we recommend to buy quality erotic massage oils:

Pink Apple
www.pinkapple.com

They carry many discounts and a varying line of oils from Kama Sutra Oil of Love to Wet Intimo Romance Aromatherapy Massage Oil. Massage Oils can increase relaxation or turn up the heat during those intimate moments. They carry a full line of massage oils, Aromatherapy Massage Oils, massage candles, and warming massage oils.

FYI: They carry many other items from grooming products to condoms. It makes for great online browsing fun.

Basic Self-Massage Tips

2008-11-03T20:46:00.000-08:00

Need some instant therapy? No massage therapist around or friend to work your back? Low on funds during this economic downturn? Here are some self-massage tips.

For an easy case, literally just a few moments of gentle rubbing can be enough. For slightly more difficult cases, a day or two of applying small but frequent doses of rubbing will usually do the trick. An “investment” of about a half dozen miniature treatments per day, each consisting of about 20–30 kneading strokes, can dramatically reduce the pain of the vast majority of trigger points.

Here are a bunch more specific tips …

Rub with what? Rub the trigger point with your fingertips, thumbs, fist, elbow … whatever feels easiest and most comfortable to you. Tools are often handy for spots that are harder to reach.

Rub in what way? For simplicity, either simply press on the trigger point directly, or apply small kneading strokes, either circular or back and forth, and don’t worry about the direction of the muscle fibres. But, if you happen to know the direction of the muscle fibres — sometimes it’s obvious — then stroke parallel to the fibres as though you are trying to elongate them. You are trying to elongate them, after all. ☺

Rub how hard? The intensity of the treatment should be strong, but easy to live with. On a scale of 10 — where 1 is painless and 10 is intolerable — please aim for the 5–7 range, and err on the side of gentle at first.

What should it feel like? Pressure on a muscle knot should generally be clear and strong and satisfying; it should have a relieving, welcome quality. This is “good pain.” If you are wincing or gritting your teeth, you probably need to be more gentle. You need to be able to relax. See the next section for more information about how trigger point massage should feel.

What if it backfires? It probably won’t. But if you experience any negative reaction in the hours after treatment, simply ease up. In basic therapy, you can always count on trigger points adapting to stronger pressures over the course of a few days of regular treatment. If they don’t, either the problem isn’t really trigger points, or they are worse trigger points than you thought!

Rub where? For basic self-treatment, you can trust your instincts: rub where it hurts! Do explore for sensitive spots, but you can limit your exploration to a fairly small area of muscle tissue around the “epicentre” of your symptoms. So, for instance, if the top of you shoulder aches, search for trigger points mainly in the top of your shoulder. You will not necessarily be able to feel a bump or “knot” in your muscle, so don’t worry too much about that.

What if the trigger point is not where the pain is? As you learned earlier in the tutorial, trigger points may generate symptoms that aren’t where the trigger point is! What’s a beginner to do? Don’t worry about it too much. Remember, this is basic trigger point treatment. Bear in mind the possibility of confusing referred pain, but don’t start worrying about it unless basic therapy is failing.

Rub how much? Massage each suspected trigger point for about 30 seconds. This is actually enough for many trigger points — especially if you think that you have several that all need attention! Five minutes is roughly the maximum that any trigger point will need at one time, but there is not really any limit — if rubbing the trigger point continues to feel good, you should certainly feel free to keep going.

Rub how often? As long as you aren’t experiencing any negative reactions, you should massage a key trigger point at least once per day, and as often as a half dozen times per day.

A massage for $2... Yes, you heard me.

2008-09-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

A GMN regular sent us this email...

"I've always wanted to get regular massages, but I don't live a charmed life. I had never even gone to get a massage until a couple months ago. I would say that the number one perk of living in a Chinese city is the ability to walk down the street and get a high quality $2 massage whenever you like. I'm not kidding. Seriously, I got a fabulous massage for about $2 a couple days ago and I plan on going back tomorrow.

I am quite the little bundle of stress. I don't think I've ever really learned how to deal with stress or found an effective coping mechanism for it. Instead, I've usually just kept it bottled up until it exploded in my face. The reason that I'm going back so soon is that one session barely scratches the surface of years and years of bottled up stress that has manifested itself in my tight neck and shoulders.

The kicker here is that my massage therapist, Dr. Feng, is blind. He's amazing and highly talented. There are actually a couple of blind masseuses at this one particular place. I've heard that people who lack a sense experience the others more intensely. Thus, a blind person can have a heightened sense of touch and give a better massage. I'm definitely a believer. I don't exactly know why he is better than the other masseuses, but I can certainly feel the difference when I walk home and feel rather loose."

Who new? China. I might have to make a visit.

If you know of an inexpensive but quality massage therapist or experience, please let us know.

Zero Balancing... ever heard of it?

2008-08-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

Have you ever gotten a massage and just wished the person poking and prodding you would stop because either it hurts or they don't know what they are doing? Well then check out the world of Zero Balancing. This is a new concept designed to take the opposite approach to stress as a massage. There is very little pressure on the body during any given Zero Balancing session. In fact, the only real pressure is lightly from the fingertips. It is a very relaxing session that is designed to find problem areas in the body where energy is either stuck or not flowing as well as it should and improve the flow to that area.

Try this relaxing body-balancing style and see if it works for you!

Deep Tissue Massage, the second most popular?

2008-06-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

Will deep tissue massage hurt?
At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain.

It is important to tell the massage therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you ecperience is outside your comfort range. There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so. The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.

What conditions is deep tissue massage used for?
Unlike classic massage therapy, which is used for relaxation, deep tissue massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as:
-Chronic pain
-Limited mobility
-Recovery from injuries (e.g. whiplash, falls, sports injury)
-Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
-Postural problems
-Ostearthritis pain
-Fibromyalgia
-Muscle tension or spasm

According to the August 2005 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, 34,000 people ranked deep tissue massage more effective in relieving osteoarthritis pain than physical therapy, exercise, prescription medications, chiropractic, acupuncture, diet, glucosamine and over-the-counter drugs.

Deep tissue massage also received a top ranking for fibromyalgia pain.

People often notice improved range of motion immediately after a deep tissue massage.

What can I expect during my visit?
Massage therapists may use fingertips, knuckles, hands, elbows, and forearms during the deep tissue massage.

You may be asked to breathe deeply as the massage therapist works on certain tense areas.
It is important to drink plenty of water as you can after the massage to flush metabolic waste from the tissues.

Precautions
Massage is not recommended for certain people:
-infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
-immediately after surgery
-immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
-people with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before getting a massage
-prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
-massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

Additional tips
-don’t eat a heavy meal before the massage
-if it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to -complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a -few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.

Hope this helps.

Do tip or not to tip?

2008-05-31T19:24:00.000-07:00

If you get a massage at a spa or hotel or from a freelance massage therapist, a 15% to 20% tip is standard if you were pleased with the services.

On the other hand, there are no real ground rules or norms when it comes to massage in a medical setting. Some massage therapists and massage associations I asked said tipping isn't appropriate in a medical or clinical setting.

If you're not sure, don't be afraid to ask if tipping is customary. You can call ahead to ask if you don't want to do it face to face.

If tipping isn't the norm, you can always show your appreciation by referring friends, family and co-workers to the massage therapist.

Something new might mean something better

2008-04-28T17:48:00.000-07:00

Most people tend to choose the more popular massage-styles like swedish and deep tissue. Often other techniques will benefit you more. Here are some suggestions...

Californian
Long, smooth strokes with essential oils cover the entire body. There's little pressure in Californian; it's more like an extended, professional caressing session.

Benefits: Full body relaxation and a state of mental bliss. Like its namesake state, this massage is all about chilling out.
Why you need it: If you live under constant mental stress, Californian massage is the perfect way to clear your mind, recharge your batteries and make you forget your worries for a bit.

Esalen
Esalen targets muscles and the circulatory system with long, gentle, unpredictable strokes and mild stretching. It increases body awareness and induces a meditative state in the recipient.

Benefits: In addition to promoting relaxation of the muscles and nervous systems, Esalen can stimulate lymph and blood vessels to excrete body toxins and stretch connective tissue.
Why you need it: If you live fast and pay minimal heed to your body's well being, this is just what you need to rejuvenate your mortal coil.

Reflexology
Reflex points in the feet and hands branch out to every part of the body, and are accordingly stimulated through targeted pressure. This practice increases circulation and promotes specific bodily and muscular functions.

Benefits: The touted boons of reflexology include physical and emotional improvements, such as increased confidence, motivation and concentration.
Why you need it: If you believe that fiddling with your hands and feet can treat your disorders and boost your self-esteem, by all means go for it. There's actually plenty of anecdotal evidence to support this belief.

Thai
Also known as "yoga for the lazy," Thai massage is more like a passive stretching session, wherein the practitioner moves, loosens and stretches joints, starting at the feet and moving up.

Benefits: Thai massage therapists claim that it harmonizes the body to loosen blocks and restores balance to "energy lines."
Why you need it: It improves flexibility, and stimulates overall health and well-being. Good for people who spend most of their time on a chair.

Watsu
In water shiatsu, the massage recipient is floated in warm water and gently stretched and given acupressure at specific points. The reduced gravity environment gives the masseuse more freedom to move the body.

Benefits: In the water, you become aware of the dynamics between floating and breathing. Controlled respiration allows you to relax more.
Why you need it: If you like the sensation of being pampered while floating, Watsu is the best choice for you.

Why not try something new? You never know what you might be missing.

Thai Massage: US vs. Thailand

2008-04-05T15:08:00.000-07:00

I took my first trip to Hong Kong, China and Thailand. After spending a week in Hong Kong, I left for Bangkok. 2 days in, I decided it was time to compare how a Thai massage in the US would compare to that of one in the country it originated.

Massage is a part of Thai culture, but the kind of massage offered in gay massage centers is rather more than cultural. If you want a real massage, then say so when you go in; they'll find a guy who can give a good Thai massage, although all the masseurs in gay centers have been trained in massage techniques to some extent. And now there are more 'genuine' health and massage spas springing up catering to gays.

The usual situation is that you pay an admission fee (which depends on the time you want and the type of massage you select), pick a masseur from the guys waiting around or from the 'menu', get changed into a towel and take a shower. You'll then be shown to a room with a massage bed and the door will be locked. Its then up to you what happens next. In any event, you'll be obliged to 'tip' your masseur after your hour or so with him, and some places specify a minimum amount. You often also get the use of a sauna after your massage, and some places have nice coffee shops where you can relax for a while.

All in all, an interesting experience. Physically, I surely did feel better after my Thai massage. Thai masseurs are very technical and deliberate which might take away from a true relaxing massage. They also seem to apply more pressure than their American counterparts. Very amazing, considering they are even smaller in stature than in the US. I will give the edge to a more soothing Thai massage in the US. I believe that is mostly due to American influence and our constant love affair with Swedish style. American-Thai masseurs have developed a hybrid to make the average clientele happy.

Bottom Line: Different, but a good different. More authentic & technical. More extras, sauna was a bonus. Overall, an experience I would try again.

Now, it's time to test the Swedes' expertise in Scandanavia.

What Style Might Be Right For You?

2008-04-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Massage is an art form which is thousands of years old, and it has been practiced extensively in a wide variety of cultures to heal the body and soul. The increasingly global nature of human interactions has led to a widespread dissemination of massage techniques, and most massage therapists offer massage techniques from places like Thailand, Sweden, Indonesia, and Africa in their practices. For clients, the wide range of available massage styles can be somewhat confusing, especially since many massage therapists will integrate several techniques into one session. The following overview of common massage techniques is by no means exhaustive, but it should help you distinguish between myofascial release and craniosacral therapy at your next dinner party.

The type of massage that comes to mind when most people hear the word is Swedish or Esalen style massage. Both forms incorporate a great deal of touch with the body, long, flowing strokes, and specialized strokes designed to penetrate areas of deeper tension and pain. For general relaxation, this type of massage is an excellent choice, and will leave your body with an all over good feeling; if you have worked with a good therapist, you may also feel more emotionally balanced as well.

For deeper massage, there are styles like Rolfing, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, and deep tissue. All of these types of massage incorporate much deeper muscle work, and require more training on the part of the therapist. In most cases, these therapists prefer to work with clients several times, identifying problem areas, releasing tension, and teaching the body to hold strong, healthy postures. Deep work can be intense, as the therapist manipulates muscles and tendons, but is also highly beneficial when performed well.

Other types of massage and bodywork focus more on spirituality. These include craniosacral therapy, Reiki, reflexology, and other types of energy work. The guiding principles behind these styles of bodywork are often rooted in Asian tradition. Energy workers look at the energy of the body and the ways in which it is distributed, searching for areas of blockage, tension, and weakness. Often an energy work session will involve minimal skin to skin contact, but may be accompanied by feelings of intense emotional release.

Some spas are also offer Asian style massages such as Thai, Shiatsu, and acupressure. Thai massage, also called “lazy man's yoga,” is a style of massage in which the client remains fully clothed on a floor mat while the therapist manipulates his or her body into deeply relaxing poses. Shiatsu and acupressure both focus on pressure points related to the energy fields of the body, and seek to release blocked energy to leave the client feeling renewed and healthier. Some spas also incorporate massage rituals, like Lulur, a traditional Javanese body care session with takes place before a wedding.

More exotic massage options include chai qiao, a Chinese style massage in which the therapist walks on the client's back with the assistance of a stabilizing frame, and warm stone massage, which uses strategically placed heated stones to deeply relax the body. Many practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine offer tui na, a Chinese massage tradition which is thousands of years old, and includes rolling motions, deep kneading, pushing, grasping, and drumming on various parts of the body. Another type of exotic massage is Lomi Lomi, a Hawaiian massage holistic massage technique.

By WiseGeek

Massage Therapy as a Career

2008-03-14T21:08:00.000-07:00

Massage therapy is a great career for people who are comfortable with the human body. Because massage therapy is practiced at so many different kinds of facilities, a massage therapist can choose the work environment that is best for him or her. However, salaries for massage therapy will vary in different employment settings. Researching massage therapy salary by industry, we can see that salaries for massage therapy are highest in health care services and medical offices. This is because in the health care field, massage therapy is more likely to be used to treat specific injuries or conditions and may require special expertise, which usually corresponds to a higher massage therapist salary. Many massage therapists are also self-employed and thus have some control over setting their own massage therapist salary; it's a field that lends itself well to independent workers who are interested in helping others. The typical massage therapist salary range may also be impacted by the fact that most full-time massage therapists work at multiple locations. While specific requirements vary from state to state, most places require some sort of licensing or certification to work as a massage therapist and many also require continuing education. For massage therapists with advanced training in different types of massage therapy, salary may be higher. Measure massage therapy salary by city, and you'll find that Orlando and Miami are among the top cities for high massage therapist salaries; however, digging down into massage therapist salary data by state reveals that California, not Florida, offers the highest massage therapy salary overall. Variations like these are one reason why it's important to be thorough when conducting massage therapist salary research.

Starting Salaries for Massage Therapy
As awareness of the health benefits of regular massage increases, demand for massage therapy jobs is also expected to increase. It's a good time to enter the field, but beginning classes to become a licensed massage therapist can be daunting. Before they enroll, many therapists-to-be want to know: What are starting salaries for massage therapy? And how does experience impact massage therapist salary? The Massage Therapist Salary by Years Experience chart shows that starting salaries for massage therapy are in the $30,000 range, higher than many similar fields' starting salaries. For massage therapy, salary also increases significantly in just a few years.

Massage Therapist Salary
The starting salaries for massage therapy, along with an independent lifestyle and flexible employment options, make massage therapy an attractive career path.

Does your potential match need to love massage like you?

2008-03-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

Want to find someone who enjoys the same activities that you do? Well, we found a website that lists singles who enjoy receiving massages. Hey, like they say, those who massage together stay together. Or do they say that? Hmmm... Check it out below.

Website: http://www.okcupid.com

With or without?

2008-02-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a common question for many masseurs and their clients:

Hi, I'm new here and I think this is a cool place. Thanks for having it!

I've just gotten my LMT cert. and of course, this was discusssed a little at my school but, in practice it's a little different. I'm wondering if many/any of you have had experience of having a client - male or female - request to be on the table without a sheet? One person I was talking to suggested that it's a personal thing for the LMT, while the conventional rules say this is strictly a no-no.

I personally don't see what the big fuss is about, and kinda feel that if you feel at ease with the client, you should make them feel as relaxed as possible. I've heard, although don't know foir a fact, that the sheet rule is really an American thing and is not so standard overseas in Sweden, Denmark, etc. Of course, mores are different all over and things are more uptight here than say in SF.

Spa Treatments for Men

2008-01-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

Today’s spa is a center for healing and nourishing mind, body, and spirit. Spa treatments that have been specifically designed with men in mind.

People go to spas for fitness, stress management, peace of mind, pampering and pleasure, and health and wellness. Spas offer a wide variety of techniques and services - traditional and modern, from the East and from the West - to meet the diverse needs of their clients: Swedish, Japanese Shiatsu, and Thai massage, European facials, acupuncture, Dead Sea salt scrubs, Moor mud wraps, thalassotherapy, aromatherapy, reflexology, microdermabrasion, endermologie, reiki, aura imaging, watsu, rasul, hypnotherapy, classes in nutrition, meditation, journaling, yoga and Tai Chi, state-of-the-art fitness centers with personal trainers, and much more. To understand and organize this overwhelming variety of spa offerings, the International Spa Association (ISPA) has defined the "ten domains of SPA" or segments of the industry as:

"The Waters"
Food, Nourishment, Diet and Nutrition
Movement, Exercise and Fitness
Touch, Massage, and Bodywork
Mind/Body/Spirit
Aesthetics, Skin Care, Natural Beauty Agents
Physical Space, Climatology, Global Ecology
Social/Cultural Arts and Values, Spa Culture
Management, Marketing, and Operations
Time, Rhythm, and Cycles
Not every spa includes every domain. Spas come in many shapes, sizes, and focuses - from day spas where you can get a single treatment to destination spas where you can stay for a week or more to medical spas that treat cosmetic and chronic health problems.

Spas for Men

What to Look for in Spas for Men? Look for spa treatments that have been specifically designed with men in mind. The Mountain Man Facial at Avanyu Spa, The Equinox in Manchester, Vermont promises to "relieve shaving irritation or skin aggravated by exposure to harsh, drying weather conditions." Look for spas that have designed their facilities with men in mind. Men don't want to be lined up with a bunch of women while they're getting a manicure, so private rooms are nice. Separate facilities like hot tubs and waiting rooms are ideal.

Men-Only Spas. A few male-only spas are starting to pop up, like Nickel Spa For Men in NYC , The Grooming Lounge in Washington, D.C., and The Absolute Spa at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. But most of us are going to have to depend on the sensitivity of coed-spas. Definitely check the place out first. The safest choice is an urban hotel spa, a high-end day spa, or a chain like Elizabeth Arden and The Greenhouse.

The whole body approach to wellbeing

2008-01-14T09:52:00.001-08:00

What is Rolfing ?

Rolfing is the nickname given to a form of body work and movement education pioneered from the work of Dr. Ida Rolf. She called it ‘structural integration’, which is a process of realigning the body through soft tissue manipulation. Through ageing, gravity, emotional stress, previous injuries and poor posture our bodies can become out of balance. This can translate in our posture as loss of energy, decrease in flexibility, backache, headache and general aches and pains. After balancing the body through Rolfing it enables us to function at a much higher level of efficiency and ease. People who have experienced Rolfing often report a feeling of lightness, fluidity, increased breathing capacity, more energy and elimination of chronic pain. Structural Integration is a system that induces change toward an ordered pattern. It aims to balance the myofascial relationships within the body. When the body becomes more aligned through Rolfing, the posture can become taller, straighter and free from chronic pain. A body that is more balanced and aligned with gravity, the lower its entropy and the greater its energy content. Rolfers believe that we need to look at and address the body as a whole rather than separate parts.

How does Rolfing work?

Fascia or connective tissue completely surrounds every joint, muscle , bone and organ and it gives shape and strength to our body. Hardened or shortened areas in this fascial web are caused by repeated patterns of use such as the way we walk, sit, stand or sleep as well as deep seated emotional patterns. In healthy fascia its smooth coating permits neighbouring structures to slide over one another. However, following inflammatory illnesses or traumatic illness, poor posture or emotional stress, layers adhere to one another and become ‘glued’ together. They will no longer slide and work as they should, making the body work a lot harder to function contributing to weariness and tension. Imbalances in the fascia occur where the stress is greatest, negatively affecting our body’s shape and movement patterns. Our shoulders can become more rounded, our necks too far forward, rotations and twists in our pelvis and torso or slumping in our posture. You may begin to feel less flexible and less able to move freely as you once did. Pain is often the result. Rolfing works to release these holding patterns and to restore movement and alignment.

Who benefits from Rolfing?

People come to Rolfing for many different reasons, some seek relief from chronic pain and stiffness, others want a better performance from their bodies in sport, yoga, dance or meditation. Many desire a better posture and being able to sit up straight and walk tall without much physical effort and strain. Some clients may seek more flexibility , mobility and a better understanding of their posture and body through awareness. Still others come to Rolfing to grow emotionally and to reach their fullest potential. People from all walks of life and all ages come to experience Rolfing integration for both physical relief and to improve their performance in their daily lives, professions and activities.

The Rolfing session

After a thorough evaluation of the clients structure and movement patterns, the Rolfer uses his or her hands to gently loosen and lengthen fascial sheaths surrounding specific muscles and joints. Health is restored to over worked tissues as the body becomes more organised in the vertical line and no longer strains to keep itself upright within gravity. The Rolfing process is one of exploration, awareness, education and change. Clients are encouraged to participate in their own healing process by accessing their bodies inner memory of what it is to be aligned and balanced.

How does Rolfing feel?

Sensations in the area being worked on vary from pleasurable warmth to momentary discomfort. How you will feel during the Rolfing session depends on several factors such as injuries to the area, or tension caused by chronic stress. Chronic pain often disappears immediately after the session or soon after the series. The Rolfing practitioner will work with you and your level of comfort to achieve the best results.

The Rolfing Series

Rolfing is typically applied in an initial series of ten sessions. Sessions are scheduled anywhere between one week and three weeks apart and each session is one and a half hours duration. Each session does have specific goals to achieve, however Rolfing is a very personal process and as no two people are alike sessions will vary slightly for differing individuals and needs. The results of Rolfing are cumulative and lasting, each session builds upon the last session to align the entire body and to get the best results that are lasting. Often photographs taken many years after the initial ten sessions still show that changes made during Rolfing are lasting and that the structure has improved even moreover time. Follow up work may consist of occasional tune up sessions.

By M. Arnel

Rub-downs can help physical performance

2008-01-01T20:55:00.000-08:00

There are several types of massage that can aid your physical performance. Petrissage is a deep tissue massage that compresses the underlying muscles by kneading, wringing or skin rolling techniques designed to relax the muscle fibers. This technique is primarily used on larger muscle groups to stimulate deep muscle fibers.

Effleurage consists of larger movements with varying pressure, starting off light and increasing the pressure to your comfort level. This technique is primarily used to warm up the muscles and increase circulation. Effleurage is also used to find tender spots that require special attention, including a deeper massage such as petrissage to work out the soreness and allow you to return to your peak performance level sooner. Effleurage suitable for nearly all the body’s muscles.

Hydrotherapy, the manipulation of muscle groups submerged in water, has been used for thousands of years to provide relief for aches and pains. The key to this treatment is how your body responds to the weightlessness of being submerged and to hot and cold temperatures. Warm water soothes tense muscles, while cool water stimulates internal activity. Massaging muscle group under water allows the massage therapist to massage deeper with less discomfort to you.

Additionally, hydrotherapy relieves the stress of your overall body weight, reducing it by up to 90%. It follows that your body — which is 75% water — would benefit from being immersed in water. The weightlessness relieves the pressure on your joints and muscles, allowing them to enjoy better circulation, pain relief and relief of muscle cramping and water-retention.

Not convinced? Try the do-it-yourself option in your gym’s hot tub to work out kinks after your next workout.

You’ll find that you can return to activity sooner without risk of injury, allowing you to improve

Spa therapies... not just for women anymore

2007-12-04T22:21:00.000-08:00

Men, men, men…they are everywhere and now they are interested in your spa therapies. In fact, estimates by the latest industry reports place men as 25 percent of the spa-going population. Men are flocking to spas in droves. Don't get me wrong, many of these new spa-goers are the same slovenly studs that struggle with getting their socks in the hamper, nonetheless, men are evolving. Some say this male demographic is getting more in touch with its feminine side while others claim that these predominately white collar workers are finding advanced grooming habits helpful in their corporate climb. Either way, this is a group not to be overlooked when you are promoting spa services.

While men are open to experiencing spa services, they prefer to do so on their own terms. This means offering basic, quality services that are just for men. Menu descriptions should be straightforward and easy to understand. Popular services among men include:

Anti-aging facials
Sports and deep tissue massage
Contouring body therapies
Executive manicure and pedicure services
Sports-related water therapies
Body buffs
Scalp treatments and hair growth programs

It is crucial that men have a separate menu that focuses on their unique issues like the sensitive and difficult beard area, thicker skin issues, contouring protocols for body areas that are difficult to reduce and relaxation therapies that are hands-on and not overly feminine.

In fact, more and more men are experiencing spa packages including massage. Put it on your menu. You'd be surprised at the response... and of your bottom line.

Chair massages not only for the busy executive

2007-11-21T19:04:00.000-08:00

Try a chair massage this Thanksgiving weekend. Many are not big fans of chair massages, preferring massage tables instead. They are also thought of as temporary fixes. But believe it or not, they work! Check out the video below for a quick look at a chair massage.

Facials for men?

2007-11-17T00:30:00.000-08:00

You know, more and more men are going where we didn't go before... the land of cucumber/oatmeal masks, moisturizers, & other lightly scented facial products. Yes it's true, men do tend to age better than women, but we also die earlier. So let's look the best we can while we're here.

A facial does for the skin what a cleaning does for your teeth - deep cleansing. Washing your face twice a day, shaving and moisturizing isn't always enough. Regular facials will keep skin clear, smooth, and looking healthy with good circulation and proper hydration. Besides the obvious benefits of looking good, many men find a facial to be the most relaxing treatment of the spa as it includes facial, neck, and shoulder massage.

Try one, if not at least one time... You never know what you might be missing.

Hot Massage Tips: Tantric Massage

2007-11-10T22:05:00.000-08:00

Before we discuss this type of massage in more detail, we need to understand that Tantric massage is unique and a very special kind of massage. As with other forms of massage, Tantric massage has its own unique benefits. What particularly appeals to me is how this focuses more on our feelings and spiritual well being rather than our physical health.

Unfortunately, it’s not that common and, therefore, not readily available just everywhere due to the specialist skills and training involved. The professional who provides such massage services must be a master of the basic and advanced principles of Tantra and meditation.

The Tantric massage experience always begins with ancient Tantric rituals and a time of meditation in order to focus on the Chakras and the spiritual link with the entire universe.

You must always keep in mind that this kind of massage is not meant to relieve the stresses and strains that our bodies have been subjected to, to work the muscles, or to focus on our physical well being. Tantric massage awakens the hidden mystic energy and brings your body and spirit in complete harmony with the universe.

Tantric massage makes use of light, sensual and slow strokes that can channel energy and increase the body’s sensitivity to a different reality. You may wish to apply some medium pressure along the sides of the spine in order to make your massage effective, but otherwise confine yourself to light pressure and to the movements inspired from the way energy flows through the body and especially the classic movement upwards from the base of the spine.

I would suggest that this form of massage should not be taken lightly. Don’t play at it. A great deal of skill is required as well as an in-depth knowledge of your inner energy before even contemplating conducting a Tantric massage.

I am sure the values and benefits of a Tantric massage have been undermined because people may well have “tried it” without understanding its true meaning and the highly specialized skills required to perform a true Tantric massage. Meditation and music are the only things you need for this kind of massage. However, the music used should be known for its connections with meditation and spiritual awareness. There is music designated for use with Tantric massage but it is not commonplace and may be hard to find.

Although unnecessary, oils and lotions can also be used and, I suppose there may be a perception that a massage would not be a massage without them. So as not to diminish the overall effect of this type of massage, avoid the use of scented oils as they can, in themselves, be
distracting.

Try Tantric massage with your partner. When performed successfully, it undoubtedly increases your levels of intimacy and develops a stronger emotional and spiritual bond between the two of you.

This is achieved by building on the love and trust that exists instead of focusing on sex.

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by ezine articles

Some massage oil suggestions...

2007-10-23T00:10:00.000-07:00

Bergamot: Antiseptic, astringent, antidepressant, uplifting and refreshing Helps depression, sore throat, digestive problems. Good for acne and oily hair. Do NOT use before sun exposure, it tends to make the skin sun-sensitive.

Chamomile: Calming, refreshing Helps: muscle aches, menstrual cramps, headache and digestive problems. Good for sensitive skin. Used in hair products to lighten blonde hair.

Cardamom: Antiseptic, helps digestive problems and gas, used for nausea and headache.

Eucalyptus: Antiseptic and stimulating. Used for treating coughs, colds and aches.

Frankincense: Calming, helps relaxation, said to fight wrinkles.

Geranium: Astringent, good for depression, tones the skin and used as an insect repellent hundreds of years ago.

Ilang-Ilang: Antiseptic, aphrodisiac. Good for dry skin and for blending other oils.

Jasmine: Antiseptic, aphrodisiac, said to 'speed up labor'. Used for years for postpartum depression. (Never used without consulting your physician if you postnatal.)

Lavender: Antiseptic, antidepressant, relaxing and calming. Helps insomnia, menstrual cramps and most people will agree that is have a relaxing quality about it.

Marjoram: Sedative, warming, comforting.

Melissa: Refreshing and uplifting. Helps headaches and menstrual cramps.

Neroli: Calming, good for anxiety and insomnia.

Orange Oil: Good for blending, for an relaxing and calming massage. It is often mixed with lavendar or grapefruit oil.

Rose: Very expensive. Antiseptic, antidepressant. A little goes a long way.

Rosemary: Antiseptic, refreshing and stimulating. Used for headaches, migraines, the common cold and muscle aches. The stimulating properties are said to help 'clear thinking'. Good for the memory.

Sandalwood: Antiseptic, calming, aphrodisiac. Useful for dry skin and used on acne.

Tea Tree Oil: Antiseptic, fungicide, treat minor cuts, good for minor acne.

YOU CAN EVEN MAKE YOUR OWN OILS...

The power of scent

2007-10-23T00:05:00.000-07:00

People often don't realize how strongly they are affected by scents. The smell of home made bread or of the ocean can bring back memories from years before; of happy time or bad times too. This is because the olfactory sense, the sense of smell, is interpreted by the part of the brain that is concerned with our emotions. Scents have a powerful effect on our moods. Adding different essential oils to your massage oil or bath oil can enhance the relaxing or invigorating effect of the massage or bath.

The price of essential oils varies greatly; for a small quantity of lavender oil you might pay only a fraction of the cost of the same amount of rose oil. This reflect the facts that it takes about 400 pounds of rose petals to product just a liter of rose oil, whereas 400 pounds of lavender flowers yields about 6 liters of essential oil. Most health food stores sell essential oils. They should always be sold in brown glass bottles (sometimes cobalt blue) to keep the light out -- which can alter them chemically. They are sold in small quantities as only 3 - 5 drops goes a long way.

All essential oils add a feeling of luxury to a massage, so chose any that appeal to you. These are some of the most common essential oils and the properties ascribed to them. Feel free to blend oils and see what you get. Don't blend more than two or three. If you are using a very expensive oil like rose, don't blend it with anything except for the carrier oil.

Male vs. Female massage therapists

2007-10-05T17:55:00.000-07:00

Q. Hey guys! I'm still pretty new to the forums here, and I apologize in advance if this topic has been discussed before. I didn't see if when I searched through previous posts, so hopefully it is an original topic. Two or three times a year for the past few years, I have gotten a massage just to help me loosen up. Each time, I have had a female massage therapist, and while some have been pretty good, a few have been awful. For various reasons, I stay permanently tight in my traps, and I have begun requesting that the therapist use as much pressure as she possibly can while she is working on my back. Sometimes it works well enough to iron out all my wrinkles, but other times it just doesn't cut it. To hopefully remedy this problem, I have been considering finding a male massage therapist to go to from now on. But, I do have a concern, and am wondering if anyone else has a similar issue. Whenever I am fooling around with a guy, we always trade massages...and I always end up with an erection as he works on me. I am just afraid that I will have an erection during a professional massage if I have it done by a male therapist, and that would obviously present itself as a potentially awkward situation. I'm trying to find a happy median between using female therapists who aren't capable of using sufficient pressure to work out all my bumps...and allowing a male to work on me without winding up with an erection somewhere along the way. I do not want to stereotype, but I have yet to find a male massage therapist who is straight (granted I do not know many to begin with), and I do not want a (potential) erection to be misconstrued as a sign that I want my therapist. Any thoughts or suggestions? I'd certainly appreciate any insight and help. Thanks guys!

A; Actually, a friend of mine told me he used to get errections when he was massaged by either male or female massage therapists... And this guy has NEVER had any sexual desires or experiences with any female in his life...A professional massage therapist, male or female (or anything in between), gay or straight, sees this ALL the time and is trained to handel this kind of situation professionally. As far as massages with "happy ending", that is prostitution with a body rub... It can cost a professional massage therapist his/her license... So, you really have nothing to worry about if you get an errection during a massage if you are being treated by a professional and licensed massage therapist.And I understand your preference with having a strong male therapist treating you. Although you are supposed to use your body weight at times to apply pressure to the patient/client, a very small framed therapist, male or female, just does not have the strength or mass to do this as effectively as a big person (this is not saying that they do not have great techniques and skills.)

What Should You Look For In A Massage Therapy School?

2007-10-05T17:47:00.000-07:00

If you are considering engaging in a great career in massage therapy, let me compliment you on your selection. Massage is one of the few careers which aids individuals in need, allows flexible hrs, and for those who ambitiously pursue it, opens up the door to a lucrative income. Once you have decided on your career, your next big decision should be which school to attend. I have furnished a list of 5 valuable questions to ask yourself when analyzing the huge amount of therapeutic massage schools to choose from.

Question 1: What is the timeframe that it will it choose from beginning to end? Massage schools have a broad variety when it comes how much time must be invested to finish. Massage therapy schools can vary anywhere from 6 - 15 months, or longer. Keeping this in mind, you have to ask yourself two important questions in regards to the amount of time you place in your education. Remember, if you hurry through a program, you have a better chance of missing out on something. On the other side of the coin, you have to also weigh how much money you may lose if you have to spend 6 months to a year longer in school when you could be getting your income rolling.

Question 2: Will it be very expensive? Education tuition might vary anywhere from $6. 00 to $17. 00 per hour of education! The average usually falls around $9. 00 or $10. 00 per credit hour. If you are in an unlicensed state and want to join a quick program, you may actually be able to get the necessary 100-hour training for under $1,000. In licensed states, which require 500 hours, tuition usually ranges from $5,000. 00 to $9,000. 00. . Some schools include the cost of supplies, or even a massage table. Be sure to factor in what is included verses what you are called upon to acquire before you commit. For example, if one school costs $1400 and includes your table, it will end up being cheaper than the school which costs $1000, but requires you to purchase a table. Tables run an average of around $500.

Question 3: Will therapeutic massage school hours work with the rest of my loyalties? Virtually all schools are aware that the individuals who are attending their curriculum have other things to do as well. Most students have to hold down jobs while attending massage school, while others have children at home. Many schools offer programs designed to cater to the working adult. Check to make sure that the school you like offers a variety of schedules to meet your needs.

Question 4: How do I pay for it? When you compare the cost of becoming a licensed massage therapist verses the cost of a bachelors degree, you would save approximately $60,000. Even so, most of us do not have $5,000 - $9,000 lying available to place in an education. Hence, financial aid is important to consider. Keep the following in mind: All federal loans and grants for education can be paid only to students attending federally accredited schools. Look for a reputable accreditation, such as the Integrative Massage

Author:Peter Faber