• Massage Etiquette: Questions & Answers
• What Makes Gentle Touch Massage Different?

GENTLE TOUCH INTEGRATED MASSAGE

Keep in mind massage is not only a science; it is an art as well! The art is the best part and you get to experience it! Since the body has the intelligence to recognize various healing modalities along with the utilization of Holistic Alternatives, your session becomes enhanced for you to experience another dimension of healing and relaxation during your session.

The Gentle Touch Integrated Massage session generally consists of these major massage modalities:
(Click on each modality for a short description)

• Swedish Massage
(Combination of several types of hand strokes such as kneading, compression and gliding stroke used to break up adhesions, scar tissue, toxins and relax muscles)
• Manual Lymph Drainage
(Soft, gentle wave like, circular or pumping type hand movements to move lymph fluid and detoxify the body)
• Deep Tissue
(This modality focuses on massaging the protective lining that covers soft tissue such as muscles. It is the depth of the pressure that will move or break up adhesions or scar tissue from the protective lining)
• Foot Reflexology
(Ancient healing modality from China which massages the hands and feet. There are certain acupressure points on the hands and feet that correlate to various organs in the body.)
• Reiki
(Ancient Japanese modality used to reduce stress and promote relaxation. It is based on the theory we all have a “life force energy” that passes through our bodies. You simply “lay your hands” either on or over the energy centers of the body and allow the Universal Energy flow.)

In addition to your integrated massage session, your massage session may include one or more of the following other massage modalities or holistic alternatives:

• Gem Stones
• Aromatherapy/Raindrop Therapy
• Sports Massage
• Other Complimentary Services

Here is an example of how I customize a massage:
Let’s say a client has fibromyaglia (This is an autoimmune condition characterized by musculoskeletal pain, spasms, and stiffness, fatigue and sleep disturbances.) Some may desire a deep tissue massage; while some are afraid of being touched, fearing it will induce additional discomfort.

My Gentle Touch solution is to combine Manual Lymph Drainage and Raindrop Therapy together. Both modalities exercise an extremely gentle, soft touch with feather and light hand strokes and used to detoxify the body. The Manual Lymph Drainage moves the lymphatic fluids and I utilize essential oils with numerous therapeutic properties such as anti inflammatory, anti viral, anti bacterial, etc. The results have been exceptional. This solution works exceptionally well.

As you can see a Gentle Touch Massage is a comprehensive session designed specifically to provide you the best of modalities where you need it the most.

Here is what Karen A. from Metuchen, NJ wrote after a Gentle Touch Massage Session.

“Dear Theresa, I want to thank you again for the amazing massage and healing session you offered me a few weeks ago. It was one of the most amazing and great-feeling experiences ever! I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate our session” Jan 07

MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE

Manual Lymph Drainage was developed in the 1930’s by a Dr. Emil Vodder who treated chronic sinusitis and other immune disorders in France.

Manual Lymph Drainage is a light, gentle massage that follows the lymphatic flow of the body. The lymphatic system is a component of the circulatory system and lies superficially under the skin. It doesn’t take much movement to move the lymph fluid in the body.

The direction of hand strokes or movements and massage sequence is very specific. The lymph system depends upon peristalsis and movement of the skeletal muscles. One way to move lymph fluid is exercising or simply walking.

Keeping a robust immune system is critical for optimum health. Any time you feel bloated or constipated, have an upset stomach, or sinusitis or are participating in a detoxifying program, manual lymph drainage can be instrumental in removing congestion and waste from the body. It is a major tool is managing lymphedema. For more information, click on lymphedema.

Most people are in awe on how it makes you feel. They can’t believe how a soft, gentle touch can make you feel so relaxed.

PRE- AND POST-NATAL MASSAGE

In childbirth practices throughout the tribal, cultural traditions and modern world, massage is used to prepare the mothers for birth and after birth. Here are a few examples:

• Expectant mothers of the Nama Hottentot tribe of South Africa are massaged by elder women.
• Uganda women are massaged to make their bones supple for birth.
• Other tribal practices include receiving special shampoos and massage to train their muscles to assist with the contractions and an easy delivery.

While working in the Mother-Baby Unit at a local hospital, one of my patients originated from India. She shared the following:

Her girlfriend returned to India from the United States to give birth to her first born. After birth the mother and the baby are bathed and massaged with essential oils every day for 60 days. My patient commented that they don’t seem to have as many sleeping problems and digestive issues with their newborns like they do in the U.S. They attribute this to massage.

Your pregnancy is an exciting time for you and you family. Exciting as it is, it can be extremely taxing physically, emotionally and mentally. Massage is one of the oldest healing arts still available today to relieve the stress and physical discomforts of pregnancy.

Here are some of the benefits of pre and post natal massage.

• Increase circulation of vital fluids.
• Increases blood to the placenta-brings in nutrients and removes toxins and waste products quicker
• Stimulates endocrine system to stabilize hormone levels and thus reduces effects of hormone fluctuation and its side effects.
• Stimulates lymphatic system to work more efficiently which increases your energy and reduces fatigue.
• Helps reduce and eliminate fluid retention/edema from the extremities.
• Reduces muscle strain on lower back, abdomen and shoulders.
• Improves muscle tone with regular massages and reduces muscle spasms, knots and provides greater flexibility to muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Quiets the nervous system so you can sleep better and be more relaxed.

Keep in mind, your baby experiences the same thing you do!

AROMATHERAPY / RAINDROP THERAPY

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic (sweet or spicy smelling) plant oils to enhance emotion, physical and well being. The essential oils are drawn into the body by inhaling and applying them to your body. They have been known to trigger a positive mental and emotional well being. Essential oils have been used as an ancient healing modality to treat many illnesses.

An essential oils is a concentrated essence of a particular plant. It may be derived from specific parts of a plant such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds, or fruits.

Dr. Gary Young, founder of Young Living Essential Oils, developed Raindrop Therapy during the 1980’s utilizing essential oils and working with the Lakota Indian Nation in South Dakota. His research was based on the antimicrobial therapeutic properties of essential oils. Raindrop Therapy is a kind and extremely gentle application utilizing feather finger stroking and has several uses. It is best known for facilitating the body to realign itself without manual adjustments and at the same time detoxify the tissues. The major therapeutic properties of Raindrop Therapy include anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral agents.

This therapy is great for people who are a cleansing or on a detoxifying program or who just want to relax.

HOT STONE MASSAGE

Hot Stone Massage has its roots in Stone Medicine. Stone Medicine is another ancient art dating back to 10,000 years ago among the indigenous people of North and South America. Among Native Americans of North America Stone Medicine is used as a healing and cleansing therapy as well as incorporated into their ceremonies and their belief systems. It has been used for numerous ceremonies such as sauna or sweat lodge and includes such activities as chants, drums, feathers, and smudging. Smudging is the burning of sage or herbs. They believe it removes stress, negative and evil thoughts and energies or whatever is causing pain. This leaves room for your Creator to enter into your body, mind and spirit and cleanse and heal yourself.

The stone shape and size are often designated for specific parts of the body. Example: spinal stones are flat and smooth and are about the size of a half dollar, belly stones are heavy, long and often triangular.

Hot Stone massage is a great way to just relax, reduce stress, and rejuvenate you physically, mentally and spiritually. Hot Stones are placed in oven heated with water. Each stone is then placed strategically on the body. The warmth from the stone can penetrate deep into the muscles relieving stress, tension and even pain.

For each Hot Stone Massage I perform, I keep in mind the intent of these ancient people and perform it respectfully. Although I don’t chant, play drums or perform smudging, I do offer the appropriate drum music with essential oils that add to the aromatic atmosphere.

LYMPH SYSTEM & LYMPHEDEMA THERAPY

Before I can even begin to explain my role as a lymphedema therapist and my services, it is important to know what the lymph system is, what happens when it fails to work or becomes impaired. Ready? Let’s get started!

1. What is the lymph system?
The lymph system is known as your immune system. It is composed of lymphatic vessels, organs, specialized cells and molecules that protect us from infection and disease.

2. What is lymph fluid?
Lymph fluid is a collection of

• Proteins
• Water
• Waste products & other foreign substances
• Foreign protein
• Cancer cells
• Cell Debris
• Bacteria
• Cells: Red, White and Lymphocytes
• Fat

3. How is the lymph system designed to work?
Think of the lymphatic system as a sophisticated drainage system that runs parallel to the venous system (veins that carry blood back to the heart), which is part of your circulatory system.

The circulatory system passes waste products that it can’t process to the lymph system. The lymph system then breaks it down and passes it back to the circulatory system, which passes it to the urinary system.

4. How does lymph fluid move?
Lymphatic system moves primarily by movement.

• Circulation
• Respiration
• Movement of muscles i.e. exercise
• Peristalsis (contraction of muscles like in your large intestine)
• External pressure i.e. manual lymphatic drainage massage

5. What are lymph vessels and lymphatic organs?
Lymph vessels are fine, thin-walled, channels with valves that move lymph fluid.

The lymphatic organs are

• Lymph nodes
• Thymus gland
• Tonsils
• Spleen
• Peyer’s Patches: located in small intestine

6. What are the functions of lymph nodes?

• Filtration system: they remove waste matter.
• Produce lymphocytes –white blood cells. These fight infections and enhance the body’s immune system.
• Regulates the concentration of protein.

7. What happens when the lymph system is impaired?
When the lymph system (drainage system) is impaired or congested, it causes edema (swelling) with lymph fluid. It generally impacts extremities of the arms, legs and sometimes impacts the trunk and other areas of the body.

8. What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is the excess accumulation of lymph fluid that is congested, resulting in the swelling of the extremity and chronic inflammation.

9. How does one get lymphedema?
Primary lymphedema is congenital or degenerative deficiency.

Secondary lymphedema is the most common in the United States.

10. I had lymph nodes removed and radiation treatment. How soon will I know if I develop lymphedema?
Science is unable to determine if you will develop lymphedema. You could develop it soon after surgery or many years later or not at all.

11. What are the signs of lymphedema?
If you experience tightness or heaviness, swelling, numbness, less movement or flexibility in one of your extremities such as an arm or leg, contact your health care practitioner for proper diagnosis.

12. Is there a cure for lymphedema?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. Once you have it, it is for life.

13. If I acquire lymphedema, what kind of care should I take?
Take precautionary measures to avoid

• Infections
• Burns
• Constriction of the affected limb
• Take blood pressure readings on the unaffected arm
• Avoid tight clothing, jewelry, gloves
• Avoid heavy hand bags
• Avoid Muscle Strain-i.e. carrying heavy groceries, boxes
• Avoid Weight Gain

14. What does a lymphedema therapist do?
The lymphedema therapist is trained on how to apply manual lymphatic drainage massage and decongestive therapy.

Manual lymphatic drainage massage uses specific light hand movements (external pressure) in a specific direction to move the lymph fluid thus causing the swelling to diminish.

Decongestive therapy includes manual lymph drainage massage, application of compression bandages and exercises.

15. Why is lymphedema therapy necessary?
The lymphatic system has been impaired and it needs assistance in preventing the lymph fluid retention. This prevents it from getting worse and reduces the risk of infection.

16. Where do most people go for treatment of lymphedema?
Many people attend a lymphedema clinic that is associated with a major hospital or a specific health care facility. Your health care provider will direct you to the appropriate facility in your area.

17. What does Gentle Touch Massage have to do with lymphedema?
Theresa is the sole proprietor of Gentle Touch Massage and is certified as a lymphedema therapist. She has been trained to perform manual lymphatic drainage and decongestive therapy utilizing compression bandages and exercise.

18. Who are Theresa’s clients?
Theresa provides service to home bound lymphedema patients who are unable to attend a lymphedema clinic and require care.

19. Does Theresa take insurance?
Due to the health care policies and Medicare, Theresa doesn’t accept insurance. She will gladly provide you documentation and you can submit it to your health care provider for reimbursement.

20. What does Theresa charges for her services?
Massage sessions are either 60 minutes for $85 (plus tax) or 45 minutes for $45 (plus tax).

21. Who else can I contact if I want further information on lymphedema?

• 1. American Cancer Society
  1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345)
  www.cancer.org
• 2. National Cancer Institute
  Cancer Information Service
  1-800-4CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
  www.cancer.gov
• 3. National Lymphedema Network
  1-800-541-3259
  www.lymphnet.org

LIGHT TOUCH BODY WORK SESSION
Purpose: Release muscular skeleton tension, restore musculoskeletal anomalies and to balance the body.

When you have too much tension, it causes strain to the body. When muscles are tense, they can manipulate your bones and distort your posture due to the gravity. Long periods of strain will lead to changes in your posture or skeletal structure and causes other type of health problems.

The Light Touch Body Work Session relaxes tense muscles by utilizing a light, gentle touch of the fingers on specific acupressure points on the body. It realigns your body to the center of gravity and ultimately releases stress and strain. When tense muscles relax, discomfort decreases and bones will fall back into their proper place. This series of therapy sessions requires several sessions. Each session is 30 minutes.

Who benefits from the Light Touch Body Work Sessions? Everyone!

• Individuals with acute, intermittment or chronic muscle tension and discomfort
• Poor posture

"Before my Light Touch treatments, if anyone had told me that I would have the best posture of my life at age 50+, I would have told them that they were crazy. In addition to a great improvement in posture, I've experienced less sinus problems and digestive issues. This non-invasive technique is one of the most comfortable 'wellness' experiences that I've ever had. I highly recommend it."
- Kathy T. Bernardsville, NJ

"For 10 weeks I was amazed at what Theresa unlocked in my posture and emotions. I always said I know my body, but this was intelligence truly from within that I didn't know could change so simply. I have a 2" leg length difference and although that could not change, my body did a dance to correct everything else that results from being out of balance. Everyone should give their bodies a chance to express real health. Less is more!"
- Susan A. Lebanon NJ

Special Thanks to:

• Dr. John Hurly who developed it.
• Dr. Francis Goes for this mentorship to Dr. Rosquist.
• Dr. LaMar Rosquist for making this treatment available to health care practitioners around the world!

MASSAGE ETIQUETTE: QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Below are common questions. Even if you are a massage “regular” you might find yourself wondering…

1. This is my first massage and I am uncomfortable about taking all of my clothes off, do I have to be completely naked to receive a massage?
This is a personal preference. Someone people prefer to have all clothing removed and some choose to leave just their undergarments on. Do what makes you feel comfortable! This massage session is about YOU and what works for you! It is difficult to relax and enjoy the massage if you are uncomfortable.

2. What do you mean by “full body” massage?
Gentle Touch Massage provides you a comprehensive Massage. The following areas are worked:

• Head
• Neck
• Shoulders
• Back
• Arms
• Hand & Fingers
• Chest
• For women a towel is placed over the chest area and is totally draped.
• Abdominals
• Buttocks
• Legs
• Feet & toes

The only exception is the genital region.

3. Why do you work the chest area on women?
The purpose is to move any congested lymph fluid out of the breast so it can be excreted through the urinary system. Massage aids the body in removing toxins.

4. I am uncomfortable about having my chest massaged. Is that ok?
Absolutely! You should never allow anyone to touch you in an area you are sensitive about being touched. Express your feelings immediately even if it is in the middle of a massage!

Your sense of safety and comfort is extremely important. This is your massage and your time to relax. Before the massage starts, an explanation is given to everyone what the massage entails.

5. I have received numerous massages and haven’t had a comprehensive massage like yours.
Gentle Touch uses a medical approach to improve your soft tissue functionality and stimulates your body to heal itself. Massage is an ancient healing art and has it roots in medicine.

6. Is my body covered during the massage?
The only part of the body that is not covered is the part that is being massaged at that time. After massaging a particular area of the body, you are re-covered or draped with appropriate bedding. It is usually a sheet and 2 blankets.

The genitals remain covered at all times.

7. I would love to get a massage but I am afraid I might get an erection…
This doesn’t happen often but an unintended erection occasionally happens. Therapists know this is a physiological reaction and will handle it in a professional manner. They will alter their pressure and move to a different area of the body.

8. I am very ticklish, how does this affect my massage?
Everyone has different levels of sensitivity. Make sure you relay this information before your massage starts so your therapist can accommodate you more effectively. The therapist can adjust the pressure of the strokes or change them completely so you can relax.

9. Should I tip for massage services?
If your massage is at a spa, tipping is common. Therapists working in a spa don’t receive the full fee charged for their services. The general gratuity is 15-20 percent.

However, a sole practitioner who’s in a doctor’s office generally doesn’t expect one. Bottom line is this. If you feel like tipping, tip. If you don’t feel tipping is appropriate, then don’t.

10. Does massage have to hurt to be beneficial?
Many people are under the misconception that massage needs to hurt if it is going to be effective. Everyone has to be treated individually and your medical condition needs to be reviewed. In order to break up the knots, pressure is applied and some discomfort may be felt temporarily.

11. I received a massage and hurt for 3 days afterward and then felt better but I am afraid to go for another massage.
It is possible your therapist went a little too deep especially if you had a deep tissue massage. If you do go for another massage, make sure you tell your therapist about your experience.

12. The day after a massage, I sometimes feel stiff. Why?
This is not uncommon and generally happens to people after age 50, although it does occur in individuals under 50. The massage released many toxins and your body is simply processing them out.

To help alleviate or minimize this situation, make sure you drink plenty of fresh-pure water with fresh lemon. The water can be hot or cold. The lemon juice can neutralize the acid reaction from the release of the toxins.

Another thing you can do is take an Epson salt bath which has magnesium. Magnesium has a calming effect on muscles.

13. How do I locate a massage therapist?
The National Certified Therapeutic Massage & Body Work web site is www.nctmb.com. They have a database of all therapists who are nationally certified. This means they had to take an examine in order to be nationally certified.

Certifications and licenses are different in every state. In January 2008 New Jersey Governor Corzine signed into law that massages therapist need to be licensed. Information is forthcoming on how we will apply for the license.

14. Do massage therapist take insurance?
Most massage therapist do not take insurance. They will provide you with a “Super Bill” and you can submit to your insurance company.

15. I love massage and receive a great deal of benefit from it but it is too expensive for me to go on a regular basis. Do you have any suggestions?

Check with your insurance company to see if you have coverage. You may be surprised to find you do. The therapist most likely will give you a “Super bill” to submit to your insurance copy.

If you don’t have insurance, you may want shorter sessions and space them out during the month. You can also request gift certificates from family friends for those special occasions in your life.

WHAT MAKES GENTLE TOUCH MASSAGE DIFFERENT?

There are some unique elements that differentiate Gentle Touch Massage from other massage establishments.

Here are just a few!

• Gentle Touch Massage uses an integrated massage approach to address your healing and relaxation. It is a combination of Swedish, Deep Tissue, Manual Lymphatic Drainage, Foot Reflexology, and Reiki. For more information click on these modalities to read about a short description of each.
• Massage sessions are a full 60 minutes!

Please allow a few extra minutes following your massage session for a review and recommendations.
• Holistic Alternatives are used during the massage.
• Magnet Mattress Pad***

Magnetic mattress pad enhances the quality of your massage and relaxation by facilitating the circulation and movement of vital fluids.
• Far Infrared Blanket

This blanket enhances the quality of your massage by helping to regulate your body temperature and increase your comfort and relaxation.
• Warm Water Bag

It is extremely comforting to get into a bed that is warm and comfortable. The warm water bag gently soothes tight muscles of the neck, shoulders and back by warming them with hydration.
• Warm Towels for your feet

Warm, moist towels can send the body into immediate relaxation mode. Many people come in with cold feet and we’ve found it’s the best way to warm them right up!
• Aromatherapy

Natural, botanical essential oils have numerous therapeutic properties.
• Gem Stones

It’s hard to believe how warmed gemstones placed on your body can reduce stress. You have to experience it to believe it!

Light Touch Bodywork Session

Gentle Touch Massage Fees

Payment Method

Come and experience a Gentle Touch Massage where a “A gentle touch is a healing touch!”