Self Help

Massage Class for Couples

February 10, 2012 By // by Becky Leave a Comment

Learn how to massage your partner!

Have you always wanted to learn how to massage your partner? Or wished that they knew how to give you a good massage?

Maybe you searched and found some classes online, but didn’t want to be in a room with a lot of other couples.

I have a couple of options for you! The first is to take my massage class for couples, which is private one on one instruction with you and your partner. If you don’t have a partner, bring a good friend!

The second option is to purchase a couples massage instruction video. I have one that I highly recommend, by GTS Therapeutics. Even if you take the couples massage class, you might want to buy it for a great reference tool.

What you will learn in my massage class for couples:

How to give a relaxing, nurturing full body massage.
Massage strokes for the different areas of the body.
How to stretch your partner and use range of motion for increased flexibility.
Tips for body alignment when giving massage so that you are comfortable also.
Techniques for getting rid of headaches.
What types of lotions and/or oils to use.
Where to purchase massage supplies.
How to prepare an area in your home for massage if you don’t have a massage table.
How to use bolsters or pillows for more comfortable positioning.

I like to create a fun, relaxing learning environment. So come prepared to relax, unwind, learn how to give a great massage, and have fun at the same time. Since this is a one on one learning environment, there will be plenty of time for you to ask any questions that you have.

During the class, you will be using my massage table. Since most people don’t have a table of their own, I will explain different ways to set up a comfortable space for massage.

You will go home feeling confident in your ability to massage your partner (or friend, or family member).

The cost of the massage class for couples is $350. Call me (Becky) at (360) 701-4183 to set up a time for your class.

Gift certificates are also available at my office or online:

What if I want to buy a massage table to have at home?

Some people like to have a table at home, as it is quick and easy to set up. Aside from receiving massages on it, it’s a great place to do some stretches. You don’t need to spend a lot of money on a table, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive ones starting around $65 on Amazon that will hold up quite well for home use.

Thoughts on Resolutions vs Goals

December 31, 2011 By // by Becky 3 Comments

As I sit here at my desk, looking out the window and watching the hummingbirds feed at the feeder, I reflect on the past year, and think about what my goals are for my massage business for the coming new year.

First of all, I am truly grateful to all my clients who continue to put their faith and trust in me, that I can help them with their health and wellness goals. It’s been my pleasure and privilege to work with each and every one of you!

I always strive to create a safe, nurturing environment, where you can feel comfortable and be able to relax fully. Your comfort is, and always has been, my top priority. Yes, I know many different massage techniques, but I feel that your massage experience should be more than just a compilation of techniques. It should encompass fully listening to your needs, and accommodating them as much as possible. I will carry that goal forward into the new year.

One of my other goals is to be a clearing house of health related information for you. To meet that goal, I will be posting more frequently with updates on the latest news about healthy living. I will also be starting another website (or two) that will be more specifically health related. As those are created, I will be posting the links to those.

You might have noticed that I stated “goals”, not “resolutions”. Goal, as defined by dictionary.com is the result or achievement toward which effort is directed. Resolution is a formal expression of opinion or intention made.

A goal to me is much more tangible. It can be measured and tracked, to see if you are on course for meeting it. A resolution seems like just making a statement about something that you would like to be, have, or do. I believe that in order to be, do, and have things, that you need to set a clear course of action to attain them. And a good way to do that is to set goals, that are measurable and attainable.

So as you contemplate the coming year, and the things that you would like to change in your life, figure out a way to set attainable goals to get there. Maybe you want to lose 20 pounds. Start with a goal of losing 5 pounds. How will you do that? Will you make a change in your eating habits? Will you start an exercise program? What are the definite steps that you can do to attain your goal? Write them down, so that you can track them.

Start with “baby steps”, and work from there. Build on your successes, one step at a time. I believe that any realistic goal can be attained, with the right mindset and action steps in place.

If you have any specific steps that you use for setting goals, please share by posting a comment! To do so, click on the “Leave a Comment” link under the title. Thanks, and have a healthy, prosperous New Year!

Tips for surviving holiday stress!

December 6, 2011 By // by Becky Leave a Comment

As the holiday season is fast approaching (some would say it’s already in full swing), I went looking for ideas to share. In the following article, I found some great tips for surviving holiday stress.

The breathing technique that she describes is very similar to the one that I mention to my clients and friends. The way I recommend to do it is: slowly count to 4 on the inhale, hold for a count of 4, exhale for a count of 4, and hold for a count of 4. Repeat that a few times – it is sure to help you unwind and get more relaxed!

Read the article below for more ways to survive holiday stress.

CENTERS’ PIECE: Happy holiday stress

December 04, 2011 10:00 AM

Janet Edington

Well, folks, here it almost is again! The fun, relaxed, stress-free holiday season is waiting in the wings!

Everyone will get along with no family tension and no disagreements. All the Christmas gifts will be exactly what each person wanted. No one will spend too much money. You will be relaxed and in a good mood at all times …

Hey, it could happen that way.

But, in case you are skeptical, here are some suggestions on how to lower your stress level and enjoy yourself more.

>> Don’t expect perfection from yourself or others.

>> Prioritize.

>> Delegate.

>> Budget — don’t overspend!

>> Relax.

You have got to be kidding, you say.

No, relaxation can include some simple techniques like deep breathing, imaging, and progressive muscle relaxation. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time to give yourself a break.

Deep breathing means breathing in slowly through your nose until you make your stomach pooch out and your lungs feel full. Hold it for 3 or 4 seconds and then breathe out slowly through your nose. Do several of these; i.e., four or five.

This helps because when we are stressed, we breathe more shallowly. Oxygenating the blood relaxes the body.

Another option is tensing and relaxing muscle groups, starting at the neck and moving down to the feet and legs. The tensing helps you recognize the difference between a state of tension in your muscles and a state of relaxation.

You can do this after you do the deep breathing exercise.

Another option is imaging. Take yourself back to some relaxing, fun or beautiful place you have visited or would like to go.

Take some deep breaths, close your eyes and imagine you are there. Use all of your senses; remember or imagine the smells, sounds, sights and the sense of peace it brings you. You are there in every way except your physical body.

Meditation and prayer are also good ways to achieve a state of relaxation.

None of these suggestions take much time. With practice you will be able to achieve a more peaceful, relaxed state of mind with little effort.

Remember, perfection is not an achievable goal, no matter how hard you try! We get to be fallible, with shortcomings and even weaknesses.

Your family loves you for who you are, not for how exhausted or grumpy you become trying to make the Holidays perfect for everyone else.

The bottom line is, give yourself some tender, loving care during the hectic Season ahead. Find some small ways to treat yourself so you will have the emotional and physical energy to make it through that “to-do” list.

Find time to relax and refuel!

Original article posted here.

What are some of your tips for surviving holiday stress? Please comment below! Aside from getting a massage, one of my favorites is to soak in a bathtub filled with hot water, epsom salts, and some essential oils. A nice glass of wine helps, too. ;o)