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Melbourne College of Professional Therapists"Excellence in Education"

Therapeutic Massage Principles

(Massage 2)

Melbourne College of Professional Therapists"Excellence in Education"

Suite 5 – Ground Floor

(Right path way entrance, next door to Lifestyle Gym) Cnr: Ferntree Gully Rd & Jells Rd

Wheelers Hill (Vic) 3150

Postal: P.O Box 3171 Wheelers Hill (Vic) 3150

Facsimile: 9560 4523

9562-2280

These notes are © SDCA PTY LTD trading as Melbourne College of Professional Therapists - MCPT. All rights reserved. No part of these notes may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the express written permission of SDCA PTY LTD.

These notes are intended as a guide only, and do not take the place of attendance in scheduled classes.

Revised January 2004

© 2004 MCPT Therapeutic Massage Principles (Massage 2) - Certificate IV in Massage HLT 40302

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 Introduction Page What is Massage? 2 Benefits of massage. 2 How to use this manual. 2 Advice to the Students. 3 Using Oils 3

2 “Three Levels” Massage

Beginning 4 3 Levels 4 Finishing 4

3 Contra-Indications 5 4 Preparing to Massage 6 Massage Therapist 6 Client 7 Pre-massage checklist 8 5 Massage sequences Back Revision of strokes 9 New strokes 12 Shortcut 14 Back of Legs Revision of strokes 15 New strokes 17 Shortcut 18 Front of legs 19 Shortcut 21 Feet 22 Shortcut 23 Face 24 Shortcut 26 Arms and Hands 27 Shortcut 29 Chest and Abdomen 30 Shortcut 32 Supine Neck and shoulders 33 Shortcut 35

6 Putting it all together 36

Throughout this manual, some handy hints and tips will appear here.


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1. INTRODUCTION What is Massage? Massage is a simple, yet powerful healing art that has been utilised in many cultures and in most parts of the world for thousands of years. Massage can be defined as being the systematic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body to promote health and healing. Benefits of Massage Massage has physical and psychological effects. Physically it facilitates the circulation of blood and lymph and the removal of waste products. It mobilizes soft tissues, nourishes and stimulates the skin, stimulates physiological systems of the body and can be used to reduce swelling in certain types of oedema. Psychologically, massage produces a feeling of relaxation and well-being. Self-awareness is increased and there is also a pleasant feeling of being cared for and looked after. In learning relaxation massage, the student develops an awareness and understanding of the personal responses to that interaction, both in the practitioner and the recipient. How to use this Manual This manual is designed as an aid to a student taking a practical course in Relaxation Massage. Please note that it is only an aid and does not replace practical tuition by a teacher trained in Relaxation Massage and its teaching method. The students can use the manuals for additional explanations of material covered in class

The massage style you will be taught is called Swedish massage. This style was developed by Per Henrik Ling in the early 1800’s. Strangely, some of the technical terms used in Swedish massage are French. The Greek physician Hippocrates (460 – 377BC) was one of the first people to write about the benefits of massage.


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Advice to the Student Massage can be an unusual experience for some people and we find that initially, some participants feel a little shy or embarrassed about touching each other. Fortunately, experienced massage teachers are used to this and are able to ease people gently into the experience. Massage aims to promote relaxation and well being, and in keeping these aims, the classes are also run in such a way that everyone feels comfortable, relaxed and enjoy the experience. However, while the teacher will do everything possible to look after you in the class, ultimately it is you, the student, who is responsible for your own well being. It is your body, your being and you have a choice in what you allow to happen to yourself. Please exercise that choice and only do what you feel quite comfortable about doing. These applies to how much clothing you take off or leave on, which partner you work with, what you do with that partner, and any other class activities. Remember that at all times during the course you are under no obligation to do any thing that you do not feel comfortable with. Also, if you have any particular physical (or emotional) condition that requires special consideration when you are massaging or being massaged, please inform the teacher and your massage partner. If you follow these suggestions you should gain a great deal of awareness, understanding and enjoyment. Using Oils As oil is used for most of the massages in the course, please bring with you a sheet and towel. The sheet/towel is to lie on and it also reduces the spread of oil onto mats, tables, the floor, etc., and tissues and towel are to wipe off the oil at the end of the massage. The oil is difficult to wash out of clothing, so do not wear your best clothes to classes. Also please take care of the room that you are working in and do not spread the oil around. Bowls are provided to stand the oil bottle in so that oil does not get on to the floor.

You are in control of your own body, and what you do. Working with a variety of body shapes/sizes is important, however if you are uncomfortable about working with any person, or you are uncomfortable about working on any part of the body, it’s ok to say “No”.


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2. "3 LEVELS" MASSAGE This is the general pattern followed for massaging most parts of the body. For each part of the body there are a great variety of strokes available, but generally, this pattern is followed - gradually moving from light to heavy and finishing with a light stroke. The complete procedure for a massage is described below. Beginning 1. Settle self and partner, make contact and be still. 2. Define area to be massaged and apply the oil (if oil is being used). "3 Levels" 3. (1) Surface stroking ("effleurage") - light. 4. (2) Kneading and squeezing ("petrissage") - medium. 5. (3) Deep pressure ("friction") - heavy. 6. Surface stroking ("effleurage") - light. Finishing 7. Be still, in contact. 8. Finish (either move on to the next area to be massaged, or take

hands away to finish completely and rest).

This is the general structure of every massage sequence

Light

Heavier

Heaviest

Lighter


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3. Cautions and Contraindications There are certain conditions where massage may not be appropriate and although fairly obvious, they are worth noting for the students of massage. They are:

Conditions involving inflammation or infection.

● Recent fractures. ● Varicose veins, directly over the infected area. ● Recent severe sprains or bruises (less than 48 hrs old). ● Areas of broken skin, burns and abscesses ● Recent whiplash injuries. ● Conditions involving weakened bones. ● Spinal problems causing abnormal sensations in the limbs. ● Malignancies, T.B. or AIDS ● Any undiagnosed severe pain or worsening condition. ● Recent operations. ● Numbness, paralysis. ● Intoxication. ● Shock. ● Insect or snake bites. ● Allergies or sensitivities to an oil, cream or essential oil. ● High blood pressure. ● Anti blood coagulation drugs or haemophilia ● Some mental conditions and/or medications ● Pins, staples or artificial joints

Why do you think some of these are obvious? Remember: - If in doubt, refer it on!


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4. Preparing to Massage Massage Therapist Before

Your personal hygiene is an important element when performing massage

Don’t overuse aftershaves perfumes etc. Avoid wearing

strong, overpowering scents/smells

Remove watches, rings etc

Make sure your fingernails are short and buffed

Wash your hands before and after each massage

Ensure all cuts/broken skin have been treated. It is strongly recommended that you wear gloves to reduce the risk of cross-infection

During Maintain contact at all times

Make sure your clothing or parts of your body don’t

unnecessarily touch your client

Ensure your posture is the best it can be. Keep your back as straight as possible and bend your knees. Use your body weight, not arm/hand strength

Ensure your client is completely draped at all times. The

client should feel warm and secure at all times

Ask the client if the pressure you are using is ok, and adjust if needed.

Garlic and smoking are also strong smells that can be very offensive for some people! Don’t leave little “crescent moons” on peoples faces. The client needs to know where you are. Bend your knees rather than stooping. Good draping technique is essential. When you gain more experience, you’ll be able to judge for yourself.


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Client Before

Explain what you intend to do. Obtain informed consent.

Check contraindications.

Let the client decide how much, or how little clothing they

remove.

Have the client remove necklaces etc.

Explain that you will be checking with them if the pressure is ok.

During The first time you use a Level 3 stroke, check the pressure

and adjust if needed. Don’t keep asking. Let the client relax.

Most times, a snore indicates that you have got everything right.

You can develop a “script” which will cover most of these areas. This is the one you could use. “Hello Kathy, my name is Danny; I will be giving you a back massage today. Normally with the back massage I expose the buttocks. Is it ok for me to expose your buttocks today?” Wait for answer. “I’ll leave the room shortly, and you can then take off as much clothing as you feel comfortable. You can then get on the table, and place your head in the face hole, and cover yourself with these towels. When I come back, I’ll fix them up properly. Now if at any stage the pressure is too hard, or you are simply uncomfortable, please let me know.” Wait for an answer. “OK, I’ll be back in a couple of minutes”. Leave room.


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Pre massage checklist Is room at a comfortable temperature? Have I got relaxing music? Have I got enough oil? Have I got enough towels, sheets etc? Is the linen clean? Are my fingernails short? Are my hands clean? Have I got any uncovered cuts on my hands? Have I checked contraindications? Have I ensured that we will be undisturbed? (Doors shut/locked, kids out, phone off the hook) Is my table at the right height?

Use this checklist for the first few times. After that, it should be an automatic process you will go through every time.


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5. MASSAGE SEQUENCES The Back The back is the part of the body most often massaged. This is partly because it is a "safe" area to massage. That is, the recipient doesn't feel too intruded upon when the massage is performed. Also, when a person is feeling fatigued or overworked, the back is where the strain is often felt. Since this part of the body is particularly difficult to massage oneself, help from a friend is often appreciated. If your partner feels comfortable about it, include the buttocks with the back massage. If your partner is wearing pants, move them down below the buttocks - check that it is okay to do this first. To make sure your partner's neck is comfortable, use the massage table's face hole or a pillow under the chest and belly. A person with low back pain may be more comfortable with a pillow under their middle. Some flexible people don't need a face hole or pillow. The vertebral column is of course most important. It contains the spinal cord from which branch all the nerves to and from the body. The muscles of the back control, support and move the vertebral column and massage of this area helps to keep the spine in a healthy state. 1. Beginning Relax, settle yourself and make sure that your partner is comfortable. Make contact with your partner's back and be still. Lightly define the back area.

Everyone loves a back massage. You should be able to get lots of practise with this sequence. In general, strokes are repeated at least 3 times. Try giving this massage blindfolded. Notice how sensitive your hands are. Level 1 stroke.


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2. Pulling Reach across to the opposite side of the body, and pull back towards you with alternating hands, sliding from the side of the body nearest the floor or couch, almost to the spine. Begin at the buttocks and work your way up to the shoulders, including the area between the neck and shoulders and then work down to the buttocks.

3. Kneading. Reach across to the opposite side of the body and massage that whole half of the back, from the side of the body where it is in contact with the floor or table, to just next to the spine and from the buttocks to the shoulders, including the area between the neck and the shoulder (trapezius muscle) and the deltoid muscle. Massage the whole opposite side of the back thoroughly with a kneading, squeezing motion.

Level 2 stroke. For these next two strokes, do the pulling and the kneading on one side of the body, then repeat on the other side. Level 3 stroke. Just like kneading bread. Spend some time practising this stroke.


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4. Forearm press.

Begin with the forearms together, palms upward at the centre of your partner's back. Slowly roll your arms over so that the inside, muscular part of the forearm, and not the ulnar bone part, contacts the back. Glide the arms out in opposite directions, exerting a strong broad pressure up and down the back. Repeat and repeat again in diagonal directions to the opposite shoulder and buttock.

5. Deep pressure. Press heels of hands into buttocks and massage deeply with broad circles, one side at a time and lightly massage sacrum. Continue along either side of the spine with thumbs circling upwards towards the head and outwards, massaging the muscles that run along the spine. Also massage across the tops of the shoulders, one shoulder at a time. Work only on soft tissue at a strong pressure that your partner is able to relax into.

6. Rowing strokes. - as before. 7 Finishing Wipe off oil firmly with a towel (if you are not continuing onto the back of the legs). Rest hands on back and be still. Slowly remove hands.

Level 2 stoke Use the ‘meaty’ part of your forearm. Look after your posture. Lessen pressure if your partner feels uncomfortable pain in any area, or if he or she tenses up under the pressure. Don't press too strongly on the spine itself. Level 3 strokes. Keep your thumbs, wrists and shoulders in a straight line. The power comes from your body weight. Check your pressure. Support your thumbs; they’re the only ones you’ll get! Don't press on the neck and aggravate the twist in it when your partner lies with their head on its side. Removing the oil is also part of the massage


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Extra Strokes for the Back

Press and Release on Gluteals - After buttock strokes - Press & release working your way along the edge of the

sacrum and up under the lip of the iliac crest as far as possible.

- Press & release from the top of the sacrum out across the top of the iliac crest as far as possible.

Figure 8 Stroke

- a joining stroke to connect upper and lower back. - with one hand over the other draw a figure 8 on the

body from the shoulder to the buttock, the size of the figure 8 can vary.

- make sure that the buttocks are pushed together, not apart, when applying this stroke.

Raking on Ribs

- after figure 8. - on the rib area of the Figure 8 Stroke define the ribs

with the fingers medially and stroke firmly up between the ribs several times.

Double-Handed Stroke

- after hook strokes. - with one hand placed over the other for extra pressure

apply the stroke up along the muscles either side of the spine.

3rd level stroke Can be a very tender area to work on. Push the buttocks together with this stroke. 2nd Level stroke. Do this stroke and the figure 8 stroke on the same side 3rd level Use the whole of your hand


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Winging the Scapula - after Double-Handed Stroke. - place the forearm behind the back, across the small of

the back. - pack under the anterior aspect of the shoulder with a

folded towel if necessary. - stroke with fingers along under the medial border of the

scapula. - press and release along under the medial border of the

scapula. - stroke through from the medial border of the scapula

out to the point of the shoulder. - stretch the muscles of the shoulder by hooking the

fingers in underneath the medial border of the scapula and lift the scapula up and outwards within the tolerance of the client).

3rd level This looks strange, but it is a very effective stroke. Persevere with it


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Sometimes it’s easy to learn a “shorthand” version of the sequence. Use this space to develop your own “shorthand” of this sequence

This is a sample of the “shorthand” you could use

Define/oil

Row

Pulling

Kneading

Forearm

C Stroke

P + R Glute and Iliac

Sacral Circles (not if pregnant)

Figure 8

Raking ribs

Fishhooks

Double handed

Fishhooks

Shoulders - Stroke - P + R

Wing scap

Rowing

Rowing

Wipe off

Finish


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Back of Legs Massage 1. Rowing stroke. Place hands as for back, but with one below the other, next to each other, starting at the ankle. For the left leg, use your left hand uppermost. The left hand reaches up over the hip and pulls down on the outside of the leg, while the right hand goes down the inside of the leg. Reverse your hand positions for the right leg. The foot should be included on the return stroke.

2. Pumping stroke. Use a pumping motion on the sole of the foot with the heel of your hand. Then, form a "V" between your index finger and thumb on each hand. Place your hands, one following the other, on the lower calf. Pushing upwards, return more lightly several times on the calf, thigh and buttock (hand spread flat on both buttocks).

All strokes work from the ankle toward the buttock (i.e. towards the heart). Slide back more lightly. Level 1 stroke. Do not massage varicose veins. Go gently on the Achilles tendon and behind the knee. Place a cushion beneath the ankles. Level 2 strokes. Remember to cover the leg you are not working on. Use the towel to define the uppermost area of the leg you will be working on.


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3. Kneading and deep tissue massage.

a) Knead buttocks. b) Knead in strips and deep tissue massage in strips on the

thigh.

c) Use light circular stroking on the back of the knee. This is not a deep tissue stroke.

d) Knead and perform deep tissue massage to the calf.

e) Squeeze the foot and press on the sole of the foot.

4. Rowing stroke. –as previously described 5. "Toothpaste Squeeze". Firmly squeeze the sides of the leg, sliding up from the ankle to the top of the thigh.

6. Rowing Stroke. 7. Pause. Flow stroke to the other leg and repeat the whole sequence.

Level 3 strokes. All strokes work from the ankle toward the buttock (i.e. towards the heart). Slide back more lightly. Do not massage varicose veins. Level 3 stroke. Go gently on the Achilles tendon and behind the knee. Place a cushion beneath the ankles. Remember to cover the leg you are not working on


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Extra Strokes on the Back of Legs Chinese Burn Stroke

- after V-stroke. - both hands placed around limb at foot with hands

moving in opposite directions back and forth around the leg, moving up the leg from the foot to the ankle to the knee to the hip and down again.

- Repeat at least twice.

Press and Release

- after stripping - up the split in the gastrocnemius (centre of calf). - up the sides of the calf. - along the iliotibial band (outside of thigh). - in strips through the hamstrings.

2nd level Make this stroke slow and deliberate. 3rd level These areas can be tender on some people, so check your pressure. The iliotibial band is also known as the ITB.


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Define/oil

Row

Pump

Chinese burn

Knead – glutes - thigh

Stripping/P + R

Knee circles

Knead calf

Strip / P + R calf

Squeeze foot

Row

Toothpaste

Row

Wipeoff

Other leg

Finish


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Front of Legs Massage 1. Define the area stroke - long flowing stroke down the leg. 2. Apply the oil. 3. Rowing Stroke - from ankle to buttocks, outside hand in front,

and down to ankle again.

4. Alternating V-stroke first on calf, then on thigh.

(pumping stroke)

5. Thigh - kneading, deep massage, lift and roll.

The inner thigh is generally a more sensitive area, so modify your pressure accordingly, and use a broader contact, (heel of hand for example) and stroke away from the genital area. To make partner feel less exposed, drape towel carefully to cover genitals but leave thigh exposed.


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6. Calf - squeeze, deep massage on either side of shin. 7. Lift leg, press thigh to chest, lean leg across other leg and return

to straight position (supporting knee). Slide foot towards trunk, let knee drop outwards (with support), return to straight position. Perform a hip rotation with due care.

8. Repeat Rowing stroke. 10. Flow on to the other leg and repeat sequence.

In drawing the thigh outwards and the other mobilisations be aware of how far, if at all, your partner is willing to allow the thigh to move. Don't force them beyond their own limit. This sequence can be used in a sporting context very easily. Strokes simply need to be quicker and firmer than for a relaxation massage


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Define/oil

Row

Pump

Knead - thigh

Lift and roll

Stripping/P + R

Knee circles

Knead calf

Leg stretches

Hip rotation

Row

Other leg

Finish

© Copyright 2004 Thomas McKail


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Foot Massage Beginning: 1. Make contact, be still.

2. Flowing strokes from leg to foot. Loosening Joints: 3. Rotate and flex foot around ankle. 4. Twist foot, move metatarsals. 5. Toes, bend towards top then bottom of foot. 6. Apply oil/cream Side of ankle, heel: 7. Massage behind ankles, into hollows and sides of heel. 8. Squeeze heel Sole: 9. General rub over the sole with knuckles or heel of hand.

10. Deep pressure massage, press and release thoroughly to the

whole sole of the foot (take care with pressures). Toes: 11. Squeeze pads of the toes.

12. Squeeze, stretch, bend back. Top and sides of foot: 13. Circling strokes.

14. Raking between metatarsals - proximal to distal. Whole foot: 15. Squeeze whole foot, heel of hand on top of foot with fingers

beneath. Finishing Strokes: 16. Long flowing strokes, becoming lighter, from leg through

whole foot. 17. Hold foot in hands, be still, and break contact

All strokes are firm and slow. If someone is ticklish, increase the pressure and decrease your pace. Be careful of your pressure, as sometimes the feet can be very sore. As part of a full massage, you don’t need to apply any oil. If you do apply oil, ensure that you to remove as much oil as possible before the client leaves.


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Contact

Rotate/flex/twist

Toes

Ankle circles

Squeeze heel

Sole knuckles

P + R sole

Squeeze toes

Stretch toes

Foot circles

Rake toes

Squeeze whole foot

Row

Other foot/finish


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Face Massage Beginning Settle yourself and your partner, make contact and be still. Hold the head and be still. Spread the lotion or cream on. Strokes 1. Start with the heels of your hands in the middle of the brow

and slide them across the forehead from the centre outwards.

2. Place the thumbs between the eyebrows and slide them up to

the centre of the forehead to the hairline. More lightly, slide your thumbs back and repeat.

3. Squeeze the eyebrows or draw your thumbs across the

eyebrows to the temples. Lift and return. 4. Press, release from the centre outwards on the upper, and then

the lower bony eye socket by using your index finger and thumb respectively.

5. Cover the eyes with your hands and rest. Then, slide gently

across the eyelids. 6. Continue down the face, sliding outwards and slightly upwards,

stroking the sides of the nose, cheeks, above and below the lips and the jaw.

This is a very relaxing sequence. Remember to perform these strokes slowly and deliberately.


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7. Do a circling massage on the jaw muscle with your fingertips. 8. Massage the ears by stroking behind them and squeezing the

edges. 9. Massage the hollow under the chin. 10. Use a lengthwise, upward stroke on the throat. 11. Finish with the broad "Prayer" stroke on the whole of the face

from the chin to the hairline, outwards and upwards being careful of the eyes.

Finishing Be still in contact.

Check if your partner has contact lenses. Use bland lotion or creams as some people may be allergic to alcohol or perfume in cream, and oil may be too greasy. Many strokes can be performed on the face without the addition of a lubricant as the face has its own oiliness. Strokes are generally across or up the face, not down.


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(Hair)

Brow

Thumbs

Eyebrow squeeze

P + R Socket

Cover eyes - slide

Slide – Nose - Cheeks

- Lips

Jaw circles

Ears

Chin circles

Throat

Pray

Finish

Neck, Face & Scalp Sequence Start with both hands positioned above the sternum, move them over the front of the

shoulders, along the back of the shoulder and follow the contour of the neck around to the base of the skull.

Position both hands under the neck (one from either side) and one at a time pull them

upwards, allowing the hands to pass over the sides of the neck. With both hands, effleurage from the base skull to the bottom of the neck. Rotate the head gently to one side and use circular strokes along the musculature at

the sides of the neck. Use a little oil, cream or remove some of the oil from your hands and the facial can

be done lightly with no medium at all. Lightly stroke from the base of the neck longitudinally along the neck. Slide the thumbs from the centre of the forehead out and across the temples. Position the pads of the thumbs between the eyebrows, slide them up to the hairline

and then follow the hairline around with each thumb to their perspective temple. On each stroke move further away from the hairline until you reach the eyebrows.

Gently circle the temples. With the tips of the fingers apply pressure to the bony orbits of the eyes, from the

midline outwards. Position your thumbs at the base of the chin just under the mouth and your other

fingers underneath the chin. Follow the jawbone up to the lower aspect of the ears. Move into the same procedure, however this time with the fingertips being pulled

across the face. Petrissage from the centre of the base of the chin up to the lower lip. Move up

towards the ear, 10mm or so at a time repeating the petrissage 2-3 times at each position.

Use the index fingers, following the line between the roots of the teeth and the

cheekbone. Petrissage the major muscles of the jawbone. Place both hands over the forehead and apply pressure.


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Arm and Hand Massage Arm: 1. Long flowing strokes down arm, pause in contact. 2. Apply oil. 3. Rowing stroke. (with one hand while holding arm draped across

therapist's other forearm)

4. Place arm across partners’ body with hand resting on opposite

shoulder. Apply kneading and deep pressure strokes to upper arm while in this position, towards heart.

5. With arm back in lengthened position beside the body, massage

the crook of the elbow with the palm of the hand. 6. Apply kneading and deep massage strokes to the forearm from

wrist to elbow, again towards heart.

Move arm around as required for complete massage, but always fully supported. Only use light pressure on inner side of upper arm (where pulse can be felt). Teach someone else this sequence, and get them to perform it on you on a regular basis. You won’t regret it.


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Hand: 7. Small circles on wrist.

8. Deep circles with thumbs on palm of hand. 9. Small circles on back of hand, trace grooves between tendons. 10. Squeeze and massage fingers. 11. Squeeze whole hand. 12. Rowing stroke on whole arm. 13. Pause, then flow over to other arm and repeat.

Move arm around as required for complete massage, but always fully supported. Only use light pressure on inner side of upper arm (where pulse can be felt). Teach someone else this sequence, and get them to perform it on you on a regular basis. You won’t regret it.


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Define/oil

Row

Arm on shoulder

Knead towards heart / P + R

Elbow

Forearm kneading

Wrist circles

Palm circles

Back of hand circles

Trace tendons

Squeeze fingers/hand

Row

Other arm/finish


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Chest and Abdomen Chest 1. Flowing strokes from arms to chest and belly 2. Apply oil to chest and belly. 3. Rowing stroke to chest and belly from the head down. 4. Pulling and kneading along the sides of the chest and abdomen

area. 5. Long sliding stroke diagonally across body. Abdomen 6. Clockwise circular sliding on belly.

7. Diamond Stroke.


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8. Kneading - clockwise direction. 9. Abdomen stretch stroke. 10. Deeper circling pressure with fingertips. 11. Clockwise sliding circles. 12. Pause in contact before moving on to deeper strokes for chest. 13. Apply broad pressure from outside to centre below edge of

ribcage. 14. Fingers slide in raking motion between ribs. 15. Circular rubbing up sternum. 16. Firm stroking laterally across upper chest from centre towards

armpit. 17. Define the collar bone. 18. Repeat strokes for other side of chest. 19. Rowing stroke. 20. Rest hands on chest and belly and break contact.

These strokes can be performed on the same side


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Define/oil

Row

Pull/Knead

Uncover chest

Clock circles

Diamond

Knead

Stretch

Under ribcage

Rake ribs

Sternal circles

Lateral stroke/define clavicle

Repeat on other side

Row

Cover chest


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Neck and Shoulders (Supine). 1. Make contact at shoulders, apply oil. 2. Surface stroking, shoulders and neck (anterior, posterior and

lateral).

3. Squeezing, kneading on neck, shoulders (both sides). 4. Slow, gentle rolling of head side to side, pause with head tilted

slightly to left (to massage right side). 5. Surface stroke shoulder to neck. 6. Deep massage across top of shoulder, alongside spine on the

neck and across the base of the skull (sub occipital region). Use press and release or circling or sliding strokes.

Avoid contact of oily hands with hair, for people who don't want oil in their hair. Place a folded towel, small cushion under the head if needed for neck comfort. Any movements of the head must be slow, moderate and respectful of any restrictions of movement the recipient may have


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7. Circling movements on right scalp. 8. Surface stroke shoulders to neck. 9. Return head to centre and repeat 4 to 8 on other side. 10. Return head to centre, surface stroke both sides. 11. Rest hands on shoulders, break contact.

Avoid contact of oily hands with hair, for people who don't want oil in their hair. Place a folded towel, small cushion under the head if needed for neck comfort. Any movements of the head must be slow, moderate and respectful of any restrictions of movement the recipient may have


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Define/oil

Row/stroke shoulders and neck

Knead

Roll head

P + R shoulder, neck

Scalp circles

Return to centre, and

repeat

Row

Finish


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Putting it all together A full body massage could take between 1 hour and 1 hour 30 minutes. For the practical exam, you will need to complete the massage within the following parameters: Minimum time allowed: 1 hour The sequence and times I would complete a full body massage is as follows: Back 20 minutes Back of legs (10 each) 15 minutes

Rollover Front of legs (2.5 each) 5 minutes Feet (2.5 each) 5 minutes Arms and hands (2.5 each) 5 minutes Chest and Abdomen 2-5 minutes Supine neck and shoulders 5 minutes Face 2-5 minutes = 60 minutes

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