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Remarkable Healing. True Relaxation. Natural Well-being. Kristen Seaton, LMT, NCTM License # 12576
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CLIENT EDUCATION HANDOUTS FOR DOWNLOAD (FREE!)
Whether you choose to come in as a client now or later, feel free to download any of the files below. These are handouts typically available to clients when they come in for an appointment.
I also have brochures on a variety of topics (back pain, fibromyalgia, TMJD, for example,) which I will send to you free of charge. You may request a list of titles by clicking the link on the home page to contact me.
* NOTE: You will need Adobe PDF reader.
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WHAT IF I HAVE A MEDICAL CONDITION?
Massage has been shown to have positive benefits for people with the following:
repetitive strain injuries (tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fascitis, tennis/golfers' elbow), sprains/strains (sub-acute/chronic stages), some terminal illnesses, depression or grief, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, scar tissue, pregnancy, headaches, arthritis, back pain, whiplash, cancer, TMJD, and other conditions
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I HAVE MASSAGE?
The recommended length of time between visits and the duration of each session depends on your medical condition and what you hope to accomplish with massage therapy.
If you have a specific problem area, you may agree with your therapist on the following treatment schedule (this is just an example; your plan may vary):
- Months 1-2: Intensive Therapy. One or two 60-minute sessions each week.
- Months 3-4: Stabilization. One 60-90 minute session every week.
- Months 5-6+: Maintenance. One 60-90 minute session every other week.
If your purpose in seeking massage therapy is to reduce the damaging effects of stress or to improve overall general health, you will not need the intensive therapy or stabilization segments, but may go directly to a maintenance plan.
As a therapist, I personally receive 60-90 minutes of massage therapy once a week. For the average, healthy person with no specific complaints, I recommend massage therapy no less than 1-2 times a month. The benefits of massage are cumulative, one session building upon the last. Some people wait until they are feeling pain or discomfort before scheduling their next appointment, which is a mistake. Your treatments will be more immediately effective and longer lasting if you schedule them at regular intervals.
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HOW WILL MASSAGE BENEFIT ME?
Now, more than ever, massage is being recognized for its many health benefits for people of all ages.
Relaxation Massage can...
improve sleep
improve digestion
increase circulation
release muscle tension boost the immune system
relieve tension headaches
reduce mental & physical fatigue
provide an overall sense of well-being
ease recovery from trauma and illness
increase body awareness (mind-body connection)
boost the immune system enhance athletic performance
reduce mild to moderate hypertension (high blood pressure)
Therapeutic Massage can help with...
scars
stress
injuries
posture
fluid retention
secondary pain
painful or tight muscles delayed muscle soreness
prevention of new injuries
pain or restriction in joints
the effects of forced inactivity
pain or tingling in arms or legs Kristen is NOT currently accepting new clients at this location. She IS seeing clients at Massage Envy in Sherwood Tuesday - Friday 9 am - 3 pm. Website content to remain available indefinitely as a reference tool.
HOT STONE MASSAGE NOW AVAILABLE SEE HYDRO/AROMATHERAPY PAGE
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WHAT IS A MASSAGE LIKE?
* Additional information on this topic, can be found on the AMTA site (see home page for a direct link.)
If this is your first appointment, it is normal to be a little nervous. Some concerns a first-time client may have:
* being undressed,
* possibly being tickled or hurt by treatment,
* feelings of having no control over the situation,
* getting oil on clothing,
* health intake interview - why it is necessary,
* privacy concerns,
* fear of being cold,
* not being able to relax in a strange place,
* concern that therapist may talk too much/not enough,
* misconceptions/confusing therapeutic touch with sexual intention.
Your massage therapist will start by asking you general health questions, since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate. Rest assured that your medical information is protected by the same HIPPA laws that protect your privacy in the offices of other medical professionals. Providing complete information assists your therapist in assuring an appropriate and effective treatment plan.
For a full-body massage, most people undress completely, though you may choose to wear underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you are always covered with a sheet, except for the area being worked on. If the idea of being undressed in an unfamiliar place causes you anxiety, if you are shy or simply uncomfortable with your appearance, please bring this to your therapist's attention. She is a professional and can set your mind at ease so you can enjoy your session.
You will relax on a specially-designed, heated, padded table. The room will be a comfortable temperature, with soft music to help you relax. For many techniques your therapist will use a light oil or lotion which is good for your skin and absorbs well. Any excess oil can be rubbed off with a sheet or towel before dressing to leave.
The massage usually begins with gentle pressure to calm your nervous system and begin releasing tension. Gradually, your therapist works more deeply to address specific areas. During a massage your job is to make yourself comfortable. If your therapist needs you to adjust positions, she will move you (i.e. lift your arm) or give you instructions.
Many people just close their eyes and relax completely (or even sleep!) during a session; others prefer to talk. Some people find the scent of essential oils relaxing, some are irritated by them. It's your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Feel free to ask questions or give feedback at any time.
Regarding massage and sexuality: As a profession in general, we have worked hard to differentiate ourselves from those who would use the intimate setting of a treatment room for inappropriate activities. In my practice, SEXUAL ENERGY OR ACTIVITY OF ANY KIND IS NOT TOLERATED.
The saying, "no pain, no gain" is NOT true for massage. The most effective massage works with the body's natural responses, not against them. Working in the area of injury or chronic pain can be intense, but should never hurt. Your therapist knows ways to minimize pain, and will work carefully within what feels right to you. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort so she can adjust.
After massage most people feel very relaxed. Many feel free from aches and pains that have built up over months of tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience an increase in energy that can last for several days.
Sometimes you may not feel dramatic results right away. Watch for changes over the following days, such as pain relief, increased mobility, or reduced stress. Chronic conditions that take time to develop will take time to heal.
Your massage therapist will gladly discuss your questions over the phone or in person before you schedule your appointment. However, the best answers will come from experiencing massage first hand.
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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS [My massage was] excellent. Other therapists could learn from her. Her specialty is having me do deep breathing while giving the massages. She talked just the right amount. She even gave me some advice on how to do exercise for my back and shoulders. My neck and back area is much more flexible. - Mary H.
Wonderful job. I felt like she really cared about helping me. - Reed
I like Kristen's firm, even pressure, and the whole-hand contact. I'm relaxed & rejuvenated. I also liked your intro and progression from one area to the next. Great massage. Thanks. - Charlie B.
Great massage! - Joann
Very soothing touch. I am more relaxed. I feel like I can make it through the day and stay centered now. Thanks. - Hannah A.
Thank you for being so nice to my IT band. There was absolutely no pain involved. You're the one and only leg worker for me. - Andrew M.
She was very much aware of how I was feeling by asking frequent questions about comfortability. I feel relaxed and the tension in my lower back has subsided. - Ken F.
Loved just exploring and finding problem areas. Great focused work! Loved breath work with techniques. Thank you! - Nancy
Kristen, you are wonderful! My range of motion in my neck has increased and pain has decreased. Your natural style and caring touch made this one of the best massages I have ever had. Thank you so much. You rock!! - Robin C. Best massage ever. Thanks! - Melanie M.
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