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Massage and Reflexology of Delaware - February Newsletter
Massage and Reflexology of Delaware

Terry and Her Staff Have Done It Again!

National "Center of Excellence" Status Attained

Massage and Reflexology of Delaware has become a National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) Center of Excellence. Massage and Reflexology of Delaware achieved this distinction by promoting the highest professional standards in massage therapy by hiring only nationally certified massage therapists and bodyworkers.

As a National Center of Excellence, Massage and Reflexology of Delaware employs massage therapists and bodyworkers who uphold the profession's ideal measure of excellence and professionalism. These nationally certified practitioners have demonstrated a high level of competency by passing a national exam. In addition, they adhere to NCBTMB's rigorous Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which were developed to ensure that the integrity and safety of all clients are protected.

NCBTMB Centers of Excellence are committed to the highest standards of excellence, ethics and experience in the industry. Massage and Reflexology of Delaware is the only business in the tri-state area to have attained this status!

When asked how they feel about the latest acheivement, Maryann and Kathleen said, "It's really motivating to work for someone who continually raises the bar on professional standards for us and the practice. Everyone knows Terry puts our clients first."

Terry stated, "Our high standards, solid therapeutic reputation, and now the National Center of Excellence designation makes Massage & Reflexology of Delaware a trusted source for therapeutic massage and reflexology services in New Castle County."


Running Injuries

Massage helps prevent and heal injuries

Running is a strenuous activity — and one that pays off by building strength, and boosting overall physical and psychological health. That said, most runners will have at least one injury in their running careers. Regularly stretching the calf and hamstring muscles helps prevent injuries. Massage also helps boost conditioning and prevent injuries.

How Massage Helps
In between strenuous training workouts and events, massage allows the muscles to relax, which helps build healthier tissues. To begin with, relaxed muscles don't produce as many of the waste products that irritate tissues. And when tight, bunched muscles relax and lengthen, they don't press as much on surrounding structures. This helps restore circulation, and improves the flow of nutrients and natural pain-relievers to the stressed area. Finally, relaxed muscles allow the body to heal the tiny tears and other "micro-traumas" which can result from strenuous exercise.

If You Have an Injury
Shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, and calf muscle strain are some of the more common injuries people can experience when they run. One of the most effective treatments is rest. If you have an injury, there's also a good chance you need new, or different, shoes.

Massage treatment for running injuries often works best when it is frequent and gentle, especially in the beginning. After a period of rest and a series of treatments the pain should ease, and you can resume your running program, stronger than ever.


Stretches for Walkers

Keep your muscles flexible and your joints lubed

Walking in supportive shoes with flexible soles can be one of the best forms of aerobic exercise. Combining stretching with your walking routine will help keep your joints lubricated and your muscles flexible, and can even help prevent injuries. The best time to stretch is after
your muscles are warmed up with exercise. If a stretch is difficult because of tight muscles, mention it in your next massage session so that the area can be addressed. If you experience pain with any of these stretches, consult your primary health practitioner.

Quadricep stretch
Lift your right foot behind you and grasp your foot or ankle with your right hand. If you wish, stand next to a wall or chair and place your left hand there for balance.
If you can't reach your foot, use a strap to loop around the ankle, and then raise the foot behind you. Breathe and hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds. Switch sides
and repeat.

Calf stretch
Stand close to a wall you are facing. Lean into the wall, your hands placed on the wall at shoulder height. Move your right leg back only as far as you can keep that foot flat on the floor, but far enough that you can feel a comfortable stretch in your calf muscle when you lean into the stretch. Repeat on both sides, holding for 20-30 seconds.

Hamstring stretch
Stand upright, and extend your right leg so that your right foot is resting on a stair or block in front of you. Keep your right leg straight. Exhale, and slowly lean into that leg until you feel a comfortable stretch. Hold for 20-30 seconds and return to start. Repeat several times on both sides.


Yoga for Your Hands

Mudras are easy yoga movements that involve only the arms and hands. Practice these ancient healing motions to enrich your life in as little as 3 minutes a day.

Mudra for Contentment
The power of this mudra has a great effect on your state of mind and helps you feel cozy and content. Sit comfortably with your spine straight. Make a circle with the thumb and middle finger of the right hand and the thumb and little finger of the left hand. Relax your other fingers and hold your hands a few inches apart in front of your body. Your breath should be controlled, long, and deep while you concentrate on your inner spirit. With regular practice of this mudra, you can get to a place of serenity and contentment from which to view your life.


Shiatsu Self Massage

Do you get leg cramps? Try this Shiatsu massage technique to improve your circulation. Shiatsu is an ancient Japanese art based on the same philosophy as Accupuncture. Your energy channels can be stimulated by finger pressure. The red colored dots represent the approximate location of the pressure points used to improve your energy flow.


Quote of the Month

"Health is not simply the absence of sickness."   —Hannah Green

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Massage and Reflexology of Delaware is located at:
1601 Milltown Road #15, Wilmington, DE 19808.

www.MassageAndReflexologyofDelaware.com