Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1451559
L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 23 Applying strokes at an angle greater than 90 degrees means to avoid applying strokes directly downward onto the body. When seated, it is nearly impossible to press directly downward from above the body. Being seated supports this principle tremendously. When keeping the wrists relaxed and in a straight position, the key is to avoid hyperextension, fl exion, abduction, and adduction. In other words, keep hands, wrists, and arms in direct alignment with each other. The same principle applies to fi ngers and thumbs. It helps to brace your thumb with your other hand to provide more support and ensure proper alignment. When seated, as long as you are working at an appropriate distance (working close to the body, but not enough to have elbows strongly bent), you can easily apply this principle and may even fi nd it easier than if you were standing. OTHER TIPS FOR SUPPORTING YOURSELF WHILE SEATED Remember always to connect breath to movement. Inhale as you pull, and exhale as you push. Purchase a chair with wheels or an exercise ball. Since your body needs to move, your chair should be capable of moving with you smoothly. While this isn't necessarily a requirement, it does make it easier to maintain the principles of body mechanics and movement. Consider purchasing an electric lift table. It's an investment, but it is well worth the money spent to support the longevity of your career. The better your body mechanics, the better you care for your body, and the longer you are able to maintain your practice. Over time, the investment will more than pay off. When you can adjust the height of your table to meet the level at which you are working, you can be nimbler (in other words, you can be quick to make adjustments that protect your physical well-being). Since you will be lower when seated than when standing, it's extremely helpful to be able to move the table to a height that supports the angle of your work. TECHNIQUE WATCH THIS VIDEO FOR A DEMONSTRATION OF PROPER BODY MECHANICS 1. Open your camera 2. Scan the code 3. Tap on notification 4. Watch! PRACTICE MAKES POSSIBLE Just as when you were a student in massage school and trying a new technique, practicing helps you feel more confi dent and make adjustments outside of the pressure of a paid client–therapist environment. While it is fi ne to try this on a paid client, it can also be benefi cial to practice on a colleague or family member when there are no expectations and you can play with the new approach until you can refi ne it. Open your world of freedom and possibility by using a seated position and see if it supports your body when you need it. It doesn't mean to sit for the entire massage, but it can offer an additional option you might be overlooking. Since 2000, Cindy Williams, LMT, has been actively involved in the massage profession as a practitioner, school administrator, instructor, curriculum developer, and mentor. She maintains a private practice as a massage and yoga instructor. Contact her at cynthialynn@massagetherapy.com. The better your body mechanics, the better you care for your body, and the longer you are able to maintain your practice.