Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/918051
CLASSROOM TO CLIENT education Just as the seasons change, so do we. During wintertime, when it's chilly, windy, dry, and dark outside, our bodies are taxed and need to work harder in many ways to maintain homeostasis. Skin becomes dry due to less humidity in the air. The circulatory system must efficiently keep core temperature within healthy range, and in an effort to adapt, blood vessels in the extremities constrict. This physiological adaptation results in cold hands and feet. Lower temperatures and constricted circulation can cause joints to become stiff since the tissues are colder and less pliable. While there is still controversy around this theory, many believe that changes in barometric pressure, which are often caused by cold fronts, can cause swelling and pain in the joints, especially if they've been previously injured. Shorter days bring less sunshine and less exposure to vitamin D, a vitamin known for its many positive effects, including immune and cardiovascular support, and mood and energy regulation. Finally, as we all know from experience, colder temperatures can bring rampant flu viruses and general suppression of the immune system. Dry skin, cold extremities, lack of energy, stiff and painful joints, and inadequate sunshine leave people feeling less than warm and fuzzy. Preparing for these challenges with one or more supportive add-ons can help boost your clients' physiological systems, warm their bodies, and lift their spirits! Winterize Your Massage Sessions Easy Add-Ons to Support Your Clients' Needs By Cindy Williams DRY BRUSHING Dry brushing is at the top of the list of perfect winter add-ons because of its many reported benefits and the ease with which you can incorporate it into a massage session. Potential Benefits • Increases circulation • Stimulates the lymphatic system • Exfoliates dry, dead skin cells • Invigorates the senses Application By applying light, brisk strokes toward the lymph nodes and heart with a natural, soft bristle brush, movement of surface lymphatic fluids and blood are supported. Simply purchase a couple of brushes designed for dry brushing, either online or at a department store in their health and beauty section. Make sure the bristles are made of natural fibers and are not too stiff or rough. Dry brushing should feel pleasurable! After undraping a body area, such as the arm or leg, and prior to applying lubricant, use one brush in short, light, quick strokes from distal to proximal and toward the local lymph nodes. You can also use two brushes, one in each hand, with a brush-over-brush stroke (comparable to a hand- over-hand massage stroke). Do this on each body part as you progress through the massage. It's also great for preparing the tissue for your hands-on work. Clients have reported feeling invigorated, less tense, and calmer after dry brushing alone. The key is to not over-brush. Fifteen to 30 seconds per body part is plenty to get things moving and to brush off those dead skin cells. A B M P m e m b e r s e a r n F R E E C E a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / c e b y r e a d i n g M a s s a g e & B o d y w o r k m a g a z i n e 37