Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/365665
choosing colors By Anne Williams There are many ways to think about color and choose the colors that are right for your business. Two methods are color psychology (the study of how colors affect human behavior and emotion) and color symbolism (the cultural significance of what colors mean to different groups of people). Using color psychology, a therapist who delivers relaxation treatments might decide on a green palette because studies have demonstrated that green colors decrease tension, slow breathing patterns, and, in some cases, decrease blood pressure. A clinical massage therapist might note the results of a study showing blue colors seem to promote strength, physical gains, and physical performance. A therapist working with pregnant women, parents, and infants would not choose a yellow palette because research shows babies cry more frequently in yellow rooms. Awareness of color symbolism is appropriate in businesses with cultural overtones or a specific client group. For example, a business focused on Eastern bodywork might use red because in Asian cultures, this color is associated with good luck. A therapist catering to executives in a busy urban area might choose a blue palette because in Western society, blue is often associated with excellence, loyalty, and intelligence. Adapted from Anne Williams's text Massage Mastery: from Student to Professional (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2012). An adjustable table warmer will add comfort and cushioning to the surface of your table and provide warmth to the client without overheating you. A space heater can be a nice addition to your treatment room in the cooler months, especially in the morning when first warming up your office. For warmer months, air conditioning and fans might be necessary in many locations. Fans also prevent your room from becoming stale or muggy. Women in the midst of hot flashes will love that you have a fan at the ready! Keep an array of blankets handy, from light, summer-weight linens to cozy quilts. Choose blankets that have natural textures, are ultra-soft to the touch, and retain heat without being heavy and suffocating. Last, but not least, don't forget to keep your hands warm and toasty! If you're prone to chilly digits, wear gloves on your commute to work and begin to warm your hands before your client arrives. Music or Ambient Sound: Playing soft music will go a long way toward minimizing outside noise and enriching By Carrie Patrick Reducing outside noise can be a challenge. When decorating your room, remember hard surfaces amplify outside noise, while soft furnishings absorb it. A fan or white-noise machine can help mask unpleasant sounds. Here are some ideas from those who have solved a noise problem in their own practice: the sound of silence I have an area rug displayed on one of the walls in my room. It looks beautiful and helps soundproof as well. Adam Sarroe, Illinois My lifesavers are a fountain and overhead speakers. Kristin Dugas, Colorado Put a rolled towel or some thick padding at the bottom of the door. The other thing that worked for me was foam in large areas over the wall, covered with a cur tain or wall hanging. An air purifier or humidifier can help layer the sounds in the room. Natalie Lewis, Pennsylvania I created padded picture frames to act as sound insulation. Staple a fabric you love to a ply wood frame about 1.5 inches thick, then glue egg car tons on the back of the frame. You could also pad a folding screen. Susanne Schmaling, Colorado