Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/68173
AUTH METHOD Fifteen years later, I am still seeing six clients a day (if not more), and I do not have—nor have I had—carpal tunnel, pain in my hands, lumbago, or any other massage-related injuries. I attribute this to using my forearms to perform the vast majority of massage work and practicing good body mechanics while giving a massage. Forearm massage wasn't part of my massage curriculum in massage school and yet I use it more than the other methods I studied. I designed the Auth Method of Forearm Massage to help professional massage therapists enjoy longer, healthier careers. As MTs, it is imperative we keep work- related injuries to a minimum. The Auth Method is a massage technique that takes the practitioner's well- being into account, as well as that of the client. It feels effortless to perform and great to receive. Below are a few key concepts about the Auth Method, including some forearm massage techniques and a qigong exercise for better body mechanics. DURABILITY The forearms are a bodyworker's most prized tool: they are more durable than the hands, fingers, or thumbs, so you can work longer on your clients with less wear and tear on your body. This means increased career productivity and longevity. Using the forearms as the primary tool in performing massage minimizes the risk of carpal tunnel, thenar problems, or pain anywhere in the hands, simply because you are asking less of your hands. Forearms are also less "pointy" than the elbows, so the massage work you do on your clients will be smoother and more relaxing. SENSITIVITY With practice, the forearms are just as sensitive and agile as the hands, fingers, Photographs courtesy of Shari Auth. or thumbs. In my own experience as a massage client, I've often been snapped out of a state of total relaxation when the therapist roughly introduces an elbow and pokes around with too much pressure, bumping up against my spine or some other bony prominence. Many people immediately associate forearm massage with deep-tissue work. This is not a rule. Forearm massage is also good for light circulatory massage. Students of forearm massage should begin by using the forearms to do light work until they learn the nuances of this new tool. This is a safer, more practical way to develop sensitivity in the forearms. I recommend using a bit more oil than usual to account for the broader area of contact. The increased amount of oil helps to develop a relaxing glide with the forearms. With practice, the forearms can be just as sensitive as the hands, and offer an equally relaxing experience. Start out light and take it slow. LEVERAGE The forearms naturally lend themselves to doing deep-tissue work and because the surface area of contact is larger 74 massage & bodywork march/april 2010 Because the forearm surface area of contact is larger than using your fingers or thumb, you can work more of your client in less time.