Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/68175
work is too intense can call attention to the issues of pain. The client should be able to relax with confidence in your sensitivity rather than having to be overly vigilant in giving feedback. Err on the side of caution rather than overworking and having to interrupt the flow of the session by frequently stopping work and having to regain the trust and relaxation of your clients after overstimulation. Very often, if you sense that your client is tightening against your intention, it best to not suddenly interrupt the stroke. The speed at which you are working is usually the culprit—just slow down, slightly ease up on pressure, wait for both of your energies to mesh and then continue. THE INTANGIBLES It is important to realize that your mind-set can determine the quality of touch as much as your specific biomechanical techniques. Probably the single most important cause of work being perceived as painful or too intense is working too quickly. Often, therapists feel a generous sense of urgency to get too much work done or cling to routines that emphasize covering the whole body with equal attention to all parts. They may end up spending unneeded time on relaxed areas and rushing on areas of holding. Many therapists report fear of clients feeling shortchanged if they don't perform a full-body massage. Although educating clients about the benefits of detailed spot work is helpful, it is also possible to have the best of both worlds by simply educating clients on the advantages of longer massages that leave enough time for a thorough unraveling of the client's holding patterns while still covering the entire body with varying degrees of focus depending on the need. In tender areas, such as the iliotibial (I.T.) band, the side-lying position enables you to observe your client's face for subtle reactions to your pressure. This position also allows for powerful use of your own weight, the ability to rotate your forearm for precise use of the ulna, or a softer touch. The use of the other hand provides stability, rotates the tissue around the femur for better alignment, or anchors and stretches strokes when applying force in the opposite direction with the forearm. connect with your colleagues on massageprofessionals.com 37