2020-02-27 - Home Massage by Chuck Fata and Suzette Hodnett =========================================================== I was pretty excited to find this book because i am enthusiastic about DIY massage exchange. In my experience, exchanging massage with friends has been 100% positive. However, this was always with friends who were already comfortable with touch and with their own bodies. The major drawback is that DIY massage is way outside the comfort zone of many people. One friend told me that without exception, every single time she received a massage from a man, it was an attempt to seduce her. One thing i wish this book had covered is self-massage. A yoga teacher advocated self-massage, especially self foot-massage. It is not as good as receiving a massage from someone else, but it is way better than no massage at all. Self-massage tools such as foam rollers, tennis balls, and trigger point massagers can work wonders when needed. My foam roller really helped when my back pain was at its worst. Between these tools and yoga, i can address about 75% of my own physical pain-relief and relaxation needs. Below are a few links related to self-massage: Self-Massage Tips for Myofascial Trigger Points Massage category at wikihow.com And without further ado, below are my notes from the book. Foreword ======== Our social upbringing, our poor experiences with touch, our physical and emotional injuries and the rules and regulations imposed on us at our workplaces and schools have slowly and surreptitiously led us to put up barriers so that we might find ourselves not touching or being touched for days [on end]. Human touch is as vital to our physical and emotional health as food and water. Would we consider going without food and water? [It's called fasting.] Touch is our innate wisdom. It is not something we need to learn, but something we need to remember. Introduction ============ Who says massage has to be only in the hands of the professionals? Anyone can do it! To achieve a happy family life, experts agree that we need to communicate with each other more, not only via our speech but also with the healing vocabulary of loving touch. Touch is our first language. Chapter 1, Touch Heals ====================== Before the advent of drugs, medicine consisted mainly of touch. Touch is a primal need. It is considered stronger than verbal or emotional contact. ... Beyond mere survival, touch improves our physical health, relationships, and emotional well-being. America is what anthropologists call a "non-tactile society." Compared with most societies around the world, we are "touchy about touch." Our culture has now convinced us that touch is dangerous. Fears of sexual abuse and improper touch haunt innocent adults. No-touch laws in schools restrict teachers from hugging their students or even picking up preschoolers who fall on the playground. The truth is that we have become a "touch-starved" nation. Many people are unaware of the emotional and physical effects of their touch deprivation. The truth is that often touch is more than appropriate--it may be the very best way to communicate and connect with those we love. Chapter 2, Stress ================= Stress is the gradual and insidious running down of our general health. Chronic stress undermines the body's ability to fix itself and causes psychological and physical disease. The stress response is our body's rapid and automatic switch into high gear. Perhaps noting can age us more rapidly--internally or externally--than high stress. Chapter 3, Home Massage ======================= Factors of cost and convenience can limit visits to certified massage therapists, and thus we are vastly underutilizing the many healing benefits of massage. The truth is that you don't have to be a massage therapist to give soothing, healing massage. With home massage, we find relief from a variety of ailments without the financial burden of medical bills. As health insurance costs soar, our need for self-responsibility and prevention becomes even more important. The real benefits of massage for both the giver and the receiver are realized with the duration of touch. This is where the magic happens. When we become comfortable massaging someone--when we can give and receive non-sexual touch for 10 to 50 minutes--we are transformed. Chapter 4, The Three Principles =============================== Principle one: Create a safe place of honor and respect ------------------------------------------------------- The beauty of home massage is that by working on family and friends a certain level of trust already exists, allowing relaxation to occur at a deeper level. Understanding that we are creating a sacred, safe place of honor and respect builds upon that trust and allows for deep healing. Massage is a conversation without words. Listening to the person on the table with your whole mind, body, and spirit takes energy and the best of intentions. ... Always remember the tremendous healing power of simply listening. An unwritten contract The giver creates an unwritten contract with the receiver that the massage will be done with a great sense of honor and respect. There is an agreement that the massage is a "time out" from our daily responsibilities and there will be no talk about such things as money, school, or work. There is an agreement that the massage will be non-sexual in conversation, insinuation, and behavior. Both the giver and the receiver will enter the massage with a kind, patient, and nonjudgmental spirit. When the unwritten contract is understood and consistently experienced, trust grows and the receiver will let go and a healing, relaxing massage will naturally occur. Principle two: Encourage the art of massage ------------------------------------------- Intentions The "art of massage" focuses on being present and being comfortable in mind, body, and spirit. The art of massage comes from what is within us. It is... our intentions, our heartfelt presences, and our comfort level--that separate an ordinary massage from a great, healing massage. Being present Massage is a meditation shared by two people--a quiet conversation through the medium of touch. Being present in mind, body, and spirit allows you to focus all of your energy on the massage. The dynamics of the giver and receiver relationship should never become a power imbalance that makes the person on the table feel vulnerable. The vulnerability of the receiver should be met with kindness and compassion. Rather than feeling powerful, [the giver] should be thankful for the privilege of massaging [the receiver]. Being comfortable Your comfort as the giver is as important as the comfort of the receiver. The more relaxed you are touching your partner; the more comfortable [they] will be accepting your touch. Being comfortable will allow the massage to reach another level. Principle three: Take the mystique out of massage techniques ------------------------------------------------------------ But massage techniques by themselves don't heal. It is the connection between the giver and the receiver during the massage that is the catalyst for healing. Chapter 5: Preparation ====================== [Massage] can be done anywhere and anytime. No specialized equipment is needed--only your healing hands, your good intentions, and a willing and trusting partner. Our sense of calm and relaxation is affected by the environment that surrounds us. Thus, some forethought in creating the most comfortable environment for both the giver and receiver will greatly enhance a feeling of deep relaxation. The room -------- Provide a quiet, private, uncluttered space away from household distractions. Turn off or disconnect all phones. Make sure the lighting is soft and subdued to allow the eyes of the receiver to relax completely. Provide a room that is warm and draft-free. Choose a time when you and your partner will be undisturbed. Let others in your household know that this is your time and ask them to honor your space without interruptions. Some [like] music while others find it distracting. Honor the wishes of the receiver. Tips for an undisturbed massage * Make child care arrangements. * Refrain from eating a heavy meal before the massage. * Provide a room that is warm and draft-free. * Let everyone in the house know the time and duration of the massage. * Hang a "do not disturb" sign on the door. * Turn off or disconnect all phones. * Go to the bathroom before the beginning of the massage. * Give yourself time after the massage to relax. Checklist [for massage preparation] * Two clean soft towels or sheets. * Light blanket for warmth. * Pillow or bolster for underneath the legs. * Massage oil or lotion. [We preferred coconut oil.] * Tissues to wipe your hands. * Clock. * Water for the receiver during and after the massage. * Music. * Comfortable clothes. The floor is a massage surface that is available anywhere... Be sure to place several cushions down to create a firm bed. You can use foam, a mattress pad, or a futon. The floor can be a challenge for the giver's body. Only massage for the length of time you are comfortable. If necessary take a few silent breaks during the massage to stretch. A good massage table is a worthy investment. Set the table height so that when you stand next to it, the top of the knuckles of your relaxed arms brush the table surface. To benefit fully from the massage as a receiver, relax and let go of worries and concerns. As soon as you lie down, let yourself melt into the working surface. Close your eyes and become aware of your breathing and the parts of your body that move as you inhale and exhale. Rather than trying to help, surrender to the massage. Let the giver know if you particularly enjoy a certain stroke or movement. Tips for the giver * Always wash your hands before giving a massage. * Remove all jewelry. * Wear loose clothing. * Wear comfortable shoes or go barefoot. * Leave your daily worries and concerns behind and put a relaxed energy and focus into the massage. * Keep conversation to a minimum. * Remain present and be aware of the receiver's needs. Tips for the receiver * Do not eat for about 90 minutes before the massage. * Remove all jewelry. * Remove makeup, contact lenses, and glasses. * The giver of the massage cannot "fix" anyone. Rather they assist or facilitate the healing process. To benefit from this process, the receiver must relax and be open to the touch of the giver. * During the massage, let the giver know if you want less or more pressure. * Remember, the massage is for your pleasure. Let the giver know your needs, whether you want music, the room is too cold, or you need a blanket for warmth. Relax and let go Before giving a massage, take a few minutes to come down from your day's activities. You can meditate, listen to soft, soothing music, and take a few deep breaths. During the massage, most of your attention will be on the receiver. It is important, however, to occasionally bring your attention back to yourself. Check to see that your breath is open, your shoulders are relaxed, and that you are not straining yourself in any way. Centering exercise This centering technique combines breath awareness with the phrase or mantra "Let go." It is especially helpful when you are tense or fixating on a stressful situation or [an unpleasant] thought or emotion. Sit cross-legged or kneel down on the floor, putting a cushion under your buttocks. Do whatever it takes to make yourself feel comfortable. As you inhale, silently or out loud say "Let." [Or you can whisper it, which is easier than using your vocal cords on inhale.] As you exhale say "go" while letting go of all that is stressing you. Repeat this exercise for three to five minutes. When to say no -------------- One contraindication you should ALWAYS FOLLOW is a request from the receiver to stop what you are doing or to not work on a specific area. Total contraindications * Contagious diseases or infections including colds and flu * Recent operations or acute injury * Skin disease * Fever Local areas to avoid * Varicose veins * Bruises * Cuts and abrasions * Undiagnosed pain [Really? Massage could be for pain relief.] * Swollen areas and areas of inflammation Medical conditions * Cancer, diabetes, heart problems, osteoporosis, and other bone disease and other medical conditions do not mean that massage cannot take place. With these and other conditions, it is best to check with your physician. * The very young, the elderly, and pregnant women all should be handled with great care. Time to talk ------------ Before you start the massage, spend a few minutes discussing your partner's needs. Listen to any concerns. If this is the first time massaging the person, ask if [they] have any places on the body that you should avoid massaging. Applying oil or lotion ---------------------- First, apply the lubricant to your hands and rub it on. If the lubricant feels cold, rub it into your hands until it feels warm enough to apply. Using a gliding stroke, cover the part of the body you want to work on first. Be sparing with the amount of lubricant you apply. Use enough to glide along the tissue while still maintaining a gentle friction. If you apply too much, do not wipe it off. Instead, softly pat the lubricated area with a towel to remove excess. It is a nice touch to have a bowl with hot water in the room in which to place the lotion. This warms the lotion... Never apply the oil or lotion directly on the receiver. Apply it to your hands, then spread it where you want to work. When possible, use a hypoallergenic product. Draping ------- Draping plays an essential role in creating a secure environment for the receiver to feel safe and honored. A flat twin-sized sheet provides a very effective, secure cover. Uncover only the part of the body you are massaging. The sheet should protect the rest of the body. [IMHO, this sounds like theatre.] Proper body stance ------------------ Using good body mechanics and leaning into the movements improves efficiency, power, and strength while reducing stress on the giver. Use your body to apply pressure and keep your hands soft [relaxed]. Pay attention to your own body and mind while you are giving a massage. Chapter 6, Simple strokes ========================= Slower movements are generally soothing and relaxing while faster movements tend to energize and invigorate. Gentle stroke ------------- Gentle touch means simply laying your hands on your partner's covered body without movement. Your willingness to be still, to do nothing, and to expect nothing promotes a sense of calm and peace. This gentle touch without movement should always be used to initiate the massage. It signals your partner that the massage is about to begin, creates a necessary connection, and sets the tone for a continuous sense of safety, comfort, and relaxation. It is also a gentle way to end the massage. Effleurage stroke / gliding stroke ---------------------------------- After the application of gentle touch used to initiate the massage, the effleurage stroke is often next in sequence. The simple name for the effleurage stroke is the gliding stroke. The simplicity and ease of applying this movement, particularly when done in a rhythmic fashion, makes this an effective manipulation to use repeatedly while gradually increasing the pressure. It is also excellent for warming up an area to prepare for more detailed work. Petrissage stroke / kneading stroke ----------------------------------- The petrissage stroke is best to use after you have warmed the tissue with the gliding stroke. Petrissage movements include the wringing, lifting, and rolling of tissue and skin. To prevent pinching, the kneading stroke should be done slowly and with soft [relaxed] hands. The kneading stroke can be used to soothe tired, aching, and overworked muscles. When done correctly with a smooth rhythm, kneading is one of the most pleasurable strokes to receive. Thumb circling stroke --------------------- Thumb circling strokes can be applied gently on places like the forehead. It can be a penetrating stroke over areas such as the lower back, between the shoulder blades and spine, and on calf muscles. Be sure to warm the area before using thumb circling, especially before doing deep work. Place the pads of your thumbs on the area you are working and gradually lean into the flesh. Next, make small, penetrating circular movements. It is best to keep your hands and thumbs soft [relaxed] when doing this movement. Tightening your hands and thumbs will not feel good to the receiver and may cause your thumbs and hands to become sore and irritated. Only apply as much pressure as is comfortable for [both] you and the receiver. If you are uncomfortable using your thumbs, you can use a knuckling circular motion to achieve the same effect. Compression ----------- Compression strokes are simple and do just that... by compressing the tissue, holding for a moment, then slowly releasing. The heel of the hand can be used to compress the back of the leg, the lower back, or the shoulders. Whole hands can be wrapped around an arm or foot to squeeze and compress. Fingertips can be placed on the temples or the jaw to lightly compress, hold, and release. When using the heels of the hands, slowly add pressure by leaning your body into your hands, hold for a moment, then slowly release by moving your body back. As with the other strokes, apply the compression stroke rhythmically. The body likes rhythm. It is a comforting movement, similar to rocking a baby. Chapter 7, Massage routines =========================== Massage routines are specific strokes linked in a variety of ways to various parts of the body. A massage routine can be a planned sequence of strokes, or intuitive from beginning to the end of the massage. One possible sequence --------------------- * The back and shoulders * The legs * The feet * The arms and hands * The abdomen * The head and neck A good way to begin your massage is with strokes that relax and warm your partner's muscles. These are usually the long, sweeping effleurage strokes. After your partner is relaxed and [their] muscles have been warmed, you can apply more specific and deeper techniques. A good rule to follow is to transition one stroke smoothly into the next, the same way an accomplished dancer flows from one move into another. 1. The back and shoulders ------------------------- After applying the initiating gentle touch, the back provides a wonderful starting point for your massage journey. It is a part of the body that most people are comfortable touching and most people are comfortable being touched. It is the largest part of the body to work on and the easiest on which to practice those long, gliding strokes. There are many nerves branching out from the spine to all parts of the body. A good back massage can have a calming effect on your entire nervous system. [The book goes into wonderful detail, describing how to perform specific strokes, and special considerations for each stroke in each of the main areas of the body. These instructions are well-written, but they go into too much detail for me to summarize in these notes.] Chapter 8, Family ================= To put the world right in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation right in order, we must first put the family in order; to put the family right in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must set our hearts right. --Confucius A natural expression -------------------- Massage is transforming family life. Families report fewer fights, more laughter, better health, and increased relaxation. They find that they spend less time watching television and on the computer and more time on the massage table, connecting with one another. Home massage should be a fun, loving, and joyful time. Create an atmosphere in the home that is comfortable with touch. Sharing massage in the home allows parents to model proper touch with their children. Chapter 9, Children =================== As parents, we "do" for our children. We feed them, taxi them, and give them material things. But it is the hugs, pats, and embraces that children remember and cherish. Touch reassures children of their worth. Research shows that children deprived of touch grow up with a tendency towards physical violence, sleep disorders, suppressed immune systems, and impaired physical and emotional growth. Knowing through touch that they are loved gives children the strength and the foundation to deal with the stresses, strains, and insults of life. Always remember to respect and honor your child by listening to them. Never force your touch on them. While teachers and other adults once felt comfortable patting a child on the shoulder or giving [them] a hug, they are now advised to avoid all physical contact for fear of misinterpretation. As parents we must make up for this lack of touch from the world and improve our physical interactions with children at home. How can we teach children the dangers of improper touch without first teaching them what appropriate touch feels like? Chapter 10, Adolescence ======================= Adolescence is one of the most difficult stages of our lives. During this dynamic period, teenagers not only encounter awkward physical changes but they also have the added expectation of approaching adulthood, which creates emotional stress and conflict. Teenagers sometimes shut down their emotions as a method of coping with the unpredictability and change in their lives. Sometimes they become irritable, angry, or resort to [drugs] as a way to cope. Parents can have a difficult time adjusting to the changing moods of their teenage children. Connecting with your teen ------------------------- If children are raised being comfortable with touch, that sense of comfort will naturally carry over into adolescence. Adolescents crave intimacy but often look for it in the wrong places. By the time they reach junior high, they receive only half the touch they did during their younger years. The touch they do receive is now different--shoulder to shoulder and elbow to elbow--rather than hand contact. If they experience touch at home through the natural connection of massage, they are not likely to seek dangerous and unhealthy avenues for emotional and physical contact... Chapter 11, Couples =================== Non-sexual touch ---------------- Many relationships fail because couples don't know how to hold each other with this kind of intimate, non-sexual touch. Unfortunately, movies, television, and billboards all suggest that touch equals sex. Home massage offers couples a way to lovingly connect in a non-threatening, non-sexual environment. On the massage table, each partner acts from the unwritten agreement that the time together on the table will be non-sexual and non-seducing. This allows each partner to totally relax and enjoy the gift of touch without sexual expectation. No matter how little or how much touch we received as children, we all need a steady diet of this loving touch. Chapter 12, Infants =================== Touch lets babies know that they are loved and safe. Touch is the first developed sense and therefore one of the most highly developed senses in infants. Touching, cuddling, hugging, and stroking are the natural, nurturing ways for parents to bond with their infants. The more a newborn is touched, the better [their] physical and emotional growth. Make sure the room is kept warm and the area well padded. Choose a time when the baby is relaxed to give a massage. The best times are between feedings, after a bath, shortly after waking, right before bedtime, or simply when you both feel the need for closeness. If the baby seems happy, continue. If the baby seems fussy, try again later. [The book has many good practical tips for infant massage.] Babies digestive systems are quite sensitive. Keep your touch gentle and always clockwise. Moving counter-clockwise could cause constipation. ... slowly rotate the baby's legs in a bicycle-riding pattern. This can help ease gas pains and has a playful rhythm for both parent and child. Chapter 13, The elderly ======================= Touch is essential for our well-being at all ages, but we receive the least in our later years. Massage can greatly enhance the quality of life for the elderly. Caring touch ------------ Often just an embrace, light touch, or gently stroke will make your elderly relative feel loved, appreciated, and nurtured. Just remember that an aging body requires extra tender, loving care. Be soft and gentle. Sometimes the skin of the elderly tends to be dryer and often loses some of its absorption capabilities. Often they are taking medication s which can affect absorption as well. Start with very little or no oil. Use light pressure to insure [ensure] that no harm is done. Increasing circulation ---------------------- Many elderly relatives or friends may have difficulty walking or don't have full use of their hands due to arthritis. Massaging their feet and hands will increase their circulation. Rotate and flex the wrist or ankle to help improve the mobility of the joints. Conclusion ========== Our choice ---------- The path to health, connection, and balance has many names, but all involve choice. * To close down or open up? * To withdraw or reach out? * To speed up or slow down? * To stay in denial or move into truth?? * To isolate or connect? * To live or merely exist? Home massage asks us to slow down. It reminds us how relaxation feels. It connects us with those we love. It teaches honor and respect. It returns us to our natural ability to heal ourselves and others through touch. Bibliography ============ * Caplan, Mariana, Ph.D. To Touch Is To Live. Arizona: Hohm Press, 2002. * Colton, Helen. The Gift of Touch. New York: Kensington Press, 1983. * Costa, Larry. Massage: Mind and Body. New York: DK Publishing, Inc., 2003. * Davis, Phyllis, Ph.D. The Power of Touch. Carlsbad, CA: Hay House, 1999. * Dychtwald, Ken. Bodymind. New York: Penguin Putnam Inc., 1950. * Field, Tiffany, Ph.D. Touch. Massachusetts: MIT Press, 2003. * Field, Tiffany, Ph.D. Touch Therapy. New York: Harcourt Brace, 2000. * Juhan, Deane. Job's Body: A Handbook for Bodywork. New York: Station Hill Press, 1987. * Lidell, Lucinda with Sara Thomas, Carola Beresford Cooke, and Anthony Porter. The Book of Massage. New York: Simon & Schuster Inc., 1984. * LeBoyer, Frederick. Loving Hands: The Traditional Art of Baby Massage. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1976. * MacDonald, Gayle. Medicine Hands: Massage Therapy for People With Cancer. Scotland: UK. Findhorn Press, 2008. * McIntosh, Nina. The Educated Heart. Tennessee: Decatur Bainbridge Press, 1999. * McMahon, James. The Price of Wisdom. New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company, 1996. * Montagu, Ashley. Touching: The Human Significance of the Skin. New York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1986. * Nelson, Dawn, M.F.A., C.M.T. From the Heart Through the Hands: The Power of Touch in Caregiving. Scotland, UK: Findhorn Press, 2009. * Nichols, Michael P Ph.D. The Lost Art of Listening. New York: Guilford Press, 1995. Suggested reading ================= Touch and massage ----------------- * Barnard, Kathryn E. and T. Berry Brazelton. Touch: The Foundation of Experience. Madison, CT: International Universities Press, 1990. * Caplan, Mariana, PhD. To Touch Is To Live. Arizona: Hohm Press, 2002. * Colton, Helen. The Gift of Touch: How Physical Contact Improves Communication, Pleasure and Health. New York: Seaview and Putnam, 1983. * Davis, Phyllis K. The Power of Touch. Carlbad, CA: Hay House, 1999. * Field, Tiffany M. Touch in Early Develoment. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Assoc., 1995. * _______, ed. Touch. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2001. * _______, ed. Touch Therapy. New York: Harcourt Brace, 2000. * Ford, Clyde W. Compassionate Touch. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1993. * Finch, Mary Ann. Care Through Touch: Massage as the Art of Anointing. New York: Continuum Publishing, 1999. * Heller, Morton, A. The Psychology of Touch. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Assoc., 1991. * Josipovici, Gabriel. Touch. New Haven, CT:Yale University Press, 1996. * Juhan, Deane. Job's Body: A Handbook for Bodywork. Barrytown, NY: Station Hill Press, 1987. * Krieger, Dolores. Ph.D., R.N. The Therapeutic Touch: How to Use Your Hands to Help or to Heal. New York: Prentice-Hall, 1979. * Kychinskas, Susan. The Chemistry of Connection: How the Oxytocin Response Can Help You Find Trust, Intimacy and Love. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publicatoins, Inc., 2009. * Lidell, Lucinda with Sara Thomas, Carola Beresford Booke and Anthony Porter. The Book of Massage. New York: Simon & Schuster Inc., 1984. * Montagu, Ashley. Touching: The Human Significance of the Skin. New York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1986. * Sayre-Adams, Jean, et al. The Theory and Practice of Therapeutic Touch. New York: Churchill Livingstone, 2001. * Simon, Sidney B. Caring, Feeling, Touching. Niles, IL: Argues Communications, 1976. * Sullivan, Karin Horgan. The Healing Power of Touch: The Many Ways Physical Contact Can Cure. Lincolnwood, Ill: Publications International, Ltd., 1998. * Thomas, Zach. Healing Touch: The Church's Forgotten Language. Longville, KY:Westminster John Knox Press, 1994. * Webb, Marcus and Maria. Healing Touch: A Complete Guide to the Use of Touch Therapies that Promote Well-Being. New York: Sterling Publishing Company, 1999. Infant massage -------------- * Ady, Mary. An Infant Massage Guidebook: For Well, Premature, and Special Needs Babies. Bloomington, IN: Authorhouse, 2008. * Heath, Alan and Nicki Bainbridge. Baby Massage: The Calming Power of Touch. London, England: DK Adult, 2004. * Heller, Sharon, Ph.D. The Vital Touch: How Intimate Contact With Your Baby Leads To Happier, Healthier Development. Henry Holt and Co. LLC, 1997. * LeBoyer, Frederick. Loving Hands. The Traditional Art of Baby Massage. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1976. * Mc Clure, Vimala Schneider. Infant Massage: A Handbook for Loving Parents. Bantam, 2000. * Reese, Suzanne and Milne. Baby Massage: Soothing Strokes for Healthy Growth. New York, NY:Viking Press, 2006. * Staerker, Paul. Tender Touch: Massage Your Baby to Health and Happiness. Singapore:Twickenham Media Masters, 1999. * Toporek, Robert. New Book of Baby and Child Massage. Philadelphia, PA: Running Press, 2001. Pet massage ----------- * Ayrault, Megan, LMP. The Dog Lovers Guide to Massage: What Your Dog Wants You to Know. Kirkland, WA: All About Animal Massage, 2009. * Hourdebaigt, Jean-Pierre. Canine Massage: A Complete Reference Manual. Wenatchee, WA: Direct Book Service, 2003. * Prasad, Kathleen and Fulton, Elizabeth. Animal Reiki: Using Energy to Heal the Animal in Your Life. Berkeley Press: Ulysses Press, 2006. * Robertson, Julia. Physical Therapy and Massage for the Dog. New York, NY:Thieme/Manson, 2011. Stress ------ * Forman, Jeffrey W. Managing Physical Stress with Therapeutic Massage. Clifton Park, NY: Milady, 2006. * Kavanagh, Wendy. Massage Basics: How to Treat Aches and Pains, Stress and Flagging Energy. London, England: Hamlyn, Revised Edition, 2009. * Inkeles: Gordon. Unwinding: Super Massage For Stress Control. New York: Grove PR, 1998. * Roseberry, Monica. Massage: Simple Solutions for Everyday Stresses. London: Aurum Press Ltd., 2005. Pregnancy --------- * Osbourne, Carole. Pregnancy: Pre and Perinatal Massage Therapy. Wolter Kluwer, Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 2009. * Stillerman, Elaine. A Handbook for Relieving the Discomforts of Pregnancy. Brooklyn, New York: Delta, 1992. * Waters, Bette. Massage During Pregnancy. St. Augustine, Florida: Bluewaters Press, 2009. Couples ------- * Horan, Peggy Morrison. Connecting Through Touch: The Couples Massage Book. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger, 2007. Children -------- * Carlson, Frances M. National Association For The Education of Young Children. Essential Touch: Meeting the Needs of Young Children. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children. * Chapman, Gary. The Five Love Languages of Teenagers. Chicago, Illinois: Northfield Publishing, 2000 * Martin, Chia. The Art of Touch: A Masage Manual for Young People. Prescott, AZ: Holm Press, 1996. Caregiving, illness, the elderly -------------------------------- * Babcock, Elise NeeDell. When Life Becomes Precious: A Guide for Loved Ones and Friends of Cancer Patients. New York, NY: Bantam Books, 1997. * Catlin, Ann, LMT, OTR. Sensitive Massage: Reclaiming the Human Touch in Caregiving. Compassionate Touch, Springfield, MO 2010. DVD * MacDonald Gayle, M.S,, L.M.T. Medicine Hands: Massage Therapy for People with Cancer. Findhorn, Scotland: Findhorn Press, Revised Second Edition, 2006. * Meisler, Deitrich and Meiia, Else. Massaging the Alzheimer's Patient. Daybreak Geriatric Massage Institute. Dvd. * Nelson, Dawn, M.F.A., C.M.T. From the Heart Through the Hands: The Power of Touch in Caregiving. Findhorn, Scotland: Findhorn Press, Third Edition, 2009. * Rose, Mary Kathleen. Comfort Touch: Massage for the Eldery and Ill. Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins, 2006. * Thompson, M. Keith, M.D. Caring For An Elderly Relative: A Guide to Home Care. New York: Prentice-Hall, 1986. author: Chuck Fata and Suzette Hodnett detail: ISBN: 978-1-84409-559-9 tags: book,health,non-fiction title: Home Massage Tags ==== book health non-fiction