Holiday Stress!!!

Tis the season to break out of the mold and buy everything known to mankind for all of our loved ones... break the bank... break the budget.. and totally break down and end up in the loony bin..
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How do we avoid this? Read this short little article provided by the editorial staff of Massage & Bodyworks magazine...

Holiday Stress

Tips to Stay On Top 

By Editorial Staff 

Originally published in Massage & Bodywork magazine, October/November 2000.
Copyright since 2000. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.

Here "it" comes -- holiday stress. As families negotiate where to spend Thanksgiving, and millions of us are making the empty promise to ourselves to start early on holiday shopping, the anxiety begins to build. And it only gets crazier from here. Choir practice for the kids, family gatherings at every turn, office parties, treks to the mall, baking...you know where this is headed. So what can you do about it? You may not be able to control the chaos of the season, but there are some steps to make sure you survive it unscathed.

1.Take time for yourself. YES, get a massage.

Soak in a mineral bath. Listen to the silence of a snowfall. Even if there seems no possible moment you can claim as your own, close your eyes, breathe deep from your belly several times, exhaling the air loudly from your mouth. Do this whenever you need a "moment."

2. Utilize catalog/online shopping. Don't fight the crowds. From the convenience of your home or during an office lunch hour, catalog and online shopping can eliminate the headache of holiday stress tenfold.

3. Eat right. Some of the best goodies come out this time of year. While you shouldn't deny yourself the opportunity to have a piece of grandma's pumpkin pie, don't overdo it. Remember to eat plenty of vegies and fruits to help stave off the winter's bombardment of colds.

4. Give yourself the advantage. Consumption of alcohol, nicotine, drugs and caffeine elicit the body's stress reaction. Remember moderation; you'll be happier and calmer in the long run.

5. Don't skimp on the exercise...but allow yourself to be excused from the routine when need be. Exercise helps melt the stress away and can provide that moment of clarity in a hectic day.

6. Don't try to be Martha Stewart. It's easy to get caught up in the spirit of the holidays with new decorating ideas, fancy dinners and the whim to make all your gifts this year. Be realistic and honest with yourself. Don't set yourself up for failure. Hire a caterer. Have friends help by having a craft day. Forgo making the gift wreath and give a gift you'll know they'll appreciate -- a massage.

7. Remember the spirit. When it's all said and done, no one will remember that the turkey was a little dry, that the sweater didn't fit, or that you were a few minutes late for rehearsal. What do they remember? The precious moments with family and friends.

http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/341/Holiday-Stress

So... please remember, at the end of all of our holiday traditions we need to sit back, relax, and enjoy what truly matters... Family, friends, a cup of hot cocoa, a slice of warm apple pie, and a nice relaxing massage... Enjoy your holidays!!!

 Happy Holidays from

Pandemonium Massage Therapy

(603)731-9874

Schedule your massage today!!!

 

The season for runners, triathletes, and the likes is off and "running"... pun intended. The need for optimal training, diet, and recovery is at hand... or feet... back... Well you get it!
I am constantly asked "How can I become better, faster, slimmer?" The answer is not an easy one. Most of us try as hard as we can to eat healthy and exercise regularly to keep us going. What all of us forget is maintenance. Obviously I am a huge supporter of massage, always have been and always will be. Added to the, dare I say, "alternative" approach to health of massage is chiropractic, acupuncture, and a good stretching regimen. These are just a few off the top of my head. Most top athletes know the benefits of all these and more, but do you?  When was the last time you had a massage? When was the last time you saw a chiropractor? (who is by the way a doctor... DC.. Doctor of Chiropractic) When was the last time you stretched for more than a few minutes? If it wasn't this week or last, you really are missing out on a key part of your training. "But it cost so much!" Does it? How much is your health worth to you? As a society of smokers, drinkers, eaters and couch potatoes, its amazing that we can afford anything at all! Do you want to be a better athlete or to be the best you can be? Take some advice... Add massage and chiropractic to your training regimen... its worth its weight in gold! Not only will you be a better athlete, but you will feel better and recover faster. I take your health seriously and you should as well!

This article touches some key points for the athlete and massage.
http://www.pacificcollege.edu/acupuncture-massage-news/articles/573-benefits-of-sports-massage.html
I wish you all the best of health and hope to see you at a race soon!!!

The Happenings of My Office

Hi Everyone!

It has been incredibly busy lately and I apologize for my lack of updates.  I had a brief moment so I thought I would let you in on what has been happening.

- My office is now accepting credit cards. As always, I continue to accept cash or check.


- I am now offering a line of sugar and salt scrubs.  All of these are homemade and great for sensitive skin.


- As always I am continuing my education, not only as a requirement to maintain my license, but also so I may have additional services to offer my clients.


- I will be hosting an open house in the near future, stay tuned for details.

I have this year's race schedule determined. I may add additional races at a later date... schedule permitting.  I can be found at the following events:

- May 12th-  Big Lake Half Marathon in Alton, NH


- June 2nd and 3rd -Mooseman Triathlon at Newfound Lake, NH


- July 7th and 8th- Black Fly Race in Waterville Valley, NH


- July 20th, 21st and 22nd- Ironman Lake Placid, in Lake Placid, NY
I have never worked this race before- I cannot wait to spend time in New York.


- July 28th - MascomaMan Half Iron Distance Triathlon, in Enfield, NH


- August 18th and 19th - Timberman Sprint and Triathlon, at Lake Winnipesaukee; Ellacoya State Park in Gilford, NH


- October 14- Haunted Half in Waterville Valley, NH
(This is a brand new race, and I am really looking forward to it- I love Halloween!)

Additionally, I will be unavailable on the following days, if you would like a massage on one of these days please let me know in advance and I will try to accommodate you.

- All race days listed above.


- April 14th, from 7:00am until 5:00pm.  I will be at a continuing education class.


- April 15th, from 12:00pm until 6:00pm


- April 29th, from 12:30pm until 4:00pm - My son is turning 6! Can't believe it.


- July 13th, I will be out of the office the entire day and unable to schedule clients.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT MY PRACTICE

  "Robert is a fantastic therapist. He LISTENS closely to the needs of his clients. His professionalism is beyond exceptional. Robert is well versed in various modalities; and can adapt to what you may desire at any given time. I would highly recommend Robert to anyone wanting to receive the benefits of massage!"  -K.K.

 

"Great Results, Expert, High Integrity."



"...enjoyed my massage session...you're great..." G.M.


 " Robert Head is a wonderful Massage Therapist. Since going to get massage therapy, I now make it a priority to schedule at least once a month if not more...It's time for m...e and time for the every day stresses to melt away. Robert's office is so serine and calming, you feel rejuvinated and like a completely new person. I would recommend that you book now for at least 2 massages to get an idea of how extraordinary this is and what a difference it can make for your every day stress to life's little injuries and pain...BOOK TODAY!!!!!!"    A.L.



" I feel beyond amazing, Thank you!"- C.D.

Some Office Policies You Should Be Aware Of:

Cancellation Policy
I understand that unanticipated events happen occasionally in everyone’s life. In my desire to be effective and fair to all clients, the following policies are honored:

24 hour advance notice is required when cancelling an appointment. This allows the opportunity for someone else to schedule an appointment. If you are unable to give us 24 hours advance notice you will be charged the full amount of your appointment. This amount must be paid prior to your next scheduled appointment.

No-shows
Anyone who either forgets or consciously chooses to forgo their appointment for whatever reason will be considered a “no-show.” They will be charged for their “missed” appointment.

Late Arrivals
If you arrive late, your session may be shortened in order to accommodate others whose appointments follow yours. Depending upon how late you arrive, your therapist will then determine if there is enough time remaining to start a treatment. Regardless of the length of the treatment actually given, you will be responsible for the “full” session. Out of respect and consideration to your therapist and other customers, please plan accordingly and be on time.

A Common Question From Clients: Clothing

As I have taken on new clients, I find that many of them ask the same questions.  One that is normally asked is whether or not they, as the client, need to be completely undressed for their massage.

The short answer is no.

Here is the Long Answer:

As a massage therapist, one of my goals is for my client to be comfortable, both physically and mentally. A client should never have to be naked if they do not wish to be, nor should they feel obligated to explain to their therapist why they wish not to be- this, just like receiving a massage- is a personal choice and should be respected.  Anyone who has experienced otherwise from their therapist should find a new one.

Your therapist should also provide you with ample privacy to undress or change and climb under the sheet and/or blankets on the table.   You should be allowed a few moments to get comfortable on the table and in your surroundings, before you ask your therapist to begin.  (This should go without saying, however I will say it anyways, my table is always cleaned prior to a clients arrival and fresh, clean linens are then placed over top for EACH client-it is inappropriate and rather uncomfortable for you to have direct contact with the vinyl.)

That having been said, there are certain times where less is more.  For instance- a hot stone massage can become more difficult with the additional layers. Although possible, the effect may not be the same.  It can also be more difficult to provide proper back work if the client chooses to keep their shirt on.

One of my main concerned when my client chooses not to fully undress is having the oils or product I am using on their skin stain their clothing.  This is why I always suggest to my clients that, should they chose to remain partially dressed,  it may be best to wear clothing they are not concerned about staining like an old t-shirt and gym shorts.

There are also times when it is far more convenient for my clients to remain fully or semi-dressed.  Massage requires draping of the body- covering private areas with a sheet- and, depending on the type of massage, can be time consuming and difficult.  I work a lot with athletes- providing them with both massage and stretching- and especially during the latter, it is far easier for them to wear athletic shorts and a snug top.  This allows for a better range of motion, without fear of exposing my client.

There are also times when there is absolutely no need for the client to be undressed.  A chair massage for instance is specifically designed for times when the client getting undressed would be inappropriate- such as in an office setting, or a waste of time- like during a massage on your lunch break.  I also offer hand and foot massages, and all that the client would need to do is roll up their sleeves or pants.  Also, regardless of whether I am using my table or chair, when I work at races, health fairs, etc, my clients remain clothed- for the sake of time and cleanlyness.

As always, whatever choice my client makes regarding how undressed they are during their massage is a choice I will always respect and will fully support.  Besides providing them with a great massage I always want my clients to be confortable around me and in my office.  

Services Offered: Which One Will You Pick?

As you know I have recently opened an office at I-93, Exit 17 at Concord Crossing in the Concord Sports Center Building in Concord, NH.

I offer Hot Stone Massage, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pre and Post Natal Massage, Sports Massage and Stretching, Neuromuscular, Myofasical Release, and Trigger Point Therapy.

Below is a list of services that will be provided:

STANDARD MASSAGE

1/2 Hour Massage ...................................................$45.00

1 Hour Massge ........................................................$65.00

1.5 Hour Massage ...................................................$95.00

2 Hour Massage .....................................................$120.00


HOT STONE MASSAGE

1 Hour Massage .......................................................$85.00

1.5 Hour  Massage ..................................................$115.00

2 Hour  Massage ....................................................$140.00


COUPLES MASSAGE

1 Hour Massage .....................................................$150.00

1.5 Hour  Massage .................................................$200.00

2 Hour  Massage ....................................................$240.00

1 Hour Hot Stone Massage .....................................$190.00

1.5 Hour Hot Stone Massage ..................................$240.00

2 Hour Hot Stone Massage .....................................$280.00


MORE MASSAGES

1 Hour Chair Massage ..............................................$65.00

1/2 Hour Foot Massage ............................................$45.00

1/2 Hour Hand Massage ..........................................$45.00

1 Hour Tandem Massage (2 Therapists) ..................$150.00

1 Hour House Calls- In Home Appointments .............$90.00

OTHER SERVICES

Add Aromatherapy to any Treatment ...........................$5.00

Paraffin Hand Dip (both hands) ..................................$10.00

Paraffin Foot Dip (both feet) .......................................$10.00


Ear Candleing (both ears) ....................................Coming soon!

* I offer excellent discounts for sports teams and groups.  Call for Details.