Renee
Hammel, CMT
Frequently asked
questions about my position and profession
Where did
you study Massage Therapy?
I
graduated from The Baltimore School of Massage as a Medically Certified Massage
Therapist (CMT) in 1999. I am also a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist,
and hold a Maryland State Massage Therapist License. My studies included Swedish Massage,
Myofascial Massage, Facilitated Stretching and Deep Tissue. In addition I also
completed studies in Anatomy, Body Structure, Body Mechanics, Ethics,
Physiology and Pathophysiology. Since
Graduation I have obtained additional education, training and or certifications
in Sports Massage, Pre-Natal Massage, Thai Massage, Spa Therapies (body treatments
and wraps), Hot Stone Massage, Aromatherapy, and Ayurvedic (Indian) Massage
(including Shirodhara).
What
should I look for in a good massage therapist?
First and
foremost you should look for someone certified to evaluate your needs in order
to customize a massage especially for YOU.
Many massage therapists perform the same massage on a client seeking
stress relief as they would on an athlete. Everyone is different a good massage
therapist will be able to recognize your needs and address them. An indication
of a good Massage therapist is the time they have been practicing. Many Massage
therapists do not practice longer then 2 years, we must meet continuing
education requirements every two years. Seek someone who has made it past this
point. Beyond that you should always feel comfortable with your therapist, it
is imperative that you are able to relax and enjoy your massage. Your therapist
should be friendly and evoke a sense of calmness, peace and trust, and of
course have great hands!!
What type
of massage do you specialize in?
Initially after graduation I worked for a
Physical Therapist, I treated patients recovering from surgeries and various
injuries, frozen shoulders, knee replacements, carpal tunnel syndrome,
herniated and degenerative discs. At that time I specialized in Sports and
Medical Massage.
However,
after having my first baby I realized how incredible massage was during
pregnancy and pursued certification in pre-natal massage… I still find this
very rewarding.
In
addition I worked at an incredible spa, this was such a fun experience, I
specialized in hot stone, and body treatments
Currently,
I’m continuing my studies in Thai, and passive yoga, this is a great
profession, always a new modality to explore. A complete list of massage and
bodywork therapies available is listed on my home page.
This is my
first massage and I am nervous, what will happen?
Most
clients feel excited and nervous about their first massage. Initially, I will
have you complete a client history form to get a sense of why you’ve come in
for a massage and to review any past injuries, surgeries or concerns. You will undress in private, and lie on the
table under a sheet and blanket, soft music will be playing to help you unwind.
You will probably chat to me for the first 15 minutes of the massage to get a
sense of who I am, at this time you’re taking it all in. Shortly after this,
you will slowly drift off to a state of relaxation that you may not have
experienced before, you may fall asleep, you’ll love it, it’s truly incredible.
How often
should I receive massage therapy?
The
average person can reduce stress and tension by receiving one session per
month. However…if you are suffering from chronic pain due to injury, or if you
are under a lot of stress, you should schedule a session every two weeks. With
that being said, most of my clients see me twice a month.
I have
tension in my neck and shoulders, do I need Deep Tissue? Will it be painful?
If you
have knots and severe tension deep tissue may be necessary, and it may be
slightly uncomfortable at times. Deep Tissue should be performed at a tolerable
level for the client. The therapist will be working on deep muscles and fascia
to free restrictions, and move toxins from the muscle. This helps to remove
knots and specific areas of tension and allows oxygen and circulation to
increase. Working very slowly will reduce reflex responses. The therapist will
always ask if you’re comfortable and you should always tell the therapist if
you experience any pain at all. It is not unusual to feel a bit sore following
the massage. It is imperative that you
stretch and drink plenty of water while the muscle is rebuilding. Some clients
say, “It’s a good hurt,” 1-10, and 10 being pain; I will be working
at 8-9.
I am self
conscious
Please do
not bring any worries to the table, you will not be judged by me. I do not care
if you are overweight, gained ten pounds, forgot to shave, snore, did not wear
make-up, I have heard it all. My concern
is for your health and well being, be who you are.
Feel
free to email me with any other questions.
LINKS to
more information about Massage Therapy
http://psychologytoday.webmd.com/content/article/49/40050.htm?pagenumber=1