Massage therapy can range from a 15-minute relaxation of the body’s pressure points and a breathing exercise to an hour-long Swedish massage or hot stone therapy. A masseuse, on the other hand, would have a full range of equipment at his or her disposal, as well as a thorough knowledge of what each piece of equipment does. There may be compact items or items that are only found in a salon or wellness centre. A masseuse’s tools would normally fall into one of the following categories:
1. Aromatherapy – The use of natural oils, absolute oils, and hydrosols to add peace and order to one’s life is known as aromatherapy. By relaxing and soothing the body and mind, these products improve the massage experience. There is a range of items to pick from, including:
- Essential oils – Oils derived from a variety of plant parts.
- Critical oil blends – Oils that have been mixed together to produce an aromatic scent or for medicinal purposes.
- Aromatherapy candles – Scented candles used for aromatherapy.
- Ears candles – Silk and wax candles that are ignited and placed into the ears to remove ear wax and other impurities.
- Incense – An aromatic smoke created by burning a mixture of plant or animal aromas and essential oils that have been pressed into powder or sticks.
- Natural herbs – Derived from plants and plant products, natural herbs are infused or extracted with essential oils and used as massage therapy aids.
- Remedy oils – Natural oils used in massage therapy as medical aids.
- Diffusers for aromatherapy – A device for dispersing essential oils in the air inside a room or a semi-confined area.
2. Massage tables, Seats, OR Pads – Massages are done on compact or fixed tables and chairs (including reflexology chairs). If needed, portable Thai mats may also be used. Thai massages are the best type of massages.
3. Music – Music is used to improve the massage experience by relaxing and stimulating the senses as well as the mind.
4. Books – Used to provide a masseuse with useful guidance about procedures as well as to provide answers to clients’ inquiries. It is suggested that you create a book library for all purposes.
5. Videos – Used to give useful educational information to a massage as well as act as visual aids to refresh techniques.
6. Lubricants – Massage lubricants come in a number of types, from oils, lotions, and creams, to name a few. Oils usually have more glide, whereas lotions and creams have more friction.
Look for organic, raw products with as few additives as possible, in addition to consistency. Water-based lubricants are easier to strip from your linens.
If you use a lubricant that contains nut oils or other allergens, you may want to have a simple lubricant on hand for clients who have allergies. (Think of your own allergies and sensitivities as well; as a nurse, you’ll be in touch with your lubricants for several hours.)
7. Heat and cold therapies – Hot and cold therapy massage relief is offered by the therapies and their items. There is a range of items to pick from, including:
- Freezable or microwaveable packs – Freezable or microwaveable packs that can be used on different areas of the body for specific therapy relaxation, with or without a massage.
- Moist heat products – These are heating pads or pillows that use moisture from the air to offer hot therapy relief.
- Items for hot stone massage – Stones and devices used to ease muscle aches and pains. This is achieved by putting warm stones on a towel and applying them to various parts of the body.
