Asian Bodywork Therapy
Ancient Techniques Thrive as a Modern-Day Specialty
In the world of Asian bodywork, energy, or chi, is key. Manipulation of the body’s energy channels—acupoints and meridians—can affect all cells, tissues and organs of the body, and the associated signs and symptoms that result from deviation or distortion of the normal energy flow. Acupressure, shiatsu, Chi Nei Tsang, AMMA Therapy and Tuina are just a few of the popular hands-on techniques rooted in Chinese medicine traditions.

by Debra C. Howard, Yolanda Asher and Deborah Valentine Smith

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The Spa Experience
Growth and Opportunity for Massage Therapists
The destination spas of the ‘70s and early ‘80s paved the way for the rapid growth of resort spas in the ‘80s and ‘90s. What does this mean for massage therapists? 

by Francis X. Acunzo

ONLINE Exclusives

• All in the Family
• California Regulation Moves Forward
• Ecotherapy Resources

NEWS

• National Massage Week Promotes Touch Therapies
• The Chicago White Sox’s Massage Therapist
• A Sanctuary of Healing
• 2007 Humanitarian MT Named

Myofascial Rebounding:
The John F. Barnes Myofascial Release Approach, Part Three
This exclusive three-part series by the master of myofascial release explores the history of myofascial release, myofascial unwinding and myofascial rebounding.

by John F. Barnes, P.T.

Practice Building
Referral Power

by Susanne Runion

Sweet Slumber:
How High-Quality Sleep Enables You to Lead a High-Quality Life
As a practitioner of healing touch, you likely know the importance of certain factors, such as diet, exercise, relaxation and stretching, to overall health and happiness. There is one key element of health, however, that people often overlook: sleep.

by Brandi Schlossberg

Flexible Fascia:
How Active Isolated Stretching Combats Restricted Range of Motion 
Renowned massage expert Aaron L. Mattes shares information about his Active Isolated Stretching (AIS) technique, which relieves pain and improves everyday performance. AIS is a component of the Mattes Method, a myofascial technique that promotes functional and physiological restoration of muscles, tendons, vertebrae, ligaments and joints.

by Aaron L. Mattes

EXPERT ADVICE
Why is it  important for massage therapists to understand anatomy?

Tom Meyers Responds

RESEARCH REPORTS

• Aromatherapy Massage an Effective Treatment for Menopausal Symptoms
• Traditional Thai Massage Beneficial for Patients with Low-Back Pain

Spa Massage News

• Mobile Medical Spas Offer Treatments To Go
• Spa Cruises Set Sail
• ISPA Releases New Spa-Industry Data
• How does today’s spa guest differ from the spa guest of 10 years ago?

BE WELL

• Feeling Blue? Turn to Nature
  ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Ecotherapy Resources
• Happy Feet
• Foods that Defeat Fatigue and Increase Concentration

BODY & SPA
The Spa Experience
Growth and Opportunity for Massage Therapists
by Francis X. Acunzo