Making Massage Education Eco-Friendly

The McKinnon Institute of Massage in Oakland, California, has recently been certified by the Bay Area Green Business Program as one of the first massage schools in the area to make a commitment to sustainable, healthy practices.

Selena Lee, Director of the McKinnon Institute, explains that "a holistic approach includes the environment, the people, their happiness, and so much more." She adds, "I believe a green environment is the foundation to a healing center. As an institution which teaches and promotes healthy practices for our students, I feel it is important to also follow business practices that are healthy for the environment and the surrounding community." These values sparked her interest in the green-business movement.

Being certified by the Green Business Program means conservation of water and energy, as well as the reduction of solid waste and pollution. McKinnon Institute is a model green workplace that utilizes natural and energy-efficient lighting; ceiling fans instead of air-conditioning; low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paints; wool-blend, low-VOC carpeting; and washable linens—all while supporting local businesses and in-house craftspeople.

"Here at the massage school," Lee explains, "people are able to witness the shift energetically and aesthetically." Students, teachers and clients alike have expressed appreciation for the healing and calming atmosphere of the renovated building, she adds.

According to Lee, health and the environment are interconnected. "In terms of health care, I don't see how the two can be separate."

—Doug Blanc, CMT, is an instructor at the McKinnon Institute of Massage in Oakland, California (www.mckinnonmassage.com).