Many people think of massage as just indulgent “pampering,” but in fact it’s one of the oldest (3,000 years) and most widely used forms of health care around the world.  Over the past few decades its effectiveness has also been demonstrated by hard science: many controlled clinical studies have shown that massage cannot just help people relax & shed stress, but that it can also help mitigate serious health concerns including high blood pressure, fibromyalgia, chronic back pain and depression.  

   This class, taught by a “mature” local licensed massage therapist, (who has become a massage therapist as her retirement career) works extensively with older clients, including dementia and hospice clients.  The class offers a brief introduction to what massage is, how it works physiologically and what it can do for people as they age.

1.  Introduction to Massage.  (March 7) Background information with many examples and anecdotes, handouts, question and answer, as well as specific requests for session 2.

2.  Self-Massage.  (March 9) A literal hands-on participation session where Susan will teach participants simple self- and partner- massage techniques (that can be applied fully-clothed) for various conditions requested by students, with Susan supplementing as necessary.  If you’re able to work on the floor, bring a mat or a blanket for comfort.  If you’re not, chair modifications will be taught.  Wear comfortable loose clothes.