Over the past twenty years the massage therapy profession has grown and changed rapidly, moved into a more cooperative and integrative position with traditional medical care. Certifications and licensure have aided in quality assurance by maintaining standards and requiring continuing education for massage therapist. But under the more overt changes a sea change has swelled and is increasingly affecting the field in its relation to the environment.
The suppliers of products for massage therapists' use have responded to this quiet revolution by providing ever-increasing variety in massage products: massage lotions, oils and creams are now available in natural, unscented and organic forms, often with the addition of anti-oxidant or homeopathic essential oils. Organic cotton massage table linens are available. Some massage therapists choose to line dry (a great use of solar energy!) their massage linens, utilizing the sterilizing effects of the sun, rather than Tools from natural sources are used increasingly such as natural basalt stone for hot stone therapy, and basalt or rosewood tools for Mu-xing or bamboo massage.
Even massage tables made from sustainably produced wood and upholstery materials that do not outgas or create damaging byproducts in their production are now available.
Although the massage room environment has often become more in line with mainstream health care, we do continue to use re-usable linens rather than paper disposables. Some massage therapists do still use candles in their spaces, but increasingly these are soy candles, which have lass of an environmental impact than the old petroleum-based ones, and which are less likely to negatively affect clients.
Massage is by its very nature low tech and high touch. Most therapists do not use vibrating electrical massage tools, though there are requirements for the use of electricity to heat packs, cool cold packs, and heat stone, bamboo or rosewood implements, but the use is not high. Low light is the rule rather than the exception, unlike most brightly lit medical offices - another reduction in energy demand.
Many massage therapists have offices within walking distance or on public transportation lines, which can minimize the gas cost to clients; others may be further afield in day spa, destination spa, or other locations. Almost all massage therapists will recommend simple stretching and strengthening exercises to clients which can be done in their own homes with minimal or no equipment.
Those seeking to be part of a profession that has minimal damaging effects on the environment might do well to consider massage therapy as a rewarding and environmentally conscious occupation.
The author, Victoria Jordan Stone is a nationally and state certified massage therapist and co-owner and primary instructor at Blue Ridge School of Massage & Yoga in Blacksburg, VA. See www.blueridgemassage.org
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