MISSION:
Manhattan Moon Therapeutic Massage provides goal-oriented, client-focused massage therapy.  We believe your body holds the innate wisdom to heal.  Our services provide a unique approach to accessing this inner wisdom.  Your wellness goals are our priority.

LOCATIONS:
Manhattan Moon Therapeutic Massage services are available at all NY Fitness club locations.  We are currently serving the following locations:

1139 Quentin Road Lebanon, PA 17042   Mondays and Tuesdays  (717) 270-7220

36 N. Londonderry Square  Palmyra, PA 17078  Wednesdays and Thursdays  (717) 832-3232

SERVICES:
All therapists are professionally trained and educated to provide these services.

Relaxation/Wellness Massage:
A rhythmic, flowing massage to release tension, detoxify, relax and energize.  This is the choice for stress reduction!

Deep Tissue Massage:
A variety of techniques targeting deep muscles to affect a change in the core or “webbing of tissue and muscle that holds us together and allows us to move.  Deep tissue massage is a very effective method to release muscle spasms and free connective tissue.

Pain & Injury Massage
This therapy focuses on a specific chronic pain issue or soft tissue injury.  For example: car accident pain, repetitive stress pain, carpal tunnel, migraines, sciatica, knee pain, plantar fascists, post surgery and post injury healing. Treatment will be based on the individual’s specific needs and health history. 

On-Site Chair Massage
You are seated on a specially designed chair in a forward leaning position. The chair supports your upper body and head.  You are fully clothed and no oils or lotions are used.  Time is usually 10-20 minutes per person.    Head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs can be massaged in the chair.  The therapist will tailor the massage to your needs and address your specific concerns!

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SPECIALTIES:
Specialties are therapist specific.  Please request this at the time you make your appointment.

Shiatsu.
Shiatsu is Japanese and means pressure (atau) with fingers (shi).  This method of bodywork uses thumb, finger or palm pressure to activate specific points on the body called meridians.  This pressure opens the energy pathways of the human body, increasing energy (chi) and balancing the body’s systems supporting the body’s natural healing ability.

Pre-natal Massage
A specially trained therapist caters to the needs of the expecting mother.  This massage is nurturing and calming and can help relieve low back pain and other discomforts associated with pregnancy.

Energy Healing
Based on the ancient wisdom traditions of hands on healing, Energywork supports the mind body connection.  Connecting with the client’s bio-energetic field, Energywork harmonizes the flow of the subtle energy system promoting physical, mental and emotional balance.  This work can complement and support medical care as well as provide a complete system for self-care and self-help.

Integrated Massage
A combination of Swedish, Deep Tissue and EnergyWork to balance and support healing on all levels: mind, body & spirit.

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FEES:

Chair Massage:  $1/minute

Table Massage:        

Half Hour - $35

One Hour - $55

One and a Half Hour - $80

POLICIES:

Session length.

Ø      Half hour sessions = 25-30 minutes. 

Ø      Hour sessions = 50-60 minutes

Ø      One and a half hour sessions = 80-90 minutes.

Payment.

Ø      Payment is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made prior to treatment.

Ø      Cash and checks are accepted.  A fee commensurate with the bank rates will be charged for checks returned for insufficient funds

Ø      Direct insurance billing is NOT provided; however, each therapist can provide an invoice and appropriate charting notes.

Appointments.

Ø      If a client is late for a treatment session, the session still falls within the 60-minute allotted time slot.

Ø      If the therapist is late, the session lasts the full 60 minutes or the treatment rate is discounted.

Ø      A 24 hour notice is required for cancellations.  If you cancel with less than 24 hours notice and the  appointment cannot be filled, you will be charge for the full amount of the session.  If you receive the answering machine when you call, ensure that you state the date and time of your call. 

Ø      Emergency cancellations are not charged at the therapist’s discretion

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THERAPISTS:
Manhattan Moon massage therapists are dedicated to supporting your health and wellness goals.  We believe that massage can improve your quality of life giving you freedom from pain and increasing your energy and feeling of well being.  Each therapist works within his/her scope of practice, jointly establishing your personal goals, sharing information and giving you tools to help maintain your fitness levels. 

We are currently looking for self-responsible, motivated massage therapists.  If you are interested in becoming part of this up and coming team, please send a resume to Bobbi Thompson at imhawk03@verizon.net.

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FAQS ABOUT MASSAGE THERAPY

Reference:  www.amtamassage.org

Bobbi Thompson, 2007

Why should I get a massage? Touch Therapy (massage) and Energy Therapy offer drug-free, non-invasive approaches to therapeutic care supporting the body’s natural ability to heal itself.  

Isn’t massage therapy just for relaxation? No. Massage therapy offers many benefits to support your personal goals.

Health: 

::   Reduces pain,

::    Improves your immune system

::    Improves sleep        

::    Increases circulation,

::    Relieves migraines

Wellness: 

::    Increases relaxation

::    Decrease stress

::    Reduces anxiety level

Fitness: 

::    Reduces delayed muscle soreness

::    Helps improve flexibility

::    Supports muscle growth

::    Supports muscle tone

::    Reduces recovery time from strenuous workouts

Injury: 

::     Heal faster from acute injuries such as strains and sprains

::     Alleviate chronic pain associated with old injuries

::     Decrease scar tissue

::     Increase range of motion

::     Reduces spasms and cramping.

::     Releases endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers

::     Realigns scar tissue after healing has occurred

How do I know my massage therapist is professionally trained?

1.  Credentials  Because PA does not currently require massage therapists to be licensed, you will need to look for a certified or a nationally certified massage therapist.

2.  Professional membership. 

Massage therapists must possess a specific level of education to belong to a professional organization.  Look for membership in such organizations as: 

The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) www.ncbtmb.com

The American Massage Association (AMTA) www.amtamassage.com

The Association of Massage and Bodywork Professionals (ABMP) www.abmp.com

What is the difference between a licensed, a nationally certified and a certified massage therapist?

A licensed massage therapist is recognized by their state as a health professional.  The massage therapist must meet the state’s criteria for practicing massage therapy. 

A nationally certified massage therapist has completed a minimum of 500 hours of training AND passed an exam recognized as the national standard for practicing massage therapy.

A certified massage therapist has completed at least 500 hours of massage therapy education.

PA does not currently require a license to practice massage therapy.  You should look for a therapist who is “certified” and/or “nationally certified.”

Does massage hurt?

Healthy tissue is not painful to the touch.  Tight, injured and tense tissue will be more sensitive.  Massage will help this tissue return to a healthy state.

What will happen during the session?

During the first session, you will complete an intake form and provide your medical history.

The therapist will review your forms, discuss your goals for the therapy and offer guidance relative to your goals and medical history.

The therapist will explain how the session will be conducted and the boundaries in the healing space.

Will someone else see my body?

Your massage will be in an appropriate setting and your personal privacy will be honored at all times.

Your body will be properly covered (draped) .  Only the area being worked on will be exposed.

Will I have to get undressed?

You do not have to get undressed for certain types of massage.  For example, during chair massage you are seated in a specially designed chair and remain fully clothed.  No special oils or lotions are used. 

During a traditional Swedish massage, you will undress to your level of comfort.  Underwear can remain on or off.  Women will need to remove their bra. 

What parts of my body will be massaged?

A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck and shoulders.  You will NOT be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).

What if I don’t want certain parts of my body to be touched (feet, face)? 

Your massage therapist will discuss your requests and adjust the massage accordingly

Why do I have to complete a medical health history?

Massage therapy may be contraindicated for some health conditions.  Medications can also affect the massage.

Does massage have side effects?

Yes, you may experience temporary pain or discomfort, bruising or swelling.  If the discomfort lasts longer than 2-3 days, the massage was too deep.

If your skin is sensitive, you may react to the cream or oil.  Be sure to tell your therapist if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

How will I feel after the session?

Most people feel very relaxed.

Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.

After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.

Should I do anything special after the session to maximize the benefits of the massage?

Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water following your massage.

Limit alcohol and caffeine for the next 24 hours as these liquids dehydrate the body and create soreness.

What questions should I ask when seeking a massage therapist?

Discuss your goals and your particular concerns.  Your therapist should be able to answer your questions and make you feel comfortable.