LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
Massage 101: So Much More than a Backrub |
There is no shortage of things to do in Rehoboth. Shopping, swimming, and eating are the most popular occupations, but more and more people are discovering the most relaxing way to spend an hour at the beach: a massage. Those who have never had one may not know what to expect, so we here at CAMP have prepared a basic guide to the craft. One of the first questions any massage therapist ever is asked is "Why get one?" Massage is both relaxing and beneficial. It has been shown to improve circulation, enhance awareness, and raise self-esteem. There are countless types of massage, but the most common ones are Swedish and deep tissue. A Swedish massage is the kind that most first timers will get. It features a light, sweeping stroke that is relaxing and superficial. It is designed to improve circulation. Deep tissue massage concentrates more on problem areas the therapist will use their thumb, elbow, and fist to work on the body. It uses much firmer strokes. Other types of massage can also be found at the beach. Shiatsu is a type that concentrates on body positions that maintain and stretch muscles and also promotes energy flow throughout the body, while reflexology concentrates on the feet and palms, which contain nerve endings for virtually every part of the body. Chair massage, generally done in a more public setting while fully clothed, concentrates on the back, shoulders, and face. When receiving a massage, there are several things to expect. The massage therapist will take you to a private room. The room will be dim, and there will most likely be relaxing music or a fountain present. The therapist will generally ask you about any recent aches, pains, and medical conditions as well as any areas you wish to focus on. Then the therapist will leave you to get undressed. For those of you who are squeamish about a stranger seeing you naked, don't worrythey won't. You can leave your underwear on if you wish, and the parts of your body not being worked on will be covered by a drape. Those areas covered by a bathing suit will be avoided. A full body massage will include the following areas: feet, legs, arms, face/scalp, neck, and back. Optional areas are the chest, abdomen, and glutes. A massage will generally take an hour, a half-hour for each side of the body. Pricing varies, depending on duration, type, and where the massage is (at a spa or an in-home visit), but expect to pay sixty to ninety dollars. Tipping ($10 - $20) is appreciated, but not always expected. There are numerous locales at the beach that offer massage therapy. On Baltimore Avenue, Mark Thompson (226-3552) specializes in various types of massage, including Swedish and deep tissue. The Rehoboth Holistic Center (227-5537) features the talents of Kathleen Donelan, Konrad Noebel, Barbara Donelan, and Gerry Hadaway offering Swedish and deep tissue massage, as well as acupuncture. Also on Baltimore Avenue is Rebecca James (226-9685) who works out of the Spa by the Sea and also does in home visits. The Body Shop Fitness Center (226-0920), on the corner of the Boardwalk and Virginia, offers walk-in massages seven days a week. Janice Mann (226-2006) offers Swedish massage, and she works out of Sand in My Shoes. For those who don't want to leave the comforts of home, Bob Mason of Mobile Massage (227-4873) offers individual and couples massage. Jeffrey Socorso (539-0492) will come to where you are, and Judy Nelson (542-9739) also does home visits in the Lewes-Rehoboth area, or you can catch her at Bad Hair Day? (226-1407) where she does theraputic and chair massage. For those in the Lewes area, Jim Barber (227-4183) does home visits. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 10, No. 8, June 30, 2000. |