For Clients That Can't Relax

[ELF]

Greetings All,

When I encounter a client that has a difficult time relaxing, I put them to work! I'll have them move a llimb as I'm working on the muscle.

For example:
While the client in prone - I have them bend the knee so that the sole of the foot is toward the ceiling. I instruct them to slowly lower their foot - while I strip the hamstrings. By having the client active I can use both of my hands on the muscle group.

It works like a charm!

 

[Prada? Count me in!!]

Excellent Job!

Yes. I've been doing that for years. If a client starts to 'help' me by moving their body part when I start massaging, I don't say "relax", they don't know how to do that. So, I do what you did, I give them resistance and ask them to push or pull, and then I also have them move as I massage them, especially the legs and arms. It's so cool because they do half my job for me and they get more out of the massage. And, they finally are able to naturally relax on their own when their muscles get tired.

 

[daphne o]

That's a good idea for a client who needs something specific from a session, but what kind of advice for a client who only wants swedish massage, and does not want to talk during the treatment?
Mostly I just adjust the way I work the limb, like for example I will let it lie flat and comfortable and use lots of connecting strokes and passively stretch the limb by gently pulling on it. Any other ideas?

 

[Parker : )]

In this situation I gently guide the clients arm into the most relaxed position possible. You can also ask the client to take a deep breath and as they exhale focus on letting the arm, leg or whatever go. I hope this helps!

 

[mimi]

relaxing clt

Iv also notice that when I have their arm in the 90 degree angle when Im working their hand, on the pinky finger at the first carpal joint I will press and hold. this usualy will release the arm or so they think they need to relax. just a thought