In this segment of A Word From The Pros, we had an interview with professional massage therapist and business owner, Kim Stolar. We asked the questions and she had the answers.
What made you want to pursue massage therapy?I was thinking of my future and I always knew I wanted to have my own business. I loved getting massages and the way I felt after I had one. I also wanted to be able to set my own hours (thinking ahead to when I had kids - I have 2 now). Turned out to be a prefect fit for me! I had worked as a Project Manager/Trainer with a Masters Degree in Human Resources. One month before I had my first child, I was laid off due to lack of work. Thank goodness I had already planned ahead and had completed my massage therapy program! I am so much happier now!
For people who have never had a massage, what are some of the benefits? There are so many benefits; Stress relief and relaxation can help with so many ailments. I work with many people that have back/neck/shoulder pain from their jobs and daily activities. Massage can help with pain, stiffness, sports related injuries, increase circulation, help manage anxiety and depression. The list goes on. Most of my first time clients that have not had a massage before say - I can't believe I waited so long to have a massage, I now understand the benefits, when can I make my next appointment!
What are some of the elements that make a great massage? Every massage is customized for each individual. A great massage is one in which the client feels relaxed and comfortable in a setting that is quiet, calming and professional. At the beginning of each massage the therapist should ask about any new ailments, how the client felt after their last massage and any changes in health. This helps the therapist determine what modalities will be used during the massage. Modalities are different types/styles of massage we use. Listening to the client and working with them to reach the outcomes they want are what make a great massage.
What should you look for when choosing a massage therapist? Credentials are important to know that the therapist has completed the appropriate training and licensing necessary. In Livonia, a therapist has to be licensed through the City Council which includes a background check. Michigan has passed a law for state licensing, however it has not gone into effect yet.
You can also look at websites such as Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals www.ABMP.com and www.MassageTherapy.com for referrals in your area. The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) is one of the leading Massage Therapy certifications - www.NCBTMB.com you can find nationally certified therapists in your area on this site - http://www.ncbtmb.org/consumers_find_practitioner.php
Call and talk with the massage therapist ask questions about your situation and how they will work with you.
What are some common ailments that massage therapy can help with? Back/Neck/Shoulder pain are among the most common ailments I see every day. With most people sitting at a computer all day for work, then driving home in traffic its no wonder that these are the most common ailments today. A therapeutic massage can help relax the muscles and reduce headaches and back aches. I use heat and cold in a massage along with stretching to help the muscles relax and I highly suggest that stretching is continued at home between massages.
Where did you learn massage therapy and how was your experience? I went to Michigan School of Myomassology, which now only offers continuing education to therapists. I absolutely loved going to school. The teachers were great and my class was a lot of fun. It was a wonderful learning experience and I have gone back there for continuing education classes.
What style of massage is your favorite and why? I do mostly therapeutic massage. The difference between relaxation (Swedish) massage and therapeutic massage is that a relaxation massage uses mostly light to medium pressure and it is just to relax. Therapeutic Massage is more outcome based and uses advanced techniques such as deep tissue massage, stretching and trigger point therapy to help reduce the pain and chronic issues.
Any additional comments or points: As a Wife, Mom of 2 wonderful and energetic kids 6 and 8 years old, and a small business owner, I understand the aches and pains of daily life. I also understand how hard it can be to take the time for yourself. Massage is considered a luxury by some, but the benefits are becoming more and more necessary. Massage is a great way to prevent aches and pains from becoming a chronic disorder. Your body will thank you and your family with thank you for getting a massage and feeling better. You will be less stressed and able to enjoy your life more. So schedule your massage today!
Info about you, your business ect. :
CompleteCare Therapeutic Massage, llc.
37799 Professional Center Dr. #107
Livonia, MI 48154
www.CompleteCareMassage.com you can book an appointment and purchase gift certificates on the website.
(734) 945-4567
Kim Stolar, Nationally Certified Massage Therapist/Owner
2002 graduate of Michigan School of Myomassology, a Nationally accredited and State Licensed School of Medical and Therapeutic Massage, 650 hour program. National Certification through the NCBTMB - National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork. Kim has been practicing and licensed in Livonia since 2004.
Kim provides a well rounded array of massage techniques to help combat the daily stresses of work and life. She provides pain relief and stress reduction through customized massage. She loves doing massage as a profession and believes in empowering her clients to take charge of their own health and well-being.
The type of work Kim is most passionate about is that which remedies chronic back & neck pain more therapeutic of which the effects are felt long after the massage has ended.
Kim is a Certified member of the ABMP
Types of Massage I offer include:
Therapeutic Massage - A relaxing full body massage using traditional strokes, deep tissue, stretching and kneading techniques to increase circulation and improve mobility.
Hot Stone Massage - A soothing, energy balancing, full body Swedish Massage with heated stones. This relaxing massage is great for tight muscles and releasing stress and tension.
Pre-Natal Massage - Nurturing and relaxing massage for the expecting mother. Helps relieve swelling, low back pain, and other pregnancy discomforts. Great for baby too!
I also offer Therapeutic Spa Treatments and work them into a therapeutic massage for maximum relaxation and pampering.
Spa treatments include:
Exfoliation (salt or sugar) - which is good for removing dead skin cells and opening up pores.
Mud wraps - aid in the detoxification, remineralization and rejuvenation of the skin and body.
Seaweed Body Mud - improves remineralization and circulation - great for firming, toning and detoxifying.
Black Body Mud - used for purification - detoxifying, cleansing and clarifying.
Rose Clay Body Mud - moisturizing and refining - hydrating and soothing.

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