What is Natural Health Massage?

Want to learn more about natural health massage? Interested in helping clients relax through massage and earth-friendly massage products? The Massage and Natural Health Associate of Applied Science degree program at Gwinnett College is a comprehensive program that meets the requirements of the American Massage Therapy Association.

Who is the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA)?

The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) is the largest non-profit, professional association serving massage therapists, massage students and massage schools. It is the most trusted and respected name in massage therapy.

What is Natural Health Massage?

During the massage, only natural products are used to alleviate different conditions through various massage techniques.

What are Natural Products?

A natural product is a chemical compound or substance produced by a living organism that is found in nature.

What are the Benefits of Natural Products?

#1 Earth-Friendly – Natural products are greener for the planet and biodegradable.

#2 Avoid Irritation – Natural products don’t have toxins or irritants that may be harmful to the body.

#3 No Strange Side Effects – Parabens are used in conventionally produced health and beauty products as a preservative to extend the shelf life of products. Parabens are synthetic and mimic a body’s natural hormones and may alter the function of the body’s endocrine system.

What are the Different Conditions that Natural Health Massage Can Help?

Natural Health Massage can be helpful in treating different conditions including:

  • Fibromyalgia – a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas of the body.
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – a painful condition of the hand and fingers caused by compression of a major nerve where it passes over the carpal bones through a passage at the front of the rest, alongside the flexor tendons of the hand caused by repetitive movements over a long period.
  • Tennis Elbow – Only a small amount of those with Tennis Elbow got it from playing Tennis. Tennis Elbow is the inflammation of the tendons of the elbow caused by overuse of the muscles of the forearm.
  • Migraines – a recurrent throbbing headache that typically affects one side of the head and is often accompanied by nausea and disturbed vision.
  • Osteoarthritis – degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone, most common from middle age onward. Osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness in the hip, knee, and thumb joints.
  • Lower Back Pain – caused by injury to a muscle or ligament in the back. Common causes include improper lifting, poor posture, lack of regular exercise, facture, ruptured disk, or arthritis.
  • Sciatica – pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, which runs down one or both legs from the lower back.

With proper training in natural massage therapy, a massage therapist can help alleviate the pain from these types of conditions. If you have one of these conditions, visit your local doctor before engaging in natural massage therapy.

What Will I Learn During the Massage and Natural Health Associate of Applied Science degree program?

Gwinnett College students will learn various massage techniques during the Massage and Natural Health Associate of Applied Science degree program. The techniques include:

  • Neuromuscular Therapy – a specialized form of deep tissue massage where pressure and friction are used to release areas of strain in the muscle (or trigger points).
  • Chair Massage – a short massage that focuses on the high-tension areas of the neck, back, shoulders, arms & hands.
  • Reflexology – a system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body.
  • Aromatherapy – the use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils in massage.
  • Sports Massage – used to treat injuries, maintain optimal conditioning and offer preventative care for athletes.
  • Fascial Release – applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.
  • Oriental Medicine – use of herbal medicines and various mind and body practices, including acupuncture and tai chi, to treat or prevent health problems.

What does a Natural Massage Therapist do on a Day-to-Day Basis?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Natural massage therapists treat clients by using touch to manipulate the muscles and other soft tissues of the body. With their touch, natural massage therapists relieve pain, help heal injuries, improve circulation, relieve stress, increase relaxation, and aid in the general wellness of clients. Natural massage therapists typically do the following:

  • Talk with clients about their symptoms, medical history, and desired results
  • Evaluate clients to locate painful or tense areas of the body
  • Manipulate muscles and other soft tissues of the body
  • Provide clients with guidance on stretching, strengthening, overall relaxation, and how to improve their posture
  • Document clients’ conditions and progress

Learn more about  helping people relax through natural massage therapy and the Natural Health Massage Program at Gwinnett College’s Sandy Springs campus? Upon graduation, Gwinnett College students will receive an Associate of Applied Science degree in Massage and Natural Health.  Graduates will be qualified to seek entry-level positions as clinical, medical, sports, or deep tissue massage therapists in wellness clinics and centers, spa environments including resorts and franchises, and self-employment.