At Ritual Self Care, I value non-toxic options for everyone, and consciously curate the product selection with the health of you and the earth in mind. I also strive to provide the safest possible environment for people living with cancer, and offer massage as a therapeutic intervention that benefits many of the side effects of cancer and its treatment.
I completed a 300-hour oncology massage certification through the Peregrine Institute of Oncology Massage Training in 2011. Incorporating both Eastern and Western perspectives, the coursework is designed to give practitioners a high level of knowledge and hands-on skill in order to safely support those with a history of cancer.
I am a member of the Society for Oncology Massage and also has a certification in oncology skin care. I have extensive experience adapting my massage and facial sessions to work safely with each individual, whatever his or her current health status.
Here’s a Q + A to better understand oncology massage and skin care and the benefits to those living with cancer.
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Q: What is oncology massage and why is it important for patients to seek services with practitioners trained in it?
A: Oncology massage uses traditional massage therapy techniques safely adapted to accommodate the needs of each individual living with cancer and the side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.
Many cancer related conditions require important adjustments to be made for the client’s comfort and/or safety. A therapist trained in oncology massage knows which questions to ask to determine the particular adjustments needed for each individual based and their unique health situation.
Q: Who benefits from oncology massage?
A: Anyone who has ever received treatment for cancer, no matter the stage.
Q: What kind of changes do your clients notice?
A: Some of the general benefits people experience are deep relaxation, reduced stress, improved sleep, less nausea, increased alertness and mental clarity, reduced anxiety and less pain.
Following surgery benefits include an easier recovery from anesthesia, less post-surgical pain, reduced swelling, improved range of motion and an easier time adjusting to implants and expanders. Following radiation or chemotherapy some benefits are reduced post-treatment fatigue, improved appetite and improved peripheral neuropathy.
Some of the emotional benefits include decreased anxiety and depression, increased feelings of well-being and satisfaction in actively taking part in the healing process.
Q: Why is oncology skin care important and what products do you carry that could benefit someone living with cancer?
A: The skin is one of our first lines of defense and detoxification and goes through many changes when radiation and chemotherapy are part of treatment. Some common skin reactions are rashes, dry, itchy skin, increased sun burns and hyperpigmentation. Many times toxic products are recommended to treat these conditions.
My oncology facials focus on soothing and rejuvenating the skin and relaxing the mind and body. At RSC you will be nourished with safe products and rituals, and you will be guided away from toxic products that may further harm the balance in your body. I make sure all of the products at the spa are safe for people living with cancer. **************************************************************************************************
Learn more about oncology massage by reading what people affected by cancer have to say about their experience, what the medical community has said, and what oncology-trained massage therapists say about the benefits of their expertise.