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Terrylynn's Thai Foot Massage Notes
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Terrylynn
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September 9, 2014 - 2:14 am
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MODULE 1

Very excited that I received my Module 1 video.  Unfortunately, there is no way I can get into that 'squat down' position, due to knee surgery (from a serious car accident).  I also have a  broken toe that is mending.  However, I did absorb the much needed teachings about using my body weight, and how to keep the hand-webbing positioned for support to the thumb.  This knowledge is going to save the stress/pain that I have been experiencing while practicing Western Foot Reflexology.  I did practice the web-supported, thumb-walking up the three plantar energy lines and found it much more comfortable, plus gently using my body weight allowed me to achieve good pressure with no strain to my hands and wrists. YES!

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Shama Kern
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September 9, 2014 - 10:45 am
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Hi Terrylynn, welcome to our forum and the Thai Foot Massage course. You can work with the material in whatever way your body allows you to. If one position does not work for you, just skip it or use it on a massage table where you can stand. 

There are so many ways of working with the feet in this course that you will never be able to use it all in one session. Think of all the techniques as options to choose from and not as fixed sequences of moves.

The second part of the course, the Thai Reflexology, will be very easy on your body since you can sit on a stool of chair the entire time.

It seems that you got the forum posting all figured out, but just for your reference you might want to familiarize yourself with our certification checklist:
Certification Checklist

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Terrylynn
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September 10, 2014 - 3:56 am
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Module #2

I watched this video many times and took lots of notes as I went.

Practiced on my partner today, on my massage table.  This was proving difficult to get the correct positioning of his feet while I stood at the end of the table, so I climbed onto the table and proceeded from there :)   (I have a very sturdy, wide table...so no worries! )  Much better.

At first I was clenching my fist too tight to do the knuckles technique and was hurting my hand, so I softened my grip and leaned in more using my body weight, and relaxing my arms. 

I find the counts a very useful tool.  The 1,2,3,2,1 keeps me focused, relaxed and helps with the flow. 

I had to try the forearm technique over and over as the pressure I was using was too much for my partner's middle arch area.  It surprises me how much pressure a little woman like me can now administer with little effort.  Again, once I relaxed and rolled gently into it, with the counts, he said it felt really good.  Success!

P.S. Thank you for your feedback and tips as I go Shama.  Very helpful and appreciated.Smile

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Shama Kern
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September 10, 2014 - 9:23 pm
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Now you know how all those tiny Thai women can work effectively on those much larger foreigners here in Thailand. If you know how to use your body correctly, power won't be an issue. Smile

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September 12, 2014 - 10:49 pm
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Module #3

Re: Your favourite technique, I can see why!  I will be practicing and adding this to my reflexology sessions as a beginning move to my treatments.  It's a wonderful way to introduce my touch, relax the client, and open their energy pathways.  Also, an effective way to say 'hello feet' :)  

I find the client always enjoys having the dorsal massaged.  This is a part of the foot that is often neglected and contains many beneficial acupressure points.  I especially took note of the circling technique.  I always maintained the same pressure and will now alternate this into variable pressure. It feels more flowing when I tried it.  Again, lots of informative nuggets to add to my therapy sessions.  Thank you!Laugh

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Shama Kern
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September 13, 2014 - 12:41 am
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I am really happy to hear that you are finding lots of nuggets! Can't wait to find out what you think once you get to the Thai reflexology part of the course!

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Terrylynn
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September 16, 2014 - 1:25 am
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MODULE#4,

I was not aware of what techniques to incorporate into the prone position.  This module greatly added to my knowledge and introduces me to try something different!  Some clients really like their feet massaged in the prone position.  It seems to make their feet feel more 'weightless', and I add a pillow under their ankles.  Note:  I use a massage table and make what I learn 'my own', and what feels comfortable for me to work  :)   I can't thank you enough for teaching me how to save my hands and wrists.  Can't wait for Module #5!

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Shama Kern
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September 16, 2014 - 12:52 pm
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Making it "your own" is the best way of applying it. I have had my own issues with my hands and wrists, so I had to learn how to work without overusing them. We have to take care of our own health first if we want to last in this profession! Smile

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Terrylynn
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September 17, 2014 - 1:24 am
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MODULE #5

Oh my goodness!  This module opened my eyes to better techniques when doing certain foot stretches/warm-ups, SAFELY.  I know the left foot on a lot of my clients are stiffer and now I understand why, and how to properly work with the issue.  I can't believe how much easier it is to use my body weight and lean into the foot!

I'm rather disappointed that my Western classes never taught this.  No wonder my thumbs and wrists were aching after doing just one treatment.  Now I know better.  Thank you!!

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Shama Kern
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September 18, 2014 - 5:22 pm
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Actually the eastern classes don't always teach so much about ergonomics and proper use of body either. This is just something which I have made a priority in all my work and my teaching.

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Terrylynn
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September 21, 2014 - 8:10 pm
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Module #6

This is a very useful module for me.  Being a foot reflexologist, I come across clients with ankle problems all the time.  I related to the 'popping, cracking' sounds you spoke of.  I was only taught one set of techniques  (ankle rotations) at the Ontario College of Reflexology and did not realize there were so many better alternative that can (and should) be used!

I will have to keep practicing the contraction/traction, compression, expand techniques to get a flow and feel for it.  This will be very valuable and therapeutic to my clients with 'noisy' ankles :)

I loved the 'shaking the foot' and NOT the whole leg lesson! 

I especially appreciated how you demonstrated the moves all together.  I was hoping you would do this.  The visual of this really helped to see how it all flows nicely.

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Shama Kern
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September 22, 2014 - 7:52 pm
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Advanced Thai Foot Massage, as taught in this course, is a very comprehensive therapy system. It is versatile, therapist-friendly, enjoyable for the client and has great therapeutic value. That's why I get a Thai Foot Massage session regularly like clock work! Smile

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Terrylynn
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September 24, 2014 - 3:49 am
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Module #7

I'm pleased to know that you have foot reflexology treatments like 'clockwork' :)   It is so beneficial to body, mind and soles ;)

I am really enjoying and learning so much from your course.  Your videos and explanations are excellent!

I can now cover most reflexology zones using supported knuckle(s) and fists.  This is easier, especially on specific acupressure points instead of constant pressured thumb-walking work.  My favourite word now is 'ergonomics'. Laugh

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Shama Kern
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September 24, 2014 - 12:17 pm
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Thanks for the kudos, Terrylynn. You are right, both Thai Foot Massage and Thai Massage can be a career saver since they are just more easy on your body than western equivalents.

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Terrylynn
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September 25, 2014 - 7:50 am
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Module #8

So much to learn, thank goodness I have your videos to reference back to.  What a bonus!

I am really liking the technique of using the heel of my hands.  (Never knew this before)  What a thumb saver!  I've also lowered my massage table so that the ergonomics are better when leaning in with my body vs. sitting on a stool for most of the treatment.  It adds a whole new dimension.

You are right about communication.  Every foot is as unique as the person's energy.  I have found that men are more prone to sensitivity and the women like lots of pressure.  Although, when I find a tender spot I know which reflex corresponds to what body part. 

I now know how to use my knuckles, forearms, fists etc. and body weight to great advantage for me and the client.  You were correct Shama...I am loving the foot reflexology lessons and blending them for ultimate relaxation and stress relief.

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Shama Kern
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September 25, 2014 - 2:29 pm
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It always makes my day when I find that one of my courses is a good fit for someone and really helps them to improve their work! Smile

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Terrylynn
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September 28, 2014 - 12:54 am
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Module #9

Very comprehensive video and one I was looking forward to!  Western reflexology does not teach or go beyond the ankles, which I think is lacking.  It's the 'icing on the cake' to continue a nice massage up the leg muscles (which are usually in need of circulation or can have energy blockages).

I've not found anyone who does not like their toes being massaged and I will add your thai techniques to my treatments. 

90% of my clients fall asleep.  They apologise for this and I tell them it is a compliment to me and shows I am doing it right :)

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Shama Kern
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September 28, 2014 - 9:48 pm
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This is indeed one of the greatest compliments when the clients fall asleep. Personally I love falling asleep during any kind of massage session. I see it more as somewhat of an altered state since I generally "wake up" refreshed and feeling great, almost like walking on clouds.

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Terrylynn
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September 28, 2014 - 11:38 pm
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FINAL NOTES

This course has been a wonderful learning curve for me.  Not only to enhance my foot reflexology business, but to offer diversified massage techniques that DO NOT strain my thumbs and wrist joints.

I have combined my favourite Thai moves into my practice and I'm receiving very positive feedback!

I'm very impressed, Shama, that you encourage and share your passion with every posting.  I'm almost sorry to end this course as I feel I've connected with a new 'like-minded' friend on the other side of the planet.  Namaste.  Blessings and Be Well ~ Terrylynn

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