It's very difficult to write a collection of stories from massage therapists without including the very annoying innuendos and inappropriate behaviours of some clients. However, it's not all, "Do you do happy endings?" and "How much do you charge for extras?" Collecting these stories was the most incredible fun; I have never laughed so hard listening to the true stories that therapists have shared with me. The purpose of this book is to bring a spark of joy and sense of unity to massage therapists, so we can all share a laugh about some of the hilarious things that can happen in this industry. Every massage therapist has at least one funny, cringey or awkward story to tell. There are the moaners and groaners. The rudest and the crudest. The growers, the show-ers. The clueless, mannerless, dirtiest and flirtiest. There are stories that will make you blush, giggle, smile or sigh. In here, we have them all. Welcome to the crazy world of massage therapy. Every story in this book really happened!

*Highly Commended in the Popular Medicine category at the 2012 British Medical Association Book Awards* The simple sensation of touching someone's hand can have a powerful therapeutic effect. Hand massage is a positive and meaningful way of reaching out and providing comfort to those who are elderly, ill or nearing the end of life, and it can be particularly effective for people with dementia who may respond well to positive non-verbal interaction. This book offers inspiration for all caregivers looking for an alternative way to support and connect with a family member, friend or patient in their care. It teaches an easy 30 minute hand massage sequence and offers clear instructions and detailed illustrations to guide the reader through each step. Combining light massage strokes with focused awareness, and paying close attention to points on energy pathways, this book introduces a structured way of sharing touch that is grounded in Western and Eastern massage traditions. Gentle touch therapy is ideal for healthcare professionals and family members alike, and has been shown to have physical and emotional benefits for both the giver and the receiver.

Massage techniques are widely and effectively used in treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) to address sensory issues, motor problems and touch receptivity. However, the variety of different styles of massage available often leaves parents baffled and unsure about which touch therapy treatment is best for their child. This practical guide explains how massage works, how the body senses touch, and how touch therapy can benefit children with ASDs. The book goes on to describe exactly what each type of massage entails and covers anatomy-oriented massages, energy-based massages and therapeutic bodywork, helping readers to tell Reiki from reflexology, a Swedish from a sports massage, or tuina from a Thai massage. With recommendations for selecting the right style of massage, advice on locating a practitioner, and tips on preparing a child with an ASD for massage, this book is the perfect resource to find a therapy - or combination of therapies - to suit the individual needs of each child. This book will be essential reading for all parents and caregivers interested in the benefits of therapeutic massage and bodywork for children and adolescents with ASDs, and practitioners looking at alternatives for therapeutic intervention.

The books in this bite-sized new series contain no complicated techniques or tricky materials, making them ideal for the busy, the time-pressured or the merely curious. Baby Massage is a short, simple and to-the-point guide to learning basic massage techniques for your baby in a few short steps. Even if they are completely new to massage, in just 96 pages readers will discover how to master the essential movements and some simple routines to help them bond with their baby. ENHANCE YOUR CHILD'S WELLBEING BOOST YOUR BABY'S DEVELOPMENT FORM A CLOSER BOND HAVE FUN WITH YOUR BABY SPEND SPECIAL TIME TOGETHER