Is it safe to get a massage during the first trimester??

I've worked at many reputable spas and with many competent and highly trained massage professionals throughout my 10-year career plus training in massage therapy. Yet year after year I've witnessed the same apprehension from therapists to massage pregnant women in their first trimester. For many spas, it is in fact their policy to hold off on providing any bodywork services to pregnant women during those first twelve weeks of gestation feeding into the myth that massage is dangerous or should be contra-indicated during the early phase of gestation while really these establishments instill this policy for liability purposes only.*

While many NYS licensed therapists I've worked with are highly knowledgeable in the anatomy and physiology of the human body, not much attention to the proper positioning and draping (draping is the fine art of keeping a clients private areas private with a sheet and/or towel during a massage) of the pregnant body is given in the average New York City massage school curriculum helping to foster the apprehensive attitudes commonly seen in massage therapists regarding pre-natal massage.

The truth is massage during each and every stage of a normal and healthy pregnancy by a certified pre-natal massage therapist can do wonders for you and your unborn baby! Studies have shown pregnancy massage can help:

~relieve depression, anxiety, and nervousness caused by hormonal changes

~increase blood and lymph circulation, which helps to reduce swelling and improves the oxygen supply to the baby

~relieve muscle discomfort such as cramping, tightening, stiffness, and knots

~reduce pain and encourage relaxation, which can facilitate labor

~improve muscle and skin tone

~provide emotional support through nurturing touch

~relieve insomnia

~relieve stress on weight-bearing joints such as lower back, pelvis, and ankles

~deeply soothe and relax

~alleviate neck, shoulder, and back pain caused by muscle imbalance

Many women in these studies showed lower rates of premature birth, fewer obstetrical problems, a reduction of stress hormones and their babies had a lower rate of postnatal complications. Benefits were seen after just 20 minutes of massage twice a week for five weeks according to the University of Miami, School of Medicine.

However there are reasons women SHOULD avoid massage during pregnancy until they obtain their physician's approval, and they are:

~Any high-risk pregnancy
~Early labor
~Heavy discharge (bloody or watery)
~Gestational diabetes
~Unusual pain
~Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia
~High blood pressure
~Morning sickness
~Infectious disease
~Fever
~Diarrhea
~Threatened miscarriage
~Placental dysfunction
~Thrombophlebitis
~Skin irritation and/or discharge
~Vomiting

As an expectant mother myself during my massage training at The Swedish Institute in New York in 2000, I was fortunate to gain the knowledge, confidence and "intuitive touch" to work with pregnant women throughout their ENTIRE pregnancy** because of my own personal experience of receiving pre-natal massage under the watchful eyes of my teachers.

I pursued further training in the area of pre-natal and post-natal massage obtaining certification in the specialization after five days of learning all things pertinent to working with and massaging the pregnant body. That included learning proper positioning of the pregnant body, what areas of the pregnant body to avoid (i.e. pelvic/abdominal area in the 1st trimester), how to prevent stretch marks and the common discomforts, conditions and diseases associated with pregnancy. I was in fact donned the "pre-natal queen" at an upscale women-only day spa I worked at because of the high number of personal requests I got from their pregnant clients.

If you are newly pregnant and considering getting a professional massage, be sure to seek out a certified pre-natal massage therapist in your area who has experience working with women in their first trimester. Your doctor or mid-wife, your local online parenting community or yahoo group and The American Association of Massage Therapy website can all be great sources of information on qualified therapists in your area. If regular professional massages are outside of your time and budget, consider attending a one-time partner massage workshop, booking a private partner massage session or view an online video.

You can visit my website at www.zensoulspa.com for more information on pre-natal massage, partner massage and e-videos(coming soon). "Like" me on Facebook - "Soho Massage & Acupuncture" for promotions and specials.
Until then have a happy and healthy pregnancy!

Regine Rousseau is a NYS licensed massage therapist and acupuncturist, certified in pre-natal and post-natal massage and Reiki. She specializes in pain relief, regularly treating back, neck, shoulder pain and sciatica. Her office is in Soho, NY.



*Almost 90 percent of miscarriages occur within the first eight weeks in which most can't be avoided. Half are due to the embryo being abnormal and not viable or able to sustain life.
**provided they are healthy and/or have clearance from their doctors.

Back in SOHO providing massage and LOVING IT!!

As a new therapist in 2002, I made a mark for myself in Soho at the most wonderful spa for women in Manhattan - Soho Sanctuary. I made lasting connections with fellow therapists and the spa staff - all of whom I hold a dear spot in my heart for (my former manager and a few former co-workers are currently my clients). I also had the pleasure of working on the most wonderful all-women clientele in NYC and built quite a following as a result. It is there I tapped into my massage potential. Massage after massage clients raved about their experience with me, many times reporting the session to be the best massage they had ever received!! And as if that weren't gratifying enough, as much as I gave to them, they gave right back to me. The rush of doing what I love and adore on clients who allow me to prod, knead and rub their pain and stress away fills me with such joy and satisfaction words can not truly express my gratitude.

In 2006 I graduated from acupuncture school and began my own private practice in Brooklyn Heights, NY. I had to build up a new clientele from scratch but word of mouth fed my practice and after just a few months I was thriving with an appointment book filled with (again) the most wonderful clients a girl can ask for.

Fast forward to 2010 and I'm BACK in SOHO!!! Ready to provide wonderfully therapeutic massage for 'the 'ole neighborhood'. I fell in love with Soho in 2002 and it is here I deeply fell in love with massage and helping to relieve people of their pain. Now with acupuncture under my belt as well, pain relief has never been closer for my clients and I look forward to re-connecting to the wonderful community of Soho!

My new Soho massage and acupuncture practice is conveniently located in the heart of the neighborhood at 594 Broadway between Prince and Houston. Looking forward to seeing you soon!

BODY - MIND - ZEN SOUL in Soho!!


For a free consult visit my website at
www.zensoulspa.com and like me on Facebook under "SOHO MASSAGE & ACUPUNCTURE".

April Specials!!

*20% Off Bring a Friend Deal!

When you book two appointments for you and a friend this month, enjoy lounging around in robes, slippers, sip on some bubbly and save 20% off your treatment(s) as our thank you for bringing in your spa partner.
Applicable to all massages, facials and acupuncture treatments
- 50 minutes or more.
* Mention this special at the time of booking
* Can not be combined with any other specials.

"Recession Session" Weekdays

Book ANY Massage or Facial session Mondays - Wednesdays 11am through 6pm and take 15% OFF!!!

We know that the economy is rough so come on in and let us help you forget your troubles in our urban oasis. Experience complete ZEN at a fraction of the price when you mention this special at check-out!
Save 15% off all waxing this month!!!

Offers Expire: April 30th, 2009

March Specials at Zen Soul Spa

Here at Zen Soul Spa we know that the economy is rough so we've added specials that allow you to get more bang for your buck. Come in and let us help you forget your troubles in our urban oasis. Experience complete ZEN at a fraction of the price with our March specials:


1)Ultimate Essentials Day Package - $175
*60 minute Essential Facial - deep pore cleansing facial includes steam, cleanse, light extraction, mask and lymphatic massage

*60 minute Pure Results Massage - designed to address your specific needs with soothing, balancing massage strokes and steamy hot towels

*Invigorating Wild Lime Scalp Treatment - nourishes your scalp and relaxes your mind and body

*Coconut-Vanilla Foot Scrub - an aromatic scrub used to polish and moisturize your tired, achy feet



2)Aromatic Massage Day Package - $150
*80 minute Aromatherapy Massage - Steamy hot towel, hot oil massage with your choice of essential oil blend - your every muscle will be worked into a state of pure bliss

*Mini Reflexology - Reflex points on the soles of your feet, which correspond to all parts of the body, will be kneaded and prodded to soothe tired, achy feet while relaxing the entire body - you'll float home!

*Wild Lime Scalp Treatment - This aromatic treatment will invigorate and nourish your scalp while relaxing your mind and body

*Coconut-Vanilla Foot Scrub - an aromatic scrub used to polish and moisturize your tired, achy feet

3)
10% Off on ALL Massage and Facial SERIES of 5
20% Off on ALL Massage and Facial Series of 10
Can be shared with a friend!!

4)Recession Fridays

Zen Soul Spa will give you 20% off on Fridays when you book any 65, 80 or 95 minute Massage or Facial (excludes the Essential Facial) on Fridays of this month!

Offers end March 31st 2009

Facials and Waxing Now at Zen Soul Spa!!!!!

Zen Soul Spa is thrilled to announce the arrival of our new herbal facials and waxing services! Come in and find out more about what facial best suits your skin's needs and how you can get that gorgeous glow in time for the warmer months ahead.
Our popular Derma Facial will gently exfoliate the dull, flaky layers of winter-kissed skin using our pumpkin enzyme peel to reveal a beautiful, healthy glow.

Our Acne Facial is popular with everyone from teens to adults who have suffered from long standing acne. For those of us who have mature or dry skin, add our Moisture Drench Hydrating mask to the Essential Facial for the ultimate in moisture radiance.

Don't forget about your back's skin care needs with our back facial and waxing and for those on the go that need a quick pick-me-up, our Refresher Mini-Facial will do the trick with a deep cleansing, mask, tone and invigorating facial massage.

All our products are naturally derived from pure ingredients and deliver pure results - made by Naturopathica.
For more info on the products we use and services we provide visit our website at www.zensoulspa.com where you can now book online and buy gift certificates!

We look forward to seeing you soon at Zen Soul Spa in Brooklyn Heights where you can Relax... you're in good hands.

Urban Zen Massage & Acupuncture is now ZEN SOUL SPA!

2008 has been a year of great change for many of us and for Zen Soul Spa it has brought about significant change. We've grown from a sole practitioner (Regine Rousseau LMT, LAc) practice in the back room of a 2-room yoga studio to a 4-room beautiful space on Montague Street with two treatment rooms, a zen-inspired lounge and hand and foot treatment relaxation room. The space is shared with Yoga People's spacious and gorgeous yoga studio which overlooks Montague Street with a magnificent view of St. Ann's Cathedral. Our space has a growing staff of talented therapists, providing a list of therapeutic services and programs including massage, body treatments and acupuncture.

Our lovely spa director, Keyona Donaldson, will make you feel right at home with her warm hospitality and friendly care, making your stay with us a pleasurable and memorable one and our wonderful therapists' nurturing and intuitive touch will leave you feeling renewed and refreshed!

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for all our clients through providing the best in service, care and products. We offer emotional balancing and stress-relief through flower essence therapy, nutrition tips, acupuncture and massage. And pain-relief is achieved through similar avenues sometimes using a combination of acupuncture, massage, nutrition- stretching and ergonomic tips.

So let Zen Soul Spa soothe your mind, body zen soul!

Visit our new location shared with Yoga People yoga studio at 160 Montague Street, 2nd fl (walk right up) and our new website at
www.zensoulspa.com for more information.

Relax...you're in good hands.

Improve your health for $1.99!!! with Epsom Salt...

I recently checked out the"Epsom Salt Industry Council" site - a website solely dedicated to spreading the word on the many benefits Epsom salt can provide - who knew?? And as an adamant believer of the healing this "salt" can provide, I'm always suggesting a salt bath to my clients to enhance the effects and benefits of their massage and/or acupuncture sessions with me at Zen Soul Spa - Massage & Acupuncture. Here's why it works!

Magnesium Sulfate is the key to Epsom salt's healing effects and the Epsom Salt Industry Council reports that Magnesium Sulfate reduces swelling/inflammation and relieves pain making it great for sore muscles, sprains and bruises, bronchial asthma, migraines and fibromyalgia.

Soaking in Epsom salt is one of the most effective ways to supply the body with the electrolyte Magnesium (absorbed through the skin) which helps the body perform numerous functions including ensuring proper muscle, nerve and enzyme function and proper use of calcium in cells. It's an aid in helping to prevent heart disease and strokes by lowering blood pressure, protecting the elasticity of arteries, preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of sudden heart attack deaths.
Medical research also indicates that magnesium may increase the effectiveness of insulin, helping to lower the risk or severity of diabetes.

Epsom salt delivers sulfates that are needed for the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the mucin proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract. Studies show that sulfates also stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes and detoxifies the body's residue of medicines and environmental contaminants.


So in a nutshell regular Epsom salt baths and/or foot soaks will relieve fatigue giving you more energy, sharper clarity and focus, relieve aches and pains, reduce bruising and swelling and improve the overall quality of your LIFE! Use it alone or to enhance any of the many treatments offered at Zen Soul Spa - Massage & Acupuncture in Brooklyn Heights.


Zen Soul Remedy Bath

4lbs Epsom Salt (1 large container)
1 tubful of hot water
Soak for 15-30 minutes - 1x a week

Zen Sole Foot Soak

2 cups Epsom salt
1 gallon of warm to hot water in a big bowl/ foot tub
Soak feet until water gets cool - 3x a week

A note of caution: Do not take an epsom salt bath if you have high blood pressure or a heart or kidney condition. And remember, the information above is intended for general reference purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or a medical exam. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health professional before starting any new treatment.

Visit us at www.zensoulspa.com