Massage in a Time of COVID-19
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and MRSA, and Impetigo, and Influenza, and...
COVID-19 is just one of many pathogens that having direct physical contact and/or sharing an airstream place us at a higher risk of contracting. Because we are still learning about this virus, I do not want to risk my healing arts practice becoming a viral pipeline, so I strive to continually educate myself about how a safer massage practice functions. Based on what I have learned, here is what I do:
COVID-19 is just one of many pathogens that having direct physical contact and/or sharing an airstream place us at a higher risk of contracting. Because we are still learning about this virus, I do not want to risk my healing arts practice becoming a viral pipeline, so I strive to continually educate myself about how a safer massage practice functions. Based on what I have learned, here is what I do:
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Ventilation: To improve the quality of our shared airstream, I use a Blueair Classic 280i, an air purifier that is appropriate for my office's size and that kills viruses and bacteria (including COVID-19). I also space appointments at least 45-minutes apart to allow the room's air to turnover 3 to 4 times between clients.
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Cleaning & Disinfecting: I follow CDC guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting my tools, equipment, and surfaces. I also use eco-friendly, FDA-approved hypochlorous acid in a fogger to disinfect my tools, equipment, and studio (including the furniture and carpeting). Hypochlorous acid (HOCI) is produced by our immune systems, and is non-toxic for humans, animals and plants.
Source adapted from Ian M. Mackay & James T. Reason. Ilustration by Rose Wong.
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Masks & Vaccines: I am fully vaccinated, and I wear a mask when requested as well as with clients who have conditions that make them immuno-compromised.
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Resources for Massage Therapists and Students:
For science-based information about COVID-19 and our occupation, I welcome you to join this Massage, Health Practitioners and COVID-19 Facebook group.
I also encourage you to check out this online course about Back-to-Practice Guidelines by Healwell.
Finally, if you would like to improve the air quality in your office but cannot afford a fancy air purifier, check out these instructions for turning an ordinary box fan into an effective and inexpensive air filtration system.
For science-based information about COVID-19 and our occupation, I welcome you to join this Massage, Health Practitioners and COVID-19 Facebook group.
I also encourage you to check out this online course about Back-to-Practice Guidelines by Healwell.
Finally, if you would like to improve the air quality in your office but cannot afford a fancy air purifier, check out these instructions for turning an ordinary box fan into an effective and inexpensive air filtration system.
