We did the back a few weeks ago and I must say that I found one of the actions a little bit disconcerting.
We were taught to 'caterpiller' up the side of the spine with the thumb. Fine no problem. However to get back to the base to change sides are we were told to run our forefinger, in a soft, slow wavy motion, down over the spine. I would have thought a basic slide down to be more appropriate. I know the person on the receiving end felt uncomfortable and to be honest so did I. My personal opinion is that this movement could be almost described as sensous or even sexy. Does this movement have any real puropse?
btw, I am male and do not have 'hang ups, about massaging women, etc.
thanks
RE: A Disconcerting Move
You can make that move and feel uneasy about it or you could place both hands palm down and in half circle movements work your way back up or down the spine, Check this out with your tutor.
RE: A Disconcerting Move
Well I think you need to use your own judgement here. You've already mentioned in your previous posts about your troubles with class mates, so if you are not comfortable with this move or you don't think they will be, don't do it. This is simply a linking technique and as you get more practice you will adopt your own style. I sweep my hands as Jaunho suggested above, because I personally hate tickly, fiddly, fussy movements.
Obviously you don't want to upset your tutor, but we all do things a bit differently, even when we have a routine to learn. I wouldn't make an issue out of it, do what you are happy with and only discuss it with the tutor if she brings it up.
RE: A Disconcerting Move
Angelfish,
As you are aware of the problems I have been facing, you will know why this could be a problem. Your's and jaunho's way does sound better. There is no way I will make an issue out of it, just not worth the aggro. My main point of posting was to find out if this is a standard, compulsory move and it would seem not to be. I have no intention of giving up, but it is always good to have knowledge from proffesionals as back up;)
Thank you:)
RE: A Disconcerting Move
Hi, at college last year we were told if our tutor told us to do certain movement, we had to do it as we were going to be tested on her way of massage, she also told us every teacher teach you slightly differently as long they follow similar criteria, so if your teacher tought you that's way she wants you to do, then you must do, in order to pass your final exam, once passed your test, then follow what you are comfortable with.
Farideh