My name is Teri Kathman. I grew up in a small community and currently live on an acreage by Everly, IA. I attended Body Wisdom School of Massage Therapy in Urbandale, IA. There I learned how to help people with a very rewarding career. I focused on Myofascial Release, Geriatric Massage, Prenatal/Pregnancy Massage, Infant Massage and Reflexology. I was licensed as a Massage Therapist in February 2008. I currently am furthering my education and have begun studies in becoming a Labor Doula. I look forward to each client and session as a new experience of learning and teaching. No two sessions are the same and I will always be learning something new from each person in which I interact. I look forward to sharing in these experiences with each individual.
The following are the Techniques that may be used during your session with me.
Myofascial Release Therapy
Myofascial Release Therapy is an extremely effective hands-on technique that works by applying gentle, sustained pressure to eliminate pain and restore flexibility and motion to the fascia (connective tissue). It is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions and facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems that are no longer relevant or are impeding progress.
The science behind Myofascial Release states that fascia is a densely woven sheath that interpenetrates and "houses" every muscle, bone, vein, nerve and all of our internal organs including the spinal cord. A good visualization is a spider web that in effect holds everything together in a neat package connecting every part of the body to every other part of the body.
In its natural healthy state, the fascia is relaxed and has the flexibility to stretch and move without undue restriction. If however, there has been physical trauma to the body or scarring, the normally pliable fascia becomes tight and restricted, causing tension throughout the rest of the body. This condition is sometimes referred to as Myofascial pain syndrome.
Myofascial therapy is intuitive; it is effortless and applicable for all clients and it addresses all levels of the human structure: physical, emotional and mental.
Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain and headaches.
Geriatric Massage
Geriatric massage, with its focus on the elderly, addresses the psychological and physiological aspects of aging and its associated diseases. Geriatric massage treats the whole person, not just their ailments. Massage is for a variety of conditions in the elderly including: Arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson's, and joint replacement. Specific modalities and techniques have been shown to be effective with elderly clients.
Prenatal/Pregnancy Massage
Many methods of massage and somatic therapies are both effective and safe prenatally and during labor and postpartum periods of women's pregnancies. Prenatally, specific techniques can reduce pregnancy discomforts and concerns and enhance the physiological and emotional well-being of both mother and fetus. Skilled, appropriate touch facilitates labor, shortening labor times and eases pain and anxiety. In the postpartum period, specialized techniques help to balance structure, physiology, and emotions of the new mother and may help her to bond with and care for her infant.
Pregnancy Massage may help improve blood and lymph circulation, reduce dependent edema, resolve muscle spasm and fascial restrictions. Pregnancy Massage addresses changes in posture, gait and weight distribution. Pregnancy Massage helps to increase kinesthetic awareness and helps women explore pain tolerance in preparation for labor.
Infant Massage
Infant massage instruction teaches parents how to properly massage their infants. Infant massage is also utilized in hospital neonatal care units. This specialized form of touch is successful, not only in the critical weight gain of premature infants, but in creating a strong bond between parent and infant and exposing a young child to the benefits and pleasures of touch.
Reflexology
Based on an ancient Chinese therapy, reflexology involves manipulation of specific reflex areas in the foot, hands and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. Reflexology involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. This technique is used to reduce pain, increase relaxation, and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is especially useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate.
Integrated Manual Therapy
I have started a journey to learn this outstanding technique. This total system of assessments, special orthopedic testing, multiple-disciplinary and multiple-modality treatment, along with precise client self care protocols will facilitate myoskeletal alignment and eliminate pain and injuries throughout the body.
Doula
I have begun a new journey.
A doula is a non-clinical physical and emotional support to birthing mothers and fathers.
I support the family through the birth process and beyond...that support can be information, demonstration of comfort techniques, a shoulder to lean on, support for partner, etc. A doula is there to help with the journey into parenthood.
"Doula" is a Greek word which has come to mean a woman who helps women, and has further evolved to mean a woman trained and experienced in childbirth who provides continuous physical and emotional support and information to a mother before, during and after birth.
A doula does not replace a medical caregiver, partner or other family members who provide birth support. Rather, a doula enhances these roles by providing a constant, calm, informed presence. A doula's role is to support the mother and her chosen caregivers and support people in achieving her desired birth experience.
A doula is trained in birth: it's normal processes and it's possible divergences from them. She can provide the assurance to a mother that her birth is progressing well, and interpret medical information when needed. She is trained and experienced in the comfort measures available to a woman in labour, which can assist the woman to achieve a natural birth.
Extensive studies have found positive results in birth outcomes. An analysis of the data from ten randomized studies shows1:
1 source: The Doula Book; Klaus et al.; Da Capo Press, Cambridge, Mass., USA
Many women expect that the midwives at their chosen hospital will be able to provide support and information on a continuous basis during their labour. Some are shocked that this does not occur; the current hospital system does not support this kind of care. A midwife will often be attending three or four women at once, and will therefore be only intermittently in the room while the women labour. A doula provides continuous support during labour. She does not leave the woman unless asked, providing a constant presence.