Handbook on Spa and Massage

Handbook on Spa and Massage

A Reference Tool for Spa/Salon Operators, Clients and Massage Enthusiasts

Benjamin Eugenio Jr. LMT

Lorinda de Guzman, LMT Lalaine Olubalang, LMT

HIMAS Asian Wellness and Spa Academy

2 Handbook on Spa and Massage

INTRODUCTION

pa and massage are two of the most

interesting buzz words in this

unprecedented time and age of health and wellness. However, due to some constraints,

not everyone is familiar with the existing laws and regulations pertaining to the spa and massage

industry.

This handbook is divided into four major

areas: a) things one has to know about spa and massage; b) government regulations being

implemented by DOH and TESDA; c) relevant information pertaining to licensing and certification

of massage practitioners, relative to DOH exams

and various kinds of massage; d) hiring and placement of qualified massage

therapists/practitioners.

We hope you will find this handbook

indispensable. The Authors

S



Table of Contents

Introduction 2 Things You Have to Know About Spa and

Massage 4

Types of Spas 4 Practice of Massage 6

Different Kinds of Massage in the Philippines 7 DOH Massage Code of Ethics 15

Government Regulations on Massage 16 Requirements for DOH Massage Licensure

Examinations 20

Tips on Taking the DOH Massage Licensure Examinations 21

Helpful Facts on Human Anatomy (Massage Related) 22

List of DOH Accredited Training Institutions 33

Spa and Massage Associations in the Philippines 36 References 37



THINGS YOU HAVE TO KNOW ABOUT SPA

AND MASSAGE

According to the Webster‟s Dictionary, a spa is a „mineral spring or a locality in which such

springs exist‟. Commercially, it means, “Salus per

Aqua‟ or „healing through water”.

At present, there are several types of spas: day spa, hotel or resort spa, destination spa and

medical spa.

1. Day Spa – this is a business

establishment where people go for professionally administered personal

care such as massages, and facials. It is similar to a beauty salon. It is only

visited for the duration of the

treatment.

2. Hotel or Resort Spa – this is owned by or located within a hotel or resort that

offers professional services such as massage, fitness and wellness

components and a variety of spa

cuisine menus.

3. Destination spa – this is a short term residential lodging facility with the



primary purpose of providing individual

services for spa goers to help develop healthy habits.

4. Medical spa – is a hybrid between a

medical clinic and a day spa. This

operates under a medical doctor. It combines elements of a cosmetic

surgery, aesthetics clinic and a beauty salon.

A spa must have a clean, safe, calming and

nurturing environment. It should have private

treatment rooms. shower and changing rooms, professional massages, professional body

treatments, therapeutic spa ingredients, hydrotherapy or steam or sauna.

People avail of spa services for the following reasons:

o to relieve stress. ( 47%) o to reduce stress. (46% )

o to soothe the sore joints and muscles. ( 3%)

o to feel better about oneself.

(31%)

The current international spa trends: Based on a study made by Pilzer, hotels and resorts that



offer excellent spa services generate additional

revenues. Furthermore, survey shows that the (hotel spas) tend to attract more leisure travelers.

In the Philippines, especially in some key

cities, it is quite noticeable that more people have

become more health conscious. One best indicator is the proliferation of spa establishments in almost

every part of the cities.

According to Paul Zane Pilzer, author of the “ Wellness Revolution”, the wellness industry is the

„next trillion dollar‟ industry in the next decade.”

PRACTICE OF MASSAGE

Massage is the systematic manipulation of

soft body tissues through manual or mechanical

means for relaxation or therapeutic purposes.

There are two general types of massage: oil massage- a kind of massage that uses oil and other

form of lubricants, such as Swedish and Balinese massage; dry massage – massage that uses bare

thumbs and fingers. This occasionally uses powder

instead of oil.



DIFFERENT KINDS OF MASSAGES IN THE

PHILIPPINES

1. Balinese massage- Balinese massage is one of the traditional Indonesian

massages. This is a full body, deep-tissue, holistic

treatment that combines acupressure, reflexology, stretching and aromatherapy.

Known personality – Mangku Made Pogog (Indonesia)

Contribution to Wellness: a Balian (healer) is known for his unique combination of

massage, yoga and mantra. Because of his healing prowess, he was well-sought

among the rich and powerful people

everywhere.

2. Foot Reflexology – Foot Reflexology is a simple, non-invasive method used to help

balance the body. It is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the

body which corresponds to every part of the body. When done properly, it could

provide a truly relaxing experience, while

enjoying its therapeutic benefits as well.

Known personality -Dr. William H.



Fitzgerald (USA)

Contribution to wellness: Dr. Fitzgerald is better known as the Father of Reflexology.

He was brought to prominence because of his 10 zone theory concept which says that

every part of the foot is connected to a

specific part of the human body. 3. Foot spa includes soaking of foot in a

slightly warm water and then scrub it to

feel its relaxing effects. Its variations may include foot massage and nail

treatments. 15-20 minutes warm foot

soak affects the entire vascular system and helps improve blood circulation.

4. Indian head massage – this is an

Ayurvedic form of massage that

has been practiced for thousands of years. It is a very relaxing

treatment and is excellent for neck and shoulder tension. In earlier

times, this was enjoyed only by the elite classes in India. It was only recently that

a vast majority of people begin to enjoy its

wide range of benefits. Champi is the Indian word for head

massage. Champissage is another term for Indian Head massage.



5. Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage- Lomi Lomi

means to „rub‟ or „massage‟ in Hawaiian.

This is a traditional Hawaiian massage treatment used to bring about physical as

well as mental relaxation. This massage

aims to rid the body of physical and mental stresses and increase energy flow.

Known Personality: Auntie Margaret

Machado (Hawaii, USA) Contribution to wellness: She is known

Hawaiian “kahunan” or healer

whose lomi based healing skillls brought her to international prominence. Because

of Aunt Margaret‟s efforts, Lomi Lomi, an ancient form of healing, became

popular.

6. Mukha Alaga (Facial) – Facial massage is

an easy and important part of beauty regimen. Besides softening

the skin, another good effect of facial massage is the stimulation of blood

circulation and removal of dead skin.

Author:Lorinda de Guzman, LMT

This type of massage is accredited by the Department of Health



7. Bilis Sarap Chair Massage is a form of chair massage that is aimed at providing

a quick massage treatment that covers the head, shoulder, hands and legs. It is

non-invasive and does not use oil.

It is inspired by Namikoshi seated

massage. Chair massage is popular in Japan, and is often found in subway train

stations.

8. Namikoshi Shiatsu is an authentic method

of massage which was made popular in Japan by its author, the late Todujiro

Namikoshi. Originally this massage is meant for therapeutic purposes only.

Today, more and more individuals avail

of this excellent form of massage treatment as well. Essentially, this

shiatsu massage carefully observes prescribed shiatsu points and Japanese

style of body mechanics.

Known personality: Tokujiro Namikoshi

(Japan) Contribution to Wellness: Mr. Namikoshi

started giving shiatsu treatment at age 7 to his sick mother.



The healing made him an instant folk hero

in his hometown.

9. Pindot Sarap, also called Pisil Sarap, is a Filipino verson of shiatsu. It observes

three point massage system representing

a triad: first, the west, where knowledge of anatomy came from; second, Japan,

where shiatsu originally was developed, and third, Philippines. The Filipino

therapist, whose innate desire to care for others is the heart and soul of this

massage style

Author: Benjamin B. Eugenio, Jr. LMT

This style of massage is accredited by the Department of Health

10. Spa Hilot/Pinoy Hilot/Philippine massage -

Hilot is a traditional form of healing

among Filipinos especially during the pre-Spanish era. According to tradition,

„hilot‟ helps remove blockages in the body also known as „lamig‟ when done with

slightly heated and oiled banana leaves.

Once the „lamig‟ is removed through Hillot, a balanced state of well-being is achieved.



The warm oiled banana leaf is believed to

have an absorbent power. Hilot is the only massage method in the

world thatsees „lamig‟ as a sign of ill-health or imbalance.

11. Swedish Massage is the basic, classic form of Western massage that uses pressure

to make it‟s client relax and calm. It generally uses the so called 5 basic classical

movements, such as: effleurage (to glide), petrissage (to knead), friction (to rub),

tapotement (to tap) and vibration (to

shake). Majority of modern-day massage in the world follows some of the massage

strokes mentioned above.

Known personality : Per Henrik Ling

(Sweden) Contribution to wellness: His writings

regarding the five classical movements (mentioned above) helped made

Swedish massage the most sought-after massage method in the world.

12. Thai massage is a form of massage that involves stretching and deep massage.

It is believed to have been developed by Thai monks 2,500 years ago. It integrates



movements for the entire skeletal system,

enhancing joint range of motion, removing blockages and improving blood circulation.

Due to its wide range of movements, it is better done on the floor.

Father of Thai massage- Dr. Shivago Komarpaj (Jivaka Kumarabhacca)

Thai massage has been practiced as a form of medical science in Thailand for over

2,500 years.

TIPS ON GIVING AND RECEIVING MASSAGE

For the Therapist:

Make sure that you are physically, mentally

and psychologically prepared to give massage

Hands must be clean and nails properly

trimmed.

Make sure that everything needed for the

treatment is at hand.

For the receiver/Client: Never have a full stomach before the

massage

Communicate clearly what you want.

Enjoy the entire session

Give tips to your favorite therapist



DOH MASSAGE CODE OF ETHICS

An excerpt from the Preamble of DOH Code of Ethics for Massage Therapists:

“Massage therapists are duly licensed individuals who possess, maintain and uphold at all

times the dignity, integrity and reputation of the profession with high moral values, as well as

technical skills and professional competence. They strictly adhere to the principles, standards and

values of the profession.

Massage therapists are guided by the code

if ethics in his/her relationships with his/her clients, co-practitioners, employers, members of the allied

profession and the public, in general.”

General Responsibilities:

a. Duties toward the client - client‟s health

and well-being and comfort are of paramount concern.

b. Duties toward the profession - strived for

excellence and advance the moral reputation of the profession



c. Duties toward co-practitioners – foster

fellowship, mutual assistance and professional respect.”

d. Duties toward employers – fair, honest and loyal in dealing with a

e. Duties toward allied professionals - working

harmoniously with allied professionals f. Duties toward the general public – obey the

laws of the land, and all laws governing the practice of the

profession.”

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS ON MASSAGE

1. Top government agencies that regulates the

massage practices * Department Of Health (DOH)

* Technical Education and Skills

Devt. Authority (TESDA)

2. Philippine Law that regulates the practice of massage

Presidential Decree 856, Code

of Sanitation of the Phil Chapter XIII “Massage and

Sauna Bath Establishments”

Date issued: Dec. 1975



3. Latest government directive on massage.

Administrative Order 2010-2003

issued by the Dept of Health on Dec. 10, 2010 entitled: Revised

implementing rules and regulations governing massage

clinics and sauna bath establishments.”

- Key provisions of the AO issued by DOH a. Lowering of the age requirements

for DOH exam applicants from 21- 18 years of age – section 3.3.1

b. “Only persons holding a valid

certificate of registration issued by the Committee and approved by

the Secretary of Health shall be allowed to practice massage as a

profession in the Philippines”

Section 5.1.1 c. Removal of the mandatory bi-

monthly check up among massage therapists - Section 5.1.7

d. The minimum base pay of licensed

massage therapist shall

not be below the minimum wage mandated by the Dept of

Labor (DOLE)- Sec.5.2.2



d. However, for small establishments,

the management and spa therapist may agree on a payment scheme

acceptable to both parties

- Compromised made by the spa

association (PHILWELL) with the DOH relative to AO 2010-0034.

There shall be a 3 year moratorium in the implementation of the AO

among existing spas – that is: January 2011 to December

2014.

- The penalty for violation or refusal to

comply with the AO.The Penal Provision, Section 7.1, says that guilty parties

shall be prosecuted before the Court of

Justice as provided for by PD 856.

C. Mandate of TESDA

TESDA provides direction, policies, programs and standards towards

quality technical education and skills

development (TESDA) Mission: www.tesda.gov.ph

http://www.tesda.gov.ph/



The TESDA National Certification is not valid as a massage license. Based on

PD856. the Code of Sanitation of the Philippines and AO 2010-0034, Revised

Implementing Rules and Regulations

Governing Massage and Sauna Bath Establishments.”

Both the Dept. of Health (DOH) and TESDA

are perfect partners in the professionalization of the local massage and

spa industry. With DOH giving the entry

level massage regulatory requirements and TESDA to provide for advance massage skills

certification. Latest information received from DOH states that TESDA is sending its

assessors to DOH for massage licensure

examinations.

REQUIREMENTS FOR DOH MASSAGE

LICENSURE EXAMINATIONS

Takers of licensure examinations must be:

a. Filipino citizen, eighteen years of age

b. of good moral character



c. have clearance from NBI or provincial

fiscal

d. physically and mentally fit to take the

exams

e. at least a high school graduate

f. have a certificate from a DOH

accredited training provider of at least

60 hours of practical massage.

g. have a certificate from a DOH

accredited training center

that he/she received basic instructions.

h. have a passing grade: 75% general

average on theoretical exams; 75%

general average on oral/practical

exams.

TIPS ON TAKING THE DOH MASSAGE EXAMINATIONS

1. Study hard but a day before the exams drop all notes and take time to relax.

2. Wake up early, pray, eat a full meal



3. Dress well and bring pens, and Exam

Slip. 4. Be on time.

5. Follow instruction from examination proctors carefully.

6. Read all questions fully as well as the

answers. 7. Do not rush, the DOH exams were

never been time-pressured. But don‟t stay too long on any difficult item.

8. Expect the best results. 9. Bring pen and exam permit for written

exam

10. Bring 2 pcs of towel, white scrub suit for practical exam.

Note: DOH may announce from time to

time what other items to bring

REVOCATION OF DOH LICENSE.

Grounds for the cancellation of DOH License: As

provided by AO 2010-0034, DOH license will be revoked or cancelled due to the following:

Court conviction involving moral turpitude

Insanity

Fraud in the acquisition or renewal of

license



Gross negligence, incompetence and

ignorance in the practice of the profession..

Addiction to alcoholic drinks and prohibited

drugs. False or unethical advertisement and

practice

Physical incapacity impairing the

performance of duty as therapist Failure to renew license for at least 5 years.

Similar grounds affecting the profession.

HELPFUL FACTS ON HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

Anatomy is the study of the functional areas or

parts of human body.

Physiology is the study of biological and chemical

processes in the human body.

Cells are the simplest units of living matter

that can maintain life and reproduce themselves. Every person is made up of billions of cells. A cell

is composed of 3 major parts: a) the cell membrane; b) the cell nucleus; (main body) and

c) cytoplasm (liquid).



The human body can be likened to the

universe “made up of very small parts organized to function as a unit”, according to Susan Salvo in her

Book, “Massage Therapy, Principles and Practice.”

The stages of life are as follows:

a) Chemical stage – deals with the

biochemistry of the body.

b) Cellular stage – deals with cells and its

internal processes.

c) Tissue stage – group of cells that

performs specific functions.

d) Organ stage – contains two or more

groups that carry on

specific functions.

e) Organism stage – highest stage of organization presenting a

living individual.

The human body systems:

A. Skeletal system - it consists of bones, cartilage,

ligaments and tendons and accounts for about 20 percent of the body weight. They provide a rigid



frame work, known as the skeleton, that support

and protect the soft organs of the body. The large bones of the lower limbs support the trunk when

standing. The skeleton also protects the soft body parts. The fused bones of the cranium surround the

brain to protect it from injury. Vertebrae surround

and protect the spinal cord and bones of the rib cage help protect the heart and lungs of the thorax.

Fast facts:

There are 206 bones in the

human body. The bone which is

commonly broken is the clavicle, also called the

collar bone.

Bones help in the production of white and

red blood cells. B. Muscular System – gives shape to the individual‟s physique. It also helps in the

movement of the body by contraction.

Fast facts:

An adult person have at least 650



muscles in his body.

Satorius muscle, found between the

hip and the inner thigh is considered to be the longest muscle.

Stapedius, found in the middle of the ear ,

is the smallest muscle. C. Integumentary system or skin system – is the organ system that includes the skin, hair, nails and

related glands.

Fast facts:

Skin is the largest organ in the human

body.

It s weight is 12-15% of the total body

weight.

The three layers of the skin are: epidermis,

dermis, and subcutaneous fat. The dermis is sometimes called the true

skin

because it consists of elastic layers containing

blood vessels that nourish the skin.

D. Circulatory system - is composed of the heart,

which is a muscular pumping device, and a closed system of vessels called arteries, veins, and

capillaries. It is the organ system that passes



nutrients, gases, hormones, blood cells and other

nutrients to and from cells of the body. Blood is pumped by the heart around a closed circuit of

vessels as it passes again and again through the various "circulations" of the body.

Fast facts:

It takes about 20 seconds for a red blood

cell to circle the whole body. Blood travels in veins back to the right side

of the heart.

The average size of a heart is as big as

one‟s own fist. The heart is located at the middle part of

the chest and

tilted a little towards the left.

E. Lymphatic and immune system - consists of organs, ducts, and nodes. It is home to

lymphocytes, small white blood cells that are the

key players in the immune system. The immune system is a network of cells, tissues, and organs

that work together to defend the body against attacks by disease causing microorganisms such as

bacteria,viruses, parasites, and fungi.



Fast facts:

The spleen is the largest organ in the

lymphatic system

Enlarged lymph nodes are a sign of

infection in colds and sore throats. The system acts life a filter that removes

foreign bodies to prevent

Infections.

F. Digestive system – is a series of complex

organs and glands that process food for utilization of body cells. It consists of the

mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine rectum and

anus. The salivary glands, liver, gallbladder,

and pancreas are major accessory organs that have a role in digestion.

Fast facts:

The human mouth can produce 3 pints of

saliva a day. Chewing is the first stage of digestion.

The enzymes in the mouth help break

down food.



Diagram of the digestive system

G. Respiratory system – helps supply blood with oxygen for transport to all parts of the body. It

works with the circulatory system to provide this

oxygen and to remove the waste products of metabolism. It also helps to regulate pH of the

blood. The nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs are parts of the respiratory system.

Fast facts:

In human beings, the right lung is larger

than the left lung to accommodate the heart.



The droplets that come out from coughing

are spread up to 3 feet. People are advised

to cover the mouth when coughing.

Diagram of the respiratory system

H. Urinary system – is the organ system that

produces, stores and eliminates urine and waste products of cellular metabolism. It includes the two

kidneys, two ureters, bladder, urethra and two

sphincter muscles. The principal function of the urinary system is to maintain the volume and

composition of body fluids within normal limits.



Fast facts:

The health status of a person can be

determined through his/her urine. Urine can be tested to find out if a person

has urinary tract infection.

The ancient Romans used urine as a

bleaching agent in washing clothes. I. Nervous system - is responsible for sending,

receiving and processing of nerve impulses in the body. It is the major

controlling, regulatory, and communicating system in the body. It is the center of all

mental activity including thought, learning, and

memory. Through its receptors, the nervous system keeps us in touch with our environment,

both external and internal. It consist of two parts: The central nervous system (main) and

the peripheral nervous system (accessory).

Fast facts:

There are millions of nerve cells in the

human body.

As we grow older, the brain loses a gram of

its weight every year.



The nervous system transmits nerve

impulses at a tremendous speed of 100

meters per second. J. Endocrine system – acts through chemical messengers called hormones that influence

growth, development, and metabolic activities. It coordinates the activities of the organ systems. The

pituitary gland at the base of the brain is the

master gland.

Fast facts:

A specialist in the endocrine system is an

endocrinologist

The sex hormones are produced in the

gonads. Gonads are ovaries in females, testes in males.

The endocrine system influences cell and

function of the body K. Reproductive system - is a system within an

organism which works together toward reproduction. It consists of gonads, associated

ducts and external genital. Within the context of producing offspring, the reproductive system has

four functions: To produce egg and sperm cell.

To transport and sustain these cells



To nurture the developing offspring

To produce hormones

Fast facts:

The urologist is a physician that specializes

in male reproductive system. The specialist on women‟s reproductive

system is called a gynecologist.

Dysmenorrhea is the term called „painful‟

or difficult menstruation‟.

LIST OF DOH ACCREDITED TRAINING

INSTITUTIONS

AKLAN – Hand-Med Integartive Health

Center (HMIHC) Osmena Ave., Kalibo, Aklan

Tel. No. (036) 268-2910

Mobile No. 0929 7350080

ANGELES CITY – NMA Center of Aquatic

Therapy and Massage (NMACATM) #2 Brgy Court Villa, Angela

Subd., Angeles City Tel No. (0929) 8062688

CEBU/QUEZON CITY



Cebu – International NKYR Academy

(INKYRA) Quezon City – Unit D, Pro Vita Bldg, 26,

Columbia cor. Yale St. Cubao, Quezon City,

Tel. No. (02) 473 5115

ILOILO- Early Divine School Forever

Alternative Medicine Rehabilitation and

Training Center (EDSFAMRTC). 59-A Escarilla Subd. Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Tel. No. 0927 6898089

ILOILO – Remnant Institute of Alternative

Medicine (RIAM)

Jamerian Bld., Iznart St., Iloilo City Tel. No. (033) 3379298

Mobile No. 0920 9513598

LAGUNA – Hilot at Hilom Pilipinas (HIHIP)

#33 Bakersfield St. Laguna Bel Air I

Don Jose Sta. Rosa, Laguna Tel. No. (049) 544 0704

Mobile No. 0917 5457494

MAKATI – Spa@Work

Suite 2205,Cityland 10 Tower #2/154 H.V. dela Costa cor Valero St.,

Salcedo Village, Makati

mailto:Spa@Work



Tel. No. 840-1239

PAMPANGA – Central Luzon Alternative

Health and Devt. Inc (CLHAD)

2nd flr. ABN Bldg, MacArthur Highway, Del

Rosario,San Fernando, Pampanga Tel. No. (045) 861 2493 –

Mobile No. 0915 9970969

QUEZON CITY/DAVAO-HIMAS Asia

Wellness and Spa Academy (AWSA)

Manila main – 3F Crispina Bldg.

Quezon Ave., Quezon City

Tel. No. (02) 4107369 Mobile No. 0917 5117744

Davao Branch D2, Sazon Bldg. Ponciano St., Davao City

Tel. No./ (082) 305 1013 Mobile No. 0927 6076543

TAGUM CITY – Ventura College of Natural

Therapeutic Health and Science (VCNTHS)

Tagum City, Davao Tel. No. (084) 218 2152



SPA AND MASSAGE ASSOCIATIONS

Philippine International Association of

Massage Practitioners, Inc.

(PHILPRAC) Secretariat Office, 3F Crispina Bldg.

1589 Quezon Ave. Quezon City Tel. No. 4107369

Mobile No. 0917 5117744

Philippine Wellness and Spa Association

(PHILWELL)

Rm 412,Office of the Product Research and Development

Dept. of Tourism, TM Kalaw St., Manila

Tel. Nos. (02) 5466738 Mobile No. 0917 8975678

Philippine Association of Massage

Therapists, Inc. (PALMT)

2nd Flr. ABN Bldg, Mc Arthur Highway, Del

Rosario, San Fernando, Pampanga Tel. No. 045) 861 2493

Mobile No. 0915 997099969



REFERENCES

Administrative Order 2010-004, “Revised

Implementing Rules and Regulations Governing Massage and Sauna bath

Establishments” DOH Massage Therapy Manual (2010)

PD 856- “Code of Sanitation of the

Philippines”

Pilzer, Paul Zane, The Wellness Revolution

Salvo, Susan, Massage Therapy: Principles

and Practice

TESDA, www. tesda.gov.ph

Wikipedia- www.en.wikipedia.org

Google – www.google.com

http://www.en.wikipedia.org/

http://www.google.com/



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Handbook on Spa and Massage

Health & Medicine

spa academy

day spa

resort spa

destination spa andmedical

spa goers

therapeutic spa ingredients

massage associations

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