(INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., October 19, 2009) - The Indiana chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association, is gearing up locally for the celebration of National Massage Therapy Awareness Week, October 25 to 31.The week is designed to raise public awareness of the benefits of therapeutic massage and encourage Americans to use massage therapy as a healthy tool for stress relief.

In Indiana, local members are also using this week to educate the public about statewide certifications enacted earlier this year.  These new state-mandated certifications, put in place earlier this year, require therapists to complete 500 hours of classroom and hands on training, and pass a standardized exam.

"With more than 3,000 certified therapists in Indiana consumers have choices when they consider massage," said Michael Reynolds, AMTA Indiana chapter president.  "The National Awareness week gives us a chance to talk to the public about the difference."

Consumers looking for a certified professional therapist can check out the American Massage Therapy Association locator.  Massage therapists in Indiana wishing to learn more about the local association can go to: http://www.amtaindiana.org

About The American Massage Therapy Association: The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) represents more than 58,000 massage therapists. AMTA works to establish massage therapy as integral to the maintenance of good health and complementary to other therapeutic processes; to advance the profession through ethics and standards, continuing education, professional publications, legislative efforts, public education, and fostering the development of members.

About the Indiana chapter of the American Massage Therapy Association: The AMTA Indiana chapter is a supportive organization that provides members with opportunities and resources for professional growth. Professionalism is advanced through the promotion of professional standards, legislative advocacy, and public awareness.

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Contact:
Jennifer Irving, NCTMB,CMT
Immediate Past President
American Massage Therapy Association-Indiana Chapter
jennie.irving@amtaindiana.org