Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Referred for massage therapy after an injury or surgery? If you’ve never had therapeutic massage before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to expect. This post walks you through what happens during a targeted, clinical massage session in Bar Harbor, Maine — from evaluation and movement assessment to hands-on treatment and aftercare — so you can feel prepared, informed, and confident.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

After breast cancer treatment ends, many women are left adjusting to a body that feels different. Tightness across the chest, pulling into the shoulder, radiation fibrosis, and sensitivity around mastectomy or reconstruction scars are common. Scar massage after mastectomy and radiation therapy is a specialized form of therapeutic bodywork that supports tissue mobility, reduces restriction, and helps improve comfort and range of motion. In this post I explain how breast cancer scar massage works, who it may be appropriate for, and what to expect if you’re considering this kind fo care in the Mount Desert Island and Bar Harbor, Maine area.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

It is normal and understandable to have questions about scar massage or another treatment you have never experienced before. This is especially common after something like a traumatic or painful injury/surgery. Please feel free to reach out with questions or to find out more about whether or not scar massage may be a good fit for you.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Overuse injuries aren’t just for athletes. They show up in kitchens, on job sites, at desks, and in the everyday activities that bring us joy. In this post, I break down what an overuse injury is, the most common injuries I see in my practice, who is most affected, and what the research says about treatment and prevention. I also explain why sports massage techniques aren’t just for competitive athletes. They’re often exactly what hardworking bodies need.

If you’ve been dealing with nagging pain from repetitive strain, this will help you understand what’s happening — and what you can do about it.

Tommie Lindahlany, Guest Blogger, Sacred Splendor

Deep tissue massage has become one of the most sought-after techniques in workplace wellness programs.
 Employees spend long hours at desks, hunched over laptops, and juggling deadlines that leave both the body and mind strained.
 Massage therapy is no longer viewed as a luxury—it’s increasingly recognized as a practical investment in employee health and organizational productivity.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Care should feel safe. For everyone. In this post I reflect on Shana Chivon’s ethics course: Centering Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity in Our Practices and what it truly means to create a massage space that is welcoming, accountable, and actively inclusive.

This is part of my ongoing commitment to cultural competency and ethical practice. Because bodywork is not just about technique. It’s about relationships, safety, and ensuring that every client feels respected and supported.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

In this post I share five things having a baby taught me about postnatal massage. What recovery really felt like in my own body, what surprised me, and what I wish more people talked about. My lived experience deepened how I support both prenatal and postnatal massage clients and I hope if you’re navigating postpartum recovery, this post helps you feel seen and serves as a reminder that you too deserve thoughtful, informed care.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Even as a massage therapist I don’t have all the answers for my own body. After experiencing persistent back pain postpartum, I sought help from the Exercise Design Lab here in Bar Harbor. In this post, I share what that process looked like and what neuro-logic training involves. This post serves as a reminder that recovery isn’t about doing everything yourself. Sometimes the most responsible thing we can do is ask for support. I’m grateful for the care I received, and it’s why I confidently refer my own clients to them when the situation calls for it.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

What you put on your skin matters. In this post, I share why I often recommend jojoba oil for both massage and home use, what makes it different from other oils, and the specific benefits it offers for skin health and massage therapy.

If you’re looking for a simple, high-quality option for daily skin support or self-massage at home, this will give you a clear place to start.

Have you ever wondered why your massage therapist requires you to fill out a Health Intake form? In this featured article from Body Sense magazine, pathology expert Ruth Werner and Karrie Osborn, senior editor for Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals explain.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Not all massage is the same and knowing the difference matters. In this post, I walk through several common styles and techniques so you can better understand what each approach offers and what might fit your body right now. Being familiar with your options can help you feel more comfortable during a session and more confident in your choices. Most importantly, I share why clear communication before and during your massage is what truly shapes the experience. The right work isn’t about picking the “best” modality — it’s about customizing the session to your needs.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and holistic approach to wellness based on the body's natural ability to heal itself.  It can be a proactive self-care method to support a healthy physical lifestyle and a positive emotional and mental outlook.  It can also be an incredible method to address physical ailments and improve emotional and psychological conditions. Check out some of the ways massage has been scientifically proven to make a difference.

Amber Howard

Buying art can feel overwhelming. Our eyes are easily drawn to pieces we find appealing. But how do we know we are getting a good value for our money? How do we know that the art pieces we fall in love with and invest in will last?

Amber Howard

Buying art can feel like a big decision. In this post I’m answering the most common questions I hear. If you’re considering a piece but want to feel confident before you commit, this post will help answer the questions you might not even know to ask, so you can make a clear, informed decision.

Amber Howard

Selecting wall art to best fit your space can be daunting if you aren’t familiar with a few guidelines for interior design. The last thing you want is to invest in a piece of artwork that you love and then find it doesn’t fit quite right in your space. A few simple tips will ensure you understand the perfect size artwork to purchase for your space, and help you find the perfect way to display it, regardless of the size.

Amber Howard

Not all art prints are created equal. In this post, I break down what a giclée print actually is, the standards that define true fine art quality, and the key questions to ask before purchasing. If you want your artwork to look beautiful and last for years to come, this post will help you shop with confidence.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

In this post I walk through the basic anatomy of the knee joint, common injuries I see, how yoga can both support and strain the knees, and simple ways to protect them in your practice. If you want to move with more awareness and keep your knees strong for the long term, this will give you a practical foundation.

Amber Howard, LMT, CYI

Many people have asked how I ended up in Bali studying yoga. Or why I chose to complete my Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) in another country. Those considering their own Yoga Teacher Training have asked how I chose Santosha Yoga Institute for mine. Here’s those questions answered!