NATIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY AWARENESS WEEK

San Diego, CA (October 17, 2000)-- For the third consecutive year, Mayor Susan Golding has issued a proclamation declaring October 22 – 28 National Massage Therapy Awareness Week (NMTAW) in San Diego, sponsored by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA). Massage therapy is now the second largest alternative health care modality in terms of dollars spent in the U.S.

As part of this year's events, the San Diego Unit of the AMTA-California will provide complementary chair massage to the volunteers and staff of several of San Diego's community service agencies including the American Red Cross.

The AMTA celebrates its 53rd year as the nation's oldest professional organization committed to the development and advancement of the art, science, and practice of massage therapy. Over the years, the AMTA has been a leader in the field for education, professional certification and legislation, and has provided massage therapists for many national events such as the Iron Man Triathlon and the U. S. Olympics. It has spearheaded a national Massage Emergency Response Team (MERT) program, which provides relief to emergency workers during disasters.

The AMTA continues to increase its current enrollment of 40,000 members worldwide with chapters located in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Here in San Diego County, the 385-member unit provides continuing education, legislative efforts, and active public relations to our communities. If you would like to locate a massage therapist in your area, please contact the AMTA at 888-THE AMTA or online at www.amtamassage.org.