Suzette Obiana-Martina, a seasoned Cesar Exercise Therapist, combines over 15 years of expertise with a unique, supportive approach to empower people in managing and preventing physical complaints. Her passion is teaching self-reliance through precise, therapeutic movement for lasting wellness.
Exhausted and overwhelmed, Dr. Diaz entered my practice late one evening, seeking relief. My journey toward creating Suzette Martina’s Full Body Treatment began during my time working at a multidisciplinary health center. One of the disciplines at the center was Dr. Aleida Diaz's dental practice. She was incredibly dedicated to her work, managing two practices, and was often overwhelmed by her demanding schedule.
One day, Dr. Diaz walked into my practice, visibly exhausted. She explained that she was completely drained and needed something to feel better, as she had to be fit, energetic, and productive the next day. I offered to treat her after hours and see what I could do to help.
At that time, my schedule was packed with exercise therapy patients, and I was also mentoring interns from the Hogeschool van Amsterdam's Mensendieck Exercise Therapy program. It had been months since I had given a massage due to my busy practice. Luckily, my extensive experience had given me a deep understanding of where tension is often held in the body.
In addition to my professional practice, I had completed training in acupressure, reflexology, and various massage techniques, as well as advanced training in Sykegrep massage grips. When Dr. Diaz arrived after hours, I asked her to lie down and began the treatment purely based on intuition.
The session felt immediately right, both calming and rewarding for me. Combining my skills, knowledge, and techniques, I treated her from head to toe in a session that lasted two hours. The experience was transformative. Dr. Diaz felt an overwhelming sense of balance, vitality, and joy, something she said she had never experienced before. Her response inspired me to think deeply about the potential of this type of treatment.
Over the following days, I wrote down the structure of the massage, refining it into a defined technique. This treatment became the blueprint for what is now known as The Curaçao Escape: Suzette Martina’s Full Body Treatment, an unparalleled therapeutic experience.
As a therapist, my training has always been centered on helping people heal. This massage combines therapeutic and massage techniques to bring noticeable changes to the body, mind, and spirit, even after just one session. My method works on multiple levels, targeting blood circulation, meridians, organs, and muscles, addressing pain holistically while guiding clients through their healing process.
I consider this an extensive therapeutic treatment, which is why I gave it the name The Curaçao Escape: Suzette Martina’s Full Body Treatment. It’s a unique experience that everyone deserves to feel, a pathway to balance, vitality, and renewal.
Prioritizing wellness in a world of vanity
In today’s society, it’s common for people to prioritize spending on external appearances, hair, nails, clothes, and accessories, over investing in their physical and mental well-being. While looking good can boost confidence and mental health, achieving true balance requires equal attention to our internal health. This is where regular massages come in, not as a luxury, but as a necessity for overall wellness.
Many people are unaware of the wide-ranging benefits of full-body massages. It’s not just about relaxation; it is a recognized form of alternative therapy that addresses physical and mental health. Massages can:
Improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
Alleviate chronic pain and tension in muscles
Boost the immune system
Enhance sleep quality
Reduce stress and promote mental clarity
However, the lack of awareness often leads to misconceptions. People associate massages with indulgence rather than necessity, spending large sums on designer handbags, manicures, wigs, or lashes while hesitating to allocate funds toward their health. Some even believe that massages should only be covered by insurance, avoiding the personal cost altogether.
This mindset underscores the importance of education. In my practice, I make it a priority to inform clients about the critical role massages play in preventive care and long-term health. On social media and during sessions, I explain how massages address not only existing issues but also help prevent future complaints by keeping the body in balance.
Think of your body as a car, if you drive it daily without maintenance, it will eventually break down. Similarly, when we push our bodies and minds day after day without proper care, we face burnout, tension, and even chronic conditions. Regular full-body massages are the "maintenance" your body needs to function at its best. For example, small issues like muscle tension or stress, if left unaddressed, can escalate into chronic pain or more serious health problems.
To maintain this balance, I recommend at least one full-body massage per month. For those starting with chronic complaints, more frequent sessions, every two weeks for the first three months, can be highly effective in achieving a curative effect. Afterward, transitioning to monthly sessions helps sustain progress and prevent future issues.
Preventive care is essential because once the body is in balance, maintaining that state requires consistent effort. Just as in Cesar Exercise Therapy, behavioral change is a cornerstone of lasting results. Taking care of your body and mind should be an ongoing process.
Massage therapy is not just about feeling good in the moment; it’s about sustaining health and preventing discomfort. Regular sessions improve circulation, release muscle tension, and enhance overall functionality. Ultimately, investing in massages means investing in your own well-being, a gift your body and mind will thank you for.
The necessity of Suzette Martina’s full body treatment
Massages are more than a luxury; they are a therapeutic necessity for reducing tension, alleviating pain, and restoring overall balance. But how do they achieve these effects? Let’s dive into the physiological processes that occur during a full-body massage.
How massages reduce tension
Tension in the body often arises from prolonged stress, poor posture, or physical overexertion. Massages work by:
Activating the parasympathetic nervous system: This is the "rest-and-digest" system of the body, which counteracts the "fight-or-flight" response triggered by stress. As the parasympathetic system takes over, the heart rate slows, blood pressure drops, and the body begins to relax.
Decreasing cortisol levels: Elevated cortisol, a stress hormone, contributes to tension and anxiety. Studies have shown that massages can significantly reduce cortisol levels, promoting a state of relaxation and mental clarity.
Releasing muscle knots: Trigger points, or "knots," are areas where muscle fibers are tightly contracted. Massage therapy applies direct pressure to these points, encouraging the fibers to relax and return to their normal state.
How massages alleviate pain
The pain-relieving effects of massages can be attributed to several mechanisms:
Endorphin release: Massages stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which reduce discomfort and create a sense of well-being.
Improved blood flow: By increasing circulation, massages deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues while removing waste products like lactic acid. This helps to alleviate soreness and inflammation.
Reducing nerve compression: Tight muscles can press on nearby nerves, causing pain or numbness. By relaxing the muscles, massages relieve pressure on these nerves, reducing discomfort.
How massages restore balance
Balance in the body refers to a state of physical, mental, and emotional harmony. Massages help restore this balance by:
Rebalancing hormones: Regular massages can help stabilize levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and relaxation.
Enhancing lymphatic drainage: Massages stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins and boosting the immune system.
Promoting mind-body awareness: Through touch and attention, massages encourage individuals to reconnect with their bodies, fostering a deeper sense of well-being.
In conclusion, Suzette Martina’s Full Body Treatment offers more than just physical relief, it’s a transformative experience that promotes overall wellness and an improved quality of life.
Quality over quantity: The issue with massage therapy on Curaçao
The profession of massage therapist on Curaçao is, unfortunately, not always practiced with the necessary professionalism and training. This directly affects the perception of massage as a serious alternative therapy and the quality of care clients receive.
I have worked tirelessly to establish my reputation and practice. With passion and dedication, I’ve developed myself through continuous education and have always aimed to deliver the highest quality. This commitment has not only allowed my practice to flourish but has also earned the trust of doctors and specialists who refer patients to me.
Unfortunately, finding well-trained assistants on Curaçao remains a significant challenge. Many lack the mindset to continuously develop themselves professionally and personally. There is a prevailing mentality that prioritizes earning money quickly over delivering high-quality care. This trend is alarming, as it not only damages the image of massage therapy but also compromises the quality of care overall.
I’ve also received feedback from clients about negative experiences with other practices, often due to therapists with insufficient training and experience. For instance:
Clients have reported feeling unsafe during sessions, citing unprofessional behavior from therapists.
Some have mentioned techniques that were either painful or ineffective due to a lack of proper training.
Others have described poorly maintained facilities that made them doubt the hygiene and professionalism of the practice.
These issues tarnish the reputation of the entire field. Therapists who label themselves as professionals after just a few weeks or months of training fail to recognize that massage therapy is a serious skill requiring years of practice and refinement.
My call to action is clear:
Invest in quality: This requires dedicating time, money, and energy to proper education and mentorship.
Commit to ongoing development: Healthcare and wellness are constantly evolving. Professionals must grow alongside these changes.
Establish control mechanisms: We need an interest group or organization to monitor the quality of lessons, education, and practices.
Massage therapy is a valuable alternative medicine that can restore physical and mental balance. But without quality and dedication, its full potential is not realized. Let us work together to raise the standards and elevate this industry on Curaçao.
Tackling the misuse of massage in erotic contexts
The association between massage and eroticism poses a significant challenge to the credibility of massage as a legitimate therapeutic practice. Instances where male therapists conduct massages unethically, making inappropriate advances or touching clients in ways that cross professional boundaries, create distrust among clients, especially women. This not only tarnishes the reputation of individual therapists but also undermines the integrity of the entire profession.
Additionally, some clients, both men and women, approach massage therapy with unrealistic fantasies or expectations that go beyond professional boundaries. It is absolutely unacceptable for clients to make advances toward their therapist during a session. If a client seeks the benefits of a professional massage, they must also ensure that their behavior toward the therapist is respectful.
This issue presents a dual challenge: clients fear potential misconduct, while therapists face the stress and discomfort of inappropriate behavior from clients. A friendly yet firm professional demeanor from the therapist is crucial to quickly recognize and address such situations. Clients seeking services outside the scope of professional therapy are encouraged to look elsewhere.
The challenge of rebuilding trust
As a professional therapist, I encounter this mistrust regularly. My husband, who has been meticulously trained by me in Suzette Martina’s Full Body Treatment, is one of the few male therapists who can execute the treatment to my standards. However, convincing female clients to trust a male therapist, even one with impeccable professionalism, is not easy, especially for those who have had negative experiences elsewhere.
Clients often share stories of male therapists who fail to uphold professional ethics, with reports of:
Inappropriate advances during sessions.
Touching areas that should remain strictly off-limits, such as the breasts or other intimate zones.
Lack of professionalism, such as inappropriate comments or behavior.
These actions not only violate the trust of clients but also make it more difficult for ethical male therapists to earn the respect they deserve.
Actions to uphold professionalism
At PRO Wellness and Therapy Center, we take deliberate steps to ensure trust and professionalism. These include:
Client coverage: Only the area being treated is uncovered; the rest of the body remains draped.
Professional appearance and conduct: All staff wear professional uniforms and adhere to a strict code of conduct.
Clear communication: Therapists explain each step of the massage process beforehand so clients know what to expect.
Maintaining boundaries: Therapists maintain appropriate physical and emotional distance at all times.
Privacy and consent: Clients are given private spaces to undress and redress, and sensitive areas, such as the breasts, remain covered at all times. Underwear always remains on during sessions unless otherwise agreed upon for specific treatments.
Zero tolerance for disrespect: Any behavior that disrespects the therapist results in immediate termination of the session, with no further appointments scheduled.
A call for unity in the profession
To address these challenges, the massage therapy community must unite to uphold ethical standards and raise awareness about professionalism. This involves:
Strengthening regulations: Professional organizations or local governing bodies should enforce stricter regulations and certifications that instill client trust.
Public education campaigns: Highlighting the therapeutic benefits and ethical nature of massage therapy can dispel misconceptions and rebuild credibility.
Peer support and advocacy: Therapists must actively call out unethical practices and share best practices to protect the profession’s integrity.
Restoring credibility
As therapists, we have a responsibility to advocate for ethical practices and demonstrate that massage therapy is a legitimate alternative medicine. By prioritizing education, maintaining the highest professional standards, and actively speaking out against misconduct, we can rebuild trust and ensure massage therapy is recognized for its role in restoring physical and emotional well-being. Together, we can uphold the integrity of this essential practice and secure its place as a respected therapeutic discipline.
The challenge of gender and trust in massage therapy
Prejudices against male therapists are quite prevalent. While understandable, given some unfortunate experiences clients may have had in the past, it is regrettable that women often hesitate to seek treatment from male therapists without doubt or concern. This highlights the need for all therapists, male and female alike, to uphold the highest ethical standards, continuously work on their professionalism, and maintain transparency to build and preserve trust with their clients.
However, trust is a two-way street. It is equally important to address inappropriate behavior from clients, which can undermine the professional relationship and create a toxic environment. As therapists, we have a responsibility to establish firm boundaries and make it unequivocally clear that such behavior is unacceptable. Immediate action must be taken to stop any violations of trust or professionalism.
Ultimately, trust must serve as the mutual foundation of the therapist-client relationship. Both parties must respect established boundaries and uphold the integrity of this professional connection. Only through mutual respect and accountability can massage therapy reach its full potential as a trusted and respected therapeutic practice.
Massage as an alternative healing practice
Massage is far more than mere relaxation; it is a powerful and effective form of alternative therapy. Its ability to support both the body and the mind makes it a valuable method for promoting well-being and addressing various health concerns.
I remain deeply fascinated by the remarkable nature of giving and receiving a massage. Personally, I make it a priority to take regular massages to maintain both my mental and physical balance. This self-care enables me to help others with clarity, sincerity, and a deep sense of purpose.
The history of massage is rich and intriguing. Ancient civilizations such as those in China, Egypt, and India recognized massage as a method to heal the body and calm the mind. Even then, it was evident that touch could have not only a physical but also a profound emotional impact. Massage was used to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and support recovery from illnesses or injuries.
Massage is referred to as "alternative therapy" because it complements conventional medicine and focuses on stimulating the body's natural healing processes. It serves as a valuable option for those seeking a holistic approach to healthcare.
What truly defines an effective massage is the intention behind it. Is it performed purely as a means to make money, or is it driven by a genuine desire to help others? At PRO Wellness and Therapy Center, we go beyond merely providing techniques. We believe that knowledge of massage methods, anatomy, and physiology is essential but not sufficient. What sets us apart is our dedication to going the extra mile for our clients. Our mission is to support each individual professionally and holistically, always with integrity, compassion, and passion.
Shifting the focus from profit to purpose
A holistic approach in massage therapy means addressing not only the physical but also the mental and emotional well-being of the client. This requires therapists who are aligned with this mindset, those who approach their work with genuine care, intention, and a deep understanding of energy.
When therapy becomes overly commercialized, the true essence of massage can be lost. Intentions shift, and the unique connection that should accompany a massage fades away. Energy is everything, it may be invisible, but it shapes how we feel, think, and live. Every day in my practice, I witness the difference between treatments performed with genuine thought and care versus those done hastily or without intention. The results are worlds apart.
That’s why my team and I are committed to performing massages with passion and purpose. Our goal is for every client to leave with that WOW effect, a transformative experience that resonates long after the session ends.
Clients often express how impactful their experiences are. Recently, a client asked me if I would ever consider resuming massages myself. I explained that, for now, my focus is on creating PRO Tips and Advice videos, developing coaching programs, and writing articles for Brainz Magazine. She looked at me earnestly and said, “You have no idea what your massages have done for me.”
Curious, I asked her to elaborate. She replied, “Of course, you wouldn’t know, because you can’t give yourself a massage. If you could, you’d understand why I keep urging you to massage me again. I’ve been to many places and experienced countless massages, but I’ve never encountered anything like your approach. Your intention, energy, and passion make it so unique.”
Her words deeply moved me and reminded me of why I do what I do. They even inspired me to consider returning to hands-on massage work and teaching others this specialized approach.
I want to encourage therapists to prioritize intention, energy, and passion in their practice. It’s not just about mastering techniques, it’s about deeply understanding what the client needs and delivering care naturally and intuitively. This, I firmly believe, is a God-given gift.
Money will come when we focus on helping people, but the desire for profit should never outweigh the mission to provide healing and support. Let your purpose guide your practice, and everything else will fall into place.
A call to action: Embracing massage as a lifestyle
I invite you to see full-body massages as an essential part of your health and wellness routine. Over the years, I’ve been incredibly proud of the positive impact I’ve had on my clients' lives, and I look forward to sharing this passion with even more people around the world.
Based on the beautiful island of Curaçao, I warmly welcome you to experience not only our stunning weather, delicious food, breathtaking beaches, and vibrant culture, but also the ultimate full-body massage experience. This is not just any massage, it’s a unique and transformative journey designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
I take great pride in my persistence and dedication to refining and perfecting this approach. Looking ahead, I am excited to teach others this specialized method so that my love and passion for healing can spread far beyond Curaçao and touch lives across the globe.
If you have any questions or would like to know more, feel free to contact me via email. I also invite you to stay connected and inspired by following me on social media:
Let’s work together to make massage therapy a lifestyle, one that enhances your health, restores balance, and enriches your life.
Follow me on LinkedIn for more info!
Read more from Suzette Obiana - Martina
Suzette Obiana - Martina, Cesar Exercise Therapist
Suzette Obiana-Martina, a licensed Cesar Exercise Therapist with over 15 years of experience, empowers patients to modify daily habits that contribute to their physical complaints. She provides quality time and tailored solutions to improve their personal and professional lives. Her mission is to make people self-reliant, equipping them to manage their own well-being. With extensive training in corporate exercise therapy, foot therapy, coronary diseases, psychology, and psychosomatics, Suzette connects deeply with her patients. By fostering positive encouragement, Suzette helps patients achieve more than they ever thought possible.
Sources:
Improved blood circulation: Massage therapy has been shown to enhance blood flow, which supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells while accelerating the removal of metabolic waste. Read more: News Medical
Reduced stress: Research indicates that massage therapy can relax the nervous system by slowing heart rate and blood pressure, and decreasing stress hormones, thereby reducing stress and enhancing immune function. Read more: News in Health
Pain management: Studies suggest that massage therapy can significantly reduce pain and increase functional activity, particularly in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Read more: PubMed Central
Enhanced sleep quality: Massage therapy has been associated with improved sleep quality, as it can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Read more: Mayo Clinic Health System
Strengthened immune function: Massage therapy can improve health and wellness through its effects on an individual's physical, mental, and social well-being, potentially enhancing immune function. Read more: American Massage Therapy Association
Reduction in muscle recovery time: Massage may contribute to quicker recovery from intense physical activity by reducing muscle soreness and promoting better circulation. Read more: Ability Clinic
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