therapeutic breast massage
What Traditional Massage Misses is Now Within Reach.
Bridging the Gap in Women's Wellness—Comprehensive Breast Care
Carrying on the legacy of Barbara Helynn Heard, LMT
Some years ago, my friend and colleague Barbara Helynn Heard, LMT, announced that she would step away from teaching and her massage practice to devote more time to living and enjoying life. Barbara is an amazing person and an inspiration. She was one of the first people I met professionally as I was contemplating my Lomi journey and massage career. Her kindness and spirit continue to inspire me.
Barbara made it her mission in the later part of her career to normalize full chest and breast massage within the context of therapeutic treatment. She created the first class in Seattle on full chest and breast massage, and when she offered me the opportunity to carry on with this teaching, I eagerly said yes.
I began offering her class as a 16-hour Continuing Education course designed for Washington State and got it approved nationally by the NCBTMB. Since then, I have updated that course. I have also now expanded the curriculum; adding a 3-day advanced anatomy class, a half-day Intro to Chest & Breast Massage, and in 2025, I created the Intro to Breast Massage webinar—a live, interactive webinar that can reach students nationwide.
Most recently, I created an advanced class designed specifically for Breast Cancer clients. It’s the most comprehensive Breast Cancer Massage course available: a 3-day program that offers specialized hands-on techniques, draping, communication essentials, oncology basics, advanced intake questions, and an introduction to Manual Lymphatic Drainage.
If you would like to read about Barbara's work, you may visit her site here.
If you are a massage therapist and would like information on when and where you make take this course please visit the Continuing Education Pages or click on the button below.
with Aloha
Edward
From Barbara Helynn Heard
"Edward has volunteered to carry forward my mission to normalize including the full chest in full body massage sessions. I am grateful for his dedication to this work, and his willingness to commit his time, energy and talents to this venture. After attending my chest and breast massage class twice, sharing this work with his massage clients for several years now, and with his experience teaching lomilomi classes, I know that this venture is in good hands.
Edward will create a safe, calm, and relaxed workshop environment and successfully introduce others this practice.
Thank you, Edward!"
A European Perspective on Breast Massage
Reclaiming our often lost natural connection
to parts of the body
reflections from a massage therapist
who was born & raised in France,
and who has worked in the USA for decades
Here is my personal experience with massage, communicating with clients, draping, etc.
In Europe and Asia I was initiated into a whole new world filled with grace. I took my first massage workshop in the 70’s in Western Europe, where I was born & raised. It was done with reverence, in silence - except of course for preliminary instructions. We were slightly draped around the waist, & more if we got cold. The room radiated with motherly caring and child-like innocence. I was initiated into a whole new world filled with grace. I knew I wanted to share this work with others.
I honed my ability to be fully present while giving/receiving comforting & liberating touch. I took several trips to South Asia, where I honed my ability to be fully present while giving/receiving comforting & liberating touch. In Europe & Asia, I gave/received an abundance of massages and never encountered a “breast problem”. We were dressed or partially undressed, depending on techniques used & context: Shiatsu and Thai Temple Massage vs. long soothing oily strokes. A breast was not something to avoid or put extra focus on in any of the trainings I attended, just an intrinsic part of the body.
In the US It took me years to recover my natural self-confidence & joy in the bodywork process. In the 80’s in the US, things changed for me in massage school. The focus was now on contra-indication, pathology and liability. It struck me as fear-based, defensive & desperately seeking acknowledgement. It took me years to recover my natural self-confidence & joy in the bodywork process. I discovered that some clients and friends had internalized the kind of American modesty imported from puritans fleeing European religious persecution.
Following "the rules", I saw myself awkwardly dance around the breast when offering long connecting strokes - thus singling it out instead of emphasizing physical wholeness - an oxymoron.
Following my intuition....Following my intuition, I sometimes ask women if they want their chest covered at all times. Some say “yes, keep me covered” - for the comfort of a familiar habit and/or a warming sheet. Some say “no, go ahead, I am fine, I feel free this way,” or “why not?” I’ll give it a try” (I encourage them to change their mind any time if they feel like it). Some of them have just undergone a mastectomy with or without reconstruction, others are getting ready for reconstruction: all need to be seen, heard and accepted as is. What better place to do so?
So much noise about breasts.....So much noise about breasts, yet I see the root of the problem in our un-questioned beliefs about our body & self, our un-questioned ideas of “manhood” & “womanhood.” This all too often results in acting out our sexual confusion as manipulative predator or “cooperative/helpless” prey. This confusion is a significant aspect of the un/learning & healing people seek in massage. As we know, every part of the body can be sexualized, made a fetish of. How we touch & are touched depends on our intention and communication.
I believe it's aberrant to sexualize breasts all over the place, while at the same time shamefully hiding them. It’s absurd to be legally allowed to walk bare-breasted in NY streets but not on Instagram. In France, the topless beach tradition set in motion in the 60’s inspired a good five decades of a de-dramatized breast and therefore more natural attitude towards the female body; only in the past couple of years are tops returning - to deter phone abusers from turning women into internet sex objects & the general public from confusing half-nudists with urban activists (e.g. Femen).
When I receive a massage....When I receive a massage, do I automatically want my breast/chest area uncovered during massage? No. It depends on who is massaging me, man or woman, & what’s going on for me that day.
I give massage from a detached and caring place. When I give a massage, I communicate openly & respectfully with each individual client from within my own acquired comfort zone; I offer the covered vs. uncovered option from a detached and caring place; remembering that we all have some kind of story about breasts, I honor the client’s boundaries &/or interest in self-discovery and self-liberation. No pushing, no pulling, no unnecessary charting or stigmatization - just respectfully present to each situation. The idea is to reclaim our often lost natural connection to parts of the body.
As to male clients, of course I automatically uncover their chest when working on this part of their body - unless they have told me otherwise, to stay warm or feel like a tucked-in child again.
Cultivate self-awareness and clear communication Bottom line in my opinion is this: let's foster a culture of self-aware massage therapists who communicate clearly with their clients and vice versa . It's that simple!
Written by Claire Massart, MA, LMT (aka LMP), 2016
Born and raised in France, Claire Massart is a seasoned massage therapist who was initially trained in Europe where she worked as a massage therapist. She continued her training in Asia and the USA and has worked in Seattle, WA as a massage therapist for several decades.
My own European Perspective
From my extensive travels and training in Europe, I have also gained a personal perspective. Having trained in Germany, spent time in many wellness facilities and trained among colleagues, there is a healthy "indifference" to the naked body that one rarely experiences here in the US, where we are quite conflicted. We use sexual imagery with abandon to sell everything from Hamburgers to automobiles, yet actual nudity in movies, or real life is often frowned upon.
While training, or often in spa environments men and women are changing together in coed settings. Nudity in these settings is not titillating, nor is it a statement, it just "is". There is healthy nonsexual touch that can easily be distinguished from sexual touch. It is a more mature or evolved way to think about it. If you were born and raised outside of the US and would love to share your perspective, as an outsider I can only observe and interpret, please email me and I will post if you like.
- Mahalo
FAQ: Chest/Breast Massage for Health & Wellness
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It is a healthy and normal part of our bodies. Massage can reduce pain and swelling, support range of motion, and promote circulation and relaxation. It feels wonderful to receive and helps receivers experience innocence in our body that we may not have felt since early childhood. It is non-sexual and it is an excellent and wholesome component of any wellness massage for men and women..
Why not provide our chest and breasts with the same benefits that we give the rest of the body?
Massage of the full chest supports easy breathing, relieves tension, assists with back, neck and shoulder pain, relieves chest tightness and reduces tension in the rib cage, neck and throat. Easy breathing leads to physical, emotional, mental and spiritual stress relief. Massage of the chest is also useful in treating shoulder and neck injuries.
Massage of the breast tissue itself can aid in lymph flow, help relieve congestion and discomfort related to menstrual periods, fibrocystic conditions and lactation.
After open wounds have healed, massage also helps relieve restrictions and scar
tissues post-surgery, including open heart surgery, mastectomy, breast reconstruction, breast reduction and breast augmentations. -
Yes. Breast massage provides a nurturing, supportive experience that can encourage emotional healing. For some women, it may help them feel more connected to their body, particularly after a surgery or trauma. The process of receiving breast massage can help break down emotional barriers, promoting self-love, self acceptance and self care. It encourages deeper emotional relaxation and healing, allowing you to feel more empowered and at peace with your body.
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Breast massage is an empowering choice for women. It’s an opportunity to take control of your health, support your body, and nurture your well-being in a deeply personal way. By choosing breast massage, women can reclaim ownership of their bodies, challenge societal stigma, and engage in self-care that promotes both physical and emotional healing. It’s about normalizing and embracing this important part of the body as a space for care and healing.
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To ensure your massage is both ethical and respectful, choose a therapist who is well-trained, professional, and experienced. I have over a dozen years of positive client reviews from those who appreciate this work. A qualified therapist will provide clear communication before, during, and after the session, ensuring you feel comfortable and well-informed. I create a safe, private environment where your boundaries are respected, and your consent is always prioritized. It’s essential that you feel empowered to express your needs and concerns throughout the process.
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Yes, breast massage is completely safe when performed by a qualified and trained therapist. It is essential that the therapist adheres to proper ethical guidelines and uses the appropriate techniques. A safe and ethical approach ensures that you feel respected, comfortable, and fully supported throughout the session. Always choose a licensed therapist with experience in breast massage—one who provides clear information and is happy to address any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, it’s important that you give fully informed consent before proceeding with the massage. I have been providing this service to clients with great success for over 12 years.
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Yes, I offer specialized, comprehensive breast and chest massage for clients who are going through or recovering from breast cancer treatments, including mastectomy, chemotherapy, and post-surgery care. I address a wide range of concerns, such as pain, scarring, mild lymphedema symptoms, axillary web syndrome (cording), and other issues, while fully supporting your emotional healing journey. This work helps you reconnect with this part of your body and reintegrate it as part of your whole self.
Breast and chest massage is a crucial aspect of both physical and emotional healing. I use a variety of effective techniques to support clients at all stages—whether you're just learning about breast cancer, undergoing treatment, or in recovery. This includes working with clients who have had mastectomies, breast augmentation, breast reduction, fibrocystic breast tissue, and other non-cancerous conditions. My approach is designed to provide a holistic, compassionate, and healing experience. -
Yes, I provide breast and chest massage for transgender clients, including those who are in the process of transitioning or post-transition. Whether you're undergoing hormone therapy, surgery, or simply seeking support for emotional or physical well-being, this work can help with both physical healing and emotional empowerment.
I approach every client with respect, sensitivity, and an understanding of the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals. Techniques are adapted to meet your specific needs, whether for post-surgical recovery, emotional support, or addressing any physical concerns such as chest discomfort, scarring, or lymphedema. My priority is creating a safe, affirming, and nurturing environment where you feel comfortable and fully supported throughout the process.
Please feel free to reach out to discuss how breast and chest massage can support your journey. -
Not at all! Breast massage can be beneficial for all women, regardless of whether they are experiencing discomfort or health issues. It's a valuable tool for relaxation, improving circulation, and enhancing body awareness. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, promote emotional healing, or simply take time for self-care, breast massage is a wonderful way to honor and nurture your body.
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No. Breast and chest massage does not cure cancer and does not diagnose cancer. It can, however, relieve swelling and support circulation of both blood and lymph in breast tissues which is useful in keeping your breasts healthy. Wearing bras, so prevalent in our society, applies pressure to breast tissue and restricts lymph flow. Free flowing lymph is important for our immune system, and a healthy immune system can help prevent and fight disease. Massage of breast tissue helps keep the lymph freely flowing.
Soothing, compassionate, safe touch to the chest provides emotional support for people living with breast cancer and others. -
We begin with a health history and intake to ensure there are no contraindications or cautions for this work such as infection, lymphedema, undiagnosed lumps or discharge. I will clearly explain the process to you and the options for draping. If you choose to proceed, I will ask you to sign a special consent form for vulnerable areas.
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Being comfortable with the process is vital to maximizing results and clear, detailed communication between client and therapist is essential. I will explain the process to you and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions. From there I will ask you to sign a special consent form for vulnerable areas.
Verbal consent will also be requested: If you are female and have consented to full chest and breast massage before the session begins, I will tell you that I will ask you again immediately before massaging your chest & breasts whether you would like your chest and breast massaged. I will tell you that I accept both "Yes" and "No" as equally valid answers.
Supporting public safety: This informed consent protocol is designed to support public safely by preventing incidents in which clients receive unwanted touch to their chests and breasts. -
The chest/breast massage is worked seamlessly into the treatment toward the end of the session incorporated into the “face up” portion. Immediately before working in this area I will ask again for verbal permission. Although you have signed a form, you have the option to consent or decline again verbally.
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Yes, the work is more limited but your breasts will remain covered. I will apply gentle compressive strokes along the edge of the sternum and also on the lower rib cage. I will massage the upper chest between the neck and the upper edge of the sheet directly on the skin and body.
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After you have told me you would like full chest and breast massage, I will undrape your chest. I massage directly on the full chest and breast with my main focus primarily being to access the rib cage deep to the soft breast tissue. I gently yet firmly press through the fatty tissues, sometimes sliding the softer breast tissue to the side. While I never specifically target the nipples and areola, I also don’t try to avoid them. This is the “whole body” experience that so some provides a sense of “completeness. My palms and forearms my pass over the full chest and breast as shown in these photos. The area is then recovered.
