New Places, New Programs for Kids in Rockland County - November 2009

The Power of Touch

   Dave Oldenhage Massage & Bodywork, Inc in New City, which opened in February, is a 1400-square-foot studio with a comfortable lounge, five massage session rooms, and a quiet, calming atmosphere. Owner Dave Oldenhage incorporates Eastern principals into his work, which strive to strike a balance between the wellness of the mind, body, and spirit. "We have a medical approach in Western society," Oldenhage says, "but sometimes a medical approach is not necessarily the best approach to wellness." Massage therapy, he believes, falls into both categories, as a hands-on approach to wellness. "The power of touch is a powerful thing."

   In addition to traditional table massages, Oldenhage offers structural bodywork, focusing on releasing muscle tension and increasing range of motion in limbs. Shiatsu and Thai are two forms of bodywork done on a mat on the floor; these use compression, passive stretching, and trigger-point philosophy, as opposed to lotions and oils. For expecting moms, Patricia Betamarco, part of the business's team of massage therapists, offers a side-lying pregnancy massage.

   Oldenhage, who has four children, encourages parents to regularly "massage" their children, whether it be through a shoulder rub, a pat on the back, or even a hug. "Using the power of touch involves a lot of emotion. It can elicit feelings of comfort, warmth, and love," he says. "It's a way to connect when you feel disconnected."

   Dave Oldenhage Massage & Bodywork, Inc. 180 Phillips Hill Road, Building 1, New City. 845-634-8822. www.daveomassage.com.

Taekwondo for Preschoolers

   J.Y. Moon Taekwondo, a martial arts school offering programs for all ages and skill levels, opened its Valley Cottage location at the end of June. The new 7,000-square-foot facility is the largest martial arts space in Rockland County.

   The new location offers the same spectrum of programs available at J.Y. Moon Taekwondo's flagship location in Westchester, including regular martial arts classes for all ages, an afterschool program (including transportation to the school) for ages 4 and up, and a nine-week summer day camp for elementary and middle school-aged children, which features martial arts lessons as well as field trips and outdoor activities.