The Riverland Community College massage therapy program begins its seventh year of clinical massages this month. This service is open to the public and will run from January 18 through May 5, 2011. Massage Clinicals will be held at two different Riverland College locations this year:

• Albert Lea Campus, 2200 Riverland Drive, on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Austin Campus, 1900 8^th Ave. NW, West Building, near the Cosmetology Salon on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Services include hour-long and half- hour-long massages, tandem (four-hand), hot stone massages, reflexology sessions and 15-minute chair massages. Fees range from $10 to $40, depending on the service. Gift certificates are available. To schedule an appointment, call 507-379-3367 and leave a message. A student will return the call to schedule an appointment.

The Riverland Massage Therapist program integrates theory, anatomy, physiology, pathology and kinesiology along with developing professional communication skills. The program prepares graduates to operate a massage therapy clinic or be employed in other health care-related settings. Massage has been shown to improve circulation, enhance relaxation, reduce pain and increase mobility and flexibility. Massage therapists can work in a clinic, hospital, private practice, health club and a variety of other work settings.