Hi Candie
I have been using a heated unblanket for years and my clients love it. The only thing you have to remember is to get it checked yearly by an electrician (electricity at work act), bit of a pain but worth it.
On deep pressure - the day you have done seems great and I would love to talk and swap ideas with you some time. Another great tutor to look out for is a lady called Ruth Smith, she again is a wonderful therapist and what she doesn't know well... I was lucky to study with her some 6 years ago but haven't seen her courses advertised since, if you find her she is well worth the traveling for any of her courses. I too used my thumbs but be careful 9 years in practice have taken its toll on them. I also use, elbows, forearms, fists, side of hands, heel of hands and fingers.
love and light