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Techniques

It is important to know that you don’t have to decide which technique you would like during your massage. Most often the massage therapist uses a number of techniques in one massage treatment. This is assessed by the client and massage therapist during the intake.

Chair Massage
A short (15-20 minute) massage of a client sitting in a special, portable massage chair. The client remains fully clothed and no oils are used while their shoulders, neck, upper back and arms are worked on. On-Site chair massage is popular at offices as an employee benefit and for conferences, workshops and certain social events.

Foot Reflexology
Working the feet as a means of improving one's health has been practiced successfully for thousands of years by many varied cultures across the world. Many countries today use foot reflexology as a means of treating and preventing illness. In ancient Sanskrit writings we find the belief that to "manipulate" one's feet is to keep all illness away. Foot reflexology applies finger and thumb pressures to specific points on the feet. The pressures are applied slowly and with firm pressure therefore ticklish feet need not worry. These points are reflex points and they correspond to every organ and every system, and every part of the body. In other words, the entire body is mapped out on the feet. One of the many theories as to why working the feet is so effective is that of the entire body, the feet have one of the highest concentrations of nerve endings, pressure sensors and capillaries close to the surface of the skin. The work supports the body's incredible ability to heal and to balance itself through the guidance of reflexology. The results are relaxation, increased circulation, stress reduction, improved immune system, decrease in pain, detoxification and overall well-being. Reflexology can assist in reducing specific unwanted symptoms or an be used as a general "tune up" for the entire body. Foot reflexology is often confused with a foot massage. However the theory, application and the feel are quite different. A session only requires the removal of shoes and socks. Aside from that all you have to do is kick up your feet, relax and reap the many benefits of reflexology.

Pregnancy Massage
A great way to relieve the stresses that result from the rapid and profound physical as well as mental changes that occur during pregnancy. Pregnancy massage is designed to relieve aches in the back, neck, hips, legs and weight bearing joints. It will also provide support for Moms-to-be. Postpartum massage helps restore the body to pre-pregnancy conditions and helps nurture the new Mom. We use specialized pregnancy pillows that allow for the client to be more comfortable.

Relaxation Massage
Any combination of light non-invasive strokes, kneading, or energy work which produce a profound state of physical and emotional relaxation.

Swedish Massage
Refers to a collection of techniques designed primarily to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Swedish massage uses five main strokes to stimulate the circulation of blood through the body; petrissage (keading), effleurage (longer strokes), friction, tapotement (tapping) and vibration. These techniques relax muscles, increase circulation, remove metabolic waste products, help the client obtain a feeling of connectedness, a better awareness of their body and the way they use and position it. As it greatly reduces emotional and physical stress, it is often recommended as part of a regular program for stress management.

Myofascial Release
Fascia is a complex supportive web throughout the body affecting all components of the musculoskeletal, nervous and visceral (organ) systems. It surrounds groups of muscle fibers and entire muscle groups and organs. Chronically tense muscles restrict blood flow and fatigue the body. Both fascia and muscle tissues can become shortened if they are improperly used. Myofascial release techniques are used to coax muscles in spasm to relax and break adhesions in the fascia through the application of gentle traction, pressure and positioning. Bodies respond to these therapies by releasing tension that has been stored in the fascia, thus allowing more functional flexibility and mobility of the muscles, fascia and associated structures.

Reiki
Reiki is a gentle hands-on healing technique to reduce stress, relieve pain and facilitate healing. Practitioners hold that the vital 'life force' energy of the universe is channeled through the practitioner to energize the various body systems on levels that promote healing and wholeness. Reiki does not involve manipulation of the the client's muscles or other soft tissue and may be performed on a fully clothed client or as part of a regular massage treatment.

Trigger Point Therapy
A pain-relief technique to alleviate muscle spasms and cramping. The therapist locates and deactivates `trigger points', which are often tender areas where muscles have been damaged or acquired a recurring spasm or `kink' that worsens painfully when aggravated. Trigger Points typically 'refer' pain to areas surrounding or even very distant from the tender point. The major goals are to reduce spasm inducing new blood flow into the affected area. Pressure is applied to trigger points, for a short time, which can be momentarily painful but is greatly relieving. Then the muscles are gently stretched to complete the relaxation process.

Shiatsu
Shiatsu, a traditional Japanese form of acupressure, uses many of the same pressure points as acupuncture. Two of the basic concepts of shiatsu are the flow of energy/ki in the body, and the connections between heart, mind, body, soul. Acupressure points and stretches as well as other techniques are used to revitalize and replenish depleted areas, and to soothe and relax areas of tension. A session can be vigorous--involving stretching and manipulation of limbs--and calming, involving slow and steady pressure on a few key areas.  Shiatsu is done over clothing, so please be sure to wear lose fitting comfortable clothing.

 
 

 

 

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