Massage
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing towards the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The client is covered by a sheet, with only the area being worked on exposed. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational percussive and tapping movements, with the application of oils or lotion to reduce friction on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesion, and improved circulation which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is used for chronically or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. The techniques that are used work on the deeper layers of the muscle fibers promoting healthier tissue alignment which helps to increase muscle function, movement and/or joint range of motion.
Acupressure ( Shiatsu ) Massage
Acupressure is an ancient Chinese technique based on the principles of acupuncture, and involves the use of finger pressure (without the needles) on specific points along the body. It is a way of accessing and releasing blocked or congested energy centers in the body. The purpose of acupressure is to stimulate the body's own recuperative powers. The stimulation removes energy blockages by diffusing the toxic build up that accumulates in the muscle tissue.
Acupressure can help alleviate ailments such as tension, stress aches and pains, arthritis or menstrual cramps. The therapy stimulates and activates the body's own energies to fight illness. Acupressure can also be used for general preventative health care.
Western scientists have also mapped out and proven the existence of these points using electrical devices.
Cupping
Cupping therapy is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage.
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy is one of the more gentle yet powerful therapies. William Sutherland, an osteopathic practitioner in the early 1900’s, discovered that gentle manipulations and adjustments at the sutures of the cranium, sacrum, and tailbone released tension from the membranes of the entire system, allowing the body to self-correct. This modality uses gentle, fluid movements of the bones and tissues of the head, thorax, and hips to enhance the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Imbalances are corrected in the central nervous system between the cranium and the sacrum, resetting the body’s natural healing potential. Craniosacral work can be done with the client clothed or unclothed.
The benefits of treatment include improvement of nervous system function, reduction of stress, deep muscular relaxation, support of the immune system, and overall enhancement of health. A greater sense of calm, clarity, and connectedness are often experienced after a craniosacral session.
MLD ( Manual Lymph Drainage- Vodder Style )
Manual Lymph Drainage is a form of very light massage that encourages lymph flow in the body. A gentle, non-invasive manual technique that has a powerful effect on the body. The lymph system is a slow moving system of vessels and lymph nodes that is supplementary to the body's system of blood circulation. The lymph system both delivers nutrients to the cells and carries away excess water, cellular waste, bacteria, viruses and toxins. By stimulating the lymphatic system, the therapist helps drain puffy, swollen tissues, supports the body's immune system, helps the body heal from surgery, and aids the body's natural waste removal or detoxification. The lymphatic system is located directly beneath the skin, so pumping and circular movements are very light. It can be used as a whole body treatment or used for the head, neck and face.
Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage ~ to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and ease many of the other discomforts associated with pregnancy such as edema and leg cramps . But its also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant woman and their changing bodies. Massage during pregnancy is a healthy way to reduce stress and promote overall wellness.
