massage modalities

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Massage is defined as the systematic manual or mechanical manipulation of the soft tissues of the body for therapeutic purposes. There are many benefits to massage including the relief of pain and tension in the body, the increase of mobility and flexibility, even boosting the immune system, as well as promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Stress causes an increase in hormones in the body which can cause headaches, muscle aches and weakness, weight gain, digestive issues and problems sleeping. Massage can not only help with stress relief, but regular massage therapy sessions can increase physical and emotional well being and boost energy levels.

Other benefits from regular massage therapy sessions are lower blood pressure, increased circulation, a decrease of inflammation, improved muscle tone, posture and gait.

Can't decide on which service or treatment to get? No worries. We can customize your session to include different treatments in order to maximize the results and the way you feel.

This style of massage generally uses softer or gentler and slower techniques.  Some of these techniques are from Swedish massage, such as effleurage. This massage has the intention of easing the mind and body of stress and tension without any specific therapeutic benefit. It's perfect for the busy person or the busy minded person.

Therapeutic Massage is defined as the manipulation of soft tissue (muscles, fascia, lymph, etc.) to restore normal systemic and biochemical function or use. This is often used in medical settings and is used in  massage studios like this one. Therapeutic Massage is more detailed with a ameliorative intention.  A lot of massage modalities can be classified as therapeutic, including those listed below.

Swedish Massage is most likely the type of massage that you are familiar with.  It is the most common style of massage in western culture. Long, soft strokes and kneading, percussion and tapping are used.  This massage can blend the best of Relaxation and Therapeutic quite perfectly.

Deep Tissue Massage can be misinterpreted by many clients as well as some therapists. It is not just "punching into the muscles" and it is definitely not meant to bring the client pain.  Deep Tissue uses broader, slower strokes and techniques in order to work through superficial layers of muscles, allowing for the manipulation of the deeper layers of tissue.  This is why forearms, elbows and fists are commonly used in this style of massage.

Myofascial (my-o-FASH-e-ul) Release  is an effective technique that focuses on pain that arises from the tightening myofascial tissue. This tissue is the tough membranes that interconnect, wrap and support your muscles.

Myofascial pain can differ from other types of pain because it originates in trigger points imbedded within the myofascial tissue. The pain that those trigger points cause can often be difficult to pinpoint.

It involves applying gentle to deep sustained pressure into the myofascial areas that feel stiff and rigid in order to make them more flexible and movable to eliminate pain and restore motion. 

Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”), or “vital energy.” Qi flows through every physical body. When there is stress, injury or ailment in the body, the body blocks the flow of qi. This continued imbalance in the body leads to further illness. Reflexology is practiced with the intention of maintaining the flow of qi through the body, keeping it balanced and disease free.

Reflexology uses compression techniques on the feet, hands and ears that correspond to the organs and functions throughout the body. Reflexologists use maps of these points to decide where to apply pressure, stimulating the body's own ability to heal.The most common technique used is referred to as finger walking.

Prenatal Massage is very much like any other massage with the exception that it is performed during pregnancy.  It has the same goals of achieving relaxation and relief of the tension, aches and pains of the soft tissues in the body. Specific care and positioning on the table is used, especially after the first trimester. Massage techniques are adjusted to accommodate the mother to be.  Generally, a lighter touch is used.