The practice of utilizing touch and tissue manipulation for therapeutic effect is one of the most ancient forms of medicine in human history, with evidence of the practice appearing in ancient and recent cultures the world over. More recently, starting with the Greek physician Hippocrates, the western world has come to understand more and more the powerful science behind bodywork. 

See below for a list of the different types of massage we offer.

Swedish Massage

“The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed 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. This form of massage was created at the turn of the century by Henry Peter Ling in Sweden. It involves the use of kneading, stroking, friction, tapping, and vibration and may provide relief from stiffness, numbness, pain, constipation, and other health problems. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Other possible benefits include stimulation of circulation, an increase in muscle tone, and a balance of the musculo-skeletal systems. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load.

The usual sequence in which swedish massage strokes are conducted are Effleurage, Petrissage, Friction, Vibration, Percussion, and finally passive and active movements (bending and stretching).”

Benefits of Swedish Massage

• Improve circulation

• Reduce stress

• Stimulate a depressed nervous system

• Increase immune function (assist lymph flow)

• Relax body and mind

• Release tension

• Assist in delivery of oxygen and nutrients at cellular level

• Assist in elimination of metabolic wastes (toxins) at cellular level

• Stimulate rest and digest (parasympathetic system)

• Powerful Synergist with:

• Meditation practices

• Regular exercise practices

• Detox practices

• Autoimmune disease treatment

• Cancer treatment

• Weight loss programs

• Stress management

• Disease recovery

• Addiction recovery

• Emotional recovery

• Psychotherapy

• Treatment of depression

 

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Deep Tissue Massage

The definition of deep tissue massage also includes myofascial massage: a slow, deep pressing massage, usually focused on one area of the body, which releases the fascia (a web of connective tissue around the muscles) that causes both restriction in movement and pain. When there is persistent pain, stiffness or perhaps trauma to the muscles, the fascia begins to harden and to actually knit itself with little fibers to the surrounding tissue—bone, muscle, tendon and other connective tissue. This warm, pressing stroke done very slowly, allows the fascia to return to a gel-like state and soften or disperse.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

• Increase range of motion (flexibility)

• Reduce internal scarring from trauma and overuse

• Relieve aches and pains (including some forms of deep joint pain and headaches)

• Improve respiratory efficiency

• Release body holding patterns (myo-fascial release)

• Break up adhesions and encourage organized recovery at cellular level

• Intervention of painful spasm cycle

• Reduce inflammation of ligaments, tendons, and muscle sheaths

• Powerful Synergist with:

          *Chiropractic work

*Physical Therapy

• Trauma/surgery recovery

• Self-care/improvement practices

• Psychotherapy

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Trigger Point Therapy

The therapist locates points that are hyper-sensitive and refer pain to other areas. These often follow common patterns and can be seen on a trigger point chart. The therapist repeatedly applies deep holding pressure to these points and (followed by stretching of the muscle). Often this releases the chronic pain pattern.

(http://www.naturalremediesnyc.com/Definition-of-Deep-Tissue-Massage.html)

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Shiatsu

Often thought of as "the definition of deep tissue massage," it isn't. And it doesn’t have to hurt! Traditionally from Japan (it means finger pressure), shiatsu is done on a mat on the floor, in loose clothing (good for those who don’t like to undress). Five-element shiatsu is based on the Chinese system of meridians and points used in acupuncture. It combines passive stretching with compression (pressing) of points along the meridians with the thumbs, hands, palms and sometimes knees and feet. Shiatsu is very good for soothing and centering and can address any muscular issue. It has a lot of similarities to Thai massage.”

(http://www.naturalremediesnyc.com/Definition-of-Deep-Tissue-Massage.html)

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Transformation can occur in as little as one session.

One very gratifying result of respectful, well intended, and skilled bodywork is transition from a revved up state of hurry, worry, or anxiety to calm, relieved, and serene; or from a depressed, run down, burned out state to invigorated, relaxed, and inspired.

Transformation can occur cumulatively over time.

As tension knots are released, adhesions or internal scars dissolved, fascial tissue unwound and released, inflammation reduced; long-term or chronic pain can be alleviated, pain involved in the activities of daily living (like reaching into a cupboard, climbing stairs, combing your hair, sleeping in a bed, or playing fetch with your dog) can be reduced or eliminated, allowing you to enjoy more freedom, autonomy, and joy in your life.

Sometimes transformation requires that a professional have the time to use refined palpation skills and anatomical/physiological knowledge to assess and treat myo-fascial problems. For many conditions, a well-educated and experienced Massage Therapist is un-equalled in achieving results.