Massage Basics

Massage Basics
A full body massage is performed on a massage table. A sheet covers the client and only the body area being worked on is exposed. Oils and/or lotions are used in swedish massage and may have essential oils blended in them. For the first treatment a review of your medical history will be taken and may include a postural assessment. After the massage it is good to have some quiet time to relax and lots of water to drink. Your therapist may give you home care advice, specific exercises and ergonomic suggestions for after-care.
Swedish Massage - consists of kneading and stroking the muscles with oil to release knots, break down scar tissue, increase circulation and promote relaxation. It can vary from light relaxing strokes to deep tissue treatment of specific problem areas. Some of the conditions that can be helped include, stress, headaches, carpal tunnel, arthritis, sciatica pain, shoulder, neck, back pain, whiplash and as part of a rehabilitation program for injuries.

Shiatsu - traditional shiatsu is performed on a mat on the floor with the client dressed in loose comfortable clothing. Pressure is applied with the thumb or elbow to points along the energy meridians that run along the body. Compressions for increasing circulation and stretches for the joints are also included. By balancing the flow of energy, the body is stimulated to heal itself. You will feel relaxed and energized after the treatment.

Reflexology - The body is seen to be represented in the foot, hand and ear. By applying pressure to various points on them, the meridians and glands are stimulated to provide a self-healing response.

Hot Stone Massage - the ultimate relaxer. This is not used as much for specific conditions but as a way to totally relax and unwind. The body is massaged with warm oil and smooth heated basalt stones. The heat from the stones penetrates deep into the muscles and soothes away tension and aches. Large stones are placed over the chakras to open and balance them. The treatment takes 90 minutes and includes a dry brush skin exfoliation. Don't plan any activities after this treatment; you will be floating on clouds for hours.

Reiki - reiki is performed on the client while they are laying down fully clothed. It is not a massage technique per say. The practitioner lays their hands lightly on certain spots of the body or hovers just over them for a period a several minutes at each spot. This is done to channel the universal life energy to be directed to those areas that need it. You will feel very relaxed and calm after a treatment. These treatments are beneficial to all but are especially suited for people with active cancer or severe burns or injuries where deep tissue work may be contra-indicated.

Thai Massage - is performed on a mat on the floor. The client is dressed in loose comfortable clothing. Its consists of applying stretches to all the joints in the body as well as applying pressure to points along the meridians. This is great for increasing range of motion and flexibility.

Trigger Point Therapy - when muscles spasm and tense up there is an epicenter called the trigger point. By applying sustained pressure to this point the muscle releases and circulation is restored. It can be a little painful but the results are quick and noticable. It is recommended to apply ice packs for 10 minutes after a deep tissue massage to reduce inflammation and help speed the healing process. Epsom salt baths ( one cup of epsom salt to a hot bath for 20 minutes) is another good way to detox the mucles

Cranio-Sacral Massage - the brain pumps out cerebral spinal fluid and sends it around the brain and spinal cord to nourish the tissues. Adhesions and blockages can interfer with this . Cranio-sacral treatments consist of gently holding the skull and vertebrae and releasing blockages. It is good for headaches and neck problems such as whiplash. It is a very gentle and subtle technique.

Chair Massage - is performed on a special chair with a facepiece. the client remains clothed. This is used primarily in office settings or public places . Treatments are usually charged by the minute and the areas focused on are back, neck, arms and shoulders. This is good for quick office breaks to relax muscles and de-stress.

Sports Massage - can be tailored to your needs whether that be injury rehab or detoxing muscles for faster recovery time.

Pregnancy Massage - Massage can be performed after the first trimester. Special cushions to accomadate the growing stomach are used to provide total comfort. Essential oils are not used as many of these can be toxic to the fetus. Massage is safe after the first trimester right up until delivery, but please always get your doctors ok first. Massage can also help new mothers whose postures are affected by feeding and carrying the baby.