Massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation with physical (anatomical), functional (physiological), and psychological purposes and goals. Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most commonly offered and best-known type of massage. During Swedish massage, massage therapists use massage oils or lotions to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage. Other classic Swedish massage moves include kneading, friction, stretching and (sometimes) tapping. Swedish massage uses firm but gentle pressure to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension and create other health benefits. Deep Tissue Massage Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue or fascia (the material that holds everything together). This type of massage focuses on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity, such as athletes, and patients who have sustained physical injury. It is also not uncommon for receivers of Deep Tissue Massage to have their pain replaced with a new muscle ache for a day or two. Deep tissue work varies greatly. What one calls deep tissue another will call light. When receiving deep tissue work it is important to communicate what you are feeling.
Myofascial Release Myofascial release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia, integument, and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and equilibrioception (sense of balance). Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling. Trigger point therapy Sometimes confused with pressure point massage, this involves deactivating trigger points that may cause local pain or refer pain and other sensations, such as headaches, in other parts of the body. Manual pressure, vibration, injection, or other treatment is applied to these points to relieve myofascial pain. Trigger points were first discovered and mapped by Janet G. Travell (president Kennedy's physician) and David Simons. Trigger points have been photo-micro graphed and measured electrically. Adapted from Wikipedia and About.com
In my practice
Over the years I have seen many benefits of therapeutic massage. I usually combine one or more of the modalities listed above. For each session and each body is different. One client can come in for stress relief while the next can come in for chronic pain. Someone may come in for a stiff neck as another will come to me for headache relief. I have had people who have been physically abused come to me so they can get reacquainted with a healthy, safe and non-threatening touch. Whatever your reason, I encourage you to book a massage today.
Pregnancy Massage: (2nd and 3rd trimesters only)
A massage specific for the mother-to-be. Using a full body cushion for mom to ensure maximum comfort level (even allowing her to lay on her belly), our goal is to relieve back aches, swelling and other discomforts due to pregnancy. **Please consult your physican before making an appointment.
Hot Stone Massage:
Working in harmony using European massage techniques and warm stones, relaxing the body at its deepest level: stone massage is very effective to create harmony, a positive energy flow, and promotes a sense of balance.
Paraffin Wax Treatments:
This soothing heated wax will leave your hands and feet feeling soft and pampered. This treatment helps with arthritis, achy joints and dry chapped skin. Add to any treatment.
Raindrop Technique®: This is a powerful, noninvasive treatment using Young Living Essential Oils, that brings structural & electrical alignment to the body, clearing energy centers without using excessive pressure. This, combined with massage techniques allows for greater healing.
What to expect: Your first session in a new office should always start with completion of an intake form. This is manatory by New York State law, is strictly confidential, and is treated as such. Once complete, I will go over the information and ask a few pertinent questions regarding your session for that day. Since not all therapists follow the same treatment outline, I will explain what to expect from your session with me. You will be left to disrobe in private and position yourself on the massage table as instructed, covering yourself fully with the linens provided. After a few moments I will knock on the door to see if you're ready before entering.Adjustment to the linens and any bolsters will be made to increase your comfort level. During your massage the only part of your body exposed is the part which is being treated. I encourage you to keep talking to a minimum allowing yourself to relax and receive the most from your treatment. If at anytime you are uncomfortable, (too hot or too cold) please convey this me. Communication concerning the session itself is encouraged and will benefit the overall effect of a bodywork treatment.
