types of massage
Usually, during a massage session, I will use a combination of various techniques to address your needs. You may, however, request your session be primarily based on one particular modality, if you so wish. Swedish Massage: Focuses on the skin and most superficial muscles. It involves long, smooth, lengthening strokes as well as shorter circular movements. This technique benefits the circulatory and lymphatic systems and typically promotes relaxation. Active and passive stretching and range of motion movements to the joints can also be included to increase flexibility. Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Once the superficial muscles have been warmed up using Swedish massage techniques, we can go deeper into the muscles to help release tension and tightness. Deep tissue strokes are shorter, gradual and much slower. The amount of pressure applied varies with each client. I will communicate with you regarding your comfort level so the work can be effective and pain free. Myofascial Release: Consists of slow applications of sustained pressure which facilitate gentle stretching into fascial restrictions in the body. Fascia is densely woven connective tissue, which covers, separates and interpenetrates every muscle, bone, nerve, blood vessel as well as all our internal organs, including the heart, lungs, brain and spinal cord. The fascial system is similar to a spider's web, spreading itself three-dimensionally throughout the body from head to foot, without interruption. Trauma, posture and/or inflammation can lead to tightening, thickening and dehydration of the otherwise pliable and fluid fascia, resulting in chronic pain, structural misalignment and compromised functional capacity. The myofascial release techniques allow the fascia to soften and lengthen, taking the pressure off the pain sensitive structures, as well as restoring alignment and mobility to the joints. Reiki: Is a technique where the therapist places her hands gently on different parts of the client's body to facilitate and balance the flow of energy, promoting calmness and harmony and enabling physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. The client may remain fully clothed. Reiki is an ancient Japanese energy healing system based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's life force energy is low, we are more likely to get sick or feel stress. If it is high, a sense of wellbeing and good health are more easily promoted. Reiki is a modality of bodywork suitable for anyone. It is especially therapeutic when massage is contraindicated due to significant illness or for clients who are simply uncomfortable with the prospect of massage, but desire healing touch. For further information about Reiki, visit The International Center for Reiki Training at www.reiki.org. Couples massage: A wonderful opportunity to have a joint session with your "significant other", mother/daughter/sister or best friend. The couples massage is offered by me together with another massage therapy colleague. |
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