Sessions are a combination of several modalities, suited to each client's needs. A typical session will include elements of Swedish flow, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release, Polarity Therapy, Craniosacral, Reflexology, Shiatsu and assisted stretching.
Swedish Massage is a very relaxing and therapeutic style of bodywork. It combines oils or lotion with an array of strokes such as rolling, kneading, and percussion to help the body improve its circulation. The benefits of this type of bodywork are wide-ranging and include relief from aches and pains, decreased stress levels in the body, enhanced mental clarity, improved appearance, and greater flexibility.
Deep Tissue Massage is a form of bodywork that aims to relieve tension in the deeper layers of tissue in the body. Deep Tissue Massage is a highly effective method for releasing chronic stress areas due to misalignment, repetitive motions, and past lingering injuries. Due to the nature of the deep tissue work, open communication during the session is crucial to make sure you don't get too uncomfortable. Keep in mind that soreness is pretty common after the treatment, and that plenty of water should be ingested to aid with the flushing and removal of toxins that will have been released from the deep tissue during the session.
Reflexology is a type of bodywork that focuses on applying pressure to the specific nerve zones in your feet. Unlike other foot massages that intend to mostly relieve tension in the feet themselves, reflexology is a far more in-depth science that aims to harmonize your entire body. According to reflexology, every part of the human body is mapped into your feet. Reflexology treatments have been found to be highly effective for conditions such as allergies, headaches, and depression.
Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle and subtle, yet powerful technique that is effective in releasing neck pain, back pain, and mental stress (among other things). It does this by optimizing the movement of cerebrospinal fluid through the spine and around the skull. Developed by physician William Sutherland, this therapy provides a very soothing and relaxing healing experience.
Polarity therapy is a type of bodywork which is focused on the energy fields of the body, rather than the physical body itself, although light tapping or holds may occur with this work. This type of body work is also called energy work, because the practitioner attempts to adjust the energy fields of the body and bring them into balance. Polarity therapy is primarily based on the elemental qualities of air, water, earth, fire and ether.
Myofascial release is a form of soft tissue therapy intended to reduce pain, increase range of motion, and rebalance the entire body. It does this by using techniques to stretch the fascia and release the adhesions that exist between the fascia, muscles and bones. Fascia is the connective tissue that connects and covers all muscles, organs, and skeletal structures of the body. Direct myofascial release is sometimes known as deep tissue work. Indirect release applies light pressure and gently stretches the fascia; this allows for increased blood circulation and relief from pain.
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage therapy. In addition to the direct stimulation of pressure points along the energy pathways of your body, gentle stretching techniques and rhythmic compressions are applied over a wider area of the body to integrate the point work and encourage the flow of Qi (energy) throughout the body. Shiatsu is a meditative healing art that honors the body, mind and spirit.
Prenatal Massage is a style of bodywork designed specifically for pregnant women. Pregnancy is a time when a woman's body endures tremendous stress due to dramatic physical and emotional changes. Using various techniques specially developed for the expecting mother, Prenatal Massage helps release the pain and discomfort experienced throughout pregnancy. The benefits are profound, including emotional support, the relief of joint pain due to extra weight and postural imbalance, and improved breathing and relaxation. Prenatal clients will be laying on their side for the entirety of this massage to ensure safety and comfort for any time during the pregnancy.
Hot Stone Therapy is a style of massage where heated stones are placed at specific sites on your body to deepen relaxation and promote circulation in your muscles. Muscles that are heated with these stones release tension and stress much more deeply and quickly than with a traditional massage. The overall experience is very relaxing, nurturing, and rejuvenating.
Thai massage is more energizing and rigorous than most other forms of massage therapy. It's also called Thai Yoga massage, because I use my hands, knees, legs, and feet to move the client into a series of yoga-like postures, using strategic compressions and stretches. This is traditionally done on the floor in Thailand but my style of work has been adapted to the massage table. This means I will occasionally get up onto the table during the session to support my own body mechanics, similarly as it would be done on a floor mat. Clients say that Thai massage is like doing yoga without doing any of the work. No oil is applied, so the client will be fully dressed during the session, and is asked to arrive wearing loose fitting soft pants and a t-shirt, along with socks. A single Thai massage session may help release stress and relieve pain, and to support functioning more effectively at work and home.