Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage Techniques
These are techniques that aim to work on specific physical symptoms such as pain, reduced range of motion, chronic or acute injuries, or poor posture. They are also good for athletic enhancement and help assist in exercise recovery. Please note that during a massage session our therapists will typically utilize a variety of techniques.
Neuromuscular Therapy and Trigger Point Therapy
Massage techniques that deactivate trigger points, areas of contracted tissues that are typically tender to the touch and can cause pain and spasm in the local area or in other distant areas of the body. In this type of massage direct, concentrated pressure is applied to painful points or areas of muscle spasm and held until the intensity is reduced.
Myofascial Release and Connective Tissue Therapy
Both of these techniques focus on releasing the fascia, the finer web of connective tissue that glues us to our skeleton. When we receive an injury or incision, fascia turns into scar tissue, restricting movement so that the injury can heal. These adhesions can persist long after the injury has healed, causing pain and reduced range of motion. By using a slow and firm pressure and little to no oil, these techniques melt the fascia that is binding the muscles and causing pain.
Massage Techniques for Relaxation
These techniques are useful for addressing stress and other emotional states such as depression, grief, shock, and anxiety. They also have a general therapeutic effect on the body, enhancing relaxation and encouraging detoxification. Please note that during a massage session our therapists will typically utilize a variety of techniques.
Swedish Massage
Typically done on the whole body, this technique utilizes the more superficial, basic massage strokes such as friction, effleurage (long and flowing), and petrissage (kneading). The general effect is to loosen and relax the mind and body and gently stimulate detoxification.
Reflexology Massage
Massage that focuses on pressure points on the hands and feet in order to treat the whole body. This technique is based on the theory that that all of the organs, glands, and systems of the body have a corresponding location on the extremities that can be useful for identifying and addressing imbalances in those areas.
Polarity Therapy
This type of therapy focuses more on seeking out and releasing energetic blockages and re-establishing normal energy flow patterns rather than on treating the physical body. It uses light touch and sustained holds primarily on the head and feet to balance the body's electromagnetic field.
Maternity Massage
Prenatal massage has many of the same goals as regular massage but is tailored specifically to the needs of the pregnant woman. It usually consists of a full-body massage utilizing a variety of techniques as listed above.
Benefits
Prenatal massage is relaxing and reduces stress. It can relieve muscle cramps and pain caused by shifting bones and pressure on the weight-bearing joints. It increases blood and lymph circulation to reduce swelling, and enhances the pliability of the skin and underlying tissues. It is also excellent for helping the mother with recovery after childbirth.
Timing
Because massage is so moving and opening, it is contraindicated in the first trimester. However, as things begin to change and shift more rapidly, the second and third trimesters are an ideal time for prenatal massages. Massage can also help with post-natal recovery, facilitating healing and assisting the body as it returns to its pre-pregnancy state.
Positioning
Since pregnant women are unable to lie face down or flat on their backs, prenatal massages are done with the woman lying either on her side or semi-reclined. Lots of pillow and cushions are used and adjustments are made as needed for comfort. You can undress to whatever level you are comfortable with and will always be draped with sheets for privacy.
Contraindications
Prenatal massages are contraindicated in the first trimester but are fine in the second and third. Certain areas and points on the body are off-limits as well and are always avoided by our skilled and trained practitioners. Though it is not necessary, you may want to get clearance from your doctor or midwife before receiving a massage since they are always contraindicated in high-risk pregnancies or when there are certain conditions present like blood clots, cramping, bleeding, or abdominal pain.
"Health is a large word. It embraces not the body only, but the mind and spirit as well. And not today's pain or pleasure alone, but the whole being and outlook of a man." ~James H. West
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