Massages
My own unique massage style evolved out of integrating
the following modalities; swedish, acupressure, trager,
polarity therapy, reflexology, and aromatherapy.
My massage style is very intuitive, flowing, light to
deep, gentle yet firm, depending on your individual needs
and preferences.
Some of the proven benefits of regular massage are:
- Deep relaxation due to decreased tension of muscle
tissue and lowered blood pressure.
- Increased energy due to improved blood flow.
- Cleansing due to removal of waste from body cells.
- Increased mobility due to lengthening and increased
flexibility of muscle tissue.
- Heightened awareness due to improved sensory perceptions.
Types of massage:
| Swedish Massage |
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A classical European massage technique characterized
by a delicate manipulation of the muscles with special
oils by therapeutic stroking and kneading of muscle
tissue to promote stress relief. It is used to improve
circulation, relieve muscle pain and tension, increase
flexibility and induce relaxation. It combines three
basic strokes to the skin: long, firm strokes; kneading
strokes; and small circles. This is the most requested
and one of the most enjoyable massages. |
| Acupressure |
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Acupressure is an ancient form of healing believed
by some to be even older than acupuncture. It involves
the use of the fingers (and in some cases, the toes)
to press key points on the surface of the skin to
stimulate the body's natural ability to heal itself.
Pressing
on these points relieves muscle tension, which promotes
the circulation of blood and qi (pronounced "chee")
-- the vital energy or "life force" -- to
aid in the healing process.
Acupressure and acupuncture are somewhat similar.
Acupressure is sometimes referred to as "needleless
acupuncture," because
both forms of healing use the same points to achieve
the desired results. The main difference is that
an acupuncturist stimulates points by inserting
needles, whereas an acupressurist stimulates the
same points
using finger pressure.
Stimulating specific points on the body can trigger
the release of endorphins (chemicals produced
by the body that relieve pain). When endorphins are
released,
pain is blocked, and the flow of blood and oxygen
to the affected area is increased. This causes
the muscles
to relax and promotes healing. In acupressure,
as with most traditional Chinese medicine concepts,
local symptoms
are considered an expression of the whole body's
condition. |
| Trager Approach® |
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The Trager Approach relies on gentle, rhythmic rocking
and stretching techniques to promote easy and free
movement and sensation throughout the body. Clients
wear loose-fitting clothing and lay on a table in a
warm treatment room. Sessions can last from either
one hour to an hour and a half. |
| Polarity Therapy |
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According to the American Polarity Therapy Association, "Polarity
therapy is a comprehensive health system involving
energy-based bodywork, diet, exercise and self-awareness.
It works with the Human Energy Field, electromagnetic
patterns expressed in mental, emotional and physical
experience. In Polarity Therapy, health is viewed as
a reflection of the conditiion of the energy field,
and therapeutic methods are designed to balance the
field for health benefit."* The technique's pioneer,
Dr. Randolph Stone, a strong proponent of the healing
powers of energy, utilized polarity therapy in his
pratice until retiring at the age of 84 in 1974. |
| Reflexology |
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This technique is based on a system of points on
the hands, feet and ears that correspond, or "reflex," to
other areas of the body. Similar in theory to acupressure,
reflexologists believe that applying appropriate pressure
to these points stimulates the flow of energy, thus
helping to relieve pain or blockages throughout the
entire body. A very pleasurable form of bodywork, reflexology
is also used to ease stress and promote relaxation. |
| Aromatherapy |
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This relates to the use of fragrant, natural, botanical
essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds,
resins and flowers. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes
the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce
a sense of well-being and. Each individual essence
is used to produce a specific beneficial effect. Used
in massage and facials. |
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