Being committed to your well being contributes to your health and happiness. Understanding the process makes it easier.
THERAPEUTIC Massage- Commonly a deep tissue massage that targets a health issue. Focus is on both the primary and secondary cause of the muscle tension. Slow, deep movements including intense techniques such as trigger point work ("knots"), Frictions- penetrating pressure applied to release areas that are tight in the joints and tendons where adhesions are developing and followed by Stretching. This massage stimulates circulation through the joints and alleviates contractures.
PRE NATAL massage- a slow, gentle pressure relaxation massage that helps relieve muscle tension and pain. Best done after the 1st trimester. A Prone (face down) medical pregnancy pillow is available. Contains a deep " cavity for baby to fit and an area for breasts and face as well. Side-lying also an option. 2011 research shown to decrease depression, anxiety, leg and back pain and improves sleep (Field, 2010). Talk to your Dr. about risks. Avoid massage if you have the following:
-Risk of preterm labour, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, blood clots/disorder, placenta previa or gestational diabetes.
POST NATAL Massage- Gentle detoxification process conducted by creating soothing "c" or "wave" motions that move excess fluid back up towards the heart to be absorbed by the lymphatic system. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) technique helps the body drain, excess water, waste and toxins from bodily tissues via urine NOT breast milk. Breast milk is safe for baby afterward.
FOOT Massage- A light to deep massage that manipulates the feet by applying pressure to various areas to promote relaxation, and relieve tense, sore muscles as well as diminish pain. It aims to increase blood circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system that drains toxins and waste from the body. Lower leg/calf work are included. Pregnant women and those suffering from Neuropathy should avoid this type of massage.
HEAD/NECK/SHOULDER Massage-By massaging these areas, performing GTO (Golgi tendon organ), O & I work (origin and insertion of muscles) and stretching, inflammatory conditions, tension, and stress brought on from forward head carriage (texting, computer use, studying etc), are diminished. Relaxes tight muscles in the neck and shoulders relieving the severity and intensity of headaches and migraines.
ABDOMINAL Massage- Aids in relieving constipation. The massage promotes contractions that help move stool through the digestive tract and speeds up how quickly everything moves through the colon. Pain and discomfort are minimized. Beneficial for any age.
SCAR TISSUE Massage- a deep (rubbing) finger pressure technique used to prevent the scar from becoming raised and hard and from sticking to underlying muscle and bone that in turn causes limited range of movement in that area.
RELAXATION Massage- Using Swedish and non-Swedish techniques, fascial stretch etc. soothes away aches, stiffness and pain creating a sense of relaxation and renewed vitality.