Massage Therapy
Massage has been a primary healing technique in various cultures for at least 5000 years. It is defined as the systematic manual or mechanical manipulations of the soft tissue of the body by such movements as rubbing, kneading, pressing, rolling, slapping, and tapping for therapeutic purposes. Although its popularity with the public has fluctuated over the centuries, it has gained wide acceptance in the nineteenth century by experts in the medical field as the beneficial effects have become more understood.
Tension and stress may play a role in disease processes according to experts in the healthcare industry. In some instances, tight muscles can compress nerves or blood vessels. Massage therapy has been shown to benefit those suffering from many of these related disease processes. Our massage therapists use a range of techniques that involve gentle kneading and stretching. Benefits may include:
- Reduces stress levels
- Relaxes muscle spasms and relieving tension
- Lessons inflammation and swelling of joints and helps alleviate pain
- Dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and relieving congestion throughout the body
- Increases number of red blood cells
- Acts as a "mechanical cleanser," stimulating lymph circulation and hastening the elimination of wastes and toxic debris
- Helps prevent buildup of harmful "fatigue" products resulting from strenuous exercise or injury
- Improves posture
Therapeutic Massage
involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasms, and stress; and, to promote health and wellness. Massage therapy improves functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems and may improve the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness. Therapeutic massage enhances medical treatment and helps people feel less anxious and stressed. A combination of modalities may be utilized in order to speed the recovery process, including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Myofascial, and Hot Stones, as well as heat and/or ice therapy.
CranioSacral Therapy
Hot Stone Therapy
Sinus Treatment
Pregnancy Massage
Massage during pregnancy aids the health of you and your baby and alleviates some of the discomforts of pregnancy while promoting overall well-being. The use of a body contour pillow allows the mother a chance to safely lie on her stomach for total comfort and therapeutic benefits. A side lying position can also be used if needed.
Reflexology
Support for healthful changes
Massage is something good you can do for yourself that requires no extensive planning or physical exertion. As you take care of yourself in this simple way, you may find yourself developing the energy and inclination to pursue other healthful activities, such as exercise, good nutrition, or spending time with family and friends. Your therapist can be a valuable source of information on other avenues of support as well. She or he may be able to recommend books or instructors for stress reduction techniques such as yoga or stretching, biofeedback, nutrition, or exercise alternatives.