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Massage Styles
We offer a wide variety of massage styles. Our well-educated therapists are able to listen to your individual needs and design a safe and therapeutic massage.
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Deep Tissue Massage:
A massage therapy technique that can be very intense and uncomfortable, but that has valued benefits, this type of massage separates muscle groups and loosens connective tissue, leading to more freedom of movement and deep relaxation.
Geriatric Massage:
Massage therapy geared toward the aging population and their specific needs. Geriatric Massage encompasses basic relaxation and stress relief, and is also a beneficial tool in fighting many of the symptoms of aging. It can increase blood circulation, combat depression, improve balance and flexibility, reduce the pain of arthritis, increase joint mobility, improve posture and encourage overall well-being.
Reflexology:
Theories of How Reflexology Works
Science, as yet, has not been able to tell us for sure how reflexology works. Reflexology probably works for many reasons. The three main theories are: Nerve Theory, Meridian Theory, Zone Theory.
- Nerve Theory
The Nerve Theory is the universally held theory of the connection between the reflexology body maps on the feet, hands, and ears, to the rest of the body.
When imbalance (tension, stress, discomfort, illness, pain, etc.) occurs in the body, blockage (scientifically known as "Substance P" by neurophysiologists) accumulates around nerve endings found in the reflex areas of the feet, hands, and ears that correspond to the stressed part of the body. For example, when there is neck tension, blockage (Substance P) accumulates in the neck reflex area of the feet, hands and ears.
- Meridian Theory
Fourteen thin energy lines called meridians going up and down the body, have over 800 pressure points, only 28 of which are in the feet and hands. Only one acupressure point is found on the bottom of each foot. Meridians do not go to the ears (one meridian on the head, passes close to the crease just behind the ear.)
- Vertical Zone Theory
The body is divided into ten wide strips called zones, five on each half of the body. The ten vertical zones go from the top of the head to the ten toes and ten fingers. Every part of the body falls into one or more of these ten vertical zones. There are also five zones in each big toe and thumb, just for the head and neck.
- Horizontal Zone Theory
The body is also divided into four horizontal zones that go across the body. Toes and fingers relate to the head and neck. Big knuckles of the feet at the base of the toes and of the hands at the base of the fingers relate to the chest. Soft sole of the feet and soft palm of the hands relate to the upper abdomen. Heel of the feet and heel of the hands relate to the lower abdominal areas of the body.
Benefits of Reflexology
Thousands of specific benefits have been reported from people who have received reflexology sessions. The broad range of reported benefits can be divided into several categories.
- Stress reduction, profound relaxation, for all parts of the body,
- Pain reduction and pain elimination, such as in the neck, shoulders, lower back and jaw,
- Improved circulation resulting in better oxygen and nutrient supply to all the cells of the body,
- Detoxification, improved organ and gland function,
- Feeling better, greater productivity, enriched quality of life,
- Normalization of body functions,
- Prevention by reducing accumulated stress in the body before health challenges develop,
- Safe nurturing touch.
For links on Reflexology, visit www.reflexology.org or to learn more visit www.reflexology-usa.org.
Relaxation Massage:
Relaxation Massage is a gentle massage aimed at inducing relaxation.
Swedish Massage:
A massage technique that is well-known throughout the world. Developed by Henri Peter Long in 1812, Swedish massage uses five specific movements:
- long strokes
- kneading of individual muscles
- percussive
- rolling of fingers
- vibration
This type of massage also employs oils that are beneficial to the skin. It improves circulation, eases muscle aches and pains, improves flexibility, and provides overall relaxation.
Terminal Massage:
As a person moves closer to their time of passing, a much lighter touch is recommended during a massage. As well, specific movements to help with pain and ease the passing process can be included.
Therapeutic Massage:
Therapeutic Massage is used to denote a massage treatment intended to facilitate healing when a specific health problem exists. A variety of manual techniques designed to promote stress relief and relaxation, mobilize various structures, relieve pain and swelling, prevent deformity and promote functional independence in a person who has a specific health challenge.
Trigger Point:
Trigger Point Therapy, also known as Myotherapy or Neuromuscular Therapy, applies concentrated finger pressure to "trigger points" (painful irritated areas of muscles) to break cycles of spasm and pain.
Jin Shin Jyutsu:
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient art for balancing the life energies of the body to promote natural health, vitality and sense of well being. It is a gentle art, practiced by placing the fingertips (over clothing) on specific areas of the body, to harmonize and restore the energy flow. To learn more, visit www.jinshinjyutsu.com.
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