Massage Modalities

The following describes the integrated massage modalities that are offered:

Swedish Massage
The term "Swedish Massage" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.

Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management. It also has many specific medical uses.

Swedish massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, while promoting health and well being.

Neuromuscular Therapy
This comprehensive program of soft-tissue manipulation balances the body's central nervous system with the musculoskeletal system. Based on neurological laws that explain how the central nervous system initiates and maintains pain, the goal is to help relieve the pain and dysfunction by understanding and alleviating the underlying cause. It is used to locate and release spasms and hyper-contraction in the tissue, eliminate trigger points that cause referred pain, rebuild the strength of injured tissues, assist venous and lymphatic flow, and restore postural alignment, proper bio-mechanics, and flexibility to the tissues.

Deep Tissue Massage
Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fiber's of the muscles, tendons and fascia. Deep tissue massage is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and more direct deep pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles not with the grain. Deep tissue massage helps to break up and eliminate scar tissue. This massage usually focuses on more specific areas and may cause some soreness during or right after the massage. However, if the massage is done correctly you should feel better than ever within a day or two.

Pregnancy Massage
This relaxing and balancing massage is perfect for any Mother to Be. Help reduce the common pregnancy discomforts and tension while you feel nurtured and cared for. Pillows will be used to support her head, arms and legs in both side-lying and back-lying positions. This ensures the maximum comfort and safety for Momma and Baby. The benefits include:

• Tranquil relaxation and reduce stress.
• Relief from muscle cramps, spasms, and myofascial pain, especially in the lower back, neck, hips, and legs.
• Increase in blood and lymph circulation, which can reduce swelling.
• Reduces stress on weight-bearing joints.
• Improves outcome of labor and eases labor pain.
• Enhances the pliability of skin and underlying tissues.
• Provides support for the new mother with physical and emotional strains of mothering.