Introduction to Massage
Massage is not a luxury but an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Bringing the body into better alignment allows you to move, sit and sleep without the stress of nagging pain, increasing efficiency in work and play. Massage can slow the heart rate and reduce muscle tension, freeing connective tissue and creating openness that encourages flexibility and freedom of movement.
Massage is a hands on, holistic approach that facilitates healing by creating positive changes in the soft tissue structure of the body. Massage is especially beneficial in muscle, tendon and ligament injuries.
Using cross fiber friction, it increases circulation, bringing in fresh nutrition and clearing waste products. It decreases pain and swelling and helps to realign scar tissue into a more functional fiber pattern.
The comfort of massage can help alleviate the pain associated with chronic illness and disease. Massage has been proven to reduce anxiety and to improve nutrition in body tissues.
Massage Techniques
Deep Tissue massage is very specific and focused. It should not be painful, but may be experienced as intense.
Myofascial release focuses on both the muscle and the connective tissue that wraps around it and spreads like an endless web throughout your body. This technique uses stretch and pressure to lengthen and release the fascia so that muscles can return to their correct position and length, thereby enhancing their function.
Medical massage is targeted massage for acute or chronic conditions including repetitive strain, headaches, backaches, whiplash, fibromyalgia and arthritis.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD), Dr. Emil Vodder’s specialized techniques developed in Europe the in 1930s, uses feather-light touch to support the immune system and help rid the body of wastes that can cause fatigue and pain. It is also used in the management of lymphedema caused by injury, surgery or cancer treatment. I am fully certified to treat lymphedema and fit the appropriate compressive bandages. This treatment also is very helpful for those suffering from sinusitis and allergies but, like all massage, is not appropriate for those with an acute infection.
Supportive massage for seniors and those in fragile health improves mobility, sleep and dry itchy skin. I am a charter member of the Society For Oncology Massage and have special training in Caring For Clients with Cancer as well as Breast Cancer Rehabilitation. Safe, effective massage has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, ease the nausea of chemotherapy and decrease the use of pain medication.