Swedish Massage

  • This is the most common type of massage.  If someone has never received a massage before, I highly recommend beginning with this type.  It uses a system of long gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and even tapotement which involves alternating tapping with cupped hands, fingers, or the edge of the hand on the more superficial layers of the muscles.  The techniques are generally used in the direction of blood flow towards the heart, and sometimes with active and passive movements of the joints.

  •  It is used to promote general relaxation, improve circulation and range of motion, as well as relieving muscle tension.

  • The pressure applied during this massage, is more of a light to medium.  However, during the session at any time the pressure can be adjusted.

  • Swedish Massage can be both relaxing and energizing, and can help even after an injury.

Prenatal Massage

  •  Before receiving a Prenatal Massage, it is important for the client to get their doctor's consent, to make sure they have no contraindications.  Massage therapy in the first trimester is not advised, due to it being very early in the pregnancy and possible health risks could arise.  Upon arriving, I will have a prenatal consent form that will need to be filled out.  This informs me of how far along in the pregnancy the client may be, as well as if they are a high risk.  Examples of contraindications/warnings for a high risk pregnancy are:  possible miscarriage, urinary tract infections, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, varicose veins, heart disease, cancer, skin irritations, or any acute injuries such as burns, bleeding, or fractures. To accommodate the client, side- lying with a body pillow is positioned to keep them comfortable during their session.   The techniques used are to relax not only the muscles, but also the mother to be and her baby.   Benefits of a Prenatal and Postnatal Massage are:

  • improve mood

  • reduce stress

  • decrease swelling

  • relieve aches and pains

  • improve sleep

  • reduce anxiety and depression

  • prepares the body for labor and delivery

  • after pregnancy, it helps to speed up recovery, relieve postpartum depression, as well as improving overall well-being. 

Deep-Tissue Massage

  • Deep Tissue Massage is used to release chronic patterns of muscle tension using slow strokes, direct pressure, or friction directed across the surface of the muscles. 

  • Helps break up any adhesions that are blocking circulation, causing pain and inflammation, as well as limiting movement.

  • Deep Tissue Massage usually focuses on a specific problem, such as chronic muscle pain, injury rehabilitation, and the following conditions:   limited mobility, sciatica or piriformis syndrome, migraines, fibromyalgia, postural problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back pain, and osteoarthritis pain.  Individuals that are also involved in heavy physical activity or are recovering from physical injuries will also benefit from deep tissue massage.  Receiving them on a regular basis will also help to reduce blood pressure, break down lactic acid, decrease stress hormone levels, strengthen the immune system, help manage pain, improve sleep, relax the mind and body, not to mention help replace medication.

  • During the massage, most clients describe it as a " good hurt" feeling.  It is very important to provide me with feedback, because the pressure should always remain within the client's comfort level.  

  • Deep breathing techniques are also a great way to help with any tenderness or discomfort. 

  • After there is usually some stiffness or pain, but should subside within a day or two.  I always recommend applying ice to the area afterwards if needed. 

  • It is always important for clients to increase their water intake after a massage as well.  Flushing out the toxins that are released from the muscles and then properly rehydrating them, can help reduce muscle aches and stiffness after a massage.  Our muscles need to stay hydrated just like we do.

  • Avoid any strenuous activity afterwards and try stretching the muscles to prevent stiffness and pain.

Trigger Point Therapy

  •  It is a form of soft tissue manipulation that aims to treat underlying causes of chronic pain. Primarily used to release trigger points (hypersensitive areas of muscle tension that refers pain to other parts of the body), then alleviates that pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release.

  • It is also used to locate and release spasms and hyper-contraction in the tissue, assist venous and lymphatic flow, as well as rebuild the strength of injured tissues.

  • The recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.

  • Helps with circulation, nerve compression, postural issues, and biomechanical problems that can be caused by repetitive movement injuries.

  • Individuals can experience a significant decrease in pain after just one session.  Can also naturally manage their pain and stress from chronic injuries by receiving this type of massage on a regular basis.