Swedish — A collection of techniques designed primarily 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. Swedish massage uses five main strokes to stimulate the circulation of blood through the body; petrissage (kneading), effleurage (stroking), friction, tapotement (tapping), and vibration.
Swedish massage involves the use of hands, forearms or elbows to manipulate the superficial layers of the muscles to improve mental and physical health. Active or passive movement of the joints may also be part of the massage. The benefits of Swedish massage include increased blood circulation, mental and physical relaxation, decreased stress, muscle tension and improved range of motion.
Deep Tissue — Releases 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 grain of muscles, tendons and fascia. It is called deep tissue, because it also focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue.
Reiki — During Reiki, which means”universal life-force energy,” the “healer” becomes a channeler of universal energy. The treatment follows a traditional pattern of hand positions resting on the body without pressure. Reiki is pure energy, and brings about deep relaxation and healing.
Shiatsu — A Japanese form of physical therapy and therapeutic massage, based on traditional Chinese medicine. It combines massage, gentle physical manipulation, and pressure along channels or rivers of energy called meridians.
Relaxation — Any combination of light non-invasive strokes and kneading which produce a profound state of physical and emotional relaxation in the client.
Sports — Massage of foundation tissues directed specifically at the muscles used in athletic activities. This is a deep muscle massage often used around the joints. It combines classical Swedish style with trigger points, compression and electro-neuromuscular techniques to reduce soreness.
Pregnancy — Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. It is a fast-growing field in the United States that has attracted the interest of labor and delivery nurses, nurse-midwives, childbirth educators and obstetricians. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.
Reflexology — A form of massage in which pressure is applied to certain parts of the feet and hands in order to promote relaxation and healing elsewhere in the body. A science based on the belief that each part of the body is interconnected through the nervous system to the hands and feet. Stimulating specific reflex points in the feet can bring needed nutrients to poorly functioning areas of the body. This can help restore balance throughout the body.
Hot Stone — Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.
Chair — Chair massage opens up the back muscles, relieves strain on the neck and provides a gentle respite for your whole body. Even 10-15 minutes of massage to the neck, back, arms and hands can increase circulation, help soothe aches and pains, and rejuvenate energy levels.
