Benefits of Massage

• Helps relieve stress and aids relaxation
• Helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness
• Fosters faster healing of strained muscles and sprained ligaments; reduces pain and swelling; reduces formation of excessive scar tissue
• Provides greater joint flexibility and range of motion
• Improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids
• Reduces blood pressure
• Helps relieve tension-related headaches and effects of eye-strain
• Strengthens the immune system
• Fosters peace of mind and promotes a relaxed state of mental alertness
• Improves ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately
• Enhances capacity for calm thinking and creativity
• Fosters a feeling of well-being
• Reduces levels of anxiety

FAQs

When should I get a massage?

Any time is a good time to get a massage. You don't need to wait until you're stressed or injured. Massage works wonders as preventive care for a person's body and mind. Instead of waiting until your back hurts from overwork or stress, or the headaches that start at the back of your skull begin to pound, or the stress of every day life makes you want to pop your cork, get a massage! A regular massage is a wonderful way to cope with physical and emotional stress and to keep it from causing discomfort or harm to your body.

What parts of my body are massaged in a full body massage session?

A full body session usually includes the face, scalp, neck, upper chest, arms, hands, legs, feet, and back. People carry tension in different areas of the body and some people request abdomen, gluteals, or hip rotators are included. Everyone has preferences and needs and your session is created for you.

When might the use of massage therapy be inappropriate?

If you suffer from certain circulatory ailments (such as phlebitis), infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, cardiac problems, certain skin conditions, or any inflamed or infected tissues, be sure to consult your physician before initiating any massage program. A trained and experienced massage therapist will also be able to tell you when massage is not indicated .

How often should I receive a massage?

Receiving a massage on a weekly basis is ideal for those who use massage as preventive care and managing the daily stress in their lives. A bimonthly or even monthly massage is greatly beneficial. The more frequently you receive a massage the greater the cumulative benefits. If your goal is to relieve chronic tightness that is interfering with your daily life in some way, weekly sessions may be necessary for a while to build on each session's improvement in their relief and healing.

What if I'm overweight or embarrassed about my body?

Many people say they'd get a massage if they lost weight first or didn't have that cellulite on the back of their thighs. Don't let this stop you. You're denying yourself quite a pleasurable experience. Most massage therapists have seen bodies in every imaginable shape and size, from young to old, and we’re not here trying to judge your physique or ogle your body. We're professionals who have found massage to be a wonderful gift to give to men and women alike, regardless of age and weight, and are proud of what we can offer to people in need of help or just wanting to luxuriate in the sense of touch. As a Registered Massage Therapist, my goal is to help you feel better with trained and caring hands. I'm accustomed to various health histories and occupations, all ages, weights, and body types.

Is massage therapy a luxury?

This is a perception that is rapidly changing as massage becomes increasingly accepted as a natural part of a healthy lifestyle. In fact, according to one media characterization, "massage is to the human body what a tune-up is to a car. It provides a physical boost to the weary, sore and stressed."

An increasing body of clinical research confirms that massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, boosts the immune system, and increases endorphins (all may enhance medical treatment).

What if a massage wasn't quite what I wanted?

All massage therapists have their own style, their own approach to massage, the strokes they like to use, and the depth they like to work. Some prefer a more clinical approach; some, a more personal approach. Not every client clicks with every massage therapist. The key is to find one who can deliver the type of massage you like best.

What is your style?

I aim to give clients a nurturing professional massage by creating an environment that is warm, safe and comfortable. I try to achieve a spa or day spa atmosphere but use some clinical elements. Personal attention always takes precedence over technique making each massage session unique based on your preferences and needs. Many of my clients enjoy a relaxing feel-good massage in combination with modalities that will relieve chronic pain, tension and stress. For example, I may incorporate reflexology, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and/ or polarity therapy into sessions to achieve your desired outcome.