SWEDISH MASSAGE
One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive and tapping movements with the application of oil to reduce friction on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.

 

MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
Myofascial Release is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions and facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems which are no longer relevant or are impeding progress.  First, an assessment is made by visually analyzing the human frame, followed by the palpation of the tissue texture of various fascial layers.  Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction.  Myofascial Release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain and headaches.

 

REFLEXOLOGY                                      
Reflexology is a unique method of using the thumb and fingers to stimulate more than 7,200 nerve endings in each foot.  These nerve endings correspond to all parts of the body.  Some reflexologists also work with the hands and the ears.  Sometimes referred to as zone therapy, this bodywork involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and glands and to relieve areas of congestion.  Similar to acupressure principles, Reflexology works with the body's energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical function.  Developed in the United States in the early 1900s, this technique is used today to reduce pain, increase relaxation and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids.  It is especially useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate.

 

THE CHI MACHINE
The Chi Machine blends the ancient arts with modern technology for a unique experience.  The Chi Machine rocks the entire body from side to side in a gentle undulating motion which helps to provide prompt temporary relief.  The Chi Machine is the culmination of 38 years of research and development by Dr. Shizuo Inoue, a medical visionary and developer of the world renowned Chi Machine.  The patented precision design of this innovative medical device utilizes optimum body positioning to achieve the ultimate in local muscle relaxation.  This design also provides temporary relief from minor muscular aches due to overexertion.  (Please refer to my web page describing The Chi Machine in more detail).

 

GERIATRIC MASSAGE
Geriatric massage, with its focus on the elderly, addresses the psychological and physiological aspects of aging and its associated diseases.  Bodywork, often limited to a shorter time span, is performed in residential care facilities.

 

CHAIR MASSAGE 
Techniques which provide fully-clothed seated massage, bodywork and somatic therapies to clients, generally in a corporate or business setting.  I utilize Swedish and Tui Na techniques.

 

ACUPRESSURE
Acupressure is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body's life force to aid healing.  Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses the gentle, but firm pressure of hands (and even feet).  There is a large amount of scientific data demonstrating why and how acupuncture is effective.  But acupressure, the older of the two traditions, was neglected after the Chinese developed more technological methods for stimulating points with needles and electricity.  Acupressure, however, continues to be the most effective method for self-treatment of tension-related ailments by using the power and sensitivity of the human hand.

Acupressure can be effective in helping relieve headaches, eye strain, sinus problems, neck pain, backaches, arthritis, muscle aches, tension due to stress, ulcer pain, menstrual cramps, lower back aches, constipation and indigestion.  

There are also great advantages to using acupressure as a way to balance the body and maintain good health.  The healing touch of acupressure reduces tension, increases circulation and enables the body to relax deeply.  By relieving stress, acupressure strengthens resistance to disease and promotes wellness.

In acupressure, local symptoms are considered an expression of the condition of the body as a whole.  A tension headache, for instance, may be rooted in the shoulder and neck area.  Thus, acupressure focuses on relieving pain and discomfort, as well as responding to tension before it develops into a disease - before the constrictions and imbalances can do further damage.  By using a combination of self-help methods, such as trigger point stimulation, deep breathing, range-of-motion exercises and relaxation techniques, you can improve your condition, feel more alive and healthy, and be in harmony with your life. 

The origins of acupressure are as ancient as the instinctive impulse to hold your forehead or temples when you have a headache.  Everyone at one time or another has used their hands spontaneously to hold tense or painful places on the body.  More than 5,000 years ago, the Chinese discovered that pressing certain points on the body relieved pain where it occurred and also benefited other parts of the body more remote from the pain and the pressure point. Gradually, they found other locations that not only alleviated pain, but also influenced the functioning of certain internal organs.