Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is the therapeutic manual manipulation of soft tissue including muscles, tendons and ligaments, by applying pressure to the body.
Swedish massage
The most common form of massage therapy is called Swedish Massage. This type of massage usually incorporates a combination of one or more of the six basic Swedish Massage strokes.
Massage Therapy should be tailored to your own particular needs. We will ask you what you want from your session, and do our best to provide the type of massage therapy you need. Some clients want a relaxation type of massage to help ease the stress and tension of everyday life or of traveling. Other clients have more specific areas of pain that require concentrated attention. Common areas that need more focus are the neck, shoulders, and back. The amount of pressure from the massage strokes is something we will confer with you about during your massage session. Some clients will prefer only moderate pressure and others will want a stronger deep tissue type of massage. Problem areas often require a specific concentration of stronger pressure, however it should not cause an excessive amount of pain and you are encouraged to let your therapist know if the pressure ever feels like too much. There are many other forms of touch therapy that are practiced besides the basic forms of Swedish Massage. Other modalities and specializations that we offer are listed on this website.
Some reported physical benefits of massage therapy...
Relaxes the body
Calms the nervous system
Lowers blood pressure
Reduces heart rate
Slows respiration
Loosens tight muscles
Stretches connective tissue
Reduces chronic pain
Improves skin tone
Increases blood and lymph circulation
Speeds removal of metabolic waste
Increases red cell count
Relieves tired and aching muscles
Stimulates the release of endorphins
Improves muscle tone
Relieves cramps and muscle spasms
Increases flexibility and range of motion
Promotes deeper breathing
Speeds recovery from injuries and illness
Strengthens the immune system
Reduces swelling
Reduces scarring
Improves posture
Reduces tension headaches
Increases tissue metabolism
Decreases muscular deterioration
Some reported mental and emotional benefits of massage therapy...
Reduces mental stress
Promotes better sleep
Induces mental relaxation
Improves concentration
Reduces anxiety
Enhances self-image
Provides feeling of well being
Promotes greater creative expression