Massage and Body Image

How much time do you spend thinking about your body? Are the thoughts positive or negative?

Body image can be affected by tangible physical factors. In her book, Transforming Body Image (The Crossing Press, 1985), Dr. Marcia Hutchinson suggests body image has little to do with the physical body. “Image and reality are separate,” she says. And if body image is a product of the imagination, Hutchinson proposes that it can also
be changed using the imagination.

The way we experience our physical self on the mental plane can become habitual and may generate habitual patterns of muscle tension. Since regularly scheduled massage positively affects body and mind, massage can help us release physical and mental patterns of tension, enhancing our ability to experience our bodies (regardless of their shape or size) in a more positive way.

In Body Image: A Handbook of Theory, Research, and Clinical Practice
(The Guilford Press, 2004), massage therapy is named as a somatic (bodily) approach that is helpful in positively affecting body image “by helping the client reconnect to the body in a very concrete manner.”

Regular massage encourages an awareness of the body just as it enhances our ability to relax. During massage, we can experience the sensation of touch in a non-hreatening way.

“Our experience of touch forms an important foundation for our sense of self,” writes Thomas Pruzinsky in Body Images: Development, Deviance, and Change (The Guilford Press, 1990). Since touch is a powerful method of communication, “a change in one’s sense of self may be facilitated through therapeutic touch.”

Hutchinson suggests an exercise called “imaginal massage,” in which we visualize a massage occurring, with the healing hands of the therapist as a means of accepting our own bodies. This mind exercise can also be utilized during massage sessions. Imagine the affirmative energy in the therapist’s hands transferring to your body.

A comfortable, professional relationship with a massage therapist allows us the opportunity to experience our bodies as acceptable. Caring touch communicates safety and approval, boosting self-esteem and inner peace.

“Healing is about learning, so trust your body’s signals and find out what works for you,” writes Susan Mumford in Healing Massage (CICO, 2007). Then ask your massage therapist for what is most helpful to you.

“Your body is … a wonderfully intricate interaction with everything around you,” writes Dr. Eugene T. Gendlin in Focusing (The Guilford Press, 1998). “Your ody ‘knows’ the whole of each of your situations—vastly more aspects of it than you can think. There is a kind of bodily awareness that profoundly influences our lives and that can help us reach personal goals.”

Learning to accept the body (and its messages) is a continuous, lifelong journey and regular massage is a way to practice body reverence. Utilize bodywork sessions to nurture the connection between your body and mind and experience complete acceptance of yourself exactly as you are.

Your Massage Session - Vocalize Your Needs

When a massage therapist’s hands touch the skin, the effect reaches down to the muscles and ligaments,and then positively influences the circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems. Healing touch, a sensitive style of communication, speaks safety and comfort. “The beauty of massage lies in it being such a simple, direct form of human contact,” says Susan Mumford in The New Complete Guide to Massage (Penguin Group, 2006).

Massage is a safe therapeutic art, considered by many to be a vehicle for mental, physical, and emotional health. People seek massage for myriad reasons—from simple relaxation to addressing muscular injuries. An intuitive therapist is likely to pick up many clues about your needs from an intake interview before the session, and even by the way you sit, talk, and walk. The written and verbal information you provide and the questions you ask are also crucial for a successful bodywork session. Mention particular issues you’d like to have addressed and feel free to ask about the
techniques being used in your session.

Inform your therapist of short- or long-term medical conditions. Massage is used cautiously, or not at all, in some situations. For example, massage is generally avoided when a person has fever, open wounds, or certain skin disorders. People with long-term medical conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, or osteoporosis, should seek a doctor’s advice before massage. With medical supervision, a trained bodyworker often helps ease long-term pain and stress, usually with gentle strokes and personalized techniques.

During the session, vocalize your needs as they arise. If the room is too warm or cold, say so. Herbal and aromatherapeutic oils add healing benefits to massage. Tell your therapist if you are sensitive to an herb or essential oil, if you’d like him or her to use more (or less) massage oil, or if you don’t care for an oil’s scent.

What if you feel pain during massage? In Massage: Mind and Body (DK Publishing, 2003), Larry Costa says we must “distinguish between comfortable and uncomfortable pain.” When working on sensitive areas of your body, the therapist will begin slowly then move toward deep-tissue work. “You may experience some discomfort to begin with, but this should diminish after a few minutes as the muscles relax,” Costa says. This is comfortable pain. “Pain that causes you to wince, cry out, or tense up is probably not doing you any good.” Ask your therapist for less or more pressure, depending on your needs.

“The healing touch of massage is one of the best gifts you can gives your body,” writes Esme Floyd in Body Massage (Carlton Books, 2004). Touch, a basic human impulse, soothes the body and relaxes the mind, promoting physical and mental wellbeing. Massage sessions provide a safe space for you to relax, reflect, and feel comfortable in your own skin.

Massage Etiquette

Massage therapy is a partnership—a relationship that feels intrinsically personal. In this joint venture, there’s a mutual energy exchange that requires rofessionalism and respect by both parties. What should you expect from your massage therapist and what is expected of you? Here are a few answers.

What if i’m late? - For you and your therapist, rules of common courtesy apply. The appointment should start, and end, on time. Arrive for your session a
few minutes early, especially if you prefer to splash water on your face or sponge off tired feet. Promptness guarantees you’ll receive your full appointment. If a traffic snare causes you to arrive late, expect the session to still end at the appointed time. Other clients are likely scheduled after you. If you must cancel an appointment, call 24 hours in advance. Check with your therapist about fees incurred for missed or cancelled appointments.

What time of day is best? - Some massage aficionados clamor for morning appointments that energize. Others discover an evening massage dissolves the day’s stress. Massage can be a stimulating beginning, a midday respite, or a relaxing end to your day. Avoid massage after a heavy meal, and skip alcoholic beverages before, during, and after massage.

What should i do during the massage? - Breathe. Therapists pace their strokes alongside your breath or breathe with you. “Massage helps clear the cobwebs in your head,” says licensed massage therapist (LMT) Kathyleen voice your needs—on room temperature or the pressure exerted on that tender shoulder. But also get comfortable with silence. Stillness multiplies the restorative benefits of massage.

Should I tip? “I don’t count on tips as part of my income,” Seward ays. “I’m grateful they’re getting the bodywork. A tip is a gift, and it’s appreciated. It’s not a requirement.” If you feel you’ve received excellent service and you’d like to tip, 15–20 percent is a good guideline.

What if i laugh or cry? Exhilaration, exhaustion, giddiness, and tears are all natural responses to massage. You may experience intensely creative thoughts;the solution to a long-unsolved problem may dawn. “Emotional outbursts are common,” Seward says. “It’s a high compliment, if I created the space for my client to let go.”

How can i compliment my therapist? - Fall asleep during massage, refer
friends to your therapist, or tell your therapist the session passed too quickly. “It’s rewarding when a client leaves the massage saying, ‘When is your next open appointment?’” says Kimberly Reiter, an LMT in New Albany, Indiana. Returning regularly for massage is the best compliment a client can give.

What is it Exactly

Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Today, the benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression, and more. And, as many millions will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness.

So What Is It Exactly?
Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies are defined as the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the human body. Specifically:

Massage: The application of soft-tissue manipulation techniques to the body, generally intended to reduce stress and fatigue while improving circulation. The many variations of massage account for several different techniques.

Bodywork: Various forms of touch therapies that may use manipulation, movement, and/or repatterning to affect structural changes to the body.

Somatic: Meaning “of the body.” Many times this term is used to denote a body/mind or whole-body approach as distinguished from a physiology-only or environmental perspective.

There are more than 250 variations of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapies and many practitioners utilize multiple techniques. The application of these techniques may include, but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. This may also include non-forceful passive or active movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect the energetic systems of the body. The use of oils, lotions, and powders may also be included to reduce friction on the skin.

Please note: Massage, bodywork and somatic therapies specifically exclude diagnosis, prescription, manipulation or adjustments of the human skeletal structure, or any other service, procedure or therapy which requires a license to practice orthopedics, physical therapy, podiatry, chiropractic, osteopathy, psychotherapy, acupuncture, or any other profession or branch of medicine.

Will My Insurance Cover It?
The services of a bodywork professional may be covered by health insurance when prescribed by a chiropractor or osteopath. Therapies provided as part of a prescribed treatment by a physician or registered physical therapist are often covered.

Hot Stone Massage

For those of you who have never experienced a Hot Stone Massage, now is your chance. I will extend the special price of $45.00 through the end of November, 2009 if you book an appointment for Monday or Wend.

This truly a great massage, the stones melt the muscles like butter, allowing the us to reach the deepest muscle layers. Try it, I guarantee you'll love it!

Ease Into Movement

From our first venture into the school gymnasium as kids, we’ve been taught to stretch. As adults, stretching is as common a morning routine as brushing our teeth or combing our hair.

Mind-body fitness expert Anat Baniel wants us to know how to move and stretch carefully and start our day out right. Baniel, author of
Move Into Life: The Nine Essentials for Lifelong Vitality (Harmony Books, 2009), believes excessive stretching is an activity that is contrary to the health and longevity of our muscles.

“Muscles are meant to contract and relax,” she says. “Stretching them puts stress on them and rips muscle fibers, forcing them to constantly repair themselves after each time you stretch. Your body’s movement shouldn’t cause repeated damage. It should be more harmonious and flow naturally.”

Baniel says her method of stretching actually increases flexibility and motion without damaging muscles. Follow these simple steps:

1. Stand up, spread your feet comfortably, gently bend down, and let your hands move toward your feet. Notice how far you go, without forcing, and come back to standing.

2. Stand, spread your legs comfortably, bend your knees a little, and put your right hand just above your right knee, on your thigh. Put your left hand just above your left knee. Then lean on your legs with the weight of your upper body resting on your hands. Begin to round your back and at the same time pull your belly in; look down at
your belly. Then gently arch your back, push your belly out, lift your head, and look up. Repeat process.

3. Come back to standing, bend forward, and take your hands down toward your feet, as in Step 1. Is there some change already?

4. Now stand with feet apart, and knees bent a little; this time lean with both hands on your left leg, just above the knee as before. Gently and slowly round your back and look down, then arch your back, free the belly muscles (push them out), and
look up. Go back and forth four or five times. Then stand and rest for a moment. Feel how you stand.

5. Repeat Step 4, this time leaning with both hands on your right knee.

6. Stand up with your feet spread comfortably and bend down. Can you can bend more easily and further than before? Are your toes closer to your hands? “They should be,”
Baniel says, “because the variations provided by this exercise supplied your brain the information it needed to figure out how to let go of tight muscles and tendons.”
Baniel’s approach to vital, creative, and energetic life is based not only on the all-important regimens of diet,exercise, and stress management, but upon providing the brain with what it requires for us to grow, evolve, and thrive as individuals.

Karrie Osborn is contributing editor for
Massage & Bodywork magazine.

Massage Means Less Stress, More Math

I do not think there is anyone who would be reading this blog and would not agree that stress is a major problem in modern society, and that massage is a great way to get rid of it. However, if you are one of those people, please let me refer you to some introductory resources from the Web for you to look at:

- Go to Google.com

- Type in “massage” + “Stress”

- Read about how massage has been proven to combat stress (and much more) from sites such as:

o The Mayo Clinic

o WebMD

o The Touch Institute

o And many more credible, trusted organizations

While you are at the last source I mentioned – The Touch Institute – navigate a couple of links into the Web page (click “TRI Research”, then “Adult Massage Studies”) and you’ll see (listed second) a paper from the International Journal of Neuroscience that studied the effects of massage on stress and anxiety.

Not only did this study demonstrate that massage can reduce stress, but it also gave specific examples of the tangible benefits that come to people when they are relieved of the burden of stress.

For the study, one group of participants was given chair massage two times per week over a five-week period. Another group of participants was made to sit down in a massage chair, but was not given massage. Instead they were simply told to “relax” on their own and given an amount of time in which they could relax. Before the study began all participants were given an Electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor their brain patterns.

The EEGs conducted after the five-week period showed that while both groups had increased levels of relaxation, the group that received massage had brain activity that showed enhanced alertness, lower levels of anxiety, and lower levels of job stress. The control group that did not receive the massage either did not experience these benefits, or experienced them on a lower level.

As for actual, tangible manifestations of the massages’ effectiveness: The study had all participants do a series of math computations, both before and after the five-week period; of course, the participants who had received massage all showed improved accuracy and speed on their math problems, while the control group did not.

The Art of Self-Massage (Part II)

As promised, I will continue outlining the ways to give self-massage on different parts of the body. Last week, I wrote about giving self-massage to your head, shoulders, and feet. This week I will write about self-massage for your hands and torso. I will end with some general guidelines for self-massage.


For your hands:

- Stroke the back of one hand with the other, gliding up to the wrist and back down toward the fingertips. Use your fingertips (exclude your thumb) and focus on one side (left or right) of the back of your hand going up, another going down.

- Apply pressure circularly to the joints of each finger.

- Then, grab each finger at its base with the fingertips of the other hand, pulling it gently while having your hand slide from the base of the finger off the fingertip.

- Stroke the gaps of the wrist bone and between the tendons of each finger.

- Place the back of your hand against a table and, using your thumb, use circular motions to massage your palm and wrist.

- Finally, placing one hand in your lap, push the palm of one hand with the heel of the other. Gently glide back and forth from the fingers to the wrist.



For your torso (stomach pains)

- Stroke around your abdomen (don’t actually press on it) in a clockwise motion. Have one hand follow the other in a circle around the abdomen.

- Next knead your abdomen lightly with all your fingers (including your thumbs).

- Roll onto your side and do a similar kneading action on your hips and bottom.

Wake yourself up from your massages by standing up and hitting your hips and butt vigorously with loosely clenched fists. Avoid hurting yourself by immediately pulling your fist up after striking.



Repeat these steps for as much, or as little, time you want or can sacrifice. A minute or so for each step should begin to provide relief. If it doesn’t, or if you want more, repeat the process over for another minute or so, then move on to the next step.

Of course, there are also many self-massage products that can do the stoking, gliding and kneading for you, if interested. Use your hands – or a gadget – to wake yourself up, put your self to sleep, or get you through the day. It is that easy to enjoy the benefits of massage.

The Art of Self-Massage (Part I)

A common lament about massage is the price. And there is also the I-don’t-have-enough-time excuse that many use to justify not getting a massage, even though their feet and head ache, their shoulders are tense, their hands hurt, and their torsos are cramp-ridden. Fortunately, there is a pretty well founded set of guidelines (found on the examiner and livestrong Web sites) for self-massage that will fit your budget, schedule, and needs perfectly. Here they are, pared down to their simplest forms and separated by body part:




For your head:

- Position your fingertips at the point where your eyebrows end and your nose begins.

- Apply gentle pressure and massage with small, circular motions.

- Continue doing this, moving along your eyebrow.

- After you’ve finished massaging the eyebrow area, massage your temples in a similar fashion

- Then massage the areas surrounding the bone at the top of your neck (the occipital bone). Use the same circular motion – gently, but firmly – with your fingertips.

- Finally, massage your scalp, this time using the pads of your fingers. Apply enough pressure to move the scalp up and down.



For your shoulders:

- Start at the base of your skull and stroke down, gliding down to your arm and elbow and back up to your neck. Have your right hand massage the left-side of your neck and arm, and vice-versa for the right-side.

- Next, with your fingertips, apply pressure through circular motion around your spine, all the way to the top of your neck (similar to step 5 in the head massage section).

- If you are feeling tired or in need of more, make a fist with your hand and gently hit your shoulders to wake yourself up and relieve some stress.



For your feet:

- Put your foot on the quadriceps of your opposite leg and place one hand on top of the foot, one hand below it. Starting at the toes, rub in a smooth stroke up to your ankle. Then stroke back down to your toes.

- Next, massage each toe individually, squeezing, stretching, and pulling.

- With your thumbs, apply firm pressure on the bottom of your foot. Use your fingertips to provide pressure in a line to the center of the sole of your foot, as well as the sides of the sole.

- Secure your foot with one hand and, making a fist, use the knuckles of your hand to massage the entire sole of your foot. Use circular motions.

- Using all the fingertips of both hands, stroke up from the ankle to the lower part of the calf. Apply pressure to all sides. Glide back down to the ankle, and repeat the process.



Next week I will write more about how to perform self-massage on your hands and torso.

I Believe

I believe you are the authority of your own body. So when you come to my office, I meet you as you are. It’s a busy world, and staying on top means we must first take care of our bodies

Auto accident injuries such as whiplash may not show up right away. It is not uncommon for the extent of the injuries to show their true colors a few days to a few weeks down the road.

One reason mentioned by the Spine Research Institute of San Diego is that some of the tissues that are typically injured do not have a very dense nerve supply. Therefore, the injured tissue and the inflammatory response takes a bit of "brewing" before pain thresholds are met. This is simplistic, obviously, but helps explains why there can be a delay.

If one has been in an auto accident and doesn't feel a lot of pain, it is important to have their spinal function assessed for individual spinal joint function (alignment and movement) and x-rays taken with special views to help rule out problems such as ligament damage that can show up in the neck.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident, call our office at (651) 206-7141 to set up a time for a consultation, much of the time your massage is covered under your auto insurance.

Keep Your Back Strong With Massage

If you appreciate sitting, standing, bending, reaching, pulling, pushing, or doing many of the other daily actions we all take for granted everyday, you won’t appreciate this: All these actions can lead to back pain. This is why four out of every five adults have experienced back pain in their lives, and why back pain is the second leading cause for employees missing work among adults under age 45 (the first being the common cold). There is hope, however, as several studies have shown that massage therapy can help ensure your continued ability to sit, stand, and do all the other essential actions of daily life pain-free.

The back is made up of powerful muscles, ligaments, bones, and joints, and all these things can be strained if they are poorly conditioned or overworked. A combination of exercise and massage therapy can help deal with back pain that is already occurring, and also in the prevention of back pain that may occur in the future.

Millions of Americans are at risk of back pain, and this number does not just include the elderly and ill. Many American employees, young and old, sit in front of a computer console all day, allowing the muscles that support their spine to atrophy. Then, on the weekend, when they ramp up the activity by playing sports, going outdoors, or even just doing basic household chores, they run the risk of straining their backs. While most pain lasts only a couple of days or weeks, by receiving massage therapy you can improve blood circulation, increase endorphin levels, and relax your muscles for an improved range of motion that will allow you more freedom to do the things you want to on the weekend.

People whom are already experiencing chronic back pain – a pain that lasts more than three months – can also improve their condition by receiving regular massage therapy. Massage therapy can decrease the intensity of pain, leading to lower levels of medication and money spent to alleviate back pain. Many people with chronic back pain also see a chiropractor, whose manipulations of the spine can affect the muscles surrounding the spine, causing stress and spasm. A massage can relax these muscles, helping maintain spine manipulations and allowing chiropractic work to last longer.

So whether you sit all day in front of a computer, sleep all night on a bad mattress, have a history of back pain, or just want to ensure your ability to do everyday activities, schedule in some regular massage therapy to ensure that your back gets all the care it needs to keep you on your feet.

What is Chair Massage

On-site chair massage is one of the most reasonable and affordable health promotion programs available today!!

Efficient, cost effective and produces immediate results!
Your fifteen or thirty minute massage takes place while seated in our comfortable ergonomically designed massage chair.

Companies who value employee health provide chair massage as a cost effective addition to their wellness programs. Stress Less therapists encourage individual health awareness and work to assist your employees in making healthy choices for healthier lives.

A productivity booster! In order to work your best you have to feel your best. A chair massage reduces fatigue and muscle aches leaving the body rejuvenated -- ready to focus and think clearly!

Professionally trained and licensed massage therapists work through clothing utilizing a blend of acupressure techniques and related massage modalities to effectively reduce tension and stress commonly found in the shoulders, neck, back, arms and hands.

Little space is required for chair massage.
A small 5'x6' area is all that is needed. We can easily set up in any area that suits your needs. Conference rooms and/or available office space are most commonly used.

How To Take A Mini Vacation... Without Leaving Work!

Feeling Frazzled by the current hectic pace of life and Work? Wouldn't you love to be able to bring the feeling and benefits of massage with you to work? Well, now there's a way you can! It s called on-site chair massage, and it's a mini "stress break" that can assist you in "working away the stress" that's got you all tight and tense!

The University of Miami's School of Medicine did a recent study through their Touch research Institute that demonstrated the those who received a 15-minute on-site chair massage twice per week had lower levels of alpha and beta waves, (indicating greater mental alertness), and a decrease in levels of stress and tension. Scientists have also discovered massage is capable of reducing blood pressure, boosting the immune system and stimulating the body's ability to heal faster.

Companies that have tried on-site chair massage have noticed a significant drop in headaches, back strain, neck and shoulder stiffness/strain, muscle tension and fatigue among employees since instituting an on-site chair massage program.

Instead of a coffee break, try a massage break. Soothing, relaxing and rejuvenating better for you than that extra caffeine, and longer lasting too.

consider bringing on-site chair massage to your work place soon!

Ramona Westerberg
Massage Therapist NCTMB
The Healing Place of Cottage Grove
651-206-7141
www.thehealingplacecg.com
Follow My Blog:
http://www.merchantcircle.com/blogs/The.Healing.Place.-.Cottage.Grove.512-386-8659

What A Deep Tissue Massage REALLY Is!

What a Deep Tissue massage REALLY Is?

The Healing Place of Cottage Grove
www.thehealingplacecg.com


It isn’t 60 minutes of muscle-pounding, pain-inducing, steamrolling hell. It is a Swedish massage with deep work on specific areas. Many clients don’t understand that 'deep' can be accomplished with more strategy and less brawn! Therapists can use core strength and intention to make a deep impact without beating someone up.

"Most of the bodywork I do is deep but my initial approach to the body was quite gentle. It was like peeling away the layers of an onion. There is no way to touch the core until you move the layers around the core. The body is smart! If you push it too hard, it pushes right back. My clients would identify their issue and I went to work. Sometimes it could be addressed in one session. Other times, it took many sessions.

Honestly, if a client felt that his/her money’s worth could only be measured by the pain I could inflict… rarely would I work on that client again. Not only is there something wrong with that mentality, it is also dangerous.

So with that said - Massage doesn't have to hurt to be beneficial!

"That’s the whole story!!!"

When Should I Replace My Running Shoes?

Being a massage therapist, I talk to people about the shoes they wear all the time.

How ever when my knees started to hurt while running a month ago I ignored my own advice. This week I got a new pair of running shoes and wow!!! my knees didn't hurt after running 3 miles tody. so here it is



Question: When Should I Replace My Running Shoes?


Answer: Running in old or worn-out shoes is one of the most common causes of running injuries. Your running shoes lose shock absorption, cushioning and stability over time. Continuing to run in worn-out shoes increases the stress and impact on your legs and joints, which can lead to overuse injuries. The easiest thing you can do to prevent those types of injuries is replace your shoes when they're worn-out.
So how do you know when shoes need to be retired? Don't use the treads of your shoes to determine whether you should replace your shoes. The midsole, which provides the cushioning and stability, usually breaks down before the bottom shows major signs of wear. If you've been feeling muscle fatigue, shin splints, or some pain in your joints -- especially your knees -- you may be wearing shoes that no longer have adequate cushioning.

A good rule of thumb is to replace your running shoes every 300 to 400 miles, depending on your running style, body weight, and the surface on which you run. Smaller runners can get new running shoes at the upper end of the recommendation, while heavier runners should consider replacement shoes closer to the 300 mile mark. If you run on rough roads, you'll need to replace your shoes sooner than if you primarily run on a treadmill.

Mark your calendar when you buy a new pair of running shoes so you remember when to replace them. If you use a training log, be sure to record when you bought new shoes -- it will help you track how many miles you've run in them. Writing the purchase date on the inside of each shoe's tongue is another good way to help remember when you first started running in them.

How often should I get a massage?

I'm often asked the question..How often should I get a massage? There is no one answer to this question but there are a couple of rules to help you determine the answer for yourself.

First rule is always budget..what can you afford? Face it, this has to be resolved no matter what. Even if your doctor were to advise you to get weekly massages it wouldn't matter if you couldn't afford to get them.

Second rule is what are your massage goals? Are you going to de-stress? Are you going to rehab from an injury or illness? Are you training or doing rigorous physical work? Are you seeking to manage or reduce pain? It's important that have a relationship with a therapist that will help you meet those goals if you want your bodywork to be effective. Taking your chances on whatever therapist is available is probably not going to meet your expectations for the session.

Third rule is what is your attitude about bodywork? Is it an occasional extravagance to feel good or is it an important part of your health care regime? Have you learned to love massage? Chances are you are going to follow through and get that massage if you believe it is truly needed and you eagerly look forward to the experience.

It's my goal as a Massage Therapist to make your sessions affordable, effective, and I want you to love the work that gets done on your body. If I can do that, then you'll come back and do it often.

Massage Therapy

The art of massage therapy creates a variety of benefits to the body, mind and spirit. As one of the oldest modalities of health care, its foundational benefit is the connection of the human touch, the chance to let go of an endless amount of stimulant in our daily life and have our physical pain addressed. From full body circulatory massage to isolated focused body work, the increase blood flow nourishes all the physiological systems of the body with oxygen, water and nutrients, releasing chronic tension patterns, increasing range of motion, and easing the discomforts and aches in the body. Consistent massage brings awareness to the body, re-educating muscles to support a healthy structural alignment. As a trained massage therapist, my hands listen to your body and sincerely work to provide intelligent experienced techniques and care.

HOT JULY MASSAGE SPECIALS

Take an additional $10.00 off on any service bought and booked this month

Have a wonderful July and a fantastic 4th

Stay safe, stay healthy, keep smiling

Massage

Whether your have an old or recent injury, stress, issues that effect your mobility or range of motion, you will have trigger points and fascial restrictions. These are caused by trauma, injury or stress to the muscles, from either repetitive movement, accidents, and sports to name just a few. By combining various massage techniques listed above and particularily Orthopedic, Structural Intregration and Trigger Point Therapy I can help to reduce and in many cases eliminate your pain by 'melting away' trigger points and fascial restrictions.