Swedish | Shiatsu | CranioSacral | Deep Tissue | Reiki
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage (sometimes referred to as relaxation massage) is system of long strokes, kneading and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with active and passive movements of the joints. 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.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu (also called acupressure) is a Japanese system of applying finger pressure to specific points that lie along specific meridians (the invisible channels of energy flow in the body according to Asian medical systems). The treatment brings about a sense of relaxation while stimulating blood and lymphatic flow. The benefits of this treatment may include pain relief and a strengthening of the body’s resistance to disease and disorder. Traditional shiatsu is an oil-free massage, and can be performed while the recipient is wearing comfortable clothes, similar to what one might wear to yoga class.
Swedish-Shiatsu Combo
This massage combines techniques of shiatsu with the long relaxing strokes of the Swedish massage. Oil is used.
CranioSacral Unwinding
Craniosacral Unwinding is a gentle, noninvasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the craniosacral system. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face, and mouth--which make up the cranium--down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system could cause sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, and other dysfunctions of the central nervous system. This work encourages the body’s natural healing mechanisms to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, and enhance health and resistance to disease. The practitioner uses a light touch to assist the natural movement of fluid within the craniosacral system. Therapists generally use only five grams of pressure, roughly the weight of a nickel, to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system. It’s often possible for the evaluation alone to remove the restriction and allow the system to correct itself.
Deep Tissue
Deep tissue massage is a technique that releases chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep pressure on contracted areas, either following or going across the grains of muscles, tendons and fascia. In a deep tissue massage, I work very slowly on specific focus areas. Because of this, I am generally unable to apply deep tissue techniques to the entire body in a 60-minute session. In the case that you would like a full-body deep tissue, I would suggest booking a 90-minute session.
Reiki
Reiki healing is not a massage technique, but rather a hands-on energy healing art. It was originated in Japan in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui, who developed a system of practices that enabled others to become effective healers. In a reiki healing session, the practitioner, trained to access and serve as a channel for the life force (ki or chi), places her hands on or just above the client’s body in order to activate healing energy within receptive points on the body. As a harmonic flow of energy is strengthened, within the client and practitioner, healing occurs through the return of physical, mental, and spiritual balance.
