Massage Services
Swedish / Relaxation Massage
Swedish massage is the most common type of massage people request. If you’ve never had a massage before, this is a great place to start. The therapist will use smooth, slow, kneading strokes of varying pressure. This is to reduce stress and muscle tension and increase circulation. Swedish massage will be used during most sessions, in combination with other techniques as needed. The pressure can be adjusted to suit your preference. The therapist may use traction and passive stretching to increase joint range of motion.
Deep Pressure / Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage uses moderate to deep pressure, based on the client’s comfort, to access deeper layers of muscle and fascia. It also breaks up adhesions (“knots”) in the muscle fibers. The strokes are much like those for a Swedish massage, but slower, with more pressure and focused on problem areas. The therapist uses a variety of techniques to increase circulation of fresh oxygen and nutrients to the connective tissue to speed up healing. They may also use direct friction techniques at the muscle attachments to increase mobility. This kind of massage is particularly effective at managing chronic pain and reducing postural distortions. Deeper pressure is sometimes necessary to override the pain response from affected nerves, but that pressure will vary from person to person. Please communicate with your therapist to find a pressure that is comfortable for you. Be sure to drink extra water and please let your therapist know if you are experiencing any increased soreness post massage.
Neuromuscular Therapy
Neuromuscular Therapy uses the connection between the musculoskeletal and nervous systems to change muscle length and increase proprioception (where and how your brain perceives your body at any given moment). Neuromuscular techniques are useful for breaking the pain-spasm-pain cycle of chronic muscle tension. Muscle fibers reflexively contract to protect and support muscles and joints. Sometimes, they get stuck, trapping fluids, causing inflammation, pressure on nerves and ultimately, pain. This pain further tightens the muscle, restricting the flow of fresh, nutrient-rich blood, oxygen and lymph, that is necessary for proper function. Neuromuscular techniques are particularly effective with injury recovery and chronic pain management. The therapist will use positional techniques to reset the spasm reflex, as well as Trigger Point Therapy and Myofascial Release to reduce postural distortions. With chronic tension, adhesions may take longer to release and we recommend a 90-minute massage to allow time for this.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points are bloodless nodules in muscle fibers that affect nerves and can cause referred pain, tingling and numbness. They can be caused by chronic muscle constriction, poor postural habits, overuse and stress. The therapist will apply sustained pressure to the adhesion with their fingers, knuckles or elbows, combined with positioning techniques, to release the tight muscle fibers.
Myofascial Release
Fascia is the biological fabric that holds us together. It is a network of connective tissue, wrapping around and within all structures of our body. Poor circulation, due to chronic muscle tension, can distort fascia and limit mobility. Myofascial Release is also very effective at reducing scar tissue. The therapist will use friction techniques without lotion in a specific area of concern, usually at the start of the session to give the muscle fibers adequate space to lengthen. Some clients may benefit from an entire Myofascial session.
Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy is a time of change! It is vital to take extra care of yourself and reduce stress during this magnificent period of transition. Massage can greatly reduce the discomfort associated with the dramatic physiological changes you are experiencing. It is very effective at treating nerve impingement and reducing swelling. It can also reduce stress, improve sleep and mood, and lower blood pressure. We will happily work with you during all stages of your pregnancy. The therapist will use cushions to ensure comfortable and safe positioning of mom and baby during the massage session. Ask your midwife if massage is right for you!
Ashiatsu Deep Feet Therapy
Ashiatsu uses the application of deep, compressive effleurage strokes, with bare feet that glide over the body. The therapist will use overhead bars for balance and stability and you will get a deep, yet relaxing massage that is very effective for reducing tension around the spine and pelvic girdle. We combine flowing centripetal force and deep, static holds to create change in the muscle tissue. This massage is perfect for the clients dealing with nerve damage or just seeking extra pressure. Ask your therapist of Ashiatsu is right for you!
Current Rates
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What to expect from your first massage
Please arrive ten minutes early to fill out paperwork. Your therapist will go over your intake form, discussing symptoms and treatment goals, in order to customize your session. You will be given privacy to undress and will always be covered by a sheet and blanket during the massage, unless the area is being worked on. The amount of clothing you wear is based on your comfort. Typically, people will undress completely or leave their underwear on.
The massage will take place on a warm table, in a dimly lit room, with soft music playing. The therapist will begin the session by assessing the muscle tissue to decide which areas need the most work. From there, you may decide to spend the whole massage in one area or work on the entire body with emphasis in a specific area. If more than two areas are very sore, we recommend a 90-minute session. Different people respond to different techniques and we will work together to find what works best for you. The therapist will check in periodically about pressure. You are encouraged to speak up if you feel any discomfort or need to make adjustments. The therapist may use pillows and bolsters to provide optimal comfort during your massage.
You will be notified when the massage is over and the therapist will leave the room, so you can get dressed. The therapist will discuss their observations and give recommendations for treatment. Payment in full is due at the end of the massage. Cash, Check and Credit Card are accepted. We do not take insurance at this time.