Shiatsu Massage Posted by Gavin on December 10th, 2008
A Shiatsu massage is a Japanese style of massage. As is revealed in the meaning of the name, the treatment incorporates the use of finger pressure and pressure points. It is based on the holistic approach in traditional Chinese medicine, much like accupuncture treatments. It is believed, through this system of thought, that illnesses and discomforts throughout the body are the result of imbalances of energy throughout the body, also known as “qi” ( pronounced ‘chee’). However, there is no needles involved in this treatment. For a more scientific explanation, this treatment calms down an overactive nervous system, thus improving circulation, alleviating stress, and muscles tension relief.
To elaborate on the feeling of this massage, it can be very relaxing. The therapist, as is mentioned above, uses a lot of finger-pressure work and palm pressure. Some points on the body may feel tender when worked on, which can sometimes be perceived as “good pain” from clients. Not too much, not too little, but just right. However, keep in mind to tell your therapist if the work is too deep or if there is too much pain. The therapist will be happy to adjust the pressure to suit your preference.
Treatments may be done on a massage table, or on a comfortable floor mat designed for massage work. Typically, I’ve seen many therapists work on their clients from a floor mat, which can give the therapist better mobility to apply the specific techniques that can be used. Some therapists use foot-work when working on their clients, which is a way of adding more variation to the treatment. Of course, their feet are clean, and so are mine! No worries! : )
Shiatsu can be used for the treatment of back pain, relaxation, headaches, PMS/related conditions, insomnia, anxiety, tiredness, neck/shoulder pain, stress, recovery from injuries, constipation, depression, poor digestion, and arthritis pain. Of course, Shiatsu is not just limited to treating these conditions.
Keep in mind that Shiatsu is not recommended for certain individuals:
- immediately after surgery
- if you have an infectious skin disease, major rash/open wound
- people with osteoporosis should consult doctor before having this treatment
- if you are prone to blood clots, Shiatsu should not be performed. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged
- if you have heart disease, talk to your doctor to see if massage is right for you
- if you just had chemotherapy or radiation, talk to your doctor first
- Women who are pregnant should consult with their doctor first before receiving any sort of massage treatment
- Keep in mind that Shiatsu should not be performed directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, an abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures
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Pregnancy/Prenatal Therapeutic Massage Posted by Gavin on December 8th, 2008
Pregnancy, or Prenatal massage, is a therapeutic treatment designed for the expectant mother. To ensure comfort and safety, the mother is positioned in a sidelying pose on the massage table. Pillows and padding are used in order to properly support the mother in pregnancy. Certain areas are not worked on during pregnancy, and certain massage techniques, such as deep tissue work, are avoided.
Benefits can be achieved through this treatment, such as reduction of swelling in the arms and legs, decreased stress, improved mobility, and relief of aches and pains in joints and muscles. Another thing to note is the reduction of anxiety and depression. Besides just the physical effects of this massage, human touch is also comforting and provides emotional support for the expectant mother.
Keep in mind that massage is not recommended during the first trimester, and women with certain health conditions accompanying pregnancy may not be advised to receive massage. A list of these conditions are noted in the Massage Contraindication page on this website.
Please ask your doctor if massage is right for you, if there are any concerns you may have.
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Reflexology Posted by Gavin on December 7th, 2008
Reflexology is a type of massage that focuses on the feet. There is a certain theory behind reflexology that states that reflex areas on the feet, primarily certain pressure points, are linked to organs, glands, and other parts of the body. It is therefore believed that these points on the feet lead to energy pathways throughout the body, thus improving the health of the body through these points. Furthermore, applying pressure to these points may send signals that balance the nervous system, and possibly releasing chemicals, like endorphins, that reduce stress and pain.
Most clients I have worked with find that reflexology is very relaxing. It shouldn’t be painful, or uncomfortable. Make sure to tell your therapist if this is the case. If you are ticklish, the therapist can apply firmer pressure, thus eliminating the ticklish sensation that one may feel.
An individual may request reflexology for any number of reasons, but most people receive it due to:
- Stress and related conditions because of it-
- Arthritis
- Digestive disorders/problems
- Tension headaches
- Insomnia
- Menstrual disorders, such as PMS
- Back pain
- Sports injuries
- Hormonal imbalances
Most people will find that it helps with these issues, as well as increasing circulation, promoting relaxation and well-being, reducing pain, soothing tired feet, and overall sense of healing.
Be sure to communicate with your therapist about any medical conditions, or if you are pregnant. Always talk to your doctor first if you are concerned if this treatment is right for you.
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Sports Massage Posted by Gavin on November 5th, 2008
Sports massage is a suitable massage for athletes who need to prepare their bodies for optimal performance, function well for training, or recover after a big event. Sports massage is also ideal for people with injuries, chronic pain, or restricted range of motion.
This type of massage if a form of Swedish massage, that stimulates circulation of blood and lymph fluids. Sometimes trigger point therapy is used to break down adhesions ( knots within your muscles) and increase range of motion.
There are 4 types of sports massage:
* Pre-Event Sports Massage — This is a short, stimulating massage performed 15-45 minutes before the event. The focus is directed toward the parts of the body that will be involved in the exertion.
* Post-Event Sports Massage- This is performed within an hour or two of the event, to normalize the body tissues.
* Restorative Sports Massage — This is performed during training to allow the athlete to train harder, with less injury.
* Rehabilitative Sports Massage — The goal of this is to alleviate pain due to injury and return the body to health.
Sports massage is usually used to focus on particular parts of the body that need work, rather than the typical full-body massage.
As always, if you have an injury, always speak to your doctor or physical therapist to see if massage is right for you.
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Hot Stone Massage Posted by Gavin on October 3rd, 2008
Hot Stone Massage is a unique type of massage in which hot, flat, smooth stones are placed on key points of the body. The rocks are not rough, but very smooth and retain heat for a long time due to their iron content. The massage therapist may use the rocks to gently massage certain areas of the body, like the back, palms of the hand, and even between the toes. The heat from the stones warm the muscles, which improves circulation and calms the nervous system. Once the muscles are relaxed, the therapist may also apply deeper pressure, if the client so desires. This type of massage if ideal for individuals who enjoy a lighter massage, but tend to feel cold in certain areas of the body, or if they have muscle tension. It’s also ideal for individuals suffering from : Back pain/aches, osteoarthritis/arthritis pain, poor circulation, stress/anxiety, tension, depression, and insomnia. Overall, it tends to work very well for these conditions, plus giving a unique warm sensation from the stones.
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Thai Massage Posted by Gavin on October 3rd, 2008
Thai massage is an energizing massage, where the therapist takes you into a series of yoga-like stretches, using his/her hands, knees, legs and feet. In addition, muscle compression, acupressure, and joint mobilization may be used during this treatment. No table is used, but rather on a padded massage mat, for space reasons ( It gives more room for therapist to be able to properly perform the certain techniques on the client, thus resulting in more benefits than a traditional massage table). Benefits of Thai massage: Reduces stress, relaxes, increases energy, improves circulation, increases flexibility, improves range of motion, centers body and mind. Clients usually describe Thai massage as both relaxing and energizing!
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Deep Tissue Posted by Gavin on July 24th, 2008
Deep Tissue massage work involves the use of slow, intense, deep strokes against the grain of the muscle to help heal chronic tension, physical injuries, and hidden emotional stresses within the body. This type of work uses greater pressure than Swedish massage and penetrates deeper into the muscle. It can soften hard muscles, correct damaged tissue, and release trapped nerves. The therapist usually incorporates the use of their elbows, wrists, and forearms to produce the desired effects. Keep in mind that it usually takes more than one session to see the benefits of this massage, depending on the condition that your body/muscles are in.
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~Earth Charm Massage~ Posted by Gavin on June 29th, 2008
~Earth Charm Massage and Health Service~
“Relief and Wellness at our Fingertips!”
If the days bring you stress and you wish to find therapeutic relief, look beyond the hustle and bustle of life and invite yourself to experience the hands of a Certified Professional Massage Therapist. I specialize in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Thai, Prenatal, Myofascial Therapy, Energy work, Reflexology, Sports massage, Lymphatic Drainage, and Shiatsu massage. I love what I do and I’m willing to help YOU!
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Swedish Massage Posted by Gavin on June 29th, 2008
Swedish massage is a very relaxing massage, using oil or lotion. It involves using firm, gentle pressure to create relaxation, improve circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, and increase flexibility. The therapist uses gliding strokes, friction, kneading of select muscles, percussion, and vibration to bring relief to the client, and a very relaxing experience. The session typically leaves the client feeling invigorated, healthy, refreshed, with a greater sense of well-being.
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