If you do not know what type of massage you would like, it is helpful to indicate what your objectives are: e.g. relaxation, pain reduction, increased awareness, etc. The therapist can then discuss what modalities best fit your objectives.


Swedish

Swedish massage uses a 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. Used primarily for a full-body session, it enhances general relaxation, promotes circulation and range of motion, and relieves muscle tension. This is a nurturing, "TLC" type of massage.

Deep-Tissue Massage

Deep-tissue massage uses more pressure to access deeper muscles. Specific muscles are isolated working the muscle attachments in addition to the muscle belly. The massage therapist will often do cross-fiber (stroking across the muscle fiber) work in order to release restrictions.

Neuromuscular or Trigger Point Therapy 

A trigger point is an area of a muscle that when compressed produces pain or other neurological sensations either within the area touched or in another area of the body. A trigger point can be caused from injury, poor posture, repetitive motion, or emotional stress. When releasing the muscle of its tension, the client's comfort level is always addressed; feedback between the therapist and client is essential. Because this type of massage deals with specific muscles in detail, it is not an overall body massage. The intention is to interrupt the pain cycle in a particular area of the body. A client's posture may be evaluated and a treatment program is designed to bring the body back into neuromuscular homeostasis. The client often learns how one part of the body may be affecting another part even though it seems unrelated. 

CranioSacral Therapy

CranioSacral therapy is a hands-on approach to healing that applies gentle, noninvasive pressure. Its goal is to restore harmony by balancing the craniosacral system which is composed of the membranes that enclose and protect the brain and spinal cord; the fluid that circulates within these membranes; and the structures that control the input and outflow of this fluid. The therapist assesses the rate, symmetry, quality, and amplitude of the craniosacral rhythm to find areas of holding in the body. This type of bodywork is particularly helpful for persons with chronic pain, immune system dysfunction, and symptoms relating to the head. 

Myofascial Release

Myofascial Release is a technique that reduces tension of the fascia- the connective tissue of the body. This tissue overlies muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. When tight, fascia restricts blood flow and movement and will cause pain. As the fascia loosens, it allows the therapist to better reach underlying muscles. The result is more fluid movement and increased range of motion. Myofascial Release is often combined with other types of bodywork.

Lymphatic

Lymphatic massage is a gentle technique aimed at flushing out the lymphatic system. It helps to restore functioning of the immune system and increases the circulation of lymph fluids. This massage is especially relaxing and can be helpful for clients with CFS, fibromyalgia, edema, and anyone wishing to detoxify.  

Reiki

Reiki is an energetic healing practice that draws upon universal life force and  utilizes gentle hands-on touch. Reiki practitioners are attuned in order to help balance and accentuate the client's energy on the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual planes. Viewed as a powerful tool in stress management and relaxation, Reiki advocates report success in treating a variety of acute and chronic complaints. It is considered beneficial for debilitating chronic conditions because of the enhanced energy it gives people. Reiki is also perfect for the client who is looking for an experience to further self-understanding and personal growth.

Therapeutic Touch (TT)

Therapeutic Touch is a healing method that changes the energy field which surrounds and penetrates the human body. Practitioners evaluate and balance this field to accentuate a person's own healing abilities. Therapeutic Touch is a modern interpretation of several ancient healing practices. The subject of much scientific research, TT has been shown to induce the relaxation response, generally within two to four minutes of the start of the session. It reduces pain, even in some patients for whom medication has proven ineffective.


Thai Massage

Thai massage is a modern expression of ancient healing disciplines, integrating therapies of Thai medical massage, Yoga/Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine and Western bodywork. Thai massage practitioners use the whole body to treat the whole body. This unique style of massage incorporates passive stretching, gentle rocking, and pressure point work along the energy lines. The work is rhythmic and meditative. Thai massage is performed on a soft mat on the floor; the recipient should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Thai massage facilitates health maintenance by increasing flexibility which supports the elimination of toxins from joints and soft tissue. The massage aids in reducing the effects of stress and fatigue by relaxing the body.

Raindrop Therapy

Ancient manuscripts tell us that essential oils were used as the first medicines. Oils were used to anoint the sick by application to the feet, specific areas of the body, and through inhalation. Raindrop Therapy is based on a technique used by the Lakota Indians. A series of potent, detoxifying oils are uniquely applied with a feather-like stroke to stimulate nerve impulses. With massage and hot packs, the oils are driven deeper into the central nervous system to achieve structural and energetic alignment. 

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a healing technique that has been used throughout Asia for thousands of years, and has recently been gaining popularity in the West. Gua means to scrape or rub. And Sha means bad energy or toxins. The benefits of Gua Sha are numerous.  It promotes normal circulation to the muscles, tissues, and organs directly beneath the surface being treated. Because of this, the client may experience immediate changes in stiffness, pain, and mobility. This technique may be incorporated into your massage or done completely on its own. 

Mothers Massage


Prenatal massage can be both relaxing as well as focused on the special needs of the expectant mother. Common complaints of pregnancy include: fatigue, headaches, lower back pain, neck and shoulder aches, swelling of the extremities, and mood swings. Massage offers an all-natural, safe method of relief from many of these symptoms. It can also increase circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress on weight-bearing joints. 

Positional release is a gentle method of eliminating or decreasing pain. It is good for acute or fresh injuries. Also known as the "fold and hold" technique, it involves finding positions of comfort. It can be incorporated with Swedish and neuromuscular therapy. Loose clothing can be worn in a session of just positional release. 

Reflexology

Reflexology is based on the principle that there are points on the feet and hands that correspond to every organ, gland and system of the body. By applying pressure to these points a reflex or physiological response occurs via the 72,000 nerve endings in the feet leaving them and the entire body relaxed and rejuvenated. 

Herbal Linen Wraps

This detoxifying treatment begins with a dry brush exfoliation of the entire body. While thick linens are soaked in a warm “tea” made of relaxing herbs and spices, a massage of long effleurage strokes is performed with therapeutic aromatherapy oils. Then the linens are wrapped firmly around the body and insulated with wool blamkets. Under these conditions, the body goes into a state of hyperthermia-increasing surface circulation, perspiration and forces toxins from fat cells.

Paraffin Dips

Warm paraffin infuses the skin with heat and moisturizing emollients that increase circulation, opening pores and softening the skin. The deeply penetrating heat relieves the pain of arthritis, tendonitis, muscle spasms and joint stiffness. A nice addition to a massage or body wrap.

Vibrational Healing

Sound was one of the very first forms used in healing our bodies and minds. Whether it is the primal sounds of a drum and rattle, the celestial sounds of crystal singing bowls or synthesized theta waves, the power of sound to harness the body’s own healing potential is just as relevant today. In this therapy you will be immersed in therapeutic tones that resonate within the body to stimulate the proper frequency (or function) of cells, tissues and organs. The sounds lift us to a higher understanding of ourselves and the natural rhythms of the universe. The vibrations create harmony and balance so that we are open to receiving healing energy.