Swedish: A classic western massage technique which combines kneading & long smooth strokes to improve circulation, relax and loosen muscles. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissue of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. For someone who has never had a massage before, Swedish massage is a great introduction.
Deep Tissue: Similar to a Swedish massage, but is used to target knots & release chronic tension. Deep tissue massage can reduce inflammation, help reduce scar tissue & release trigger points in the body. The focus is on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons & fascia.
Acupressure: Concentrated pressure at key body points help break the cycle of spasm & pain to eliminate irritation & discomfort.
Maternity: Helps to alleviate many side effects associated with pregnancy such as headaches, backaches, leg cramps, swelling & fatigue. Maternity massage can also prepare pelvic muscles for the birthing process & enhance sleep. Michelle offers prenatal & perinatal massage as well as massage for labor support.
Myofascial Release: An effective technique that provides sustained pressure into myofascial restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Fascia is a densely woven, covering and interpenetrating every muscle, nerve, atery, & vein as well as our internal organs. Fascia also plays and important role in the support of our bodies both physically and emotionally. When we experience trauma, scarring or inflammation, however, fascia loses its pliability. Myofascial release can help restore the fascia to a normal, pliable state.
Arvigo Technique Maya Abdominal Therapy: An external, noninvasive technique that seeks to gently reposition abdominal organs that have prolapsed or restricted the flow of blood, lymph, nerves, & chi that cause congestion in the abdominal cavity. This modality offers an accessible alternative to surgery & drugs for abdominal & pelvic complaints of both men and women. Ideal, but not limited to these common ailments: PMS, Painful or irregular menstration, Endometriosis, Hormonal migraines, pregnancy difficulties, Infertility, Problems of menopause, Varicose veins, Painful intercourse, Frequent urination, Ovarian cysts, Problems with digestion & elimination, Male prostate problems & sexual dysfunction. A 90 minute minimum first appointment is recommended. Please state in notes when booking that you are wanting this particular therapy.
Geriatric: Increase blood circulation, combat depression, improve balance & flexibility, increase joint mobility, reduce arthritis pains, improve posture & encourage overall well-being. Michelle's office is handi-cap accessible.
Sports: Typically used before, during and/or after events to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility & prevent injuries. A variety of techniques may be used including Swedish, cross-fiber friction, acupressure, stretching & joint mobilization.
Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy: A barefoot massage technique using deep compression effleurage strokes that glide over the body. Ashiatsu can create structural changes for chronic soft tissue damage, improve posture & movement, relieve pain, provide deep relaxation and stimulate the lymphatic system of the body. Bars are used overhead for support and balance.
Ashi-Thai: An expression of traditional Thai techniques & stretches that have been modified for the therapist to use their legs & feet instead of hands & arms. As a stand-along treatment or a compliment to any massage, Ashi-Thai can revitalize energy lines & leave a profound affect by relieving muscular tension & improving range of motion. Clients are asked to wear comfortable non-restrictive clothing to their session.
Hot Stone Therapy: Calming, soothing & relaxing- this features the placement of smooth, water-heated river rocks at key points on the body to allow for deeper relaxation of the muscles. The therapist then customizes the massage with the use of hot stones to create a healing & relaxing experience. Additional $12 to the treatment option added for this service.
Aromatherapy: Also referred to as Essential Oil therapy, can be defined as the art & science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize & promote the health of the body, mind & spirit. Michelle can incorporate Aromatherapy to any treatment option.