Massage therapy is a hands-on manipulation of the soft tissue and joints of the body. The soft tissues include muscle, skin, tendons and associated fascia, ligaments and joint capsules.

Massage has many diverse physiological effects, which are primarily due to the therapist's hands moving over the body. The different movements can physically stretch muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia, encourage the circulation through the tissue, inhibit muscular spasms and be either sedating or stimulating to the nervous system.

The therapeutic use of massage by a registered massage therapist affects all the systems of the body - in particular, the muscular, circulatory, lymphatic (immune) and nervous systems.

No wonder so many people find massage therapy so helpful in so many ways!

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Massage Techniques

Just like a mechanic has many different tools, there are dozens of different types of massage therapy and complimentary therapies that promote overall well-being.

Many varieties of massage have been around for centuries and are rooted in traditional beliefs. Many modern styles of massage use techniques aimed at addressing very specific ailments or conditions.

Shiatsu Therapy

Developed in Japan, Shiatsu is a finger-pressure technique utilizing the traditional acupuncture points of Oriental healing. Similar to acupressure, shiatsu concentrates on unblocking the flow of life energy and restoring balance in the meridians and organs in order to promote self-healing.

With the client reclining, the practitioner applies pressure with the finger, thumb, palm, elbow or knee to specific zones on the skin located along the energy meridians. 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.

Swedish Massage

One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation.

Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive and tapping movements, with the application of oil, to reduce friction on the skin.

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.

Thai Massage

Thai Massage is based on the theory that the body is made up of 72,000 sen, or energy lines, of which 10 hold top priority.

Thai Massage also involves peripheral stimulating, meaning it acts as an external stimulant to produce specific internal effects. This point serves as the main division between Thai and Western massage.

Thai Massage is practiced on a firm mat on the floor instead of on a table, instrumental in the effective use of the practitioner's body weight. Except for the feet, the client remains fully clothed, so draping is not necessary.

Deep Muscle Therapy

This deep form of bodywork helps to release myofascial restrictions in the body. It relieves chronic tension, increases range of motion, improves posture and enhances self-awareness.

Connective tissue massage restores length and flexibility to the fascia, normalizing the tissue and bringing greater health through the fascial system.