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Who
will give me my massage?
Your massage will be given by a massage therapist with many hours
of
training, often in several types of massage. In addition, massage
therapists
have a basic competence in anatomy and physiology, and knowledge
of
when massage is and is not appropriate. A growing number of states
license
massage therapists.
What kinds of massage can I get?
Swedish massage is what many people think of when massage is mentioned.
It uses long light strokes, deep kneading, small friction-type
motions, light
tapping, and movement of the joints. The list of other specialized
techniques
is long. Ask your massage therapist to explain any other techniques
she or
he uses.
What is the first appointment like?
Your massage therapist will begin by asking some general health
questions
since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate.
Your
massage therapist will then leave the room while you undress and
relax onto
the table, covering yourself with a fresh sheet.
Your massage will take place on a table especially designed for
stability and
comfort. Your massage therapist may offer cushions or an adjustable
face
rest for support. The room will be warm and quiet, often with
soft music to
set a relaxing mood.
For a full body massage, most people undress completely, though
you may
choose to wear underwear. You are warmly draped at all times,
except for
the area being worked on.
Your massage therapist will usually use a lubricant, such as light
oil or
lotion, which is good for your skin and absorbs well. For some
kinds of
massage, no oil is used and you remain clothed.
A massage usually begins with a light steady touch, followed by
broad,
flowing strokes. This starts calming your nervous system and releasing
tension in your superficial muscles. Gradually, as your body becomes
ready, your massage therapist works more deeply to relax specific
areas.
What should I do in a massage?
Make yourself comfortable. If your massage therapist wants you
to adjust
your position, she will either move you (for instance lift your
arm) or will tell
you what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to
make
yourself more comfortable.
Many people just close their eyes and relax completely during
a massage.
Others prefer to talk. It's your massage, and whatever feels natural
to you is
certainly the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions
about what
your massage therapist is doing, or about massage in general.
The desire to sigh or take a deep breath is a sign that you are
relaxing.
In fact, deep natural breaths can actually help you relax.
Will a massage ever hurt?
Massage on healthy tissue feels good, and the saying "no
pain, no gain"
is not true for massage. The most effective and the deepest massage
works
with the body's natural responses, rather than against them. Always
tell your
massage therapist if you feel any discomfort so she or he can
adjust to a
more appropriate level.
Massage used to address a painful injury may at first cause some
discomfort,
which usually
noticeably in the first few minutes. Your massage therapist knows
ways to
minimize pain, and will work carefully within what feels right
to you.
Massage
Therapies
Massage Sampler 60
minutes $65.00
Combination of styles designed to personalize the massage by
blending
massage techniques from around the world.
Foot Reflexology 30
minutes $40.00
Method of using thumbs and fingers on reflex points corresponding
to all
areas of the body. Relieves tension and stress while stimulating
the nervous
systems. Massage may include hands, head and neck.
Aromatherapy 60
minutes $75.00
Delight the senses as the unique aromas of the essential oils
add a new
dimension to the massage.
Swedish 60
minutes $65.00
Classical, relaxing massage combining three basic strokes: long
firm strokes,
kneading and small circles.
Deep Tissue & Sports Massage 60
minutes $65.00
Combines classical Swedish style with neuro-musclar techniques,
trigger
points, and compression to reduce soreness. Excellent when preparing
for sports activities or after a strenuous workout.
Shiatsu 60
minutes $75.00
Japanese pressure point treatment using palms, fingers and thumbs
to
release tension and increase circulation of energy based on
Oriental healing.
Pressure applied through clothing or sheet without oils.
Jin Shin Acupressure 60
minutes $75.00
Gentle yet deep finger pressure on specific acu-points with
body focusing
techniques, to help release physical and emotional tension,
assist the immune
system, alleviate common ailments and harmonize the flow of
life energy
within the body. Performed without oils.
Thai 60
minutes $75.00
Traditional massage from Thailand. Unique combination of gentle
rocking and
stretching using range of motion and acupressure techniques
applied through
clothing without oil.
Lymphatic Cellulite Massage 60
minutes $75.00
Light touch massage creates a healthy lymph system and boosts
the immune
system.
Neck and Shoulder Massage 30
minutes $40.00
Swedish massage focusing on the neck, shoulders and lower back.
Cranio - Sacral Massage 60
minutes $75.00
A gentle manipulation technique to locate and help relieve physical
problems
through enhancing the functions of your body's mechanisms. Relieves
stress
and enhances overall well - being.
Pregnancy Massage 60
minutes $65.00
90 minutes $90.00
A nurturing and nourishing massage to alleviate discomfort during
pregnancy
due to body changes. Relieves stress on weight baring joints
and reduces
swelling. Very calming and relaxing for both mother and baby.
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