Massage Modalities

 

Massage Modality Descriptions

 

Chair Massage - A chair massage is a short massage performed in a specifically designed ergonomic massage chair, done through the clothing. It focuses on key tension areas in the back, neck, shoulders and arms. 

Swedish (Relaxation) – Swedish massage is a gentle, rhythmic massage that uses long flowing strokes, kneading and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles promoting relaxation, better circulation and improves body function. This is the most traditional method of full body massage.

Deep Tissue - Deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. When muscles are stressed it blocks the flow of oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation and build up of toxins in the muscle tissue. A deep tissue massage helps loosen the muscle tissue and release toxins to provide better blood and oxygen flow to the muscle. This type of massage also breaks down scar tissue and loosens fascia through a lighter, but still deep technique. This technique is used for acute or chronic injury recovery and those who need manipulation of muscle and other soft tissues. 

Trigger Point – A trigger point or more commonly known as a "knot" happens when a muscle contracts restricting blood flow into that muscle causing pain. Trigger point therapy focuses on applying pressure directly to those contracted muscles to release tension in that particular area. It releases the toxins captured in the body for better bodily function.

Sports/Injury Massage – Similar to a deep tissue massage but targeting specific areas of injury and treatment. Often includes stretching and traction.

Mom 2 Be (Pregnancy) - Pregnancy massage is specifically designed for expectant mothers. The massage is performed while the client is sideline, or lying on their side, while her body is supported during the massage, using pillows or bolsters. Pregnancy massage is a great way to help relieve lower back and sciatica pain, reduce muscle spasms and cramps and enhance the gestation process through increasing blood and lymph circulation, reduce edema, and increase cellular respiration. It also helps assist in reducing the stress in the weight bearing joints and musculoskeletal (bone) structures. *This massage will only be performed on expectant mothers in their 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy.

Aroma Stone Therapy-A specialty massage where the therapist uses essential oils along with smooth, heated stones, either as an extension of their own hands, or by placing them on the body while they massage other parts of the body. The heat from the stones can be both deeply relaxing and help warm up tight muscles so the therapist can work more deeply, more quickly. 

CranioSacral Therapy-CranioSacral Therapy (CST) involves gently manipulating the muscles, soft tissues and bones throughout the head and spine in order to allow cerebral-spinal fluid to flow more freely. Cerebral-Spinal Fluid (CSF) is the clear fluid that is inside our brain and spinal cord. This fluid cushions the brain from injury, aid in overall autoimmune system function and removes metabolic waste from the brain.

A sudden impact such as that from a car accident, fall, contact sports or a bump in the head can cause vertebrae and/or brain plates to shift. When these bones shift, the flow of CSF can become blocked within the head and spine. CST works to realign the skull plates and vertebrae to restore free CSF flow.

Ailments CranioSacral may help with: Migraines and Headaches, Autoimmune Disorders, Weak Immune Response, Sinus Disorders, Numbness in Extremities, Chronic Neck and Back Pain, Stress and Tension-Related Disorders, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, TMJ Syndrome, Vertigo, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Orthopedic Problems and many other conditions.

Tandem Massage - Sometimes referred to a Four Hand Massage. During this session, two therapists are working on one person. They each work the opposite side of the body working different parts at the same time. For example, one therapist will be working the back while the other is working on the legs. This massage provides an extraordinary experience in energy balance and relaxation. You receive twice the work, twice the relaxation, twice the therapy in half the time! A 60 minute tandem session equals 120 minutes of regular massage.

 

1134 E. University Dr. #120 Mesa, AZ 85203

 

Samantha Bowman LMT: 480-797-4666

samanthabowmanlmt@gmail.com