Massage Techniques
Zen Shiatsu/Accupressure
Relaxation Massage/Swedish
Swedish Massage is a system of long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration and shaking motions that apply pressure between muscles and bones, rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Swedish Massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating.
The main purpose of Swedish Massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Some other benefits include shortening recovery time from muscular strain, increased circulation without increased heart load, stretching of ligaments and tendons, skin stimulation and soothing of the nervous system. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested as part of a regular program for stress management.
Lymphatic Drainage
This is very light technique where the therapist tunes into the rhythm, depth and quality of the lymphatic system to increase flow and give the system a gentle lift to make it work in a more efficient manner. The main role of the lymphatic system is to remove toxins from the body and into the blood stream. This is a very, very gentle technique but a very powerful one.
Deep Tissue/Remedial
This is a technique where deep pressure is applied to the muscles to relieve chronic pain. The therapist works in this way if there is a specific problem in the body that needs to be corrected. This technique is not for the fainted hearted but people choosing this technique either like really deep massage or have joints are not working properly and a solid deep workout is what the body needs to relieve the pain and stabilise the body.
Sports
This technique differs depending upon when competition is about to happen. Either using conditioning techniques where the body is warmed up and deeper pressure is applied. Percussion techniques are used to condition tissue and to stimulate the nerves. Warming up techniques are used if you are going to compete that day by using long broad strokes to allow the muscles to be stretched more easily. Long broad techniques are used for post activity to remove the lactic acid form the body.
Therapeutic
This technique is used for fresh injuries and work is applied around to site of the injury to allow the muscles to let go around the site. It can also be used to relieve chronic tension that have resulted in imbalanced posture, excessive build up of muscle tissue or fibrosis and immobility of joints. The therapist can use Myofascial, Deep Tissue, Accupressure and stretching techniques as a combination to help the mobility of the body.
Miofascial Release
A gentle blend of stretching and massage, Myofascial Release Therapy uses hands-on manipulation of the entire body to promote healing, release and pain relief. The therapy is based on the idea that poor posture, physical injury, illness and emotional stress can throw the body out of alignment and cause its intricate web of fascia to become tight and constricted.
The skillful use of the hands in Myofascial Release Therapy is said to release disruptions in this fascial network that links every organ and tissue in the body with every other part. Pressure on the bones, muscles, joints and nerves is relieved in the process, and balance is restored. The release of tension once the body has responded to the therapy allows more functional flexibility and mobility of the muscles, fascia and associated structures. Release may also facilitate the emergence of negative or repetitive emotional patterns, which have interfered with the healing process.
Myofascial Release Therapy may be helpful for many physical problems, including:
- Back strain and general chronic or acute back pain
- Lumbar and thoracic pain
- Chronic cervical pain
- Dizziness, vertigo
- Carpel tunnel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia
- Fibrositis
- Headaches
- Myofascial pain dysfunction
- Plantar fasciitis
- Post-polio symptoms
- TMJ dysfunction
- Whiplash
- Chronic pain syndromes
Reflexology
Reflexology is based on the principle that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. These parts, known as reflex points can also be found on the hands and other body parts, however, the most commonly treated area is the feet.
Reflexology has many beneficial and lasting effects. Some treatments are gentle in nature, aiming to restore systems for better function while others are more specific, addressing the client's particular conditions. It is a healing process that can be safely used when it is not convenient to treat other body parts. As a non-intrusive technique, it heals indirectly. Reflexology can be a relaxing therapy that works on many levels, soothing, calming, balancing and boosting the entire body.
The client's case history leads to the treatment protocol so that the technique is tailored to the needs of the client. A Reflexologist can facilitate relief for:
- Sinus pain
- Menopausal symptoms
- Migraines
- Pre-menstrual syndrome and other menstrual irregularities
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Sciatica
- Asthma
- Back pain
- Neck pain
- Shoulder pain
General benefits of Reflexology include:
- Reduced stress and tension
- Improved circulation
- Reduced toxicity
- Improved immunity
- Increased body awareness
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