What is Massage Therapy?

Massage Therapy is manual soft tissue manipulation involving holding, causing movement and/or applying pressure to the body. Relaxing or lengthening the muscles.

Physical Benefits:

• Deep relaxation and stress reduction

• Relieves muscle tension and stiffness

• Reduces muscle spasms

Mental Benefits:

• Relaxing and rejuvenating

• Reduces mental stress

• Improves ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately

Emotional Benefits:

• Creates a feeling of well-being

• Reduces levels of anxiety

• Increases awareness of the mind-body connection
  

"Massage reduces anxiety and tension, improves circulation, reduces stress hormones, and allows the body to release its own chemicals: those feel-good hormones called endorphins. And besides all the science, it feels great to get a massage." - Dr. Nancy Snyderman, Looking Good, Feeling Great. Good Morning America, September 11, 1996.

Types of Massage Available

Swedish - the classic form of massage that involves long strokes, kneading
and friction techniques on muscles. It promotes relaxation and stress reduction, improves circulation, increases range of motion and relieves
muscle tension.

Deep Tissue / Myofascial - releases chronic patterns of bodily tension through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on contracted areas, either following or going across the grain of muscles, tendons and fascia.

Shiatsu - traditional Oriental "finger pressure" massage. The body's meridians (life energy pathways) are encouraged to flow more freely by stimulating specific pressure points. Creates a feeling of centeredness and rejuvenation.

Chair Massage - a fully clothed introduction to massage. Ideal for a quick fix when you do not have time for a full massage. Targeting the upper body or specific areas, it helps relieve everyday stress and tension.

Sports Massage - a combination of Swedish massage, stretching and pressure point work that can enhance performance and help prevent injury or promote recovery from an injury.

IMPORTANT

Certain medical conditions warrant written recommendation from your physician before obtaining a treatment. Before beginning your treatment, your therapist will ask about your medical history. Practitioners at the Balanced You do not diagnose medical problems, prescribe treatment, or manipulate bones. Massage is not considered a substitute for medical attention or psychological counseling.