Restorative Swedish Massage
Swedish massage uses a firm but gentle pressure to improve the circulation, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility and create relaxation. It is specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and working in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart (venous return). Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing
heart load.
Prenatal Massage
Prenatal massage shares many of the goals of regular massage — to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. It is also tailored specifically to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists who are trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques, accordingly. The massage is performed in the side-lying position, which is most comfortable for expectant mothers.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is a form of bodywork geared toward athletes. It is used to help prevent injuries, to prepare the body for athletic activity, and maintain it in optimal condition. It is also applied to help athletes recover from competitions, workouts, and injuries. This form of massage focuses on muscle groups relevant to a particular sport. This type of massage can be very beneficial, but it can also be very deep and uncomfortable. There are 3 types of sport massage: pre-event, post-event, and maintenance .
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots. It is a very specific massage technique utilizing heavy pressure. Deep tissue therapists look for shortened muscles and/or distorted postural patterns. With slow deep strokes, the therapist works to lengthen the muscle fibers, to restore balance, and to reestablish structural and functional integrity to the greatest degree possible for the client. Deep tissue Massage increases range of motion and restores economy of motion.
Shiatsu Massage
With Shiatsu the therapist applies pressure with his thumbs, finger, and palms to specific areas of the client's body that have been determined during an assessment period prior to the massage session. There are no needle pokes involved with Shiatsu. Massage techniques like tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and applied pressure are applied along the meridians to unblock energy blockages and reintroduce the optimal flow of Qi (Energy). Shiatsu is usually performed on the floor. The client is fully clothed in loose comfortable clothing.
