Benefits of Massage

• Stimulates the release of endorphins - the body's natural painkiller
• Calms the nervous system
• Improves sleep
• Strengthens the immune system
• Aids in the removal of toxins from the body
• Reduces muscular tension
• Improves circulation of blood & lymph
• Increases the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells and tissues
• Improves posture• Increases flexibility & improves joint range of motion
• Enhances overall performance
• Feeling of well being
• Relieves mental & physical stress
• Reduces muscular tension

Please be sure to consult with your physician if you suffer from the following ailments before receiving a massage: circulatory problems, infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer, cardiac problems, certain skin conditions, or any inflamed or infected tissues

TYPES OF MASSAGE THERAPIES OFFERED
BY YOGA & MASSAGE FOR EVERYONE -

• REMEDIAL MASSAGE
• SWEDISH MASSAGE
• KA HUNA (HAWAIIAN) MASSAGE
• POLYNESIAN FLOORWORK
• PREGNANCY MASSAGE
• TRIGGER POINT THERAPY
• REFLEXOLOGY
• CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
• BOWEN THERAPY

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage is a therapeutic technique used to release tight muscles and tendons, breakdown scar tissue and increase circulation to encourage healing and well-being. Remedial massage also stimulates lymphatic and venous drainage, promotes absorption of nutrients and eliminates toxins, helps increase flexibility and joint mobility and enhances relaxation and stress relief.

Remedial massage is one of the most effective ways to prevent and treat muscle injuries, pain and soreness. Muscles, ligaments and tendons hurt due to the tendency of the connective tissue to adapt to its shortest functional length. The constant tightening of the tissues can result in distortion, which leads to pain and joint stiffness. Massage restores the correct tension to the tissue allowing for freer movement without pain thus improving overall posture and bringing relief and comfort back to the body. Loosening the connective tissue may correct structural problems if the tissue is holding bones out of alignment but the massage therapist never manipulates bones. Nerve, blood and lymphatic systems are stimulated to allow connective tissues to heal and release.

Remedial massage is safe and effective for people of all ages. The strength of various strokes over the muscular structure is adjusted to suit each individual clients needs.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is also known as the Western or classic style of massage. It is a scientific system of manipulations on the muscles and connective tissues of the body for the purpose of relaxation, rehabilitation or health maintenance. Swedish massage therapy is comprised of five basic strokes and their variations: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement (or percussion) and vibration. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalised relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.

Ka Huna Massage (Hawaiian Massage)

Ka Huna bodywork originated in the South Pacific. It is also known as Hawaiian Temple Style massage and Lomi Lomi. This beautiful form of bodywork provides a holistic approach to healing by balancing the body-mind in its physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions. A Ka Huna practitioner uses their hands, forearms and elbows while moving around the table using flowing hula and Tai Chi style movements.
Ka Huna massage instills a calming sense of peace and deep relaxation releasing deep-seated neuromuscular tension and allows the energy to flow more freely. Ka Huna treats the lymphatic, immune, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems to promote improved health and fitness.

Polynesian Floorwork

Polynesian floorwork is an integrated stress release, bone and joint massage (fully clothed massage, similar to a Thai Massage). It can be incorporated before any of the other therapies or on its own.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage addresses the special needs of pregnant women such as discomforts in the low back, feet, and legs. This form of massage consists mainly of Ka Huna, Swedish massage and Reflexology techniques that are modified slightly to take into account the common aches and pains of pregnancy. A special pregnancy massage table is used and positioning of the client is also modified as the pregnancy progresses and the abdomen enlarges.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger point therapy involves compression of individual areas of hypersensitivity in muscles, ligaments, tendons, and fascia. These trigger points are defined by their referral of pain to distant locations in muscles, connective tissues, and organs. Janet Travell, M.D., pioneered trigger point therapy in the United States. Trigger Point Therapy aims to break the cycles of spasm and pain. Trigger Point Therapy can be incorporated in a remedial or ka huna massage to enhance the benefits and provide deeper releases.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a form of bodywork based on the theory of zone therapy, in which specific spots of the body are pressed to stimulate corresponding areas in other parts of the body. Foot reflexology is the most common form of reflexology.

Craniosacral Therapy

CST (Craniosacral Therapy) was pioneered and developed by osteopathic physician John E. Upledger who followed the groundwork of Osteopath Dr William Sutherland. Upledger and others undertook extensive scientific studies at Michigan State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine. CST today is based on this research.

CST is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating, balancing and enhancing the functioning of the craniosacral system - which comprises of the bones, nerves, fluids, and connective tissues of the cranium and spinal area. The membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a very light touch, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system.

CST assists the body’s natural healing processes and is being used increasingly as a preventative health measure. CST is effective for a wide range of problems including physical aches and pains, chronic and acute diseases, as well as emotional and psychological imbalances. CST promotes the development of health, vitality and general well-being in the body, mind and emotions. It can be especially useful in treating headaches, eye and ear problems, jaw problems, whiplash, and back pain.

Bowen Therapy

Bowen Therapy is a holistic hands-on therapy, which, through a series of non-invasive gentle moves over muscle and connective tissue, allows the body to reset and heal itself. The practitioner will leave the room between each set of moves, which allows the body time to respond and begin the healing process.
The treatment aims to support and boost the natural healing capabilities of the body, and is holistic in that it addresses the body as a whole, rather than just treating the presenting symptoms.