Aromatherapy
We utilize high grade essential oils which can be incorporated into any treatment for a nominal fee. We use only very high quality, therapeutic grade oils.
Cancer Massage/Oncology Massage
This is NOT "standard" massage with a lighter touch and should only be offered by a therapist trained in oncology massage!
Oncology massage refers to massage tailored to the needs of individuals with cancer. This specialized practice requires therapists to be fully educated in and pay close attention to the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of clients in all stages of cancer: diagnosis, treatment, recovery, survivor, or terminal. Training in oncology massage covers appropriate bodywork modalities for cancer clients, includes precautions for radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, and covers physiology and pathology. It is important the therapist has the knowledge to work with medical professionals regarding the client's situation, contraindications to specific treatments and have the skills to create a specialized protocol to compliment where the client is in their illness and treatment. Current research indicates that massage for cancer patients has many benefits and dispels many of the old myths about working with this population. This is not to say that all clients diagnosed with cancer are likely candidates for massage.
Each case is assessed and if appropriate a treatment plan is developed. The therapist and the other medical professionals work together to monitor the treatment and outcomes. It is very important to understand that bodywork for this population requires a therapist with cancer specific training.
Chair/Seated Massage
Chair massages are generally administered on a specially designed chair while the client is fully clothed. Massages last from 10 to 20 minutes each and may include all or any combination of the following: Head, neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, legs.
Child/Toddler Massage - 30 minutes
This massage is intended to engage the child in the massage and make it fun/non-threatening, or relaxing if that would benefit the child. The time is generally limited to 30 minutes which is sufficient time for most children. Children involved in sporting events, dance, gymnastics, etc. should have regularly scheduled massages to assist with muscle discomfort, assist with stretching, increase circulation and assist the muscles with elimination of toxins. Many pains which parents attribute to "growing pains" can be alleviated with massage therapy.
Infant and child massage benefits the children as they gain trust, learn they have control of body boundaries (we ALWAYS request their permission to touch them), it enhances weight gain in preemies, calms children and may teach them to calm themselves, enhances sleep, mood and digestion.
Parents will also be taught how to eliminate colic pain and the associated crying.
Classic European Relaxation - 35, 65, 95 minute sessions
A generally relaxing massage intended to improve mental and physical health. Techniques are applied to the superficial layers of the muscles which will improve circulation, and blood flow, ease muscle aches and tension, improve flexibility, speed healing, possibly reduce swelling from injury and provide a sense of wellbeing. Joint mobilizations may also be incorporated.
Cranial-Sacral (Cranio-Sacral)
A light-touch therapy done while fully clothed. This therapy supports the body to enable release of restrictions in the enclosed cranial-sacral system which runs from the head to the bottom of the tailbone. Cranio sacral therapy is a gentle, noninvasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the cranio sacral system. Developed by John E. Upledger, DO, OMM, this manual therapy enhances the body’s natural healing processes and has proven effective in treating a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction. The roots of this therapy are in cranial osteopathy, developed by Dr. William G. Sutherland. The cranio sacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face, and mouth--which make up the cranium--down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the cranio sacral system could cause sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, and other dysfunctions of the central nervous system. cranio sacral therapy encourages the body’s natural healing mechanisms to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, and enhance health and resistance to disease. The cranio sacral therapy practitioner uses a light touch to assist the natural movement of fluid within the cranio sacrall system. Therapists generally use only five grams of pressure, roughly the weight of a nickel, to test for restrictions in various parts of the cranio sacral system. It’s often possible for the evaluation alone to remove the restriction and allow the system to correct itself
Daybreak Geriatric (Senior or Medically Frail)
Geriatric is a specially designed protocol for the aging or medically frail client. Geriatric massage IS NOT a "standard" massage with a lighter touch. This massage is intended to address issues specific to the aging or a person with various health issues which would make a more "standard" massage contraindicated. Exact session time is situation-specific.
Clients may receive their treatment from a bed, wheel chair, standard chair or therapy table. Each session is designed based on the specific needs of the client. The massage therapist will work closely with the medical professionals of a client who is medically frail and/or near end of life. (Cancer - See Cancer/Oncology Massage)
This massage is excellent for anyone bedridden/wheelchair bound, or anyone suffering a chronic/terminal illness. One of our previous clients, who has since passed from cancer, told her family that the best thing that happened to her since she was diagnosed with cancer was her weekly massage which was customized to her needs each time, including working in a recliner or bed. Her massage was all she looked forward to. The combination geriatric/oncology/medically frail therapy helped relax her, increase her circulation and release endorphins which reduced her pain.
Deep Tissue - 30 and 60 minutes
Ear Candling
Facial Toning - 30 minutes
This treatment is an invigorating yet very relaxing massage utilizing special techniques which focus on the muscles of the face and head, enhancing the circulation, cleansing the skin and providing toning of facial and neck muscles. The benefits can most often be seen after only one session. Since the benefits of this treatment are cumulative it is recommended that the client commit to multiple treatments. Money saving packages are offered.
Facial Toning Plus - 50 to 60 minutes
This massage is the same as the facial toning, but also includes deep penetrating moist heat applied to various body areas which is amazingly relaxing. Also includes massage of the shoulders, arms, hands, lower legs and feet.
Fibromyalgia - Client situation specific
Clients experiencing fibromyalgia symptoms do not frequently respond well to "traditional" massage modalities. Advanced training in the special needs of FM/CFS clients is imperative to provide them with the proper assessment and treatment that will benefit them. With a medical prescription this treatment may be covered under medical insurance.
Head-Neck-Shoulders - 30 minutes
Hands and Feet Only - 30 minutes
Hot Rock - See "Soothing Hot Rock"
Infant Massage Instruction
Group and private instruction are available to assist the family with learning the proper method of infant massage. Additional information on the benefits of infant massage will be listed on this site very shortly.
Lymphatic Drainage - 30 or 60 minutes
This protocol is a light-touch therapy utilized to assist the body with draining of accumulated fluids. It is also beneficial in enhancing the immune system by enhancing the lymphatic system of the body. It is very important that the therapist providing this treatment has had specific training in this modality as it is very different from traditional massage. Improper therapy to an area requiring lymphatic drainage can result in serious swelling and health concerns.
Myofascial Release
In our office this therapy is generally incorporated into a 35 or 65 minute therapy. It may also be a separate treatment billed in 15 minute increments. Myofascial release is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions and facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems that are no longer relevant or are impeding progress. First, an assessment is made by visually analyzing the human frame, followed by the palpation of the tissue texture of various fascial layers. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction. Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain, and headaches.
Orthopedic Massage
Specialized therapies addressing neuromuscular issues relating to the muscle, nerves, connective tissue, tendons. ligaments, etc.
Prenatal/Postpartum - 60 minutes
Receive your pregnancy massage on either a specially designed prenatal table, or a table topper which is specially designed to accommodate the changing body, and permits "Mom" to lie face down for a complete posterior massage. No side-lying massages necessary, unless that is your preference. It is critical to the safety of both the mother and baby to seek the services of a therapist who has been specifically trained and certified in Prenatal massage and has a complete understanding of how the changing hormones and demands of pregnancy affect the body, and also is fully aware of the contraindications (things to watch out for) of prenatal massage. Postpartum massage is done after the birth of the baby and is intended to assist the body with returning to a healthy pre-pregnancy state.
Prenatal PREGO PILLOW Available
Receive your pregnancy massage on either a specially designed prenatal table (@ one Plainfield location), or a table topper which is specially designed to accommodate the changing body, and permits Mom-to-be to lie face down for a complete posterior (backside) massage. No side-lying massages necessary, unless that is your preference. and has a complete understanding of how the changing hormonesand demands of pregnancy affect the body, and also is fully aware of the contraindications (things to watch out for) of prenatal massage. Postpartum massage is done after the birth of the baby and is intended to assist the body with returning to a healthy pre-pregnancy state.
Repetitive Use Injuries/Muscle Release Technique
When muscles have been shortened due to an injury or under use they rarely if ever return to proper length without intervention. It is necessary to work with the muscles to lengthen them using specific techniques, and then working with the client to advise them of at-home stretches to be done daily to keep the muscles remain lengthened.
These techniques may be included as part of a standard massage if the therapist identifies a need for it. Any injury specific treatment would be billed in 15-minute increments if not part of a full massage.
Reiki
Reflexology - 30 or 45 minutes
Based on an ancient Chinese therapy, reflexology involves manipulation of specific reflex areas in the foot, hands, and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. Sometimes referred to as zone therapy, this bodywork involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. Similar to acupressure principles, reflexology works with the body’s energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical function. This technique is used to reduce pain, increase relaxation, and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is especially useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate. Therapist, Sandi, studied reflexology with the International Institute of Reflexology.
Scar Tissue Therapy - 15 minute increments
Soothing Hot Rock - 75 minutes
There is no greater relaxation than that provided by the deep penetrating heat of the special stones used in our soothing hot rock massage. The stones are incorporated into a soothing massage for an intense level of relaxation. Stones are both placed on the body and incorporated into the massage.
Sports - Pre and Post Event
Sports massage is typically done while the client is clothed, and is an active therapy intended to prepare the muscles for a sporting event, or to help stretch and remove lactic acid post event. These massages include active isolated stretching of the muscles involved in the sporting event.
Therapeutic/Integrative - 35 to 65 minutes
A combination of various therapies integrated to address the therapeutic needs of the client. Each massage is customized to the situation presented at each session.
Therapeutic Touch
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy (also known as Myotherapy or Neuromuscular Therapy) applies concentrated finger pressure to "trigger points" (painful irritated areas in muscles) to break cycles of spasm and pain. Oftentimes the pain is referred to a different area of the body than the actual muscle problem. A TP therapist is able to identify the location of the pain based on the pattern of referral.
