Sessions are customized to meet your individual needs and are categorized based on duration, allowing you to experience a tailored approach without limiting the session to a specific modality. Here are some of the key techniques I utilize, along with a brief description of what each one offers:

Swedish

Swedish is the most well-known and widely practiced form of therapeutic massage. This type of massage therapy focuses on muscle relaxation, targeting superficial muscles and increasing blood circulation. Swedish massage combines effleurage which is used to soothe and warm up the muscle tissue, and petrissage by kneading, rolling, lifting, wringing, etc. to further alleviate stress and tension. The benefits of Swedish massage include: natural pain management, increased blood flow, muscle injury rehabilitation, increased flexibility/range of motion, lower cortisol levels reducing stress and improving the immune system.

I listen in on your body’s specific rhythm and adjust my pressure to its reaction and needs, which may vary widely across the body and/or on a day-by-day basis. Typically in Swedish sessions, manual pressure will be in the light to medium and medium to firm ranges — using more palms and fingers than forearms and elbows.

Deep Tissue

Deep tissue massage is mainly used to treat musculoskeletal issues, such as strains and sports injuries. Maintaining slow, controlled pressure, we work deeply into inner muscle layers and connective tissues. This form of massage therapy aims to break up scar tissue and promote faster healing and recovery by reducing inflammation and increasing nutrient and oxygen supply with improved blood circulation in stagnant areas holding tension and inflammation. Manual pressure will range from firm to deep with more use of knuckles, forearms, and elbows always to your tolerance and comfort.

My attention will be to the areas of your chronic or acute discomfort, alleviating tension and pain across the body.

CranioSacral Therapy

Description sourced from the Upledger Institute: “CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system, which has been shown to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, as well as many other systems of the body, such as digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory, and more. CST has also been shown to help with the physical components related to such somatic conditions as Post Traumatic Stress, depression and anxiety.

By facilitating the body's natural and innate healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and has been shown to be beneficial for people seeking help with a wide range of healthcare challenges and symptoms.” Click this link to read more. I’ve taken three courses on CranioSacral to date, the latest CS1 class covering the most substantial hands-on work to develop our skills as craniosacral practitioners. This work benefits a diverse population, supporting various pathologies, rehabilitation needs, and pain conditions - positively affecting the body on a broader scale. Treating the craniosacral system has a profound, holistic impact, potentially enhancing overall well-being and benefiting multiple bodily systems and that is why I am so passionate about utilizing this work in my practice. CranioSacral therapy can be seamlessly integrated into manual therapy or massage sessions, or provided as a standalone treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release is a specialized therapeutic technique aimed at relieving pain and restoring motion by targeting the body's connective tissues, known as fascia. Over time, stress, injury, or inflammation can cause these tissues to become tight and restricted, leading to discomfort and limited mobility. Through gentle, sustained pressure and stretching, myofascial release helps to release these restrictions, improving blood flow, reducing pain, and enhancing overall flexibility and function. This technique is particularly effective for chronic pain conditions, postural imbalances, and injury recovery.

Cupping

Cupping is an advanced therapeutic technique that combines traditional cupping methods with contemporary massage practices to provide a deeply effective and holistic treatment. Using specially designed cups and controlled suction, this technique creates a vacuum effect on the skin, gently lifting the tissues underneath. This process enhances blood flow, stimulates the lymphatic system, and promotes deep muscle relaxation.

Cupping is versatile, allowing for both stationary and gliding techniques, depending on your needs. It can be used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and release muscle tension. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain, muscle tightness, or simply want to enhance your overall well-being, modern cupping offers a powerful and rejuvenating experience. I am a Certified Cupping Therapist, or CCT, by the International Cupping Therapy Association.

If you’re interested in learning more about cupping and its history, visit ICTA’s website here.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation (IASTM) is a specialized technique used to address soft tissue dysfunction and enhance the healing process. Using specifically designed tools, IASTM allows for precise application of pressure to areas of the body where scar tissue, fascial restrictions, or chronic tension have developed. These instruments help to break down adhesions and stimulate a targeted inflammatory response, promoting the body's natural healing process.

IASTM can be effective for treating a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, tendonitis, muscle strains, and post-surgical recovery. The technique improves mobility, reduces pain, and restores normal function to the affected areas. Whether used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities, IASTM offers a focused approach to soft tissue rehabilitation and recovery. I use RockBlade’s Mallet and Mohawk tools made out of surgical-grade stainless steel, which can be found here. IASTM has been in several medical studies (here) and has been proven to improve soft tissue function and ROM in acute or chronic sports injuries to soft tissues, while also reducing pain.

Who would benefit from these kinds of treatments?

Myofascial release, cupping, and Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manipulation (IASTM), especially when combined with therapeutic massage, can benefit a diverse group of individuals, particularly those who:

• Experience Chronic Pain: People dealing with chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia, myofascial pain syndrome, tendinitis, or chronic back and neck pain can find significant relief and improved function through these treatments.

• Athletes and Physically Active Individuals: Those who engage in sports or regular physical activity can benefit from these modalities to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and accelerate recovery from muscle strain, overuse injuries, or stiffness.

• Post-Injury or Post-Surgery Patients: Individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries can benefit from these techniques to reduce scar tissue formation, improve mobility, and speed up the healing process.

• People with Limited Mobility or Flexibility: Anyone struggling with restricted movement, joint stiffness, or muscle tightness due to poor posture, repetitive strain, or other factors can see improvements in flexibility and range of motion.

• Individuals with Soft Tissue Injuries: Those suffering from soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, or muscle tears, can benefit from these modalities, as they help in breaking down adhesions, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue repair.

• Desk Workers and Those with Sedentary Lifestyles: People who spend long hours sitting or working in static positions can benefit from these treatments to alleviate tension, correct postural imbalances, and prevent the development of chronic pain conditions.

• Stress and Tension Sufferers: Individuals experiencing high levels of stress or emotional tension can find relief, as these modalities promote relaxation, reduce muscle tightness, and enhance overall well-being.

• Those with Repetitive Strain Injuries: People with conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, or plantar fasciitis can benefit from the targeted approach of these modalities to reduce pain and improve function.

These therapies are highly adaptable and can be tailored to address specific issues, making them beneficial for a wide range of people, whether they are seeking relief from pain, enhanced mobility, or improved overall health and wellness.