Ancient healing art that uses fingers to stimulate key points along the meridians to activate the healing response. Acupressure and Acupuncture use the same points but acupressure does not use needles. Symptoms are considered to be an expression of the condition of the body as a whole. (Holding a point on your foot may assist in relieving a digestive problem.) It is believed that tension in the muscles block the flow of energy (chi) not only in the muscles but in the associated internal organs. This modality is part of my regular massage technique.

The use of essential oils which are extracted from herbs, flowers, resins, woods and roots which produce a therapeutic aroma to stimulate healing. Aromatherapy may be used with massage or done alone. The quality of the oil is what makes the difference. Oils that are distilled from wild or organic plants are the best and also most expensive. Some of the effects that oils produce include relaxation, energy stimulation, immune system support, hormone stimulation and increased circulation. Many oils are also found to be anti-bacterial and anti-viral. This can be added to almost any massage for no extra charge.

A technique developed by many (Upledger, Milne, Sutherland) to correct cerebral and spinal imbalances or blockages. The treatment is geared toward moving the soft tissue, correcting cerebral and spinal imbalances to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. This system consists of working with the soft tissues, membranes, energy, and cerebral fluids surrounding the cranium, spine and sacrum. Because of the creation of re-absorption of cerebral fluid there is a dynamic rhythm which radiates through out the body. The rate, amplitude, symmetry, and quality of this rhythm give distinct information about the health and functioning of the entire body. By monitoring the cranio-sacral rhythm through palpation (subtle touch by the practitioner), the therapist can locate the part of the body which may be holding physical or emotional trauma. Once identified, further application (gentle compression and stretching) stimulates the body to make corrections and readjustments in the form of physical movements or emotional release. Cranio-sacral therapy takes many years of practice and learning to be a qualified practitioner.

Massage applied to the deeper, core layers of the body often using the elbow as well as the usual thumb, finger and fist pressure. Greater awareness is often needed to go into the deeper tissues without hurting the client. Deep tissue work helps with chronic pain and injury rehabilitation. A good therapist has studied many hours in a highly qualified program to truly understand how to work with the muscles to facilitate healing for the client.

The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage™ are practiced and taught by Dr. Rosita Arvigo, D.N.. Mayan Abdominal Massage is an integral component of Mayan medicine. The Arvigo Techniques of Maya Abdominal Massage address position and health of the pelvic and abdominal organs. The work is best known for the correction of the prolapsed, fallen, or tilted uterus and for the prevention and treatment of benign prostate enlargement in men. This massage technique is performed on women only in this Clinic.

There are many methods of myofascial release. It is used to evaluate and treat restrictions in a body's connective tissue (muscles and fascia). Fascia is a complex supportive web throughout the body that affects all components of the musculoskeletal, nervous and visceral systems Myofascial release can be used to treat chronic pain, injuries, general aches and pains. This modality is a regular part of the types of massage I offer.

(sometimes referred to as trigger point therapy) - Uses advanced concepts in trigger point therapy to return the body to normal neuromuscular balance. Has both European and American origins. In Europe, Stanley Leif started the work in the 1930's and passed it on to his cousin Boris Chaitow, his son Peter Lief and Leon Chaitow. The American version comes from Raymond Nimmo, DC, Janet Travel and later Paul St. John and Judith Walker Delaney. This modality is part of my regular massage technique.

Massage done fully clothed and seated; generally geared toward corporate or business settings. The ideal situation is to persuade the company to pay for this service for their employees on a regular basis. Much can be done to reduce repetitive strain injuries and mental motivation.

Massage therapy techniques geared toward the expectant mother. There are many health concerns and complications to take into consideration when working with pregnant woman. Most techniques are done in the side-lying position as they are unable to lay on their tummies. In most cases massage can be done right up to and including delivery.

Massage that deals with the feet and hands, treating reflex points. Sometimes referred to as "zone therapy" because of the specific zones in the feet, hands and ears. The bottom of the foot and the palm of the hands mirror the body. The toes reflect the head and neck; the balls of the feet correspond to the chest, lung area and shoulder; the arch covers the diaphragm to the pelvic area; the heel corresponds to the pelvic area; the inner (medial) side of the foot reflects the spine; the outer (lateral) foot reflects the arm, shoulder, hip, leg, knee, lower back; the ankle corresponds with the pelvic area and reproductive organs. Stimulating certain areas may not directly "cure" the aliment, but the points may increase the energy to the organ or related area to assist in healing. Many experienced reflexologists can predict deeper underlying problems from what they read in the feet.

Shiatsu is therapeutic bodywork from Japan that is based on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine combined with modern anatomy and physiology. It is one of the main modalities within the larger profession of Asian Bodywork Therapy. Shiatsu is non-invasive, performed without oils through light, comfortable clothing and uses soothing, kneading, pressing, tapping and stretching techniques. Shiatsu stimulates and harmonizes the flow of "Qi" (vital energy) throughout the body, and has both preventative and remedial effects. It is beneficial for a wide range of internal, musculoskeletal and emotional conditions. It may be stimulating or calming depending on what is therapeutically indicated. Shiatsu therapy reduces stress and contributes to overall well-being.

Massage applied to serious athletes for training, injury prevention, rehabilitation, pre- and post-event strategies. You have to know what you are doing to work with athletes as their sport depends on their bodies.

River rocks heated and placed on the muscles. Induces relaxation and deep heat. Can be used on muscles that can not take deep pressure, where deep work would be beneficial. Can be used to create deep relaxation and overall warmth. This massage technique is offered at the Clinic.

A collection of techniques designed for relaxation, using massage oils to reduce friction. Many of the therapeutic effects include increased circulation, increased flexibility, removal of lactic acids and toxins, relaxes the nervous system, and stimulates the skin. Techniques can be modified to treat injuries and muscular related problems. Swedish can be used for general relaxation or a precursor to deeper work.