Massage Therapy is the manipulation of the superficial muscles of the body.  It is not a way to diagnose illness, disease or any other physical or mental disorders.

 This work does not constitute medical treatment.  it is a form of health and wellness maintenance utilizing the techniques of traditional Swedish massage.

Massage Therapy does not include manipulations of the spine nor the prescribing of medical treatments.

 A Massage Therapist is not a medical professional and does not diagnose or prescribe.
 

Far beyond simply “feeling good”, massage has an impressive range of effects and benefits, many of which have been documented in research studies conducted in the U.S., Europe and Asia.

With a variety of hand-on methods, a skilled massage practitioner not only stretches and loosens muscle and connective tissue, but also greatly improves blood flow to the heart and the movement of lymph fluid throughout the body.

The practitioner’s hands speed the removal of metabolic waste products resulting from exercise or inactivity, allowing more oxygen and nutrients to reach the cells and tissues.  Sensory receptors in skin and muscles “wake up”, bringing new awareness to areas that have felt “cut off” by chronic tension patterns.

The release of muscular tension also helps to unblock and balance the overall flow of life energy throughout the body (known in different cultures as vital force, bioenergy, c’hi, prana, ki, etc.).  In addition, massage can stimulate the release of endorphins - the body’s natural painkillers - into the brain and nervous system.  All this translates into an amazing number of tangible results:
 

PHYSICAL LEVEL

• ·     Deep relaxation and stress reduction

• ·     Relief of muscle tension and stiffness

• ·     Increased ease and efficiency of movement

• ·     Promotes deeper and easier breathing

• ·     Better circulation of both blood and lymph fluids

• ·     Healthier, better nourished skin

• ·     Improved posture

• ·     Health maintenance

MENTAL LEVEL

•       Relaxes state of alertness

• ·     Reduced mental stress; a calmer mind

• ·     Greater ability to monitor stress signals and respond appropriately

• ·     Increased capacity for clearer thinking

  EMOTIONAL LEVEL

•       Satisfying the need for caring and nurturing touch

• ·     Feeling of well being

• ·     Greater ease of emotional expression

• ·     Enhanced self-image

• ·     Reduced levels of anxiety

• ·     Increased awareness of the mind-body connection

• ·     A sense of being unified and in harmony

 from AMTA:  A Guide to Massage Therapy in America