A Quick Guide to Massage Modalities

• Swedish
  • "The Basics" that aim to relax the body by applying techniques including: Effleurage that uses flowing and connecting strokes, Petrissage is the application of kneading and gentle squeezing, Jostling, & Percussive Tapotement
• Neuromuscular
  • Alternatively known as Deep Tissue: This is the use of alternating levels of pressure that are applied with different ranges of concentration controlled by the fingers, flats of fists, forearms, elbows, & sometimes knees aimed to release trigger points.
• Myofascial Release
  • Fascia is a continuous connective tissue woven throughout muscles, bones, nerves, arteries, veins, & organs. The purpose is to release the fascia from a state of rigidity and allow it to return to a more hydrated, flexible, and stretchy state. "Myo"=Muscle "Fascial"=Fascia
• Cupping Therapy
  • ​​​​​​​While massage is performed by applying pressure, cupping instead uses negative pressure to pull, lift, open and expand the body's soft tissues. The use of silicone and plastic cups are suctioned to the body creating decompression in order to release gummy muscles from each other therefore allowing them to flow freely, hydrate the tissues of the area in which the cup is placed-specifically focusing on the hydration of the fascia, and to expedite the hemodynamic process.
• Hot Stone
  • ​​​​​​​Smooth basalt stones are heated and used as an extension of the therapist's hands. The stones are place at specific sites on your body to deepen relaxation and promote circulation in your muscles. Muscles that are heated with these stones release tension and stress much more deeply and quickly. The use of massage stones provides a unique experience many find to be tremendously calming, nurturing, centering, and even rejuvenating.
• Reflexology
  • ​​​​​​​Reflexology is a type of bodywork that focuses on applying pressure to the specific nerve zones in your feet as every part of the human body is mapped into your feet. Unlike other foot massages that intend to mostly relieve tension in the feet themselves, reflexology is a far more in-depth science that aims to harmonize your entire body. Reflexology treatments have been found to be highly effective for conditions such as allergies, headaches, and depression.