Technique
Acupressure
Acupressure deals with the human body and the flow of natural energy within the body. Using only the thumb, an acupressurist works on different pressure points on the body, stimulating the corresponding glands of the body. Acupressure is based on a theory that 14 meridians carry energy throughout the body. These meridians start at the fingertips, connect to the brain, and then connect to the organ associated with the specific meridian. For example, the lung meridian is connected to the lungs through the nervous system. Theoretically, a lung problem arises if there is an obstruction in the lung meridian that slows down the flow of energy. Removing the blockage restores the flow of energy and permits the organ to function normally.
Myofascial Massage
Myofascial Massage stretches and realigns the fascia, the thin tissues that cover organs and muscles like Saran Wrap. “Stretching” actually means stretching of the fascia. When muscle fibers are injured, the surrounding fascia fibers are shortened, tightened and misaligned. Nerves and muscles are compressed, resulting in pain. The muscle becomes stressed and needs more blood. Unfortunately the injured fascia causes a decrease of blood flow to the muscle fibers. This diminished blood supply can’t get enough calcium and oxygen fast enough to the muscle to release the carbon dioxide, toxins and acid. Pain and cramping results and a cycle of even more fascia build up, less blood and the cascading problems result in even more pain and a variety of symptoms in areas we often wouldn’t expect. Myofascial massage releases and realigns the uneven tightness in injured or tight fascia restoring strength, flexibility and blood flow.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is “fingerpressure,” using the practitioner’s body weight to apply pressure to special points on the body to influence the flow of the patient’s chi through the meridians.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is recommended for stress management. The techniques used in Swedish massage, developed in the 1700s by a Swedish physician, include long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration, light stroking (“effleurage”), and shaking motions.
Reflexology
Reflexology is a science dealing with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands corresponding to all of the glands, organs and other parts of the body. Stimulating these reflexes properly can help many health problems in a natural way, a type of preventative maintenance. Reflexology is not massage, nor is it new – it was practiced in ancient Egypt. Reflexology as we know it today was first researched and developed by Eunice Ingham.
Reiki
Reiki uses “laying on of hands” in a precise way to summon the body’s innate power to heal. The main distinction between Reiki and other energy healing techniques is that a practitioner can channel the Reiki energy through their hands into their own. Reiki seeks to restore a harmonious balance of mind, body, and spirit. It has proven effective with adults and children, especially diminishing post-surgical and even cancer-related pain.
Rolfing
Rolfing enhances neurological functioning and significantly reduces chronic stress and postural problems. It is known to ease pain and improves physical performance by allowing the muscles to operate more efficiently and conserve energy. A specific problem for which Rolfing is recommended is lordosis (sway back). Creator of the therapy, Dr.Ida P. Rolf, discovered that she could achieve remarkable changes in posture and structure by manipulating the body’s myofascial system. Professional athletes, dancers, children, business people, and people from all walks of life have benefited from “Rolfing Structural Integration” or, more simply “rolfing.”
Rubenfeld Synergy Method
Rubenfeld Synergy Method is a gentle approach to personal development and healing – physical, emotional, and spiritual – that combines touch, talk and movement. The method respects the uniqueness of each individual and puts clients in charge of their own healing. Rubenfeld Synergists see the individual as a whole, with mind, body, emotions, and spirit interrelated and interactive, capable of self-healing, self-regulation and growth.
