Massage Therapy

There are various types of massages that we offer at our naturopathic clinic. These include and are not limited to:

Relaxation Massage

This type of massage helps you relax completely. It can be very helpful for releasing muscle tension related to excessive stress, anxiety or other related symptoms in the neck, shoulders and upper and lower back. The relaxation massage encompasses a smooth, flowing style that is obtained through various hand movements and pressures applied by the massage therapist.

The therapeutic intention of a relaxation massage is to promote general comfort and relaxation in the individual. This type of massage is used to decrease tension in the body, both physically and mentally. This is a highly popular form of massage for those with high levels of emotional stress or anxiety as it helps the body release endorphins and serotonin in the body, and for those individuals wanting to enjoy the benefits of massage in general for relaxation.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is primarily designed to relieve severe tension in the muscles, connective tissues and the fascia, which is the soft tissue of the connective tissue. The difference between a deep tissue massage and the relaxation massage in terms of target muscles is the deep tissue massage targets the muscles beneath the top surface muscles, where the relaxation massage focuses on the muscles directly beneath the skin.

Furthermore, a deep tissue massage is also done with slower manual strokes with a continuous and more direct deep pressure on the muscles, either following or going across the fibers of the muscles and tendons. This type of manipulation helps break up and eliminate scar tissue.

Patients who request a deep tissue massage are often people who experience consistent pain or partake in heavy physical activity, such as athletes or individuals who have sustained physical injuries. Because this type of treatment often requires more intense pressure with the goal of releasing chronic muscle tension, one massage treatment is often not enough to feel the lasting therapeutic results. Undoing chronic muscular knots or tension is best completed with an integrated program that includes physical exercise, posture improvements, movements, stretches, practice of relaxation techniques and a continuous regular massage program.

Aromatherapy Massage

The aromatherapy massage treatment offers a relaxing massage that is done in combination with therapeutic essential oils that primarily promote relaxation in the body and the mind. The aroma also helps promote a sense of well-being and overall healing.

The aromatherapy oils should not be confused with fragrances or perfume oils. Fragrances are often produced using chemicals and lack the therapeutic elements of essential oils. These essential oils used in aromatherapy are often mixed with carrier oils, like sweet almond, apricot kernel or grape seed oil. These essential oils are volatile and a highly concentrated plant extracts, derived usually from leaves, bark, roots, seeds resins and flowers.

The therapeutic use of essential oils can affect all of the systems in the body, particularly the muscular, circulatory, lymphatic and the nervous system.

Aromatherapy massages are suitable for individuals who have acute or chronic conditions, digestive problems, hormonal imbalances, are in menopause or have menstrual issues, physical or sports injuries, for prevention or maintenance therapy, skin issues, sleeping disorders, and stress related symptoms. This type of massage can also help those suffering from a cold or the flu, headaches or a slowed metabolism.

Hot Stone Massage

The hot stone massage is a different take on the traditional relaxation massage, as smooth stones assist the therapist during the massage. These stones are naturally smooth and are made of basalt. This type of stone is rich in iron and can retain heat for a longer period of time.

The stones are heated in hot water prior to massage treatment. The stones may be placed on the body at key points, which are believed to be the energy centers of the body, to recreate the balance of the body and the mind. These specific points are often found on the back, in the palms and in between toes.

This massage often begins with the therapist applying oils, so the stones can glide smoothly along the skin and muscles. The stones become a tool to massage muscles that requires more subtle pressure. When the hot stones are placed on muscles below the skin, the muscles become relaxed, allowing therapists to apply deeper pressure, either by using the stones or simply the hands.

This type of massage helps improve circulation in the body and plays a vital role in calming the nervous system. Other benefits of getting a hot stone massage include the restoration of the body’s natural balance, the promotion of deep muscle relaxation, the stimulation of the circulatory system and the sensation of comfort and warmth within the body. Hot stone massages have also been used as treatments of many common health disorders, including muscular pains, back pains, arthritis, osteoarthritis, insomnia, stress, anxiety, and fibromyalgia.

We also offer lymphatic drainage and prenatal massage therapy at the clinic.

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