We all know that massage feels great and that it helps to curb the stress in our hectic everyday lives, but did you know massage can do so much more for you?
Swedish massage:
- alleviates muscle ache/pain and improves joint and muscle flexibility
- promotes tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks
- increases your energy, circulation and concentration
- enhances your immune system by stimulating lymphatic flow, your body's natural defense system, easing
your dependency on medication
- allows you to get better sleep by reducing fatigue and anxiety
WHAT TYPE OF MASSAGE IS BEST FOR ME?
The great thing about working with Atlanta Therapeutic Massage is that I help you decide the best type of massage for that session. I'm certified in Swedish, shiatsu (acupressure), deep tissue/sports, prenatal/post-pregnancy, reflexology and heated stone massage. Before each session we'll take a few minutes to talk about what's going on with your body and where you're feeling any aches or pains. Each session is customized to fit your body's needs, so we may combine - or fuse - multiple techniques from various forms of massage to achieve that session's goal.
Swedish
This is the most common type of massage. Techniques include long gliding strokes, kneading and friction
that affect the nerves and muscles. It's ideal for relaxation, increasing circulation and energizing you.
Deep Tissue/Sports
This is a deep massage meant to "unstick" muslce fibers. It's also prevents injury, increases flexibility,
relieves swelling and muscle tension. This is done by deep muscle compression and friction. It's especially
good for muscle damage from an injury such as whiplash or back strain, and it helps release toxins and
break patterns of tension.
Prenatal/Post-Pregnancy
Pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Modified bolstering and
massage techiques are used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce
anxiety and depression.
Shiatsu
This style of massage has been used for over 1,000 years in Japan. The technique (shiatsu means "finger
pressure") includes pressure applied to specific points along the body's meridians to stimulate the flow of
energy. Hands, fingers, elbows, knees or feet may be used to apply the pressure. It's used for pain relief,
relaxation and to heal illness.
Reflexology
This is similar to acupressure in that it's based on the ancient belief that meridian lines carry energy
throughout your body. Each zone has a corresponding reflex point on your hands, feet and ears that can
stimulate a certain organ or gland helping to clear congestion. It's used to help restore health.
Heated Stone
Hot stone massage uses smooth, heated basalt or river rocks that absorb and retain heat. This massage
is light in touch, yet deeply soothing and relaxing.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING SESSION
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it's entirely up to you what you want to wear. You'll be properly draped during the entire session. By discussing the goals of the session prior to you getting on the table, we'll determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders.
Most importantly, make yourself comfortable. When necessary, I'll gently move you or tell you what's needed throughout the session. Other than that, just close your eyes and relax or feel free to ask questions - this is your time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
You may feel a bit groggy after session, but that's normal for some - it just means your body and mind are relaxed. It's important to drinks lots of water after each session to keep the body hydrated and to eliminate toxins from the body that were released during session.
AROMATHERAPY
Each session includes aromatherapy. We begin with inhalations of essential oils, such as lavender, to help calm you before we begin session. During session, we may use arnica to help relieve stressed and sore muscles. The possibilities are endless with aromatherapy. We'll work with you to choose scents that are not only appealing, but work for you.
