Relaxation & Stress Management Handle stress, reach deeper states of relaxation, quiet the mind, manage pain, boost your immune system and increase vitality.
Bodywork & Massage Bodywork therapies is a general term that refers to a group of body-based approaches to treatment that emphasize manipulation and realignment of the body's structure in order to improve its function as well as the client's mental outlook. The following are some benefits that may be experienced. |
| | | Ayurvedic - is one part of the traditional detoxification and rejuvenation program of India in which the entire body is vigorously massaged. These treatments have been modified to meet the needs of the West and have been powerful in their effects on the mind and nervous system - calming, balancing, and bringing both a heightened sense of awareness and deep inner peace. Rejuvenating energies of the body may then flow more freely promoting healing and restoration. | Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT |
| Cancer/ Mastectomy - can relieve post-operative pain and edema and promote the removal of toxins as it assists in the flow of lymph, blood and oxygen. Over time, clients will experience increased range of motion, reduced scar tissue, restored feeling and sensation by stimulating nerve endings, an improved body image and may be more aware and reconnected to themselves. | Read about VeraVera Lovewell, RN, CMT |
| Craniosacral - is a gentle, noninvasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the craniosacral system. This manual therapy enhances the body's natural healing processes and has proven effective in treating a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face, and mouth - which make up the cranium - down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system could cause sensory, motor, or neurological disabilities. These problems may include chronic pain, eye difficulties, scoliosis, motor-coordination impairments, learning disabilities, and other dysfunctions of the central nervous system. Craniosacral therapy encourages the body's natural healing mechanisms to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, and enhance health and resistance to disease. Read about BonitaBonita Cassel, NCMT | Read about Diane Diane Griffin, BSA, NCTMB, GG | Read about Sheetal Sheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Hot Stone - a style of massage therapy in which water-treated stones are placed at specific sites on the client's body to promote relaxation and to help open up the meridians (energy pathways). Muscles are pretreated with the heated stones to allow the therapist to more easily perform deep tissue manipulations. Benefits: promotes deep muscle and tissue relaxation, alleviates stress, releases toxins, relieves pain, improves circulation, and calms the psyche. Health conditions treated with hot stone massage: Muscular aches and pains, back pain, MS, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, circulatory problems, insomnia, and depression. Read about Christine Christine Afflerbach, CMT | Read about KellyKelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT | Read about Vera Vera Lovewell, RN, CMT | |
| | Hot Towel - deep muscles are warmed as hot towels are placed on the body prior to and during a deeply relaxing therapeutic body massage. Read about Kelly Kelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT |
| | Integrated - indicates a combination of various massages bodywork, and somatic (body) therapy techniques utilized by a practitioner in the course of a session. Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT | Read about Sheetal Sheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT | Read about Diane Diane Griffin, BSA, NCTMB, GG | | Return to Top of Page |
| | LomiLomi Hawaiian Deep Muscle - this system of massage utilizes very large, broad movements. Two-handed, forearm, and elbow application of strokes, which cover a broad area, is characteristic of lomilomi. Similar to Swedish massage in many aspects, this system uses prayer and acknowledgment of the existence of a higher power as an integral part of the technique, LomiLomi, Hawaiian for rub rub, is a connection between heart, hand, and soul with the source of all life. Oils are used in the application of cross-fiber friction techniques. Read about Russell Russel Afflerbach, PDMT, NCMT | Read about Sheetal Sheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT |
| | Lymphatic Drainage - is unique in that healthcare professionals learn how to palpate the lymphatic flow. As they develop their skills, they can then identify the rhythm, direction, and quality of the lymphatic flow. Advanced practitioners will be able to precisely map the lymphatic flow to find alternate pathways for drainage. Lymph Drainage Therapy evolved from years of training in traditional medicine, Oriental medicine practices, and manual therapies. Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT |
| | Myofascial Release - is the three-dimensional application of sustained pressure and movement into the fascial system in order to eliminate fascial restrictions and facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems that are no longer relevant or are impeding progress. First, an assessment is made by visually analyzing the human frame, followed by the palpation of the tissue texture of various fascial layers. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction. Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain, and headache. Read about Diane Diane Griffin, BSA, NCTMB, GG | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Neuromuscular - this comprehensive program of soft-tissue manipulation balances the body's central nervous system with the musculoskeletal system. Based on neurological laws that explain how the central nervous system initiates and maintains pain, the goal is to help relieve the pain and dysfunction by understanding and alleviating the underlying cause. Neuromuscular therapy can help individuals who experience distortion and biomechanical dysfunction, which is often a symptom of a deeper problem. It is also used to locate and release spasms and hypercontraction in the tissue, eliminate trigger points that cause referred pain, rebuild the strength of injured tissues, assist venous and lymphatic flow, and restore postural alignment, proper biomechanics, and flexibility to the tissues. Read about RussellRussel Afflerbach, PDMT, NCMT | Read about KellyKelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT |
| | Pfrimmer - this technique utilizes deep cross-fiber strokes applied with the thumbs and fingers. Developed by Theresa Pfrimmer of Canada, this is a deep muscle therapeutic technique. As with many pioneers, the technique was discovered in an effort to help her self recover from paralysis. The work enables free flow of lymph and blood, as well as improving joint movement and removal of waste products/toxins from the muscle tissue. Conditions that benefit from Pfrimmer DMT include arthritis, multiple sclerosis, headache, and fibrositis, among others. Read about RussellRussel Afflerbach, PDMT, NCMT | Read about Kelly Kelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Polarity Therapy (Five Element - Energy) - is based on universal principles of energy - attraction, repulsion, and neutrality. The inter-relation of these principles forms the basis for every aspect of life, including our experience of health, wellness, and disease. With this understanding, polarity therapy addresses the interdependence of body, mind, and spirit, the importance of relationships, and the value of creating a way of life in harmony with nature. Founded by Austrian-born naturopath Dr. Randolph Stone in the mid-1920's, polarity therapy is a clothes-on, noninvasive system complementing existing modalities with an integrated holistic model. Polarity is based on the belief that positive and negative poles exist in every cell. The body is gently manipulated to balance the positive and negative energies. In addition to physical manipulation, blockages and toxins are eliminated through a cleansing diet and simple exercises. Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT |
| | Pregnancy/ Prenatal - prenatally, specific techniques can reduce pregnancy discomforts and concerns and enhance the physiological and emotional well-being of the mother and fetus. Skilled, appropriate touch facilitates labor, shortening labor times and easing pain and anxiety. In the postpartum period, specialized techniques rebalance structure, physiology, and emotions of the new mother and may help her to bond with and care for her infant. Read about Christine Christine Afflerbach, CMT | Read about Kelly Kelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Reflexology - based on an ancient Chinese therapy, reflexology involves manipulation of specific reflex areas in the foot, hands, and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. Sometimes referred to as zone therapy, this bodywork involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. Similar to acupressure principles, reflexology works with the body's energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical function. This technique is used today to reduce pain, increase relaxation, and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is especially useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate. Read about ChristineChristine Afflerbach, CMT | Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT | Read about KellyKelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT |
| | Reiki - this healing is a hands-on energy healing art. It was originated in Japan in the early 20th century by Midao Usui, who had a life-changing experience of light and energy that he recognized as reiki - sacred life force - and that awakened his innate healing abilities. He developed a system of practices that enabled other's to become effective healers. In a reiki healing session, the practitioner, trained to access and serve as a channel for the life force, places her/his hands on or just above the client's body in order to activate healing energy within receptive points on the body. The practitioner's hands move progressively with a passive touch through 12 positions on the body, remaining in each position for 3 to 5 minutes. As a harmonic flow of energy is strengthened, within the client and practitioner Read about DianeDiane Griffin, BSA, NCTMB, GG | Read about Vera Vera Lovewell, RN, CMT | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Specific Site - this may be ecessary because of an accident, injury, or repetitive motion from your work or life activities, this treatment focuses on an area of the body such as back, head and neck, or leg and foot and its associated tissue that needs extra attention. Read about Russell Russel Afflerbach, PDMT, NCMT | Read about SheetalSheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT | Read about KellyKelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT |
| | Shiatsu - developed in Japan, shiatsu is a finger-pressure technique utilizing the traditional acupuncture points of Oriental haling. Similar to acupuncture, shiatsu concentrates on unblocking the flow of life energy and restoring balance in the meridians and organs in order to promote self-healing. With the client reclining, the practitioner applies pressure with the finger, thumb, palm, elbow, or knee to specific zones on the skin located along the energy meridians. The treatment brings about a sense of relaxation while stimulating blood and lymphatic flow. The benefits of this treatment may include pain relief and a strengthening of the body's resistance to disease and disorder. Read about Suzanne Suzanne Hastie, MA, ADTR, NCC, NPC |
| | Sports - is designed to enhance athletic performance and recovery. There are three contexts in which sports massage can be useful to an athlete: pre-event, post-event, and injury treatment. Pre-event is fast-paced and stimulating to help establish blood flow and to warm up muscles. With post-event massage, the intention is to calm the nervous system and begin the process of flushing toxins and waste products out of the body. It can also reduce recovery time, enabling an athlete to resume training much sooner than rest alone would allow. When an athlete sustains an injury, skillful massage therapy can often speed and improve the quality of healing. Read about VeraVera Lovewell, RN, CMT | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Swedish - one of the most well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive, and tapping movements, with the application of oil, to reduce friction on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions, and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury. Read about ChristineChristine Afflerbach, CMT | Read about SheetalSheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT | Read about KellyKelly (Miller) Hertzog, PDMT, CMT |
| | Thai Yoga - includes rhythmic muscle compression, assisted yoga positions and stretching to create a powerful release of tension, an increase in vitality and a deeper state of balance and harmony of health. It is practiced fully clothed and without oils. Read about Russell Russel Afflerbach, PDMT, NCMT | Read about Sheetal Sheetal Contractor, CMT, CYT | Read about Pam Pam Smith, CYT, CMT | | Return to Top of Page |
| Trager® Approach - an approach to body work developed in the 1920's by American medical practitioner Dr. Milton Trager. It makes extensive use of touch-contact and encourages the client to experience the freeing-up of different parts of the body. The approach consists of simple exercises called Mentastics and deep, non-intrusive hands-on work, including fluid, gentle, rocking movements. The idea is to use motion in the muscles and joints to produce positive sensory feelings that are then fed back into the central nervous system. The result is a feeling of lightness, freedom, and flexibility. During the session, the practitioner makes touch-contact with the client in such a gentle and rhythmic way that the person lying passively on the table actually experiences the possibility of being able to move each part of the body freely, effortlessly, and gracefully on their own. Changes described have included the disappearance of specific symptoms, discomforts, or effortless posture and carriage, greater joint mobility, deeper states of relaxation than were previously possible, and a new ease in daily activities. Read about Bonita Bonita Cassel, NCMT |
| | Visceral Manipulation (organs) - enhances the normal mobility and tissue motion of the organs of the visceral system. Hypertonicity, displacement, and adhesions can all cause organs to work against each other, creating chronic irritation and fixed, abnormal points of tension. The visceral organs are dependent on their ability to move freely in the visceral cavity to work correctly and efficiently. When they are pulled out of their effective positions, they cease to function properly. By freeing each organ to work compatibly with the others, a therapist can potentially alter and improve the structure and functioning of the entire body. Read about DianeDiane Griffin, BSA, NCTMB, GG | | Return to Top of Page |
| |
Brain-Entrainment Neuroacoustics (sound vibration): the use of specialized sound recordings with a uniquely-designed sound/light system and vigroacoustic chair to facilitate changes in brainwave states, rapidly inducing the relaxation response. In addition to the known benefits of deep relaxation, other potential benefits include pain management, improved sleep and emotional integration. Energy Psychology: a family of mind/body techniques that are clinically observed to consistently help with a wide range of psychological conditions. These interventions address the human vibrational matrix, primarily the energy pathways (meridians and related acupoints). These techniques are also helpful in promotiong high-level mind/body health and peak performance in the physical, mental and creative arenas of life. Music Therapy: the use of drumming and vocal expression to redirect energy as well as release physical and emotional pain. Read about Meg Meg Deak | | | Return to Top of Page |
| | Effortless Meditation™ Effortless Meditation™ is an antidote for the stress response, and much more! During the meditation practice, one experiences a deep state of peace and calm that heals the body, rejuvenates the mind, and stabilizes the emotions. This deep state of rest has been measured repeatedly to be deeper than the level of rest experienced in the deepest levels of sleep. In contrast, the deepest levels of sleep are reached after 4 - 5 hours, whereas this deeper experience in Effortless Meditation occurs within one to two minutes. With practice, imbalances in mental and physiological functioning melt away and a growing natural state of inner fulfillment dawns. In addition to improved health and growing contentment, practitioners find that their behavior becomes more harmonious and socially acceptable. Our Effortless Meditation™ is easily learned in a series of 7 meetings that take place over a two month period. The first meeting is an Introduction. Attending it does not obligate you to take the course! WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU!
A few scientifically validated benefits:
• Increased mental clarity and alertness
• Better physical health 70-90% of illness is linked to stress!
• Reduced use of alcohol, illicit drugs, and tobacco
• Less hostility and increased ability to control anger
• Decreased plasma cortisol (stress hormone)
• Increased serotonin (linked to stress relief)
• Increased EEG (brain wave) coherence
• Reduced irritability, resentment, and suspicion
• Enhanced self-esteem and emotional maturity
• Improved interpersonal communication skills We invite you to come to the Introduction to find out more, and/or register for the course NOW. Read about Greg Greg Schweitzer, MBA | | Return to Top of Page |
|
