DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE - The massage therapist begins by using gentle massage strokes in order to create relaxation and receptivity in the muscles (see Swedish massage). The massage therapist then increases the pressure of the massage to facilitate muscle relaxation and tension release at a deeper level. Working deep into the muscles supports therapeutic relaxation and pain relief of sore muscles and sciatic nerve entrapment. The symptoms of sciatic nerve entrapment include pain and numbness from the lower back area down through the leg, which can range from mere annoyance to excruciating pain.

REFLEXOLOGY - Reflexology is the therapeutic massage of the feet and ankles, involving a specific form of pressure massage. The massage therapist focuses his attention and massage work on the ankles and feet to stimulate reflex points corresponding to the major organs of the body. Foot massage relieves stress and tension and promotes the unblocking of nerve impulses throughout the body. Reflexology can be either part of a full body massage or a separate procedure. As a separate procedure, reflexology can be performed during your lunch hour while the client remains fully clothed (access to the feet and ankles is required).

Reflexology Chart

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Reflexology points are also contained within the hands and ears. The reflexology points in the ears and hands are incorporated into a full body massage. Reflexology on the hands and ears can also be included into a separate reflexology session focused on the ankles and the feet.

THAI MASSAGE - Thai massage is similar to yoga stretching, the difference is that the massage therapist does the work for you. Thai massage works well in conjunction with other massages, especially deep tissue massage. Thai massage is conducted while the client is fully clothed if performed as a separate procedure. It can be performed during your lunch hour if implemented as a separate procedure as the necessity of changing out of clothing is eliminated.

SPORTS MASSAGE - Sports massage is individualized in conjunction to the specific injury or soreness of the client. Sports massage can also be performed as a preventive measure prior to sporting or aerobic activities, stretching and relaxing the muscles preparing them for exertion. As therapy for injuries, sports massage supports faster healing through muscle relaxation and increased red blood cells that carry oxygen.

SWEDISH MASSAGE - In contrast to the deeper muscle manipulation of deep tissue massage, Swedish massage is a gentle series of systematic massage geared to light relaxation. Swedish massage uses smooth and soft gliding massage strokes specific to this procedure.

The five basic strokes of Swedish massage are:

• Petrissage (kneading of the muscle tissue)
• Effleurage (repetitive gliding movements)
• Tapotement (repetitive staccato or tapping movements)
• Friction (rubbing and gliding of both hands in opposite direction to form heat)
• Vibration (rapid rocking movement of the therapist's fingers, hands, or external appliance)

HOT STONES MASSAGE - Hot Stones Massage involves the use of both the massage therapist's hands and heated, round river rocks. The heated stones facilitate muscle relaxation and release in a faster and deeper manner than other types of massages. Hot stones massage is very relaxing due to the added heat from the stones and the gentle massage stokes used by the therapist to create relaxation and receptivity in the muscles (see Swedish massage).

CHAIR MASSAGE - Unlike traditional massages which incorporate the client lying on a massage table, chair massage is performed on a massage chair. Chair massage is a great addition to company meetings or group gatherings. The individual remains fully clothed while receiving a massage to the back, neck, shoulders and arms to relieve stress and tension. Chair massages can be implemented anywhere a massage chair can be positioned for use. When chair massage is conducted in group situations, individual sessions can range from 10-30 minutes.