Having been in practice for over 12 years, I have learned a number of different bodywork modalities, and integrated them into a style of bodywork that really is my own. It is rare that I use only a single modality throughout a session. Rather, I do a thorough intake and assessment in your first session, and then use and modify the styles I know to give you the best treatment I can based on your needs and goals. Generally speaking, I approach massage from a structural-functional viewpoint: I look to see how you relate to gravity, how you maintain balance in your form and function, and where you are restricted or uncomfortable. Then I work with you to see what I can do to help you feel better, and to be more aware of how your body works and what we can do together to keep you feeling better. So the modalities listed below are not so much menu items to pick from, as they are tools I may use in this process of promoting balance, integrity, and healing.
Deep Tissue & Structural Release are forms of bodywork that aim to relieve tension in the fascia and deeper layers of tissue in the body, and to help your body work in a more structurally efficient manner. These styles of work are highly effective for releasing chronic stress areas due to misalignment, repetitive motions, and past lingering injuries. Due to the deep and sometimes intense nature of this work, open communication during the session is crucial to make sure you don't get too uncomfortable. Keep in mind that some people may experience soreness after the treatment, and that plenty of water should be ingested to aid with the flushing and removal of toxins that will have been released from the deep tissue during the session.
Trigger Point Therapy, also sometimes called Neuromuscular Technique (NMT), is a style of bodywork that focuses on stimulating and releasing "trigger points" in your body. Trigger points are tender areas of tension similar to acupressure points, except they occur in the belly of the muscle tissue rather than along the energy pathways of the body. These 'knots' are built up throughout a person's life due to physical, mental, and/or emotional stress. During a session, focused pressure is applied through a variety of techniques order to release your trigger points. This process can be a bit painful at times, yet the effects are lasting and profoundly transformative.
Lymph Drainage Therapy aims to gently and rhythmically move the lymph through the body, especially swollen areas of the body, relieving pressure and enhancing the functioning of the immune system. As both a preventative and remedial technique, LDT can be used for a wide range of purposes including faster recovery from injury, reduction of swelling and discomfort from pregnancy, and strengthened resistance to illness.
Muscle Energy Technique is a very gentle process of controlled, assisted stretching, used to release muscle spasm, increase awareness and flexibility, and balance the pull of antagoistic muscles.