Aromatherapy Massage

Massage is an essential technology for good health in our age. The pace and intensity of the information age is well balanced by periodic skilled touch and a foray into the primitive sensory experience of plant aromatics. Massage enhances circulation and cell metabolism; stimulates the parasympathetic or relaxation side of the autonomic nervous system (“stay and play” as opposed to “fight or flight”); and helps relieve muscle tension both locally and globally. Aromatherapy is simply the aromatic genius of plants and flowers distilled into a liquid substance. These aromatic molecules interact with our beliefs and memories and our very tissues to promote balance and the ability to thrive. The combination of massage and aromatherapy expands the healing value of each modality.

Each bodywork session is tailored to your needs. My favorite techniques include the following:

• David Lauterstein's Deep Massage uses breath and clearly focused pressure to gently encourage the nervous system to relax and invite deeper pressure into the muscles.
• The Japanese art form/bodywork Zen Shiatsu informed by all the fabulous nuances and implications of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
• Touch for Health^®, a Westernized interpretation of Chinese Medicine, combining muscle testing and acupressure.
• Structural bodywork uses visual and palpating assessment to guide the body into better skeletal alignment through massage (particularly myofascial), stretches, and strengthening exercises.
• A form of structural acupressure called Zero Balancing^® developed by Fritz Smith, OD, MD and acupuncturist. I am currently working on this certification.
• Swedish Massage, the foundation of Western bodywork and my first love. This technique, guided by the exquisite form of the body, provides a sense of length and space within. It is ultimately soothing and deeply relaxing.

Initial sessions include a custom aromatherapy blend added to your massage oil. Additionally, the oil is bottled for you to take home and use as a somatic reminder of your aromatherapy massage session. Use it in a bath, as a fragrance or a body rub. Aromatherapy is optional and available in later sessions for $10.

Benefits of Aromatherapy Massage

• Initiates deeper breathing and relaxation response
• Improves posture and joint flexibility
• Strengthens your immune system
• Brings a healthier glow to your skin
• Increases circulation and lymph drainage
• Stimulates more efficient cell metabolism (more nutrients/less waste)
• Heightens whole body awareness
• Balances, clears, and focuses your attitudes and feelings
• Frees energy flow through the body/mind
• Strengthens your sense of connection to nature and to spirit
• Provides safe compassionate touch, a basic nutrient for survival and growth