Little Lakes Inn Healing Center Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

The myriad benefits and healing powers of touch have been recognized for centuries. Massage therapy is one of the oldest methods of healing, restoring optimal health and function to the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic, nervous, and other vital body systems. Massage is also an effective preventative treatment, reducing stress and tension to improve one’s overall health and sense of wellbeing.

Massage therapists utilize a variety of specified techniques to manipulate the muscular structure and soft tissues of the body. Techniques include applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, vibration, rocking, friction, kneading, and compression using primarily their hands, but also other areas of their body such as their forearms, elbows, or feet. Beyond the physical benefits, massage therapy promotes wellness of mind and spirit.

Relaxing, Restorative, Therapeutic: The Whole Being Benefits of Massage

Loosens tight muscles
Increases flexibility and range of motion
Calms the mind and relaxes the body
Reduces tension and mental stress
Balances the emotions
Lessens depression and anxiety
Improves concentration
Promotes perspective and clarity
Lowers blood pressure and heart rate
Improves circulation
Promotes tissue regeneration
Revitalizes the skin, tissues, and vital organs
Releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller
Hastens recovery from injury and illness
Fortifies the immune system
Promotes deep, restful sleep

Little Lakes Therapeutic Bodywork

Our Little Lakes team of healing professionals uses unique essential oils and healing salves created exclusively at Little Lakes to further enhance your bodywork session.

Read the Messenger Post Article About Our Healing Center.

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu Massage is a from of Japanese bodywork therapy. The word “Shiatsu” quite literally means finger (Shi) pressure (Atsu). The Shiatsu technique is predicated on the recognition of a flow of energy through a complex system of energy points and pathways that exist all throughout the human body. The focus of Shiatsu is the treatment of these energy pathways, also called meridians, although specific pressure points, extensive soft tissue manipulation, active and passive exercise, and stretching may also be incorporated into a treatment session. The meridian system represents the "crosstalk" between tsubos (or acupoints) of the human body. By treating the whole meridian system through pressure and stretching, Shiatsu achieves systemic change for the entire body.

Shiatsu practitioners work with a client’s Ki (Japanese for “life energy”) when providing a Shiatsu treatment. By supporting and stimulating the internal healing power of each individual person, the practitioner releases energy toxins with the intention of transforming negative Ki into positive Ki.   Shiatsu theory does not adhere to the application of a fixed sequence or set of methods. Instead, it utilizes appropriate methods for the unique pattern of the individual recipient. Assessment of the condition of the client's body continues as the session progresses, with full attention paid to the healing of the whole person—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage is probably the most popular form of massage practiced today. If you have never before experienced bodywork, a Swedish-style massage is a wonderful introduction. The goal of this style of massage is to relax the entire body through the rubbing and stroking of the muscles using carrying degrees of pressure. It can be slow and gentle or vigorous and bracing, depending on the client’s preferences. Practitioners of Swedish massage may also incorporate kneading, percussion-like tapping, bending, and stretching during a bodywork session. Oils and lotions are used to help lubricate and stimulate the skin while also reducing friction.

Swedish massage therapy is very effective at increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, improving circulation, easing muscle tension, increasing flexibility. It also helps the body move out toxins.

Deep Tissue Massage

For those who prefer more intensive pressure, a deep tissue massage is terrific option. Deep tissue massage is similar to Swedish massage, though the practitioner is more specifically focused on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia (the protective layer surrounding muscles, bones, and joints). Please be aware that the more intense techniques, such as deep finger pressure, may be slightly uncomfortable during the session and cause a few days of post-massage soreness before the desired effects of relaxation and pain relief are realized. However, deep tissue massage is one of the most effective methods to dissipate knots and release chronic muscle tension. Other benefits include the reduction of inflammation and the breaking down of scar tissue.

Hot Stone Massage

Often used to enhance the benefits of Swedish massage. Placed upon key points of the body, smooth, heated stones help to relieve tension, ease muscle stiffness, and increase circulation and metabolism. This technique results in a deeper release of the muscles, while simultaneously offering a warm, soothing, and incredibly relaxing massage experience. Reported benefits include relief from muscle tension and pain, rheumatic and arthritic conditions, fibromyalgia, poor circulation, stress and anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

Reflexology

A style of massage that focuses solely on the hands and feet, Reflexology targets specific points on the body’s extremities to send signals to the brain and balance the overall nervous system. The practitioner uses a variety of techniques which may include stretching and moving the hands and feet, and applying varying degrees of pressure to specific points that correspond to certain organs and other parts of the body. During the process, endorphins are released throughout the entire body, reducing stress and returning the body to a state of equilibrium. Tangible benefits and results include relief from tension headaches, arthritis, digestive issues, and back pain.

Pregnancy Massage

Gentle massage is a safe and effective form of complimentary prenatal care, reducing stress and increasing the overall well-being of a mother-to-be. Prenatal massage stimulates the lymphatic system, thereby increasing immunity and encouraging the removal of bodily toxins. It also helps stabilize hormone levels, the fluctuation of which can cause depression and anxiety during pregnancy. Prenatal massage can help to relieve many common discomforts women experience during pregnancy: muscle and ligament strain, backaches, stiff neck, leg cramps, headaches, joint pain, and edema. In addition, it often aids in improving sleep, as it alleviates the stress and tension caused by the physical demands of carrying a baby.

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