Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments; and Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems.
Today, massage and bodywork therapies are defined as the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the human body. Traditional massage therapy in the west and the base of many massage modalities uses soft-tissue manipulation techniques intended to reduce muscle tension, stress and fatigue while improving circulation. These techniques include stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration and rocking the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. Oils and lotions are used to reduce friction.
The benefits of massage are many and varied, ranging from relaxation and stress relief to injury recovery and managing chronic pain. For a more comprehensive list of the benefits of massage and how massage improves specific conditions, follow this link.
The specific styles and various modalities of massage and bodywork that we offer at Apex Wellness Center are described below:
Relaxation/Swedish Massage
Massage for relaxation brings a healthy balance to the body – decreases stress and muscle tension, increases circulation and helps restore the mind-body connection. It is what we think of as traditional massage incorporating soothing strokes that glide and knead. Pressure ranges from light to medium and oils or lotions are used for lubrication. Along with increased relaxation and circulation, this style of massage can be extremely effective in releasing areas of muscle tension and soreness.
Therapeutic/Deep Tissue Massage
Although all massage treatments are therapeutic by nature, this massage goes beyond its Swedish base, bringing additional techniques, deeper pressure and specific focus to areas of the body that need extra attention. Deep tissue work is used, as well as stretching, passive range of motion, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and more.
Hot Stone Massage
Heated Stones, worn smooth by the waves of the Pacific Ocean, are placed on the body and used in conjunction with hot oils and massage techniques to warm muscles, address tension and induce relaxation. The weight and warmth of the stones, along with the soothing strokes, provides a deeply grounding and rejuvenating experience.
Maternity Massage
Massage is an excellent way to relieve aching muscles and stress as the body undergoes the rapid changes during pregnancy. This prenatal treatment incorporates massage techniques used to ease tension in expectant mothers in the side-lying position for their ultimate comfort, relaxation and safety.
Cranial Sacral
Cranial Sacral massage works with the bones of the head, spinal column, sacrum, and underlying structures. The therapist uses light, soft touch to monitor this rhythm and pinpoint sources of obstructions and stress in the body. Once located, the therapist will assist the natural movement and release of the restriction to help the body self correct.
Traditional Thai Massage
This ancient modality, now often called ‘lazy mans yoga’, is unique in the way it reeducates the body though assisted yoga stretching, joint mobilization and acupressure to the muscle and energy lines. It stimulates the body’s natural inclination towards healing and balance leaving you feeling relaxed and energized. Sessions are tailored to meet each client’s needs. Come in lose comfortable clothing suitable for aerobics or yoga.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese healing method which incorporates a routine of applying pressure using the fingers, thumbs and palms along the body’s energy channels. Shiatsu’s gentle pressure and rocking help to relieve muscle tension while balancing the body’s energy systems. Clients report that while it is very relaxing, it is also rejuvenating. No lotions or oils are used and there is no need to remove clothing.
Elder Massage
Therapeutic touch and gentle massage are offered to seniors in carefully customized and administered treatments, drawing from Swedish massage (gliding, rubbing and kneading strokes) combined with Comfort Touch techniques (gentle cupping, holding and compressing) and energy work. Clients may receive massage on a traditional massage table or massage chair.
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient technique from the East that involves the practitioner channeling the Ch’I, or life energy, of the universe to the client by placing the hands in a particular sequence along the front and back of the body. The treatment is gentle, calming and rebalances the energy systems of the body. The client remains clothed and no oils are used.
