Originally published in Body Sense magazine, Fall 2001.
Copyright 2001. Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. All rights reserved.
As you lie on the table under crisp, fresh sheets, hushed music draws you into the moment. The smell of sage fills the air and you hear the gentle sound of massage oil being warmed in your therapist's hands. The pains of age, the throbbing from your overstressed muscles, the sheer need to be touched -- all cry out for therapeutic hands to start their work. Once the session gets underway, the problems of the world fade into an oblivious 60 minutes of relief and all you can comprehend right now is not wanting it to end.
But what if that hour of massage did more for you than just take the pressures of the day away? What if that gentle, Swedish massage helped you combat cancer? What if bodywork helped you recover from a strained hamstring in half the time? What if your sleep, digestion and mood all improved with massage and bodywork? What if these weren't just "what ifs"?
Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you'll feel. Here's why.
Massage as a healing tool has been around for thousands of years in many cultures. Touching is a natural human reaction to pain and stress, and for conveying compassion and support. Think of the last time you bumped your head or had a sore calf. What did you do? Rubbed it, right? The same was true of our earliest ancestors. Healers throughout time and throughout the world have instinctually and independently developed a wide range of therapeutic techniques using touch. Many are still in use today, and with good reason. We now have scientific proof of the benefits of massage - benefits ranging from treating chronic diseases and injuries to alleviating the growing tensions of our modern lifestyles. Having a massage does more than just relax your body and mind - there are specific physiological and psychological changes which occur, even more so when massage is utilized as a preventative, frequent therapy and not simply mere luxury. Massage not only feels good, but it can cure what ails you.
The Consequences of Stress
Experts estimate that 80 percent to 90 percent of disease is stress-related. Massage and bodywork is there to combat that frightening number by helping us remember what it means to relax. The physical changes massage brings to your body can have a positive effect in many areas of your life. Besides increasing relaxation and decreasing anxiety, massage lowers your blood pressure, increases circulation, improves recovery from injury, helps you to sleep better and can increase your concentration. It reduces fatigue and gives you more energy to handle stressful situations.
Massage is a perfect elixir for good health, but it can also provide an integration of body and mind. By producing a meditative state or heightened awareness of living in the present moment, massage can provide emotional and spiritual balance, bringing with it true relaxation and peace.
The incredible benefits of massage are doubly powerful if taken in regular "doses." Dr. Maria Hernandez-Reif, from the Touch Research Institute (TRI) at the University of Miami, is known for her massage research, along with colleague Tiffany Field. Together, they and other researchers have done outstanding work proving the value of massage. While their studies have shown we can benefit from massage even in small doses (15 minutes of chair massage or a half-hour table session), Hernandez-Reif says they know from their research that receiving bodywork 2-3 times a week is highly beneficial. And if we lived in a fantasy world, Hernandez-Reif has the answer. "I feel a daily massage is optimal."
It's undoubtedly a wonderful thing when your therapist begins unwinding those stress-tightened muscles, and your day's troubles begin to fade away. But it's the cherry on top to know this "medicine" only gets better with frequency.
What You Already Know: The Benefits of Massage
In an age of technical and, at times, impersonal medicine, massage offers a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. So what exactly are the benefits to receiving regular massage and/or bodywork treatments?
- Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
- Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body's natural defense system, against toxic invaders. For example, in breast cancer patients, massage has been shown to increase the cells that fight cancer.
- Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body's largest organ - the skin.
- Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles
- Reduces spasms and cramping
- Increases joint flexibility.
- Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level.
- Releases endorphins - the body's natural painkiller - and is being used in chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control and relieve pain.
- Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred.
- Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain.
- Relieves pain for migraine sufferers and decreases the need for medication.
- Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion.
- Assists with shorter labor for expectant mothers, as well as less need for medication, less depression and anxiety, and shorter hospital stays.
Other Body Therapies
Alexander Technique - A movement re-education therapy that was created by a mid-19th century actor who tried to understand his own movement dysfunctions on stage. The emphasis is on observing and modifying improper movement patterns, thereby reducing physical stress on the body.
Craniosacral Therapy - A gentle method of manipulating the body's craniosacral system (consisting of thin membranes and cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) in an attempt to improve the function of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress and enhance health and resistance to disease.
Reiki - A therapy based on universal life energy that serves to align chakras and bring healing energy to organs and glands. Utilizes visualization as practitioner acts as a channel for the life energy.
Rolfing - Used to reorder the major body segments, this technique utilizes physical manipulation and movement awareness to bring the body into vertical alignment. Treatments are offered in a 10-session series.
Shiatsu - A deep, finger-pressure technique using the traditional acupuncture points of Asian healing. Works to unblock energy flows and restore balance to meridians and organs.
The Need for Touch
As a society, we are touch deprived and this can lead to disease or emotional dysfunction. From the cradle to the nursing home, tactile stimulation and the emotional assurance of caring touch bring about a sense of well-being and security. In numerous studies conducted on massage for infants, TRI researchers have found improved weight gain and development in pre-term infants, improved weight gain and motor behavior in cocaine-exposed infants, and improved weight gain and decreased stress behavior in HIV-exposed infants. Full-term infants also benefit with increased alertness and social behavior, less crying and increased weight gain.
jueves, 27 de noviembre de 2008
viernes, 14 de noviembre de 2008
About me
I studied interior and graphic design, but decided to change to the healing path and started by studying Swedish Massage , Lymphatic Drainage, Chinese Massage Tui Na and Reflexology in Spain, Barcelona. I travelled to Thailand to Learn the traditional Thai Massage and to India to learn Yoga and Ayurvedic Massage. I was in Asia for 7 months and after moved to London were I studied Chinese Medicine, No hands massage, Facials and skincare and I earned a Certificate in teaching.
I have lived in Tulum, Mexico for three years . I have worked managing spas and have been trained by the best spa consultant in Mexico. I have also taken courses on Universal Energy and Metamorfic Massage. I currently work as a freelance therapist and continue to learn new techniques.
I have lived in Tulum, Mexico for three years . I have worked managing spas and have been trained by the best spa consultant in Mexico. I have also taken courses on Universal Energy and Metamorfic Massage. I currently work as a freelance therapist and continue to learn new techniques.
Spa Menu
Massage
Swedish massage
Is a circulatory massage, helping to improve circulation, increase lymph flow, and move lactic acid and toxins from the tissue. It also helps to stimulate digestion, and influences the entire body and mind through touch. Deep tissue work and/or shiatsu acupressure points may be applied during a Swedish massage on request. This treatment can be done on all or part of the body with oil.
Sports massage
Is a more invigorating circulatory massage incorporating friction and cross-fiber techniques that help stimulate blood flow. Because it helps to clean out old adhesions and scar tissue, this type of bodywork helps promote better performance and faster healing of the muscle tissue. This treatment can be done on all or part of the body with oil.
Deep tissue massage
Is slow, deep work that changes the fascial tissue that causes large knots or built up tension in muscles. This work is very slow and very sedative. Clients may request deep tissue work on certain areas of the body that hold tension. Deep tissue can be integrated with other massage modalities on request.
Reflexology
Is a deep foot massage that helps to relax the entire body. The foot is seen as a mini-map of the body, connecting reflex points for organs, glands, and all other parts. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress, improves circulation, detoxifies and revitalizes the body, improves mental function, stimulates emotional release, and relieves pain. This treatment is done on the feet only and some oil or lotion may be applied
Thai yoga massage
Focuses on energy meridians, or channels, in the body and opening the channels for energy to flow freely. It is usually done with the client wearing loose fitting clothing while lying on a soft mat on the floor, helping to connect with the earth. No oils or lotions are used during this session.
Lymph drainage
Is a very slow and gentle technique that promotes the movement of lymphatic fluids in the body. The lymphatic system is the waste disposal system of our body that works with the vascular system. Lymph drainage can help to speed up slow metabolism, flush toxins and lactic acid from the body, and keep the skin elastic and healthy. It is also known to get rid of body fat and celulite. It is performed with oil, using very slow and subtle movements.
A course of 5 treatment is recommended for incredible results.
Tui na
Is used to treat soft tissue damage, joint and tendon diseases, and internal disorders. It is often used for the treatment of injuries. This treatment is very gentle, but extremely sedative, and is performed over clothing and without the use of oils or lotions
Reiki
Promotes free flowing energy to the various meridians in the body. It is excellent in helping any physical, mental, or emotional issue that you are open to working through. Reiki is performed with the client wearing loose fitting clothing and requires little to no physical contact. This technique is very subtle and promotes deep relaxation
Pregnancy massage
Is beneficial for women in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. There is no one more important than you at this time. Treat your body like a temple and give yourself a relaxing massage that can help relieve tight, sore muscles, and release tension in your tight muscles.
Indian head massage
This is an ancient practice, it includes massage of the head, face, neck, shoulders and upper back. Use of a customized hair & scalp oil during the extensive scalp massage stimulates hair follicles and nourishes the hair itself (this may be washed out following the treatment and is optional). This massage encourages the supply of oxygen to the brain, which is one of the best ways to minimize stress.
Body Treatments
Aromatherapy Honey & Salt Glow
This deep cleansing specialty treatment gently exfoliates the body with salts from the Sea. Softer and smoother skin is attained by removing dull surface skin cells and adding moisture with Mayan Honey & aromatherapy massage oils. It finishes with a rich body butter.
Mayan Clay massage & Wrap
Mayan Clay Massage uses therapeutic Mayan clay applied to the face, body, and hair in the form of a Swedish massage. This draws out impurities from the skin tissue and permits the body’s absorption of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus that repair and sustain healthy skin. After a shower rinse, a ten- minute back massage with oil compliments this treatment.
Organic Facials
Your skin is as unique as you are, Teresa, is a specialized skin care professional gratuaded in the School of beauty of London will provide you with a customized treatment based on in-depth skin analysis, that will target your skin's individual needs to give you unsurpassed results.
Every facial is unique and are made with natural ingredients such as salt, sugar, beach sand, fruits, vegetables, plants and cereals and clays that will fill your skin with vitamins and minerals, your skin will glow!
Å tailor made recipe just for you depending on your skin type, all facials include a relaxing foot, hand & head massage.
Indulge yourself in this deeply relaxing & nurturing treatment.
All Facials consist of:
~ Cleansing
~ Toning
~ Exfoliation
~ Steam to open pores (unless you have Rosacea)
~ Face and Neck Massage (lymph drainage and relaxation)
~ Mask for skin type (customized) ~ hand and arm massage (15 min.)
~ Facial cream for skin type
~ SPF 30 (during the day)
Organic Mini Facial 25min
Organic Facial 50 min
√√Courses
Have you always wanted to learn how to give a massage to your loved ones?.
Do you want to have the power to heal a headache, a back or tummy ache?.
Would you like to learn to give a perfect facial? or learn to meditate?
I can teach you any of the treatments listed in this menu, and off the list there is also a Meditation & visualization course are available for you.
Please call me to let me know what you wish to learn and how much time you have, and I will create a course for you.
.
Swedish massage
Is a circulatory massage, helping to improve circulation, increase lymph flow, and move lactic acid and toxins from the tissue. It also helps to stimulate digestion, and influences the entire body and mind through touch. Deep tissue work and/or shiatsu acupressure points may be applied during a Swedish massage on request. This treatment can be done on all or part of the body with oil.
Sports massage
Is a more invigorating circulatory massage incorporating friction and cross-fiber techniques that help stimulate blood flow. Because it helps to clean out old adhesions and scar tissue, this type of bodywork helps promote better performance and faster healing of the muscle tissue. This treatment can be done on all or part of the body with oil.
Deep tissue massage
Is slow, deep work that changes the fascial tissue that causes large knots or built up tension in muscles. This work is very slow and very sedative. Clients may request deep tissue work on certain areas of the body that hold tension. Deep tissue can be integrated with other massage modalities on request.
Reflexology
Is a deep foot massage that helps to relax the entire body. The foot is seen as a mini-map of the body, connecting reflex points for organs, glands, and all other parts. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress, improves circulation, detoxifies and revitalizes the body, improves mental function, stimulates emotional release, and relieves pain. This treatment is done on the feet only and some oil or lotion may be applied
Thai yoga massage
Focuses on energy meridians, or channels, in the body and opening the channels for energy to flow freely. It is usually done with the client wearing loose fitting clothing while lying on a soft mat on the floor, helping to connect with the earth. No oils or lotions are used during this session.
Lymph drainage
Is a very slow and gentle technique that promotes the movement of lymphatic fluids in the body. The lymphatic system is the waste disposal system of our body that works with the vascular system. Lymph drainage can help to speed up slow metabolism, flush toxins and lactic acid from the body, and keep the skin elastic and healthy. It is also known to get rid of body fat and celulite. It is performed with oil, using very slow and subtle movements.
A course of 5 treatment is recommended for incredible results.
Tui na
Is used to treat soft tissue damage, joint and tendon diseases, and internal disorders. It is often used for the treatment of injuries. This treatment is very gentle, but extremely sedative, and is performed over clothing and without the use of oils or lotions
Reiki
Promotes free flowing energy to the various meridians in the body. It is excellent in helping any physical, mental, or emotional issue that you are open to working through. Reiki is performed with the client wearing loose fitting clothing and requires little to no physical contact. This technique is very subtle and promotes deep relaxation
Pregnancy massage
Is beneficial for women in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. There is no one more important than you at this time. Treat your body like a temple and give yourself a relaxing massage that can help relieve tight, sore muscles, and release tension in your tight muscles.
Indian head massage
This is an ancient practice, it includes massage of the head, face, neck, shoulders and upper back. Use of a customized hair & scalp oil during the extensive scalp massage stimulates hair follicles and nourishes the hair itself (this may be washed out following the treatment and is optional). This massage encourages the supply of oxygen to the brain, which is one of the best ways to minimize stress.
Body Treatments
Aromatherapy Honey & Salt Glow
This deep cleansing specialty treatment gently exfoliates the body with salts from the Sea. Softer and smoother skin is attained by removing dull surface skin cells and adding moisture with Mayan Honey & aromatherapy massage oils. It finishes with a rich body butter.
Mayan Clay massage & Wrap
Mayan Clay Massage uses therapeutic Mayan clay applied to the face, body, and hair in the form of a Swedish massage. This draws out impurities from the skin tissue and permits the body’s absorption of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus that repair and sustain healthy skin. After a shower rinse, a ten- minute back massage with oil compliments this treatment.
Organic Facials
Your skin is as unique as you are, Teresa, is a specialized skin care professional gratuaded in the School of beauty of London will provide you with a customized treatment based on in-depth skin analysis, that will target your skin's individual needs to give you unsurpassed results.
Every facial is unique and are made with natural ingredients such as salt, sugar, beach sand, fruits, vegetables, plants and cereals and clays that will fill your skin with vitamins and minerals, your skin will glow!
Å tailor made recipe just for you depending on your skin type, all facials include a relaxing foot, hand & head massage.
Indulge yourself in this deeply relaxing & nurturing treatment.
All Facials consist of:
~ Cleansing
~ Toning
~ Exfoliation
~ Steam to open pores (unless you have Rosacea)
~ Face and Neck Massage (lymph drainage and relaxation)
~ Mask for skin type (customized) ~ hand and arm massage (15 min.)
~ Facial cream for skin type
~ SPF 30 (during the day)
Organic Mini Facial 25min
Organic Facial 50 min
√√Courses
Have you always wanted to learn how to give a massage to your loved ones?.
Do you want to have the power to heal a headache, a back or tummy ache?.
Would you like to learn to give a perfect facial? or learn to meditate?
I can teach you any of the treatments listed in this menu, and off the list there is also a Meditation & visualization course are available for you.
Please call me to let me know what you wish to learn and how much time you have, and I will create a course for you.
.
domingo, 2 de noviembre de 2008
Price List
√√ Massage
1 hour: $ 65USD
1,5hours: $90USD
2 hours: $120 USD
√√Body Treatments
1 hour: $75USD
Organic Facials
Organic Mini Facial
30 min: $35 USD
Organic Facial
1hour: $ 65USD
Courses
Please contact me and tell me what to wish to learn and how much time you have and I will make a customized tailored course for you!
Special Packages
30 min Organic mini facial + 1 hour massage
$90USD
1 hour Organic Facial+1 hour Massage
$ 120 USD
30 min Organic mini Facial+ 1 Body Treatment
$95USD
50 min Organic Facial + 1 Body treatment
$125USD
Special Promotion!
*A spa gift & 20% off first timers
* This prices are at my place, if I have to move to your hotel or home, I charge a bit xtra fare depending on the distance.
1 hour: $ 65USD
1,5hours: $90USD
2 hours: $120 USD
√√Body Treatments
1 hour: $75USD
Organic Facials
Organic Mini Facial
30 min: $35 USD
Organic Facial
1hour: $ 65USD
Courses
Please contact me and tell me what to wish to learn and how much time you have and I will make a customized tailored course for you!
Special Packages
30 min Organic mini facial + 1 hour massage
$90USD
1 hour Organic Facial+1 hour Massage
$ 120 USD
30 min Organic mini Facial+ 1 Body Treatment
$95USD
50 min Organic Facial + 1 Body treatment
$125USD
Special Promotion!
*A spa gift & 20% off first timers
* This prices are at my place, if I have to move to your hotel or home, I charge a bit xtra fare depending on the distance.
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