Massage Specialties
Find more information on the modalities The Mindful Bodyworker utilizes in bodywork sessions. One or more methods of your choice may be mingled into a 60, 75, 90, or 120 minute offerings.
Discover a session that guides you to
QUIET THE MIND. RESTORE THE BODY. NOURISH THE SOUL.
Integrative Massage
A therapeutic integration of various bodywork styles and modalities woven together to address the mind, body, and soul. Methods that empower my guests are the most valuable. Simply put, it promotes a holistic mind-body approach to health + wellness.
Every person is not the same, therefore, they can’t be treated with the same treatment day in + day out. This is why you will see a lot of modalities listed. Equal parts of assessment + technique combined with intuition, intention, and integration is key.
My intent is to design a synergistic blend of techniques so they become more than their individual components. Conscious touch is essential in this process. Many of my techniques activate the parasympathetic system, bringing symmetry, relaxation, and healing to surface. This is a prime perspective The Mindful Bodyworker uses to give my guests a desirable session.
All of the modalities listed here can and are integrated into a session. If you know you do not like one, or you specifically want one modality to be used in your treatment, please mention it during the process of filling out the intake form. I am happy to accommodate you!
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle, relaxing, and rhythmic form of bodywork that supports the lymphatic systems natural movement by moving lymph fluid through the body. MLD was developed in the 1930’s and is now practiced extensively by health and wellness practitioners. MLD may enhance our lymphatic system and well-being, and is essential when there is stagnant flow, and can assist a variety of conditions and illnesses.
Manual lymphatic drainage is used to treat lymphedema and effectively reduces traumatic and post-surgical edema. MLD also helps with detoxification by supporting the immune system to remove toxins + wastes, reduce swelling, relieve pain, improve skin health, and can help rejuvenate cells + reduce inflammation. MLD provides symptomatic relief of migraines, fibromyalgia, stress, fatigue, autoimmune illnesses, and more.
Other benefits are elevating recovery from training and injuries by decreasing pain, improving circulation, range of motion + mobility, daily living activities, sleep quality, and boosting our immune system. The lymphatic system supports the cardiovascular system by draining excess lymph fluid from tissues to maintain homeostasis.
Another amazing thing about MLD treatments is that they generate deep relaxation which activates the parasympathetic nervous system. This can induce emotional releases by reducing stress, releasing endorphins, and breaking down blockages that prevent emotions from flowing freely.
Our Lymphatic System is part of our Immune System!
Cupping Therapy
Cupping Therapy is an ancient healing method of bodywork. It can be traced back to Chinese, Egyptian, and Middle Eastern cultures. While massage applies pressure, cupping instead uses negative pressure to pull, lift, open + expand the body’s soft tissues. The stimulation of cups increases blood flow which flushes the injured area with oxygen + nutrients while also removing wastes and toxins at the same time. This process works to disrupt old holding patterns + misalignments that lead to chronic pain + decreased physical function. A reduction in inflammation, eased tension, and released fascial restrictions are positive outcomes. Think of it like a reversed deep tissue massage.
I will pay close attention and check in with you, but remember to communicate. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort at times, but it should not be painful. Cupping can be done for one area, or the whole body. Static cupping (sits in a localized area), dynamic cupping (like a massage where the therapist glides the cups along muscles), and flash cupping (several applications of suction and release in an area), are all applied.
TMJ / Buccal Massage
Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ) is a condition that affects the jaw and joints + muscles that move it. Common symptoms are jaw discomfort, difficulty chewing, teeth grinding, clicking, pain behind the eyes, neck pain, and reduced range of motion when opening the jaw. Headaches and migraines can sometimes be a result of TMJ. Many are surprised to hear that lower back, hip, and knee discomfort can be related to TMJ.
This treatment involves massaging and passive stretching to the head, face, neck, and shoulder muscles that surround, support, and attach to the jaw. Intra-oral (inside mouth) will be used to alleviate some of the tension. I will put on gloves to reach the muscles involved in mastication and the muscles that open + depress the jaw. If you feel uncomfortable, intra-oral does not have to be used.
Facial Rejuvenation
This specialized treatment focuses on the face and neck, combining the use of Gua sha, facial cupping, buccal / intraoral therapy (optional), and lymphatic drainage.
Facial rejuvenation is such a yummy experience for your face. This features the use of jojoba or rosehip oil, hot towel, deep tissue, neuromuscular therapy, and acupressure techniques. A facial massage can offer a sculpting effect, improved skin elasticity, and hydration. However, the tension release is truly amazing. The extra circulation drawn to your face helps you feel more relaxed and looking brighter. During our time together we seek to take down inflammation and puffiness to leave you sculpted, flowing, and glowing!
If you want this to be a main focus, book the sculpt, flow, & glow session. Please arrive with clean skin.
Migraine Massage
Migraine massage is a focus on the areas of the face and head that experience pain during a migraine. A combination of cold stones, special aromatherapy blends, and specific techniques are applied for the purpose of relieving the tension + pain that migraine causes. Facial rejuvenation + TMJ methods with a lighter approach may be beneficial to complement a migraine centered massage. It is not required to use cold stones, but I do recommend it.
Choosing to add on CBD or aromatherapy makes this a sanctuary of calmness that will leave you feeling revitalized + nourished. Migraine massage is a valuable inclusion to any of our offerings; just mention it during intake. As a standalone treatment, the client remains fully clothed on the massage table. It is recommended to dress comfortably. Please arrive with clean skin.
CBD / Aromatherapy Infused
When a topical CBD (cannabidiol) product like an oil or cream is applied to the skin during a massage, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex network of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes that plays a vital role within your body to maintain homeostasis + balance. CBD indirectly interacts with the receptors, prompting the body’s natural production of feel-good endocannabinoids. It may reduce inflammation + pain, and help manage stress, anxiety, and more. Rest assured, CBD, unlike THC, does not make you “high”.
Aromatherapy combines the power of essential oils with massage therapy to benefit both the mind + body. Essential oils are plant-based, extracted from herbs, trees and flowers, and penetrate the body as they are absorbed via the skin. Each oil has its own unique properties which provide therapeutic benefits.
On-Site Chair Massage
Chair massage can offer the same benefits as table massage. Client stays fully dressed for a 10, 15, or 20 min session in a seated massage chair.
**Book this for an appreciation day to your staff, party, girls night, bachelorette/bachelor gathering, or special event. It is a great introductory into the world of touch through massage therapy.
For employees, receiving chair massage can reduce stress, decrease anxiety & depression, relieve muscle tension & pain, increase focus & energy, and improve immune function & overall wellbeing.
For employers, booking chair massage for their staff can increase employee productivity, decrease sick days & reduce health costs, improve workplace morale, and attract & retain top talent.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage is a classic massage that eases your stress + allows you to step into a calm state of relaxation. Massage oil or cream is used with smooth, firm, gliding strokes. Gentle pressure that varies in depth + rhythm is kept depending on the results sought, including stimulation, relaxation, and rehabilitation.
Swedish massage also take into account such factors as age, health status, strength and certain conditions. Persons suffering from stress, decreased circulation and muscle fatigue often find relief from this modality.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is so cozy + comforting! Smooth stones are heated and then lubricated with oil or essential oils, the therapeutic effects of heat are used to relax muscles more deeply. The stones may be places on the spine, legs, chest, face, palms, and feet.
Used as an extension of the therapist’s hands, the use of massage stones induces deep relaxation and provides a unique experience many find to be tremendously calming + centering. Heat is a wonderful way to work into deep states of relaxation, release tension and increase blood flow.
Hot stones can be used at any time of year, but what is a better way to warm up + stay cozy during the cold winter months?
Myofascial Release Therapy
Myofascial Release Therapy (MFR) focuses on the fascia, a thin casing of connective tissue that surrounds + supports every muscle, bone, blood vessel, nerve fiber and organ. Fascia has nerves that make it almost as sensitive as skin and when stressed, it tightens up. MFR is a constructive method where gentle, slow and sustained pressure is applied to eliminate restrictions + pain and restore motion. MFR is done with no oils, creams, or tools, just the therapists hands. I look at each guest as an individual and want your nervous system to receive my therapeutic touch too!
Neuromuscular/Trigger Point
Neuromuscular therapy (NMT) is very targeted in its approach to the problem of pain, which utilizes advanced concepts in the science + art of pressure therapy. A trigger point (TP) is hyperirritable tissue that refers pain. Trigger point therapy is performed to identify and release specific areas of muscle tension that may radiate pain to other parts of the body, A meticulous examination is made of TPs as a means to determine which triggers are contributing to tension + pain. By addressing TPs, NMT can alleviate referred pain, promote overall relief + relaxation, and the body returns to normal neuromuscular integrity + balance.
Deep Tissue Massage
Designed to remove severe tension, deep tissue massage is a technique used to alleviate muscular pain, injury, strain, and fascial + structural distortion. The goal is to return the body to a functional design posture. I look at one’s alignment and assess conflict that may be occurring. Firm pressure and deep slow strokes reach the deeper layers with the aim of releasing tension and adhesions. It helps to improve range of motion and aids in healing injuries. This type of bodywork is more single area focused. And no, it does not need to be painful to be effective!
Joint Range of Motion
Joint Range of Motion (JROM) is the full movement of a body part through its joint to increase overall range of movement. Using passive, active, and resisted ROM guides a joint or muscle to move and extend into its full range. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching relies on reflexes to produce deeper stretches that increase flexibility. These techniques can help improve mobility and injury recovery. Some benefits are: Balances + resets the neurological tonus of a muscle, increases circulation of blood + fluids around + throughout a joint, promotes flexibility in joint capsule, promotes pliability in tendons, ligaments, and fascia, and reduces fascial adhesions + restrictions.
Prenatal/Postnatal
Prenatal massage is gentle and nurturing with focus on the comfort and well-being of the mother and her developing baby. Side-lying positioning and positioning on your back with an incline + cushions to accommodate the growing belly are used.
There are many benefits to massage during pregnancy, including: muscle relaxation, alleviates common discomforts, promotes hormone balance, decreases stress + anxiety, increases mobility, improved outcomes for labor and birth, boosts mood + energy levels, increases feelings of nurturing + well-being, and decreases swelling in arms, legs and feet. A prenatal session also offers emotional support making it an essential self-care ritual for expectant mothers.
Postnatal massage is beneficial after birth to help realign the body and ease the aches and pains of caring for a newborn. These massages help ease the physical and emotional changes that occur postpartum by implementing modalities to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and address any specific issues the new mother is experiencing. It can also aid in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, which is crucial for a mother adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn.
CranioSacral Therapy Techniques
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It is the deepest layer of the fascial system and supports a well-functioning nervous system. It is a form of alternative therapy that involves the use of a light touch to the skull, face, spine, and pelvis. CST is a deep form of listening, where the therapist does not direct the session. The therapist uses a soft touch, generally no greater than 5 grams, and focuses on the subtle movements + rhythms of the craniosacral system to release restrictions.
CST improves the functioning of the central nervous system, as well as digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory, and more. This therapy is great for those who experience headaches, chronic pain, stress, and postural imbalances. The physical components related to somatic conditions such as post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety are also helped.
CST restores balance and harmony, thereby facilitating the body's innate healing processes. Craniosacral therapy operates on the principle that the body possesses its own inherent wisdom and capacity to heal. This is part of The Mindful Bodyworkers perspective and mission and why I will be pursuing more of this in my practice!
This gentle and non-invasive therapy is a versatile and valuable addition that can be integrated into any session. You remained fully clothed if you choose this as a stand alone service.
East Meets West Fusion Massage
Table Thai incorporates rooted Thai techniques (pressing + stretching) that are traditionally done on a mat on the floor, but while the person is on the table. “Lom” is the Thai expression for energy or wind. “Sen” refers to energy lines, and are able to connect + move substances + sensations from one place to another. Prana (“life force”/”vital energy”) flows through the pathways of the Sen. Table Thai has a strong emphasis on stretching the body to indirectly open the Sen energy lines.
Lomilomi, derived from ancient Hawaiians, and is a form of loving touch, means “to rub or squeeze” the body to have good health. The art of lomilomi massage is more like a dance and mimics the ocean waves. Smooth + slow strokes with the forearms flow over the body to allow one to experience the aloha, beauty, and transformative power of this healing massage. The free-form motions open energy pathways, release tension, and remove blockages.
Merging traditional styles with western techniques offers a unique bodywork fusion session. Similar to an integrative approach, this is one of my favorites!
