Massage Therapy
Registered Massage Therapy
Tui Na – Chinese Therapeutic Massage
Ayurvedic Massage
Visit our FAQ page for answers to frequently asked questions about massage therapy.
Our bodies are in constant motion and that is a very good thing…we are made to move and to move relatively pain free. Musculoskeletal disorders caused by postural problems, repetitive stress, trauma and disease can inhibit normal body movements and set up pain cycles that diminish quality of life. These disorders are one of the primary reasons that people seek medical attention.
Therapeutic Massage Therapy is of great benefit in treating many soft tissue disorders to reduce and eliminate pain and restore the body to optimum health. Therapeutic Massage achieves these successful outcomes through various techniques like Frictions, Myofascial Release, and Swedish Techniques (to name just a few). Resulting physiological changes that promote healing in the body include improved fluid mechanics (blood and lymph), neuromuscular, connective tissue and reflex effects.
Registered Massage Therapists (RMT’s) are highly trained health care professionals and know how to match the treatment to the injury/disorder for the best outcomes. We adhere to the principles of Evidence Based Practice as a means to provide sound validation for our methods so that we can provide the best possible care to our patients and further the body of knowledge of Therapeutic Massage.
BodaHealth practitioners:
Jill Chrysler, RMT
Mel Engleder, RMT
Vicky Vishniakoff, RMT
Tui Na – Chinese Therapeutic Massage
Tuina (Tui Na) is an Oriental Bodywork Therapy that has been used in China for 2,000 years. Tuina (Tui Na) uses the traditional Chinese medical theory of the flow of Qi through the meridians as its basic therapeutic orientation. Through the application of massage and manipulation techniques Tuina (Tui Na) seeks to establish a more harmonious flow of Qi through the system of channels and collaterals, allowing the body the naturally heal itself.
Tuina (Tui Na) methods include the use of hand techniques to massage the soft tissue (muscles and tendons) of the body, acupressure techniques to directly affect the flow of Qi , and manipulation techniques to realign the musculoskeletal and ligamentous relationships (bone-setting). External herbal poultices, compresses, liniments, and salves are also used to enhance the other therapeutic methods.
In a typical session, the client, wearing loose clothing and no shoes, lies on a table or floor mat. The practitioner examines the specific problems of the client and begins to apply a specific treatment protocol. The major focus of application is upon specific pain sites, acupressure points, energy meridians, and muscles and joints. Advanced Tuina (Tui Na) practitioners may also use Chinese herbs to facilitate quicker healing. The client usually feels relaxed but energized by the treatment.
BodaHealth practitioners:
Maja Mudri, B.A., R.Ac., R.TCM.P
Antonella Amabile, DTCM, R.Ac
Pronounced Eye ur veda; originates from the ancient traditions of India; it is considered one of the leading forms of holistic medicine available in the West. The principles of Ayurveda state that everything you interact with your diet, family, work and relationships, has an effect on your health and well being, nothing exists in isolation.
According to Ayurveda, each of us inherits a unique mix of three mind/body principles which creates our specific mental and physical characteristics. These three principles are called doshas. Most of us have one or two doshas which are most lively in our nature, with the remaining one(s) less significant.
The three doshas are known as Vata, Pitta, & Kapha.
If we are predominantly Vata, we tend to be thin, light and quick in our thoughts and actions. Change is a constant part of our lives. When Vata is balanced, we are creative, enthusiastic and lively. But if Vata becomes excessive, we may develop anxiety, insomnia or irregular digestion.
If the Pitta dosha is most lively in our nature, we tend to be muscular, smart and determined. If balanced, we are warm, intelligent and a good leader. If out of balance, Pitta can make us critical, irritable and aggressive.
If we have mostly Kapha in our nature, we tend to have a heavier frame, think and move more leisurely and are stable. When balanced, it creates calmness, sweetness and loyalty. When excessive, Kapha can cause weight gain, congestion and resistance to healthy change.
Using the principles of Ayurveda, we can identify our mind/body nature and use this understanding to make the most nourishing choices in our lives. It is common for people to have a blend of characteristics and usually one will tend to dominate.
During the initial consultation, together, we will determine your dominant dosha that requires attention. Examples would be: you’re stressed and would just like to relax your body and calm your mind; you’ve been feeling lethargic and depressed and are having trouble feeling energized; you’re having trouble concentrating, not getting enough sleep and want to be more focused.
A base massage oil, that is conducive to your skin type, will be combined with select essential oils that will nourishes and tonify your current needs. Massage enhances the skins primary purpose – a protective shell that envelopes our body. It aids in removing impurities, stimulates both arterial and lymphatic circulation, and relaxes the mind and body, promoting overall healing. The treatments have a rhythm and flow that covers the entire body. That flow directs the internal healing system of the body to open and receive, restoring balance and harmony.
BodaHealth practitioner:
Shelby Chapman