SoM Wellness Retreat at Hanging Rock State Park

WHERE WILL MY MASSAGE OR BODYWORK SESSION TAKE PLACE?
Your massage or bodywork session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music may be played to help you relax. You will lie on a warmed table especially designed for your comfort.
 

MUST I BE COMPLETELY UNDRESSED?
Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort. Ortho-Bionomy® is usually performed comfortably clothed.
 

WILL THE PRACTITIONER BE PRESENT IF I DISROBE?
I will leave the room if you undress so that you can relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet and blanket.

WILL I BE COVERED DURING THE SESSION?
You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed.
 

WHAT PARTS OF MY BODY WILL BE MASSAGED?
We will discuss the desired outcome of your session. This will determine which parts of your body require massage. A typical full body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, head, neck, and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male or female) or breasts (female).
 

WILL LUBRICANT BE USED?
A light lotion or cream may be used to permit your muscles to be worked on without causing excessive friction to the skin. The lubricants used should hydrate the skin and be readily absorbed.
 

WHAT WILL THE MASSAGE OR BODYWORK FEEL LIKE?
It depends on the techniques used. In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes which will help to calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body becomes relaxed, pressure will gradually be increased to relax specific areas and relieve areas of muscular tension.

You should communicate immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken. Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.
 

ARE THERE DIFFERENT KINDS OF MASSAGE AND BODYWORK?
There are numerous types of massage and bodywork; various techniques utilize different strokes, including basic rubbing strokes, rocking movement, posture and movement reeducation, application of pressure to specific points, etc. Ask me about the methods I am using.
 

HOW LONG WILL THE SESSION LAST?
The average full body massage or bodywork session lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet or a quick “buff & fluff”. Many people prefer a 60 to 90 minute session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session. Hot tubs, steam baths, and saunas can assist in the relaxation process.
 

WHAT SHOULD I DO DURING THE MASSAGE OR BODYWORK SESSION?
Make yourself comfortable. The practitioner will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm). Many people just close their eyes and completely relax. Others like to talk during their massage or bodywork. Feel free to ask me questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.
 

HOW WILL I FEEL AFTER THE MASSAGE OR BODYWORK SESSION?
Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended that you drink plenty of water following your massage.
 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE AND BODYWORK?
Regular massage or bodywork  sessions can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and may reduce blood pressure.
 I will ask some general health questions. It is very important that you inform me of any health problems or medications you are taking. If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork prior to any session. I may require a recommendation or approval from your doctor.

flag

There are a variety of bodywork techniques. Here are brief descriptions of a few that I utilize frequently.

* Orth-Bionomy®:AKA Somatic Re-Education : A gentle, non-invasive, osteopathically-based form of body therapy which is highly effective in working with chronic stress, injuries and pains or problems associated with postural and structural imbalances and trauma.

* Hot Stone Therapy: The massage is administered with warmed  Basalt stones and lotion creating  phenomenal responses from my clients. Alternating cool and warm stones used during facial massage release sinus tension.  

Hot and cold stones have been used by Native Americans in sweat lodges for centuries.  Mary Hannigan of Arizona popularized their use as a body spa technique. The use of two hour pre-heated basalt stones with massage brings a higher level to soothing sore and tired human temples. While white marble or granite stones are used for cold therapy.

I trained under Jennifer Wilson of the Advanced Fuller School of Massage in Virginia Beach, VA.  My clients in Virginia  before relocating here were exclusively hot stone massage recipients. While I am known for my firm massage, many clients claim that my expertise is somatic re-education and hot stone work. 

· Swedish Massage: The most common form of massage, Swedish mainly relaxes the muscles and eases aches and pains.

· Sports Massage: For the athlete, sports massage techniques are utilized at all stages: pre-event (active), post-event (calming), during training (therapeutic), and to expedite rehabilitation after injury (combination).

. Shiatsu: Japanese acupressure massage that restores energy to the body.

. Therapeutic Massage: Kneading  with various Swedish techniques on a deeper level to break up deposits and "knots " and "speed bumps' in the muscle fascia.

. Deep Tissue Massage: Swedish, therapeutic massage techniques combined with  Trigger Point therapy techniques on an even 'deeper" level. "Beating the devil" out of muscular knots and discomfort for the "if I can't feel it it didn't happen types".  The body may rebound in  10 or more days after session sometimes causing the body to wind back up tighter than the original spasms.

. Trager: Utilizes rhythmic rocking movements to relax the body and mind.

. Trigger Point Therapy: Utilizes ischemic pressure with a T- bar on  Dr. Janet Travell's "Trigger Points" of referred pain.

. Polarity Therapy: Balances the energetic systems of the body.
could play an important role in your life.

· Reflexology: Massage of the feet, hands, and/or ears. Stimulates corresponding areas in the body.

.Quantum Touch: An energetic technique similar to Phase 5 & 6 in Somatic Re-Education (OB) where the therapists incorporates energetic breathing techniques similar to yogic.

There are more than 150 variations of massage, bodywork, and somatic therapy techniques.  I utilize an integration of the above listed techniques.
 

flag

WHY MASSAGE DURING PREGNANCY?

Massage during pregnancy not only makes a woman feel pampered, but offers undeniable physical benefits as well. Massage can relieve fatigue, enhance sleep, and calm an active baby.
 

First Trimester
· Relieve headaches

· Help alleviate morning sickness Reduce fatigue
 

Second Trimester
Alleviate backaches Relieve leg cramps
 

Third Trimester
· Reduce swelling/edema

· Relieve pain from varicosities

· Enhance sleep

· Prepare pelvic muscles for birth process
 

During the entire term of the pregnancy, massage can stimulate blood flow, which may assist in the prevention of anemia. An increase in muscle tone and flexibility will occur, alleviating leg cramps and muscle spasms.

Massage during pregnancy is also a great way to relieve everyday tension and the general aches and pains your body is suffering. It stimulates your lymphatic system, increasing removal of excess toxins.
 

HOW WILL I RECEIVE MY MASSAGE?

When receiving pregnancy massage, you are positioned on your side to give the therapist access to your back, or in a semi-reclining position for massage on the front of your body. Your body will be supported with pillows or special cushions. 

WHAT TECHNIQUES WILL BE USED?

Many pregnancy massage specialists integrate a variety of techniques into their work. Depending upon where you are in the pregnancy, I may utilize Ortho-Bionomy®, deep tissue massage, myofascial release, reflexology, swedish massage, joint mobilization, or connective tissue massage.
 
 

ARE THERE TIMES WHEN MASSAGE DURING PREGNANCY SHOULD BE AVOIDED?

Women with normal, low risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from massage by a trained massage therapist. However, women in high risk pregnancies should consult with their doctor or midwife before beginning a massage therapy program. If at any time during the massage you experience discomfort, tell me immediately.
 
 

WHAT ABOUT MASSAGE AFTER DELIVERY OF MY BABY?

Massage during the weeks after delivery helps to restore muscle tone in the abdomen and reposition the  fundus in the pelvis.

Remember, touch is a very important part of bonding with your baby. Ask about receiving instruction in massaging your baby.

USE OF ESSENTIAL OILS

I may use essential oils during your massage. Since many have physical effects on the body; you should be aware of the oils being used. Oils which have stimulating effects should be avoided, such as basil, cinnamon, cedar wood, and peppermint. Clary Sage should also be avoided as it can cause labor to begin. The following are recommended as safe for use during pregnancy: lavender to relieve nausea, headaches, and constipation; neroli and ylang-ylang may help reduce stretch marks.
 

DOCTOR'S APPROVAL

It is very important that you obtain approval from your obstetrician before receiving massage during pregnancy.

The material in this brochure is adapted from Maternity Massage by Connie Cox (May 1994), published by Stress Less Publishing, inC., 7000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. The book may be ordered direct from the publisher for $12.95 p/us $2. 75 postage and handling. You may also order by phone: 800-794-7066

© 1997 Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals

flag

Promise yourself to be so strong that

nothing can disturb your peace/piece of mind.

To talk health, happiness and prosperity

to every person you meet. To make all

your friends feel that there is something in

them.  To look at the sunny side of

everything and make your optimism come

true.  To think only of the best.  To work

only for the best, and expect only the best.

To be just as enthusiastic about the success

of others as you are about your own.

To forget the mistakes of the past and

press on to the greater achievements of

the future.  To wear a cheerful countenance

at all times and give every living creature

you meet a smile.  To give so much time to

the improvement of yourself that you have

no time to criticize others.  To be too large

for worry, too noble for anger, too strong

for fear and too happy to permit

the presence of trouble.

flag

Many cultures recognize the importance of music and sound as a healing power. In the ancient civilizations of India, the Orient, Africa, and Europe and among the Aboriginals and American Indians, the practice of using sound to heal and achieve balance from within has existed for thousands of years. The Tibetans still use bells, chimes, bowls, and chanting as the foundation of their spiritual practice. In Bali, Indonesia, the echoing gamelang, gong, and drum are used in ceremonies to uplift and send messages. The Australian Aboriginals and Native American shamans use vocal toning and repetitive sound vibration with instruments created from nature in sacred ceremony to adjust any imbalance of the spirit, emotions or physical being.

The Priests of ancient Egypt knew how to use vowel sounds to resonate their energy centers or chakras. There is a direct link between different parts of the body and specific sounds. Such a technique appears extremely old; yet healing through sound goes back even further-at least as far back as Atlantis where the power of sound was combined with the power of crystal.

At the present time the Hopi American Indian prophecy is being fulfilled with the "Coming of the Rainbow People", through the keepers of the crystal bowls. This ancient wisdom has emerged to heal and uplift the consciousness of the universe through pure crystal tone. Prophet Edgar Cayce predicted pure tones will be used for healing before the end of this century". Nostradamus foretold the healing of cancer through pure tone by 1998.

Crystal bowl music is a form of vibrational medicine which validates that everything in the universe is in a state of vibration and the frequency at which an object or person most naturally vibrates is called resonance. The chakras, bones, and organs in the body all possess a different resonant frequency. When an organ or part of the body is vibrating out of tune or no harmoniously, it is called "dis-ease" or disease. A body is in a healthy state of being when each cell, each organ creates a resonance that is in harmony with the whole being.

Vibrational medicine is based on the idea that all illness or disease is characterized by blockage in the channels on some level, either in nadis, arteries, veins, nerves. When there is a blockage, the organ in question stops vibrating at a healthy frequency and thus it results in some kind of illness. So through sound and light one can break up, dissolve and release these blockages that initiate in our licit or etheric body. Ultra sound has been used medically for almost two decades as a diagnostic tool by pediatricians while the baby is in the very early stages of fetal development and more recently ultrasound is being used to cleanse clogged arteries. Ultrasound works on the same principle of light equals sound and tone equals radiance manifesting in form.

Crystal bowl music emits a pure holographic template of radiant light that corresponds to the octave of sound within our etheric body. Since sound can be translated into colour, the body may be seen as visible frequency that produces an auric colour field which reflects emotional states of consciousness and thus the physiological status. Kirlian photography has already verified this. The visual spectrum has therefore the same wave frequency as the auditory spectrum. There are seven musical notes that correspond to the seven colors of the rainbow and these are related to the seven main chakras, which in turn correspond to different areas of the endocrine gland system.

The bowls create a very pure wave form a sine wave form. This pure sine wave form carries through physical objects quite well. The human body has quite a lot of resonation potentials within it.

One reason the pure tones vibrate our body is that it has a natural affinity to quartz. The human body is composed of many crystallite substances, the bones, blood and DNA are crystalline in structure as well as the liquid crystal-colloidal structure of the brain. Even on a molecular level, our cells contain silica, which balances our electromagnetic energies, and this is the same formula as natural quartz crystal.

When you're working with crystals and sound, such as with the bowls, there is a resonation-- a harmonization-- an integration process that goes on between the external and internal vibration.

The pure tone of crystal bowls produces a vibrational sound field which resonates the light body chakra and corresponding physical area. A series of pure crystal tone therapy facilitates the rebalancing of each receiver back into an elevated level of etheric radiance. Clear quartz contains the full spectrum of light that is related to the seven energy centers (chakras) and thus heals the listener by bringing pure light through sound as specific color back into the human aura. The effect is multiplied as the crystal bowls are played. Crystal acts as an oscillator, magnifying, and transmitting pure tone. This is why pure silicon crystal is used in all of our most advanced telecommunication systems. Like a powerful radio transmitter, the crystal bowls transmit energy into the atmosphere, filling a person's aura with vibrational radiance which translates into the seven main colors of the rainbow.

Through the pure crystal tones as the sound effects brain wave activity one can travel into an altered state of consciousness. As different parts of the brain are affected, it is probable that they release different hormones and neuro-chemicals which can suppress pain, strengthen willpower in one's creative talents and overcome addictions. It was found that among the wave patterns of different singing bowls there is a measurable wave pattern which is equivalent to the alpha waves produced by the brain.

Quartz crystal music holds the vibration of white light which ultimately refracts into the rainbow and acts directly on our chakras when played. It has the power to bring about a positive shift in our consciousness and as our awareness expands, we crow close to our original selves and start to reflect the highest radiance in our physical form. Crystal is able to maintain the balance of electromagnetic energies between the north and south poles. It is extremely accurate and consequently the foundation of timekeeping systems in all our contemporary watches is quartz crystal. The same electromagnetic field exists within all life forms. Clear quartz integrates the balance our own electromagnetic energies.

flag

Most people feel very relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity which can last for days.
Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended that you drink plenty of water following your massage  8 oz. of water for each 20 lb. of body weight consumed daily to assist with proper body metabolism  should be increased by an extra liter, the 3 days post bodywork.   And 1 ½ cup to 4 lbs. Epsom salt soak will greatly improve one's outlook on life especially if you have any post session discomfort.

Like I'm always telling you, "Breathe and drink water.  Take good care of yourself, no one else can or will ..."

flag