bodywork
Massage is probably one of the oldest healing methods. People will naturally rub areas that are hurt, sore, or tired. Massage helps to remove stagnations in the blood and lymph, strengthens the immune system, helps with the elimination of metabolic waste from the soft tissues of the body, increases flexibility, soothes the nervous system, and has a myriad of other wonderful health enhancing benefits.
And it pretty much goes without saying that massage simply feels good. Or at least it should…in my opinion.
I schedule sessions between 30 and 120 minutes, and treatments are normally a combination of Thai massage, cupping, scraping (gua sha), and the application of herbal balms and liniments. I also work very closely with acupuncturist Rachel Rubin, and sessions that combine massage, cupping, and/or scraping with acupuncture can be scheduled through the Emerald Acupuncture Center, 541 870 7692.
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Thai Massage
Thai massage is an ancient form of bodywork, generally performed with the client clothed and on a mat on the floor. A combination that includes (but definitely not limited to) stretching, deep compressions, point specific work, myofascial release…Thai massage can range from gently relaxing to physically intense. Depending on what you want or need.
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Cupping
Cupping is a technique where glass, plastic, bamboo, or rubber cups are attached to the skin by negative pressure. It is becoming more and more popular in the U.S. – due to its effectiveness and because it feels great. One of my clients described it as “deep tissue from the inside out”.
Cups can be used stationary to treat a knot or pain point, or can be moved along the surface of the skin. Moving the cups creates a very pleasant and unique sensation as the underlying tissues are lifted, which must be experienced to be fully appreciated.
In addition to freeing fascial adhesions, removing metabolic waste from soft tissues, increasing circulation, releasing stagnations, and a myriad of other health benefits…it is very very relaxing.
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Scraping (Gua Sha)
Gua Sha (pronounced something like ‘gwa shaw’) is a technique using a tool with a smooth edge to scrape along the surface of the skin to bring stagnations and toxins to the surface. The tools range from coins to jar lids to ceramic soup spoons…anything really. There are even specially made tools for gua sha made from jade or water buffalo horn.
Gua sha is the Chinese term for this practice, but the technique is found all over the world. Gua sha, scraping, spooning, coining, cao gio (the name for the practice in Vietnam) are all referring to the same thing.
Gua sha feels wonderful, is extremely safe, and is easy to learn to do yourself.
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Balms & Liniments
Balms (herbal ointment) and liniments (herbal liquid) can be used during a session to aid with muscle / joint relaxation and to help move stagnant fluid. Favorites among clients include the lovely Monkey Holding Peach balm, and Po Sum On liniment. They have become so popular, in fact, that we are now trying to keep them in stock for purchase.
