Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy
Enhances Relaxation Calms the nervous system Lowers blood pressure Reduces heart rate Slows respiration Loosens tight muscles Reduces Chronic Pain Improves skin tone Increases blood and lymph circulation Speeds the removal of metabolic waste Relieves tired and aching muscles Stimulates the release of endorphins Improves muscle tone Relieves cramps and muscle spasms Promotes more effective breathing Speeds recovery from injuries and illness Strengthens the immune system Reduces swelling Reduces scarring Improves posture Reduces tension headaches Increases tissue metabolism Improves body awareness
Mental Benefits of Massage Therapy
Reduces mental stress Promotes better sleep Calms a bad temper Induces mental relaxation Improves concentration
Emotional Benefits of Massage Therapy
Reduces anxiety
Enhances self-image
Provides a feeling of well being
What to expect during a Massage Session?
Your Massage session will be in a comfortable, clean and peaceful environment while soft relaxing music is playing in the background.
First, you will be asked to fill out a basic medical history form. This form is kept confidential and allows me to tailor a massage to your special needs. 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 will then leave the room while you undress and get on the Massage Table and cover yourself with a clean sheet.
Next I will administer some gentle stretches called Dry Moves which helps prepare the body for massage. Then I will begin the actual Massage with a light hydrating oil/cream/gel to allow the muscles to be worked without excessive friction to the skin.
I will check in with you about pressure, temperature, and general comfort, but please remember that only you can feel what is going on inside your own body, and that you should feel free to tell me if anything is at all painful or uncomfortable.
Will I be covered during the Session?
You will be properly draped at all times to provide you with warmth and comfort. Only the areas being worked will be exposed.
Must I completely undress?
Most massage techniques are performed traditionally unclothed; however you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.
I am able to work around or through clothing. My primary concern is that you are comfortable.
What parts of my body will be massaged?
We will discuss the desired outcome of your session beforehand. This will determine which parts of your body need massage.
A typical Full Body Massage will include work on your back, legs, arms, feet, hands, neck and shoulders. You will not be touched on or near your genitals (male and female) or breasts (females).
What am I supposed to do during the massage?
Focus on relaxing and letting go. Taking deep natural breaths can help you relax.
The amount of conversation is up to you. Most clients find that they become more comfortable when they talk with me but others prefer complete silence.
Do not hesitate to ask questions about what Im doing or about massage in general.
How long will the session last?
The average Full Body Session will last for 1 hour; however, many people prefer 1 1/2 for optimal relaxation and enjoyment.
Do I have to receive a full body treatment?
No, you can ask me to focus on one or more specific areas for the scheduled time. I can easily tailor your session to focus on a special concern; that's why you fill out a basic medical history form. Sessions differ from client to client.
By telling me which areas of your body feel sore or painful, you help me to focus on gently releasing those particular muscle groups. Deep, slow breathing will also help to relax tight muscles as well as reduce stress. I value feedback - so feel free to tell me what you like and especially what you don't like.
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.
After your massage, it is well advised to hydrate drink a good amount of water so that your body can rid itself of any metabolic waste products that have been pushed into your bloodstream during the massage such as lactic acid. Lactic acid, a naturally occurring metabolic waste product is produced by muscle tissue when it is worked either actively during exercise or passively during a circulatory massage.
Is Massage Always Appropriate?
Massage for relaxation is almost always helpful. However, there are certain conditions for which massage is not appropriate. Tell me about any medical condition you may have, even a minor one. Some conditions require close communication between me and your doctor or other healing practitioner.
I pulled a muscle yesterday. Should I get a massage?
Its not a good idea to receive massage in the very early stages of sprains and strains when theres still a good deal of swelling, heat, and tenderness. After a few days, though, massage can aid in the recovery process.
What is Shiatsu?
In earlier days in China, a doctor wasn't paid to give treatment to ill people but to keep a person healthy. The health care was basically preventive.
The Japanese took many things from Chinese culture to change and develop. So they did with anma massage and acupuncture and developed it into "shiatsu".
Shiatsu is based on the theory of yin/yang and the 5 elements. Knowledge and understanding of this theory is essential to make a proper assessment.
Through finger-pressure the chi flowing in the meridians is influenced.
Chi is the origin, the power of life. Traditionally everything was seen as an expression of chi. When chi stagnates, the body becomes ill.
There are twelve main meridians. Each meridian corresponds with an organ and is named after that specific organ. The meridian is not only connected to the organ, but also to the eastern concept of the function of that organ.
What is Reiki?
Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy.
Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that everyone can use. It has been effective in helping virtually every known illness and malady and always creates a beneficial effect. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.
While Reiki is spiritual in nature, it is not a religion. Reiki is not dependent on belief at all and will work whether you believe in it or not.
In order for the Reiki healing energies to have lasting results, the client must accept responsibility for her or his healing and take an active part in it.
Quoted from The International Center for Reiki Training: http://www.reiki.org/
How to schedule an appointment?
Simply e-mail me at: lirazbergman@heavenlyembrace.com or call 646-435-7316. Please leave your name, the appointment time and day you desire and your phone number. I will return your call as soon as possible.
