The Science Behind Massage

The benefits of massage have been touted for thousands of years... (yes, thousands!) Most of our savvy Therapeutic Bodywork clients also "know" only too well how amazing it feels getting a massage, which is perhaps all the evidence we really need :)

However, as a registered nurse, solid research and data is an important element for me, and affords massage the legitimacy it truly deserves. To quote W. Edwards Deming, "In God we trust; all others bring data".

Having said that, it would take too long to take a "deep dive" into all the evidence based research done on this important topic. For that reason, I have made the following "top ten" list:

TOP TEN (RESEARCH BASED) BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
1) It decreases the heart rate, blood pressure and heart rate variations.

2) It increases blood oxidation levels.

3) It improves lymphatic drainage and reduces edema.

4) It reduces headaches, back pain and neck pain.

5) It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, causing relaxation.

6) It reduces scar tissue formation.

7) It decreases stress, anxiety and depression.

8) It improves cognitive and memory functioning.

9) It improves the production and absorption of insulin.

10) It promotes feelings of well-being.

The real list of known benefits is very much longer than this one, but I hope that the "take away" for you, is that massage therapy is a completely legitimate and effective tool in staying well - in body, mind and spirit.

I look forward to seeing you soon on my table where you’ll reap these benefits of a healing massage.

Blessings,
Isobel Lindsay RGN, RN, LMT

**For the entire month of February, Isobel is offering a complimentary Hot Stone Add-On to every 75 or 90 minute session you book. Just mention Hot Stone Add-On at your time of booking - or include it in your booking notes if you schedule online.

Isobel is a native of Dundee in Scotland, initially coming to the USA after training as a Registered General Nurse through the Royal College of Nursing and Midwifery. She then became registered in the USA and has practiced nursing for many years on both sides of the “Pond”. It was her work as a nurse educator at the renowned Canyon Ranch in Lenox, MA which sparked her desire to become a massage therapist, having seen first hand the power of bodywork on her clients. She believes that while the healing power of touch has been well documented over the centuries, that it is sadly lacking in our modern health care system. Isobel is overjoyed to now be able to offer massage as a healing and wellness modality.

Isobel sees clients on Wednesdays, Fridays + Saturdays

Introducing The Dolphin

A new proven way method for reducing stress while improving immunity, sleep and digestion

We are excited to announce that Therapeutic Bodywork is now offering the Dolphin Vagal Nerve Stimulator treatment as an add on to a CranioSacral Therapy session for $30.  

The Dolphin, is a microcurrent device that haas been proven in studies to reduce stress, balance the nervous system and increase parasympathetic function of healing, recovery, immunity, rest, digest and repair. The government of Canada has approved the Dolphin device for use in the treatment of acute and long haul COVID because of its ability to improve the body's natural ability to regulate the inflammatory response.

The Dolphin is a passive Vagal Nerve Stimulation treatment which applies direct low-frequency microcurrent stimulation to the ear and throughout the entire vagus nerve track providing deep vagal tone enhancement.  It “mimics” the human nervous system and promotes electrical re-balance of cells. 

The vagus nerve is the major nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system which controls our immune response to inflammation and pulmonary functioning. It represents 80% of the rest-repair-heal cycle in the body. 

If you are experiencing high levels of stress, inflammation, recovering from long COVID or just want to boost your immune system, consider adding the Dolphin to your self-care regiment.

Check out our quick video below where we demonstrate how to use the Dolphin.

Boost Your Immune System with Acupuncture + Herbs

It’s important to have a healthy immune system, no matter what time of year it is. However, late fall and winter, commonly dubbed “cold and flu season,” provides an extra reason to keep your immune system in tip-top shape! Once a pathogen is able enter the body, it’s up to your body’s cells to protect you. Acupuncture helps these disease-fighting cells to work their best and protect you from illness. Acupuncture is proven to increase the amount of your body’s immune cells, such as the red blood cells, white blood cells, and T-cells.

Your immune system relies on your body’s overall health to maintain its effectiveness. Poor nutrition and stress both increase your risk of getting sick. Especially during winter, when your body is handling the cold weather, the busy nature of the holidays, and the surplus of sweet treats, it’s easy to see how this time of year is known as ‘cold and flu season’

The Traditional Chinese Medical diagnosis for these pathogenic invasions almost always involve the presence of Wind. In Chinese Medicine, Wind is capable of invading the body through the channels, mostly at the nape of the neck. Wind may look like a rash, body aches, chill, or itchiness. 

One of the most important and easiest things you can do for your health in the winter is always protect your neck from wind and cold. 

Featured Product:

Yu Ping Feng San

Yu ping feng san, or “Jade Windscreen,” has been used in East Asia for over 800 years, with records dating back to the writings of the scholar Zhu Dan Xi in 1347. As its name illustrates, the Jade Windscreen formula supports and enriches the Wei Qi, or protective Qi, in guarding against harmful influences entering the body.

Three main ingredients:

Huang Qi: Astragalus root- common western herb for augmenting the immune system, excellent for strengthening the spleen and the lungs. 

Bai Zhu: Atractylodes- dries dampness (congestion), and strengthens the spleen. 

Fang Feng: Siler root- releases the exterior (where wind resides) and clears wind. 

I look forward to seeing you on my Acupuncture table this winter to support your body’s immune system and help keep you healthy throughout the winter.

Fondly,

Christina

Book with Christina on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays + Saturdays

Lymphatic Detox Massage

Feeling sluggish, bloated? Or maybe you’ve just recovered from surgery or a vaccine injection. Perhaps you’ve just simply overindulged around the holidays and are looking for a simple way to give your body a detoxification boost. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that Lymphatic Detox Massage is on the rise and for good reason.

A Lymphatic Detox Massage can support your detox pathways and help to filter out viral debris. It is great for autoimmune disease, acne, rosacea, sinusitis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, lymes disease and constipation. It is also a wonderful technique for healthy individuals who are wanting to boost their immune function and feel their best.

What is a Lymphatic Detox Massage?

Lymphatic Detox Massage is a very specific technique that works on the lymphatic system by using systemic massage movements combined with sincere intuition. A rhythmic, gentle motion is used, in the direction of the lymph flow to encourage lymphatic movement. This lymphatic system plays a vital role in our health and is essential to our immunity. Unlike the cardiovascular system, your lymphatic system does not have a built-in pump — which is why the lymphatic system needs manual “draining” in order to keep the system humming optimally. When it slows, immune health is compromised.

A Lymphatic Detox Massage can encourage the circulation of lymphatic fluid through your body via pressure and motion, hence increasing detoxification and immunity. Although far from a ‘deep tissue’ massage, this modality can be incredibly effective and healing. The sweeping and rhythmic movements also encourage the response of the parasympathetic nervous system, where deep healing takes place.

Ways to promote Lymphatic Movement:

A good place to start is your physical health and diet. 

● Exercise: Movement is great for your lymph nodes.

● Eat A Healthier Diet: Consume plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. This keeps your lymphatic system clean (along with the rest of your body). 

● Drink Water: It helps your lymphatic system and other organs function properly. 

● AVOID: Sugary drinks and sweets. These items overwork the system. 

● Walking! Just a 10 minute walk in the fresh air will help to get the lymphatic system moving.

Hope to see you soon for your next immune boosting Lymphatic Detox Massage!

Jackie Lunato is devoted to helping her clients achieve optimum health and balance through a holistic approach to massage therapy, bodywork, energy healing and nutrition. A Licensed Massage Therapist since 2007, Jackie also holds certifications across a broad spectrum of fields including Reiki, Ayurvedic Bodywork, Healing Hot Stone Massage, Prenatal Massage, Aromatouch Technique (using DoTerra essential oils), and Lymphatic Drainage Detox massage. Book with Jackie on Mondays, Thursdays + Saturdays.

Welcome Reflexologist, Sarah Sullivan

We couldn't be more excited to announce the addition of Sarah Sullivan to our Reflexology Team!

Sarah, who has a background in the field of health and wellness, has officially completed Michelle Becz's Reflexology training program and is ready to see clients on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Sarah's strong, intuitive touch, along with her passion for health and wellness, contribute to a deeply healing and restorative session. She is already receiving rave reviews from her clinical hours and she looks forward to customizing a session specific to your needs.

For a limited time, Sarah is offering a complimentary Sweet Dreams Magnesium Add-On to every 75 and 90 minute session.

Magnesium is an essential mineral for human health and it has been said that more than half of Americans are deficient in magnesium, leading to a myriad of health issues. Adding a topical magnesium can promote deep relaxation and restful sleep, reduce leg cramps and restless leg syndrome, increase detoxification in the body, and improve mood.

*offer expires 10/29/21

*valid on one session/per client