Massage Styles
Esalen incorporates long flowing strokes with gentle stretches. Light to medium pressure is used for soothing, total body relaxation . Excellent avenue that encourages a calming of the mind and an unwinding of the nervous system. A perfect addition to your vacation in Carmel!
Swedish uses kneading, gliding, tapping, vibration and stretching specifically designed to relax muscles by increasing the flow of oxygen in the blood and releasing toxins from the muscles. It reduces the effects of muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid and other metabolic wastes. It incorporates cross fiber friction to break up muscular "knots" called "adhesions" as well.
Neuromuscular (NMT) /Trigger Point (TPT) applies concentrated pressure to "trigger points" (TPs are painful irritated areas in muscles) to break cycles of spasm and pain at the site of the TP or in another area (referred pain). These pain referral patterns follow predictable TP " maps* and can be treated very effectively using this technique. (For example, pain being experienced in the wrist may be referred pain coming from a TP in in the shoulder). TP maps from renowned NMT specialist Janet Travelle, MD along with her treatment manuals are used as the basis for the work. TPT is a very effective tool in the treatment of muscular pain.
Strain/Counter-strain Therapy a method used to intervene in altering signals that are maintaining tension, stiffness, restriction, and fatigue in the musculature. The sensory structures can become overzealous in protecting the system of a perceived threat. Strain/counter-strain technique provides an avenue to break this trance-like state in which the constricted musculature is caught due to a signaling communication error between itself and the brain. Placing the muscles in a passive position and then requiring resistance against light pressure encourages a resetting of the pattern, resulting in relaxation of the constriction.
Sports Massage -(SM) is a type of therapy geared toward athletic clients and the particular stressors they place on their bodies. Sports massage helps athletes to avoid injuries, cool down after exertion flush the body of lactic acid and enhance their overall performance. SM focuses on increasing motion and flexibility, relieving muscle soreness, and promoting quick recovery from muscle overuse.
Deep Tissue (DTM) is a type of massage aimed at treating the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. DTM uses many of the same techniques as Swedish Massage, but the pressure is more intense. The goal of DTM is the release of chronic muscle tension or knots known as "adhesions."
Massage Adjunctive Services
Aromatherapy - is the therapeutic use of plant derived aromatic essential oils to promote physical and emotional well being. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal, healing, purifying and uplifting properties. . Young Living Medical Grade Essential Oils are used. They are a great way to effortlessly enhance the positive affects of your Carmel massage experience.
Far Infra-Red Thermal Therapy - has been researched and used extensively in Japan, China, Scandinavia and other countries for many years and has now gained popularity in the United States. This therapy entails the use of far infra-red "radiant" heat directed to specific areas of the body where it is absorbed up to several inches and can safely and effectively enhance circulation, soothe inflammation, deepen the relaxation of tense muscles, assist the body in detoxing, and soothe the entire nervous system. Far Infra-Red Thermal Therapy is an excellent adjunct both during and especially following any massage or bodywork session. It deepens and helps integrate more fully the effects of the therapeutic work. (devices are all FDA approved)
Expanding Physical Wellness
Wellness Coaching addresses various aspects of overall wellness such as diet, nutrition, and exercise. Networking with referrals to professionals such as chiropractors, osteopaths, psychotherapists, and physical therapists is offered as needed if desired.
Mind-Body Integration Sessions
Carol incorporates her two masters degrees in psychology along with her various studies in body based counseling as well as her life experience to the mind-body integration sessions. These can be an adjunct to massage sessions or stand alone by themselves, depending on the clients needs. These sessions help clients who find themselves in habitual physical and/or emotional holding patterns that no longer serve them, but are having difficulty shifting and moving thru. to a space that feels more satisfying and authentic. Creating a bridge between ones mind and ones body can create a deeper connection with the self and as a result new beliefs and behaviors have space to arise.