Modalities/Techniques

Swedish

Most common type of massage, designed to relax and relieve overall tension through long, gentle and flowing strokes. It is excellent for decreasing stress, stimulating blood flow and removing stored toxins. Lotion or oil is used.

Deep Tissue

Slow pressure with fingers, forearm and elbow using little to no oil. Releases chronic tension.

Trigger Point

Concentrated finger pressure that helps release muscle spasm patterns.

Sports Massage

This type of massage is generally more vigorous and effective in resetting muscle length. Active and passive stretches are used, as well as myofascial work, and acupressure.

Ashiatsu

Imagine Swedish massage, only deeper. The depth and comfort come from bare feet. Oil is used. Hands are used 25% of the time. Broad, continuous pressure affords sensation of luxury and long-lasting effects.

The word ashiatsu literally means “foot pressure” in Japanese. Though the roots of this technique originate in the Far East, this particular form was created in the West.

Here is how the founder Ruthie Piper Hardee breaks it down: “This barefoot massage technique uses deep compression strokes that glide over the body. It combines flowing centrifugal and centripetal push; pull, pumping movements, which can create a structural change in chronic soft tissue damage. Bars are used above the head for balance and safety.”