Holly has been trained in a variety of massage techniques.  A massage by Holly may incorporate a variety of these techniques to best address your needs.  You need not be overly concerned about which massage will best suit you.  Holly performs a brief health history and assessment with each client.  During this time you will be able to express your expectations and concerns.  Holly will then be able to cater your massage session just for you.  Below is a basic description of the techniques offered.

Muscle Release Technique (MRT)

For anyone who suffers from chronic pain!  Whether an acute, chronic, or overuse (Repetitive Use Injury), this technique will change your life!  When there is trauma or injury to a muscle, small cuts and scar tissue form in the muscle fibers. When this happens the muscles becomes short and tight, resulting in pain and discomfort. The Muscle Release Technique employs muscle contraction, elongation, motion, stretch and breathing.  This combination is very efficient for rapid and lasting pain relief.  The session includes a thorough history of your health (particularly in relation to your current pain or condition), a informative discussion on the anatomical and physiological causes of your pain and/or injury, massage treatment employing the Muscle Release Technique, and demonstration of daily stretch regiment specific to your needs.  Many clients see great results after only one session.  This technique can be used to treat most soft tissue dysfunction’s, such as:plantar fasciitis – chronic low back pain – sore feet – tendinitis – headaches – bulging disc – joint pain – tennis elbow – calf cramps – carpal tunnel syndrome – golfers elbow – knee pain – patella tracking dysfunction (runners knee) – fibromyalgia – hammer toe – chronic muscle pain – frozen shoulder

Deep Tissue Massage

When under stress muscles become tight, restricting the flow of oxygen-rich blood.  Deep tissue massage focuses on realigning the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue restoring the circulation of blood providing oxygen and removing toxins.  A deep tissue massage will begin with swedish strokes and gentle kneading to “warm up” the muscles.  Then slow deep strokes lengthen the muscles.  Trigger point and deep friction may be used to break up adhesions and scar tissue.

Myofascial Release

The Myofascial Release Technique was originaly developed by a physical therapist named John Barnes. Fascia is thin connective tissue membrane that envelops all of our muscles, bones, and organs.  Normal healthy fascia is flexible and moves without resistance.  When stressed or injured fascia can develop scarring which causes restrictions in movement.  This technique uses little or no oil.  Massage strokes involve sustained pressure and stretching to loosen myofascial restrictions.   This technique typically focuses on one or two problems areas, rather than the entire body.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is very beneficial people for clients involved in vigorous, physical activities.  This does not need you must be a professional athlete to enjoy sports massage.  Most people who lead an active life style or work out often find this massage very helpful in treating and preventing injuries.  There are different types of sports massage.  Pre-event – A stimulating massage focusing on muscles to be exerted during an immediately upcoming event.  Post-event – Massage within a few hours of event to “normalize” muscles.  Restorative – Massage to be utilized during training to lessen chance of injury.  Rehabilitive – Massage focusing on returning body to health after an injury.  Sports Massage generally focuses on one or two areas of concern rather than the entire body.

Aromatherapy

An Aromatherapy Massage adds one or two essential oils to the lotion used during your massage.  As the gentle aroma of the oils is inhaled it reaches the part of your brain controlling emotion and the nervous system.  The oils are also absorbed through the skin.  Though the most comon essential oil used in aromatherapy is lavender, there are a number of different oils that can be used to reduce stress, promote calming, induce relaxation, or energize.  Aromatherapy is particularly beneficial for clients under emotional stress.  Many simply feel the oils increase the intense feeling of relaxation during their massage.* At this time Holly’s supply of essential oils is limited to lavendar, peppermint, tea tree, and ylang ylang.

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage is the most famous type of massage.  This technique uses firm but gentle pressure to increase blood flow, reduce muscle aches and pains, and induce relaxation.  This technique uses oil or lotion to perform long gliding strokes, circular motions, light kneading, friction, and gentle tapping.  This is a very calming massage for those who are primarily seeking relaxation or are unable to tolerate deeper treatments.