Blog Posts - Hannah's Massage Therapy

Hannah's Massage Therapy

4 Benefits of Massage Therapy for Teens

3/27/2018

Adults are not the only ones that can benefit from massage. Teenagers are going through massive psychological and physiological changes and massage can be very beneficial in supporting their health and overall well being.
Athletic Injuries
Many teens are involved in sports which can be very demanding. Massage therapy can help with soreness from intense practices or help alleviate minor injuries related to sports such as repetitive motion injuries and muscle strains.
Stress
High school can be one of the most stressful times in life and levels of stress hormones can become chronically elevated even in teens. This can lead to depression, anxiety and a weakened immune system. Massage helps to decrease the levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increase the hormone dopamine, helping to reduce depression.
Poor Body Image and Eating Disorders
Many teens especially females suffer from poor body image which can lead to eating disorders. Massage can be a great way to create body awareness in a positive and healthy way and can help alleviate some of the stress, pressure and depression that can contribute to eating disorders.
PMS and Menstrual Pain
As a teenager menstrual pain and discomfort can be hard to deal with and often more intense. It can also help with other symptoms of PMS such as anxiety, depression and water retention. Massage therapy is one of the best ways to improve and sometimes eliminate pain completely. Girls can also benefit from learning self massage techniques to help with cramps.
What better way to show your teenager the importance of lifelong self care then to introduce them to massage at a young age. I work with teenagers age 12 and up and I truly believe that massage can be immensely beneficial to young people by giving them a way to cope with all the stresses they face on a daily basis. Teens age 12-18 receive $10 off and need a parent to come with them and sign for them.

Benefits of Essential Oils

3/27/2018

Essential oils are organic compounds that are extracted from plants These concentrated molecules have tremendous healing properties. They have been used for thousands of years to improve mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Essential oils have a wide array of healing properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibacterial, improving immunity, pain relief, digestive aid, decreasing anxiety and depression, balancing hormones, healing skin conditions and so much more.
Essential oils are extracted through a process of distillation from a plants leaves, bark, seeds, flowers, resins, roots or peels. They are composed of tiny molecules that have the ability to penetrate your cells. Some compounds in these oils even have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier making them more therapeutic and beneficial.

There are many different ways to use essential oils including topically, aromatically, and ingestion. These oils can also be made into powerful diy household cleaners or body care products. Some of my favorite simple ways to use oils:

Add a few drops to a rolled up paper towel attach to car vents with a paperclip.
A drop of lemon oil rubbed together on my palms as a natural hand sanitizer.
A few drops of peppermint oil rubbed on my stomach for nausea or to aid digestion.
Lemon and tea tree oil mixed in a spray bottle with vinegar for a natural daily shower spray.
Lavender, bergamot and cedarwood mixed with water in a spray bottle on my pillow before bed.
A drop of vetiver rubbed behind my ears to help with concentration or to decrease anxiety.

There are endless uses for essential oils and you can get creative and come up with many ways to easily incorporate them into your daily life. They are a safe, effective and enjoyable way to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
I diffuse essential oils in every massage and use them topically (optional). If you are interested in using oils that will benefit a specific need that you have please feel free to ask me and I will use the oils that best meet your needs.

Types of Massage Therapy

3/26/2018

Swedish - Swedish massage is the most well known type of bodywork. The main goal is to relieve muscle tension and relax the whole body using long gliding strokes and kneading. The outer layer of muscles are worked during a swedish massage.

Deep Tissue - Deep tissue massage uses slower, deeper pressure to loosen and relieve pain in trouble spots. The deepest layers of muscle and connective tissue are worked on to release areas of chronic tension.

Myofascial Release - Myofascial release works to stretch and release the fascia which is the connective tissue surrounding the muscles. This is a slow sustained pressure applied to the tissue without lotion. Releasing the fascia can eliminate pain and restore range of motion.

Lomi-Lomi - Hawaiian therapeutic massage also called the "dance of massage." This is a rhythmic, flowing and deeply relaxing modality of massage that eases tension in the muscles. It helps connect the body and the mind by grounding the person through movement and rocking and working on the whole body.

Acupressure - Acupressure is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and works on a specific points called acupoints that run along the meridians. Firm pressure is held down on these points to open up the channels and allow for an unblocked flow of energy. Acupressure works on the body and mind to restore balance.

Reflexology - Reflexology is based on the concept that areas on the hands, feet and ears correspond with areas on the body. Reflexology is typically done on the feet and uses pressure on specific points that correspond with different organs and body structures. The main goal is to promote relaxation and relieve stress.

What to Expect From Your First Massage

3/20/2018

     If you are new to massage therapy or are simply wondering how I operate, here is a rundown of how your first massage will go. I will ask for you to come 15 minutes early to your first appointment to fill out an intake form. We will then discuss what brings you in and what you hope to get out of the session. We will also determine the type of massage that works best for your individual needs.
     I will then show you the massage room and walk you through the massage process. I will explain that massage works best unclothed but that you should feel comfortable to leave as much clothing on as you like. Undergarments can be kept on or taken off it is entirely up to you, but know that you will be properly draped the entire time.
During the Massage
    I use a blend of unscented jojoba and coconut oil that absorb well and allow your muscles to be massaged without excess friction. I use scented essential oils only after first receiving your permission. There is a heating pad that can be adjusted to the temperature you prefer or turned off.
     Depending on your specific needs I will either begin working with you lying on your back or on your stomach with your face in the face cradle.
     Now it is time for you to completely relax your body and let me do the work. If I need to move your head or arm or leg I will do so. It may be difficult at first for you to let go and relax but it will get easier!
     I will check in with you about the pressure and the temperature. It is very important that you speak up at any time if you are uncomfortable with the pressure, temperature, the area being massaged, the volume of the music or anything else. I will not be at all offended if you ask me to adjust anything to make you more comfortable. Remember this is YOUR massage.

After the Massage
     After the massage you will be feeling calm and relaxed. You may have dozed off and that’s completely fine! I will leave the room so you can slowly get up. If you came in for pain you may have an immediate reduction in pain or it could take a few days. You shouldn’t feel very sore the next day, but if you do let me know so I can adjust your next massage accordingly.
   I will bring you some water and we will discuss the massage,possible things for you to try at home and your long term goals for massage. Then hopefully you will leave feeling refreshed, restored and happy!

Lomi Lomi Massage

10/31/2017

     Lomi Lomi is a Hawaiian therapeutic massage dating back 1500 years. Based on the Hawaiian philosophy of Huna which means life path, Lomi Lomi uses the principles of oneness and harmony to create healing for the whole person including the mind, body and spirit. Lomi-Lomi is also referred to as “loving hands massage” because the massage works gently yet deeply to ease into the muscles, while the therapist works with the intention of love and healing.
     Another name for Lomi Lomi is “the dance of massage” because of the synergy of movement, music and bodywork. Shamanic drumming and rhythmic music is played and the pace of the massage matches that of the music. This allows for deeper relaxation as the synchronicity of the music and movement allow the receiver to enter into a meditative state. The rocking motion helps to ground and center the receiver as well as encouraging the flow of energy and craniosacral fluid. Lomi Lomi has a non-confrontational ability to work deeply and loosen muscles and fascia.

What to expect during a Lomi Lomi Massage
     Normal draping is used during a session and the receiver begins lying face down. The session begins with a moment of stillness where the practitioner places their hands on the receivers and sets the intention for the massage. A rocking movement begins the massage. In a session the body is worked by sides. One side of the back will be worked using gliding, rocking, friction, knuckling and forearm strokes. Then the back of the leg on that same side will be worked followed by the other side of the back and leg. While face up one side will be worked from foot to arm and then the other side.
     At this point there is a great chance that the receiver has fallen asleep due to the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (think rest and digest).
    Another aspect of Lomi Lomi is the incorporation of the healing powers of essential oils. Different oils and blends are used throughout depending on the area being worked and the needs of the receiver.
    Due to its whole body concept, Lomi Lomi generally takes a minimum of 75 minutes, but ideally 90 minutes allows for the most effective treatment. However if an hour is all that you have much of the same benefits can be received from a shortened session.

Self Care

9/21/2015

Taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do. When you don’t take care of yourself everything else in life becomes more difficult and sooner or later you fall apart. Many people put the needs of others first and put their needs last. This can work out for some time, but eventually if you never care for yourself you won’t be able to care of anyone else. It can feel like you are being selfish when you do something for yourself but it is something you need! Loving yourself is the greatest gift you can give to the people you love. Self love means taking care of your needs. This can be anything from doing a hobby you love, to taking care of your health.

I recently realized I needed a massage and found I had difficulty getting around to scheduling an appointment. I couldn’t figure out what was holding me back. Then I came to the realization that I felt selfish spending money and time on myself. This is crazy because I personally need a regular massage in order to take care of my body and mind. I ask my clients to spend a little time and money on their wellness and I couldn’t even do it myself. So I made the appointment, and I am going to enjoy every minute of my massage knowing that I am taking care of myself so that I can be my best self in order to take care of others. So if you are like me and holding off on doing something good for yourself because of some ridiculous sense of guilt, then stop it! Go for it, take care of yourself because you are wonderful and amazing and you deserve it!

The Basics of Reflexology

6/8/2015

What is Reflexology?
    Reflexology works points on the feet, hands, and ears. These areas hold reflected images of the whole body. It is believed that by working the reflex points for corresponding organs and body systems, that these areas are actually affected. For example if you wanted to deepen your breathing, the diaphragm line, located between the arch and pad of the foot, could be worked to help deepen the breath. Reflexology can have many benefits, but it is not used to diagnose or cure any injury, disease or illness. Reflexology can be traced back through history to ancient Egypt, China, India and in Native American culture.

Benefits of Reflexology
    What has been proven above all else is the ability Reflexology has to bring a person into a deep state of relaxation. It can even cause a euphoric feeling of calmness and an overall sense of well being. Reflexology can help to reduce stress and support the immune system through relaxation. Reflexology can help to balance energy flow by bringing the body into homeostasis. Improved circulation, the release of toxins, and relief from headaches and tension are some of the many benefits of reflexology. And above all it feels great!

Contraindications for Reflexology
    Reflexology can be done on most people, however there are a few scenarios where it should be avoided. These include deep vein thrombosis, compartment syndrome, any contagious skin disease, recent fracture, severe swelling or any other serious condition you have not yet seen a doctor for. Reflexology can be done during pregnancy, however certain reflexes are avoided. Cancer patients can greatly benefit from reflexology as long as they speak to their doctor first. As always if there is ever any hesitation consult with your doctor before receiving any new kind of treatment.

    Reflexology can have many positive effects on the body and mind. It has been practiced for thousands of years and more recently been studied by science. If you are experiencing stress (so if you are a person) and want to experience a deeper relaxation, then Reflexology might be for you!
Hannah

The zones of the body as they are reflected on the feet.

Massage as a light in the darkness

5/19/2015

        May is Mental Health Month, so I’d like to write a little about what receiving massage has done for my own mental health. As you have probably seen on many lists of “the benefits of massage” it is a powerful tool in helping to ease depression and anxiety. There is a lot of research that proves this, but what I can share is my own proof of how massage truly helped me.

    During a time when I was struggling with depression, I received several massages. This was a very powerful experience for me, in that during that hour I was free from any darkness that I felt. It was a time where I could simply be in my body and nothing was expected of me, and that in itself was very healing. I felt emotionally achy all the time and massage soothed me and allowed me to feel loved, comforted and alive. I remember these experiences very vividly, and in my mind as the image of a warm fire on a cold winter night. These experiences are part of what led me to become a massage therapist.

      When you are experiencing any form of depression or anxiety it becomes very difficult to not always be focused on those feelings. Massage allows for a deep, wordless experience and a break from the constant chatter of the world and our minds. It is a space to quietly rest and allow the body and mind to recharge their innate healing abilities. For me this had tremendous power in allowing me to begin to heal.

    There are many helpful treatments that work for depression and anxiety from therapy to medication. But if you are experiencing any drop in mental health be it from depression, anxiety or just plain being a human, I sincerely recommend that you try adding a massage to your treatment plan, because you deserve it and it might just really help :)

Hannah

What Are Knots In Muscles?

5/11/2015

    Clients often ask me what exactly knots are upon hearing the crunching sound they make and sometimes the sensation of pain as pressure is applied to them. These often occur along the shoulders, neck, upper and lower back, but they can occur pretty much anywhere. The term for these knots is myofascial trigger point.

    There is still some debate over what exactly causes them, however it is believed to be due to a buildup of lactic acid caused by a muscle spasm. This can be due to injury, overuse or lack of use. The individual muscle fibers that cause the knot have continued to contract long after the muscle was being used. This chronic contraction cuts off blood flow to the area causing what feels like a tied up bit of muscle fibers.

    Massage can help to alleviate these constrictions by loosening the muscle and stopping the spasm. The muscle fibers than relax and blood flow is allowed back in the area, removing waste and allowing the fibers to remain in a relaxed state.

    A certain amount of knots are inevitable due to everyday life. Drinking enough water and being aware of your posture and how you are using your body can help to prevent knots from occurring.

Individual muscle fibers with knots

The Importance of Drinking Water After a Massage

5/8/2015

Have you ever wondered why you are always told to drink water after a massage? This is because massage can dehydrate the body. During a massage, the soft tissue is worked, releasing constrictions and allowing for the release of fluids that go into the circulatory system and then to the kidneys, This can cause the need to pee after a massage.

When you have tight and constricted muscles, the everyday buildup of metabolic waste is not flushed properly due to poor circulation in those areas. Massage can release these tightened muscles allowing for the waste to be flushed out. This is why it is so important to drink water after the massage, because lack of extra fluids can cause the waste to stay put and the muscles to tighten up again.

Drinking enough water on a daily basis is very important for the overall functioning of the entire body. It can keep your muscles from becoming overly constricted and allow for overall improved circulation.