With today's fast-paced work and family lives, people are realizing the importance of taking good care of themselves, both physically and mentally. Therapeutic Massage is one way to do both! In addition to the obvious benefit of a relaxing hour or so away from the stresses of your day, a few of the benefits of massage include:

Stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. Opposite of the "fight or flight" system which activates when people are under stress, this division of the nervous system causes blood pressure and heart rates to drop, lowers body temperature, slows breathing, increases digestion and calms the mind.

Increasing flexibility and mobility in joints. Body stiffness and pain in the joints is often the result of overly tight muscles. Muscle tightness is caused by many factors, including lack of exercise, joint disease, stress and overuse. Regular massage works to relax tight muscles, increasing the range of motion and reducing chronic pain.

Hydrating and exfoliating the skin. The application of lotion or oil and the mechanical action of massaging the skin helps to provide moisture and smoothes skin.

Better sleep. Studies have shown people who receive massage on a regular basis report better, more restful sleep.

Less medication. Studies have shown massage can be as effective as pharmacolgical pain relievers for patients with knee and other joint pain. In addition, for patients who are undergoing surgery, massage is often used in place of pre-surgery relaxation medication and has proven to be as effective. Often, the amount of pain relievers can be reduced if used in conjunction with massage.

For the most part, everyone can safely receive some form of massage. The physical condition, health, and personal preference of each individual should be considered by the therapist performing the massage. Special population segments, such as pregnant women, or people living with cancer, may also safely receive massage if appropriate precautions are taken. Upon arriving for your first appointment, you will be asked to complete a confidential health history form. Information about your current pyhsical condition and state of health, medications you take, and any prior accidents, illnesses or surgery is important so that we can ensure your massage is as safe as it will be enjoyable.