Massage therapy, Active Release Technique

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Full body certified - Active Release Technique Provider

Massage to the rescue

When you're under severe or chronic stress, massage can be a fast and effective way of breaking the vicious stress cycle.

Massage triggers a relaxation response. This response counters the stress response and promotes various restorative processes. As the massage progresses and the relaxation response kicks in you'll find that your breathing deepens.

Your heart rate and blood pressure decrease. Muscles start to relax as tension is gently kneaded out of your muscles. Painful sensations gradually subside. Your mind is also affected as you focus on the pleasant sensations and break the cycle of mental distress. Studies show that anxiety and depression decrease and your mood improves, possibly through the release of hormones called endorphins.

Although the relaxation effects of massage are immediate, the real benefits come when massage is used on regular basis. Research has demonstrated that as you experience with increases, the effects become more pronounced and more long lasting. Repeatedly experiencing feelings of deep relaxation with massage helps you recall those feelings of relaxation through your daily activities. Massage also makes you more aware of sensations in your body allowing you to notice more subtle signs of stress and tension. Heed these early warning signs and you can take control of your stress before it gets out of control.

Blow your tension away

When you don't have time to see your massage therapist, you can use your breath to help you release tension. When under stress, your breathing typically becomes fast and shallow. You breathe from your chest instead of taking deep relaxed breaths from your abdomen. This heightens your stress and causes unwanted tension through your neck and shoulders. You can break this pattern by using deep breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing as it is sometimes called. As you do this diaphragmatic breathing you will feel the tension releasing from your back, neck, shoulders and chest. As your breathing becomes more relaxed your mind will relax and you'll feel less stress and anxiety.

To learn how to do this, place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen and follow the instructions that accompany the illustrations. You can do this either sitting or lying. Focus on the sensations you are feeling in your body as you breathe. Repeat this sequence six to eight times. If you start to feel light headed stop immediately. Practice this several times a day. If you do this exercise when you are relaxed, it will be much easier to perform when you are feeling stressed.

Carol Moore, RMT is a registered massage therapist who also is currently certified in full body active release technique (ART), and personal fitness training.  She is also an advanced custom orthotic provider.   She also specializing in myofascial release, active neuromuscular therapy,trigger point release,hydrotherapy, stretching and remedial exercises. All her massages are tailored to your comfort level and needs, using a combination of deep or soft pressure techniques.

Margo Hogan, RMT.  is a registered massage therapist who is also currently attending university in hopes of  becoming a medical doctor.  Her hours are catering working clients who need to be seen during the evenings and weekends.  Margo specializes in relaxation massage and assessing the body for postural imbalances that contribute to stress being held within the body.  All her massages are geared to the comfort level of the client.