Marissa Holden, LMT, BCTMB

Therapeutic Massage Specialist

Benefits of Massage

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress-related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress, which translates into:

  • Decreased anxiety.
  • Enhanced sleep quality.
  • Greater energy.
  • Improved concentration.
  • Increased circulation.
  • Reduced fatigue.

Massage can also help specifically address a number of health issues. Bodywork can:

  • Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
  • Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
  • Ease medication dependence.
  • Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body's natural defense system.
  • Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
  • Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
  • Improve the condition of the body's largest organ—the skin.
  • Increase joint flexibility.
  • Lessen depression and anxiety.
  • Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
  • Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
  • Reduce postsurgery adhesions and swelling.
  • Reduce spasms and cramping.
  • Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
  • Release endorphins—amino acids that work as the body's natural painkiller.
  • Relieve migraine pain.

What to expect in a Therapeutic Massage Session

Standard sessions last 30 minutes or one hour. Longer or shorter sessions can be arranged. Each session is tailored to meet your special needs. A session can cover the full body or focus on specific areas - back, neck, feet, legs, etc.

Before the session, you will fill out a brief intake form, then we will discuss your medical conditions that you may have. Be sure to let me know about any chronic aches and pains, areas that need special attention, and any medical conditions that I need to be aware. Also let me know if you have any preferences about the type of massage you like - deep work, light work, ticklish areas, or areas you wish for me to avoid. After the session I may suggest stretches or changes in posture to alleviate chronic discomfort and to continue your pain relief after the massage or refer you to other medical professionals.

Some clients feel renewed energy after their session and go to work, while others prefer to take it easy and rest after a massage. Many clients have reported that a hot shower or bath after a massage helps to further their relaxation. Everyone is an individual, and experiences massage therapy differently, you have to decide what is right for your body

Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals
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