Registered Massage Therapist

What is it?

Massage is one of the most established forms of therapy. It has been used in various forms for centuries. Today it is considered a complementary approach to health care that is effective in reducing stress and relieving muscle soreness.

Massage does much more than create a pleasant sensation on the skin. Massage therapy involves the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues (skin, muscles, ligaments and tendons) to help restore balance in the body. Many techniques are used in various ways during a massage. They may include stroking, muscle squeezing and gentle kneading, as well as deeper techniques that help to reduce tension in the deeper parts of the muscle (those knots people often feel that are tender to the touch).

Massage also stimulates blood circulation and assists the lymphatic system (which runs parallel to the circulatory system), improving the elimination of wastes throughout the body. Massage can stimulate or calm the nervous system, depending on what is required by the individual, thus helping reduce fatigue, leaving the receiver with a feeling of replenished energy. It can be preventative or restorative, helping to maintain, rehabilitate, augment physical function or relieve pain. At its best, massage has the potential to restore the individual physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

What does it do?

Massage therapy is an effective way to help speed the healing process after accidents or illnesses and helps to reduce the effects of chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease, MS, and many more. It is also effective in treating insomnia and digestive and respiratory conditions.

By releasing tension in a body’s tissues, massage improves circulation and helps to improve the posture by lengthening muscles that have become short and tight. Lengthening short, tight muscles allows the body to return to a balanced posture, alleviating many aches and pains.

Massage also promotes a sense of well-being and relaxation that strengthens the immune system, thereby preventing illness.

Massage Therapy can be used to alleviate symptoms arising from pregnancy, and can be very useful in infant care.

What do I need to know?

Massage Therapy is a regulated Health Profession and all massage therapists in Ontario are registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario.

First-time clients will be asked to fill in a confidential health history form. This, along with an interview at the first meeting, will allow the practitioner to develop a treatment plan. Massage therapy is performed using natural oils or lotions on the skin. You will be asked to undress to your level of comfort and lie on the table between two sheets.

As you prepare for the massage, the therapist will be outside the room until you indicate you are ready to begin. You will be covered with a sheet at all times, except for the areas receiving treatment. In order to ensure the best massage, we encourage you to communicate with your massage therapist so that changes can be made to the treatment plan as needed.

Maternity Massage

Expectant moms experience unique physical and emotional changes that occur as a result of increased weight, shifting posture, and adjusting hormone levels. While this is a beautiful period of heightened expectation and joy, mothers-to-be also endure heightened physical discomfort that ranges from muscular tension and headaches to pressure on the knees. Prenatal massage is aimed at alleviating these and other pregnancy related symptoms. Experienced therapists choose techniques that are safe and effective for pregnant women.

Infant Massage is a natural way to promote infant health, deepen bonding, and to create a future generation that is more caring and compassionate. Infant massage combines nurturing touch and massage in a loving, fun, one-on-one interaction that is nourishment for baby's healthy growth. Research shows that infants benefit physically, mentally, and emotionally with infant massage. It is noted in cultures that practice infant massage have adults that are less aggressive and violent! Infant massage is easily learned.

Loving touch lessens tension, fussiness and irritability. Digestion is aided and this can provide relief of gas and colic. Touch conveys nurturing and love, the essential ingredients for emotional and physical growth and well-being. Studies have shown increased weight gain, and immune function in the massaged infant. Myelination of nerves is also increased, which is essential for brain and muscle development. Parents become more aware of baby's nonverbal cues, and this one-on-one communication instills a message of love and security. As your infant learns to relax and release stress, longer and sounder sleep is often the end result.

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