SAGE HEALTH: MASSAGE

THERAPEUTIC DEEP TISSUE
Deep tissue massage is a type of massage aimed at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as "adhesions.")

BREATH WORK (PRANA)
Prana is the vital energy that sustains the manifestation of the universe pulsating within every cell. It enlivens and coordinates all bodily functions and is intimately intertwined with the mind. Through the breath we are able to establish a steady pranic flow in the body allowing our body-tissue to relax more easily. This is especially important during Deep Tissue work.

SWEDISH
Swedish Massage uses variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones. By rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart; Swedish Massage is designed to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood.  This also assists with the release of toxins from the muscles and flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes.  Firm soothing strokes help to keep ligaments and tendons supple and pliable. This style of massage both stimulates the skin and nervous system while at the same time soothes the nerves themselves. Swedish Massage is excellent for stress reduction, both emotional and physical.

HOT STONE
Hot Stone Massage is a variation of massage that implements the use of heated basalt stones. The stones are smooth, black lava stones that are rich in iron and retain heat. The stones are placed on various key points of the body allowing the heat to warm and relax the body. Oil is used to help glide the stones smoothly over the body. The use of heat helps to increase circulation and loosen muscles, allowing the therapist to work deeper into the muscles without the pressure. Hot stone massage also assists in the removal of toxins in the body by increasing circulation and heating the core temperature of the body. This massage is excellent for a variety of health conditions such as aches and pains, poor circulation, stress and tension, insomnia, and depression to name a few.
*We need 24 hours notice to allow enough time to heat the stones. It is recommended that you do not eat a heavy meal prior to receiving a treatment and to drink plenty of water before and after the treatment to help flush the toxins from your system. Some contraindications include pregnancy, some heart conditions, circulatory conditions, high blood pressure, inflammation, or diabetes.

RAIN DROP THERAPY
In the ancient healing modality of Rain Drop Therapy, a combination of 7 single oils and 2 therapeutic blends are applied in a sequence of lighter, flowing strokes. These pure essential oils are utilized as an alternative means to help alleviate chronic pain in various parts of the body. Once the sequence of oils have been applied to the desired area, that part of the body then gets covered with a towel soaked in very warm water. The client is then wrapped so that the heat will help the oil get pushed further into the body. A feeling of alignment and restored energy is often the sensation the client feels after such treatments. This is often followed by much less pain in that area or overall. This ancient art form of healing was initially used by the Lakota Native Americans, who used a feather moving upwards along the spine as an imitation of the Northern Lights, which were thought to possess highly curative and healing properties. This technique was taught to Dr. Young for his back pain, who later developed what we know now as "Rain Drop Therapy." .

ACUPRESSURE
Acupressure is an ancient healing art that uses the fingers to press key points on the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these points are pressed, they release muscular tension and promote the circulation of blood and the body's life force to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses the gentle but firm pressure of hands.

FLOWER ESSENCE THERAPY
Flower essences are herbal infusions or decoctions, made from the flowering part of the plant, which uniquely address emotional and mental aspects of wellness. The first 38 flower remedies were formulated by a British physician, Dr. Edward Bach, in the 1930's. Recently new remedies from other plant species have become available. Chris offers 103 “North American Flower Essences”. How do flower essences work? To understand how flower essences work requires a recognition that the human being is more than a physical body, but also incorporates a "body" of life energy, a "body" of sensitivity and feelings, and a spiritual essence or Self. Flower essences are energetic imprints of the life force of plants which interact with these subtle bodies of the human being, and evoke specific qualities within us.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY
CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. For more information visit: www.upledger.com.

REIKI
Reiki is a natural, simple, safe, effective healing system that uses spiritually guided universal energy, the energy which permeates our entire universe and all living things. This energy is channeled through the hands of the practitioner into the body and aura of the receiver. It is an ancient healing system that has been used for thousands of years and was rediscovered by Dr Mikao Usui. Reiki is a Japanese term meaning universal energy, or spiritually guided universal energy, because it is the divine consciousness, the All-knowing that guides this life force. If you are suffering from an illness (physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually), your energy level is lessened. Reiki works to assist you in bringing your energy level back up to its natural flow, thereby enhancing your own natural healing powers. Reiki practitioners do not suffer from energy depletion, as they are trained to channel energy from the outside environment, not from their personal supply. Rei: universal, cosmic, divine or what is present all around us. Ki : the life force energy - the energy which keeps us alive.

Chris Cravens (for more info)     Michael Rudzinski (for more info)
Vu Dang (for more info)                  Adrienne Southwell (for more info)