Specialties

There are a number of terrific reasons to get a massage. Here are some of the special issues Melissa can address with therapeutic bodywork.

Stress management

We live in a fast-paced world. Let’s face it… we don’t always put our health at the top of our list of priorities. The long-term effects of stress can physically manifest themselves as hypertension, irritability, tension headaches, or inability to sleep. Prolonged stress can also weaken the immune system. Massage helps stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is key to helping you fully relax and letting your body just “be.” A full-body Swedish treatment may be just the thing to help you curb some of the effects of a high-stress life.

Musicians

As a musician herself, Melissa can attest to the repetitive stress injuries that come along with anchoring the body in one position for extended periods of time. Each instrument requires the body to perform a specialized function, often at the risk of affecting posture, joint mobility, and breathing patterns. If you find yourself coping with pain or tension related to your musical talent, specific deep tissue work may aid in decreasing your discomfort, which in turn will positively affect your performance.

Athletes

Moving your body is one of the best ways to maintain health. Whether you run marathons, ride your bike to work, walk around the block, or play some sort of organized team sport, anyone who is physically active is an athlete. We don’t need gold medals or a place in a hall of fame to know that if we push ourselves too hard, it can result in overworked muscle tissue, soreness or stiffness in joints, and may result in extended periods of recovery. Massage has the potential to soothe aching muscles, increase range of motion in the joints, and decrease recovery time.

Computer users & gamers

Do you sit at a computer most of the day? Does your forearm hurt from one too many hours with Wii? Computer use is a common cause of back issues, neck problems and shallow breathing. Massage can release tight muscles and potentially restore the ability for the body to retain a more healthy posture. From sore wrists to tension in the eyes from too much time behind the monitor, massage can help you relieve tension and pain caused by computer-related activities.

Prenatal

Are you expecting? If so, congratulations! Pregnancy is a pivotal, exciting point in any woman’s life. Taking a moment for yourself is key during this special time. Massage helps relieve the aches and tension that commonly come with a body working for two. Bodywork can ease low back pain, lessen swelling in the lower extremities, and provide the important benefits of relaxation. Extra support and attention to breath add to the experience.