For more information see our hotstonemassagevideo.com

The Hot Stone Massage Video/DVD, produced and distributed by The Institute for Therapeutic Massage, Inc., is designed to show bodyworkers the necessary equipment, setup, and techniques used when performing a Hot Stone Massage. While recognizing that all therapists have their own style, you receive the information you need to integrate Hot Stone Massage into your work. Don't waste your money on expensive equipment sold to therapists for outrageous prices - this video will tell you where to get the materials you need for less! This video covers contraindications to hot stone massage, materials and where to get them, how to set up and prepare for Hot Stone Massage, and how to use the stones safely and effectively. There is also a certification option offered with 6 CEUs.

I have studied with a variety of teachers and have been in practice for several years as an Asheville massage therapist.

I am a nationally certified massage therapy and trained in the following modalities:

Hot Stone Massage

The use of heated stones upon the human body as a tool for healing has been used by various cultures for thousands of years. The application of heat to the body and the relaxing effects this has on muscles and the nervous system has been recognized by numerous ancient civilizations. Heated stones were used by Egyptians in their ceremonies, and heated stones have also been used by American Indians and in Lomi Lomi massage in Hawaii.

However, it was 1994 that the use of heated stones as part of a full body massage began. Mary Nelson, a massage therapist from of Tucson, Arizona spent 3 years researching and developing the LaStone massage method. She then began sharing her knowledge and began training the massage staff at numerous resorts and spas throughout the southwest states of America. As more and more tourists experienced the LaStone Massage, word spread throughout the spa and healing arts industry and today hot stone massage can be found on the menu of spas and resorts in all corners of the globe. Mary's staff of professional instructors have

trained thousands of massage therapists in 3 to 5 day long classes, worldwide.

During an authentic hot stone massage, stones are heated in hot water and then used in two ways. Some stones will be laid under a towel or pillowcase placed under the back along both sides of the spine and on top of the torso (on a towel) to heat the Chakra centers. Heated stones coated in oil are then used directly in the hands of the therapist delivering various massaging strokes of the muscle tissues. The heat from the stones helps to relax the muscles which then permits greater overall results for the massage experience.

Sports Massage

One of the fastest growing forms of treatment for athletes for the prevention of injuries, enhancing performance and in rehabilitation. The sports therapist applies a range of techniques including therapeutic soft tissue massage, gentle mobilization, and stretching techniques to restore function to muscles and joints before, during and following sporting participation. Sports Therapy is founded upon an intimate understanding of the structure and biomechanics of the musculoskeletal system. Sports Therapists work in collaboration with other members of the Sports Medicine Team.

Soft Tissue Therapy

The Assessment, Treatment and Management of Soft Tissue Injury, Pain and Dysfunction. Treatment techniques include:

• Trigger point therapy for the alleviation of trigger points.
  
  
• Myofascial (muscle and fascia) therapy for flexibility/mobility of the connective tissues of our body, or for alleviating fibrous adhesions and decreasing the severity of scars.
  
  
• Broad handed techniques for reducing swelling or inflammation.
  
  
• Frictions for the ridding of adhesions between fascial layers, muscles, compartments and the like. Frictions also promote healing in tendon pathologies as well as decreasing pain perception.
  
  
• Sustained pressure (digital pressures) to alleviate hypertonic (tight)areas within muscle and fascia.
  
  
• Other techniques such as Active Release Therapies, Myofascial Release and deep tissue massage are all derivatives of the techniques above. They are NOT unique techniques with unique results.
  
  
• Stretching - static, dynamic, and/or PNF stretches (proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation).
  
  
• Muscle Energy Technique
  
  
• Exercise Prescription
  
  
• Advice
  
  

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure and works along the energy meridians in the body also with a lot of stretches the same meridians as acupressure. You are fully clothed while being worked while on a mat on the floor. It is uncertain whether it originated from Chinese Zhi Ya.

Muscle Energy Technique

Reciprocal Inhibition is when the therapist uses a client’s muscle to stretch the opposing muscle. The therapist takes the muscle that they are wishing to stretch to its point of bind. The therapist then gets the client to use the opposing muscle by moving away from the therapist. When the client relaxes the therapist then moves the muscle to realign the muscle fibres therefore stretching the muscle.

As an example, Muscle Energy Technique Reciprocal Inhibition can be applied to the calf while you are lying supine on the treatment couch. I then place one hand on the tibia just below the knee to isolate the knee preventing it from moving. My other hand is placed around the heel so that my forearm can be used to dorsiflex the foot. This is just one of the techniques used in my practice.

Deep Tissue

Deep tissue techniques are generally designed for more focused massage work. Working a specific joint, muscle or muscle group, I access deeper layers of the soft tissue. Starting superficially and easing into the depth of the muscle slowly often allows more movement. This is the recommended approach in this modality since each of my clients experiences pressure differently. If the pressure is applied too deeply or too quickly, the muscle may tighten to protect that area, and unnecessary damage or inflammation can be induced. Very little lubricant is used as the pressure doesn't travel much over the skin.

The most commonly used "tools" during deep tissue massage may include, 3 and 6 fingers, reinforced fingers, a flat elbow, opposing thumbs, the heel of the hand or foot, and the forearm.

Swedish Massage

This style utilizes long, flowing strokes, often but not necessarily in the direction of the heart. Swedish massage is designed to increase irculation and blood flow. There are six basic strokes: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, compression and vibration.

Talcum powder, oil, cream, or lotion is applied on the skin to reduce friction and allow smooth strokes.

I appreciate and honor each person that I have the privilege to work on. I treat each person as an individual with unique needs. I listen with my ears, my spirit and my heart and respond accordingly.

My hours are flexible to accommodate my clients. I can travel to your home or place of work - however, my studio is setup for maximum versatility and comfort.

Please call for an appointment. I will do my best to work with your schedule. I charge on a sliding scale of $40-$60 per hour. Massage is an important component of maintaining good health, so I try to make it affordable for everyone.