LIFEWAVES BODYWORK is not your typical massage therapy. The combination of techniques that I use are FASCIA BASED. There are many misconceptions about fascia, and myofascial release, which is why educating the client is essential to the effectiveness of treatment, and improving the client's mind/body awareness.
Although Bodywork Sessions can be performed using draping with sheets, lotion, etc., like in traditional massage therapy, most techniques can be performed through loose fitting clothes, shorts, or tights. So there's no need to be undressed.
One of my most popular bodywork treatments, over the years, has been my basic 1 hour Relaxation session for Head, Neck, Shoulders, and Back release, mainly addressing Chronic Stress & Pain Reduction.
MINDFULNESS-BASED STRUCTURAL INTEGRATION (MBSI)
MBSI utilizes therapeutic bodywork, myofascial and trigger point release, along with passive, assistive, and active range of motion techniques, to reduce pain, improve posture, body mechanics, flexibility, and proprioceptive movement awareness, as well as neuro-muscular re-education, aligning body structure with body function.
As soft tissue restrictions are released, the appropriate movements then help the body to begin "realigning" itself. New organization and awareness creates new movement patterns, allowing the structural changes to remain in tact.
With increased awareness (MINDFUL MOVEMENT) we can be more conscious of our own specific responses to movement, allowing us to begin "re-programming" those responses, eliminating the old habitual patterns of pain, restricted movement and compensation, as well as the protective holding of muscle tension and breath.
MBSI is most effective when done in a series of visits, starting with an evaluating treatment, then developing an individualized plan to address your specific needs.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
Fascia is a network of connective tissue that spreads throughout the body in a continuous, three dimensional web, from head to toe without interruption. Any disturbance to the fascial system due to injury, stress, (physical or emotional), chronic pain, improper posture, or poor body mechanics, causes fascia to protectively bind down, resulting in abnormal pressure, increased pain, and restricted movement. Because fascial restrictions don’t show up on standard imaging and other diagnostic tests, it often goes undiagnosed in many people experiencing pain and limited motion. With myofascial release, firm, but gentle forces are applied to release fascial restrictions. This “letting go” process reprograms and balances the complex neuromyofascial network (nerves, muscles, fascia), and all of its inter-connections, allowing a return to normal movement without triggering the old protective reflex patterns of pain, spasm, and the habitual holding of tension.
* NEUROMUSCULAR * TRIGGER POINT RELEASE * ACUPRESSURE
Acu-therapy is based on the principle that illness, dis-ease, and chronic pain, can be a result of over stressing the body and its inner balance. Trigger points are areas of condensed tension, linked with the neuromyofascial network, that, when stressed refer pain to other parts of the body. In this combined technique, finger, thumb, and hand pressure is used on a system of points and the associated zones (pathways), to release tension in the muscles and fascial tissue, reduce pain, and facilitate the body’s own natural healing processes, working towards creating more balance throughout all of our physiological systems.
CRAINIOSACRAL THERAPY
This very subtle, gentle technique is often used in conjunction with the myofascial release process, especially in the case of chronic headaches. The crainio-sacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. The natural flow of this fluid has a distinct rhythm, rate, amplitude, symmetry, and quality. Imbalances or restrictions in this system can result in sensory, motor or neurological disfunction, and pain. By releasing tension around the head and along the spine, the body’s self-correcting mechanism helps restore the natural balance of the “craniosacral rhythm”.
The term ORTHOPEDIC MASSAGE refers to a more clinical approach to treatment. Often, with specific injuries, surgeries, or chronic musculoskeletal conditions, certain therapeutic techniques and protocols are indicated, where as in some cases there are techniques that would be contra-indicated (not advised)
KINESIOLOGY TAPING and CUPPING can be another component to the MBSI approach of Treatment, Movement, Education, providing pain relief, fascial decompression, ongoing tissue release, and neuromuscular re-education between visits.
Bodywork sessions and MBSI can be performed through loose fitting clothes, shorts, tights, etc., allowing for various positional releases.
Testimonials
I met Ross a few years ago when I was a physical therapy patient. What I appreciated most was his alternative approach, which was much different than my past physical therapy experiences. He addressed more than just my injury. I had pain, stress about work, family, exercise, etc. He really opened my eyes to creating more balance and awareness in my rehab and in my life. Since then, I’ve made it a point to see Ross at least once a month for massage, managing my stress, and monitoring my exercise (and injuries) as I continue to work, raise a family, and enjoy my recreational activities. Thank you Lifewaves!
Mother/Office Worker, Age 37
I first experienced Ross’ sensible and gentle techniques when I took his yoga class. Unlike many others I have taken that seemed to do more harm than good, I always felt better after his. When an old foot injury flared up I turned to him for massage and bodywork. Before long, I regained flexibility and could return to walking, biking, and even running a bit, virtually pain free. I commute and travel for work and I always look forward to my weekly session with Ross to work out the kinks in mind and body that stress, travel, work, and play can cause. Thanks for bringing a little zen into an otherwise hectic life.
CEO/Health Administrator, Age 50+
I am a concert musician and I also teach my instrument. When I first met Ross, my shoulder was so bad that I thought my career would be over. I tried all kinds of doctors and therapy but got no answer or real relief. On the very first visit, the massage techniques he used and the things he showed me about breathing and body mechanics started to turn things around. I’m back now 100%, and use his tips about awareness with my students.
Musician/Teacher, age 59
Stress has always been a factor in my life. I know it was the main reason for my high blood pressure and eventually my heart attack. The relaxation techniques and gentle exercises that Ross has showed me have made a huge difference in reducing my stress, both physically and mentally.
Retired, age 67
I have fibromyalgia. I always have pain and always feel stressed. Medication helps but is not enough. The bodywork, relaxation, and exercises really help and make me feel like I’m on the right path to healing.
CNA/Mom, age 32