Massage

Holistic Massage benefits all aspects of your being; body, mind and spirit. The massage I practice is a lymphatic drainage massage. Its main purpose is to increase flow in, and thereby improve the function of, the lymphatic system. It is also very relaxing.

The lymph system is vital to your health. Lymph vessels make up an intricate network that is found in all parts of the body except the central nervous system. The vessels contain lymph fluid, which bathes all cells in the body and provides a constant exchange of material within the cells. It delivers nutrients to the cells, and carries wastes produced by cellular metabolism, toxins, and other large particles to the lymph nodes. Here waste products, infectious substances, toxins, etc. are literally destroyed by lymphocytes, which also produce antibodies to defend the body against infections.

The lymph system, lacking a heart-like organ to pump the fluid, depends on tiny muscle contractions to move it forward throughout the system to eventually drain into two large veins at the base of the neck. Here it moves into the venous system, where waste and excess fluid is removed from the blood by the kidneys and then eliminated from the body.

This movement of lymph fluid can become sluggish or congested, allowing toxins to accumulate in the body. Symptoms can include aches and pains, soreness, low energy, edema, susceptibility to colds and other infections, skin problems, migraine headaches, constipation, sinusitis, and chronic fatigue or pain.

Regular lymphatic massage keeps lymph fluid moving, removing toxins and stimulating the immune system. You feel better and stay healthier. In addition you will probably experience other benefits, such as total relaxation, tension and stress release, improved skin elasticity and tone, reduced fluid retention, improved stamina and energy, increased flexibility, improved muscle tone, and increased circulation. It can help to repair torn muscles and ease soreness or stiffness in painful muscles. It is especially helpful in cases of edema, after surgeries or sports injuries, and for scar healing.

Rejuvenation Massage includes a hydrating facial massage with the lymphatic massage.  Very relaxing and pampering- and still includes all the wonderful benefits described above!

Raindrop Technique Aromatherapy Massage

Raindrop Technique Aromatherapy Massage is a truly remarkable procedure that combines a variety of energy medicine and natural modalities.  Developed by D. Gary Young, ND & DOC in the 1980’s, it includes the use of several anti-bacterial essential oils (both as aromatics and as direct topical agents and massage through a series of specific techniques for the spinal muscles, along with moist heat.  Since its development it has brought relief to thousands suffering chronic back pain.  Studies continue to support and verify the principles upon which the Raindrop Technique is based.  It not only helps heal the spine, but also benefits other body systems, including the mental and emotional functions of the brain.

The many benefits include pain reduction, reduced inflammation, improved circulation, stress relief, improved immune function, and the release of pent-up negative emotions.  It can also help prevent the bacterial and viral causes of spinal misalignment, including scoliosis and kyphosis.             

In short, the benefits go well beyond the physical benefits of massage.  It can help improve every aspect of life, physically, mentally, and emotionally, often relieving a variety of issues in a single treatment.  Not only does it help to relieve pain and restore physical well-being, it can set in motion healing processes that will last for weeks or even months.

This massage can be incorporated into a full body lymphatic massage, or performed alone.  While a healthy body needs a well-rounded program of exercise, proper diet, and a positive, open mind, the Raindrop Technique provides another wonderful tool to help restore balance in the body that will lead to good health. 

(For more information about essential oils, see the Aromatherapy page.)

 

 

 

 

©2008 Joyce Phelps Stephens
NCLMBT #2272