Takhina Therapeutic Massage ~ Kala Smith, RMT

Massage Therapy

 “Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them.” ~ Dalai Lama

 Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance function, aid in the healing process, and promote relaxation and well-being.

Massage involves acting on and manipulating the body with pressure – structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving – tension, motion, or vibration, done manually. Target tissues include muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, skin, joints and other connective tissue.  There are a variety of massage techniques and modalities that I have incorporated into my practice:

Trigger Point Release (TPR); is an application  of slowly increasing , nonpainful pressure over a trigger point until the barrier of tissue resistance is encountered, contact is maintained until the tissue barrier releases.

Myofascial Release (MFR); a safe and effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.

Muscle Energy Technique (MET); improve alignment of bones and joints by harnessing the power of the muscular system, a gentle and active modality.

Swedish Massage Techniques; joint mobilization, compressions, rocking, tendon strumming, tapotement; for reducing tension, improving circulation and increasing relaxation of muscles.

Therapeutic Exercise Programs; may include stretching, strengthening, hydrotherapy, lifestyle choices for self care management.

Benefits of Therapeutic Massage

Continuous research is informing us that there are enormous benefits to be gained from regular massage therapy. From treating chronic diseases and physical injuries, to alleviating the stress of our fast-paced lifestyle, massage therapy can help.

Some of the Physical Benefits of Massage Include:

Relief of Pain, Stiffness & Discomfort

Increased Mobility & Function

Improved Circulation

Promoting Relaxation

Reducing Stress

Some of the Psychological Benefits of Massage Include:

Decreased Anxiety

Enhanced Sleep Quality

Higher Energy

Reduced Fatigue

Improve Concentration