Stephanie Wood, LMT

“Are you really massaging my organs through my feet?”

Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific areas of the feet based on reflexology maps and tradition.

It is a complementary practice and isn’t the same as treating your organs.

Think of it as helping your body communicate with your brain about what is going on with each reflex region.

Hot stones aren’t just to be bougie

Hot stones not only make for a better experience, but can feel deeply relaxing and help melt away stubborn tension.

Plus the added warmth is perfect in the colder seasons.

Cupping… what is actually happening?

Cupping uses cups placed on the skin to create suction. Unlike massage, which generally involves pressure into the tissues, cupping lifts tissues.

This creates separation between muscles and fascia, allowing for better flow of blood and lymph.

Those circular marks you sometimes see afterward are not bruises, but are related to changes in blood flow and pressure into the superficial tissues.

The marks vary per person, they may look dramatic or be barely noticeable.

Don’t be afraid to say you’re cold.

Massage rooms can feel chilly when you’re lying still.
And you are not supposed to spend your entire massage secretly shivering under the sheet.

Tell your therapist, we can get an extra blanket or heater to make sure you’re comfortable.

What does a massage therapist actually notice?

More than you might think.

How you move.

Where you naturally hold your arms.

Which side you favor.

How your muscles respond to pressure.

Whether you seem comfortable on the table.

We’re not judging.

We’re gathering information.

Bodies are fascinating, and massage therapists tend to become professional people-watchers.

Petrissage

Another fancy massage word!

Petrissage generally involves kneading, lifting, squeezing, or compressing soft tissue.

Think of the kind of movement you might associate with kneading dough, except we’re working with muscles instead.

Effleurage

Fancy word, simple concept.

Effleurage generally refers to smooth, gliding strokes used during massage.

You’ll often notice these longer strokes at the beginning or end of a massage, or between more focused techniques.

Massage therapists have a whole vocabulary for what our hands are doing.

We promise we’re not just making up fancy words to sound impressive. 😂

What is Swedish massage?

Swedish massage is one of the most commonly recognized styles of massage.

It typically uses techniques such as flowing strokes, kneading, and other rhythmic movements.

Depending on the therapist and the session, pressure can vary.