Therapeutic Massages

Esalen Swedish A long, flowing form of traditional Swedish massage known for its balancing and unifying qualities, Esalen is a beautiful form of massage. Swedish is the soft modality for alleviating stress and is therapeutic for the lymphatic system.

Deep Tissue A generic term for forms of massage designed to relieve chronic muscular tension as a result of unbalanced posture or repetitive motion. Contrary to popular perception, Deep Tissue massage does not actually have to hurt to be effective. I work within the comfort level of the client, finding the depth that allows the musculature to soften and release of its own volition.

 

Sports Massage Used by both athletes and people with repetitive-use issues, sports massage is the modality I refer to to treat acute pain. This type of massage can be employed on fully-clothed clients, if desired. In a Sports Massage session, you will be an active participant in the process. There is a bit of dialogue and movement on the part of the client as we seek to isolate and soften constricted musculature through facilitated stretches.

Aromatherapy Massage Adding aromas enhances the experience of massage by stimulating the senses and lifting the mood. I utilize professional-quality basic blends. The offerings change according to the seasons. Please ask.

Couples Massage Bring your partner or a friend and have your massages side by side simultaneously. Perfect for anniversaries, Valentines Day and other special occasions. Because our second Massage Therapist is on call, please allow extra time during the booking process. Typical duration is 1 hour. Also available as an hour and a half session.

Hot Stone Massage Smooth, gentle Swedish bodywork coupled with warm stones placed on major muscle groups make this a popular, relaxing session during the winter months. Many find the heat and comfortable weight of the stones helps the body release emotional stress. This is particularly effective when combined with winter aromatherapy blends.

Pre-natal Massage Remember just a few months ago when you could lay on your stomach? You can again with the pregnancy table. An ovoid opening with strong, flexible elastic support enables even mothers in advanced pregnancy to enjoy their massage in optimal comfort. Large-breasted women can take advantage of the breast recesses in the table, enabling the shoulderblades to retract slightly. This allows superior access and much needed relief to the musculature in the center of the back (the trapezius and rhomboids), which tend to be a key area of chronic stress for expectant mothers. A series of Pre-Natal Massages is a wonderful gift to give a mother-to-be. It's also a good time for fathers to learn massage - both for the mother and newborn.

Reflexology This treatment involves massage and pressure point work on the feet. Reflexology (as distinct from simple foot massage) is beneficial as a balancing modality. Stimulation of the nerves in the feet send information to the perisympathic nervous system, encouraging organ systems toward improved function. A nice add-on to any session, or a session in and of itself.

On-Site Massage A massage in your own chosen enviroment can be one of the most pleasant ways to experience a single or group session. We offer everything from seated chair massage at the office or a special event to the traditional table session in your home or hotel. For groups of friends, on-site massage has been a very popular addition to birthday dinners, wedding anniversaries, or as a welcome surprise for friends and family returning home from a busy trip.

Generally, my sessions tend toward simple relaxation work - flowing, relatively silent and with an emphasis aesthetic and introspection - but I'm happy to help with injuries and chronic soft tissue pain as well. More than anything else, your priorities determine the tone of the session.

 
The Massage Studio
1800 R St NW | 202-288-4911
Tues-Sat 9:30-7:00 | Sun & Mon by appointment
massagestudiodc@yahoo.com