Aromatherapy Massage

 

 

Aromatherapy massage is a beautiful way to express caring and help relieve the stress of a loved one. Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to help promote and maintain physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being.

On its own, the benefits of massage are many including massage for diabetes, sports massage, seasonal affective disorder, Raindrop Aromatherapy and more which have been discussed in previous articles in this blog.

But when combined with aromatherapy, massage takes on a remarkable synergy that dramatically enhances the massage session...

               • Essential oils are comprised of the naturally occurring chemical constituents found in the botanical that they are distilled from. The classification of esters, for example, found in Lavender and Roman Chamomile essential oils are both naturally sedating/relaxing and anti-inflammatory. Essential oils are not oily feeling, are highly aromatic and are much different than vegetable (carrier) oils.
               • Combining well chosen essential oils (such as the example of Lavender or Roman Chamomile given above) with a carrier oil can promote relaxation, reduce stress and/or help to improve circulation and reduce swelling and pain. 
               • Some massage oils contain synthetic mineral oil that can potentially impair the skin's ability to breath. Wave Crest Massage uses natural oil as the massage oil base and as the "carrier oil" for essential oils. Natural oils can help to lubricate, moisturize and nourish the skin with EFAs and other important fatty acids, anti-oxidants and important nutritives (while fatty acids must be limited in the diet, they are important and nourishing for the skin).

This basic aromatherapy massage oil acts as a wonderful lubricant for massage while also diluting the concentrated essential oils for safe application to the skin. The carrier oil also helps to nourish and moisturize the skin.

Wave Crest Massage has the following essential oil blends:

Ø  Stress blend contains clary sage, lemon and lavender
Ø  Sleep Inducing and / or Anti-Inflammatory blend contains black pepper, peppermint  and eucalyptus
Ø  Sore Muscle blend contains ginger, black pepper, peppermint and eucalyptus
 

#aromatherapy  #aromatherapymassage  #essentialoil  #massageoil  #aromatouchtechnique 

                                                                          

 

CrossFit / WOD Massage

As CrossFit Athletes, we understand that we must endure some aches and pains as a result of our WOD’s. We hold a lot of those aches and pains in our shoulders, traps, hamstrings and quads. CrossFit massage speeds recovery and aids those aches and pains with trigger point massage therapy and deep tissue massage therapy. A trigger point is a tight area within muscle tissue that causes pain in other parts of the body.

 

Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release.

Deep tissue massage therapy is similar to Swedish massage, but the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension with the focus being on the deepest layers of muscle tissue and tendons.

A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that people’s blood pressure fell after a single 45-60 minute deep tissue massage.

Deep Tissue massage and trigger point therapy help greatly in the renewal and recovery of the CrossFit athlete. These techniques not only give our bodies the release of muscle tension after a rigorous workout, but they also assist in providing necessary toxins and gases to release from our muscles.

 

 

 

For anyone participating in regular physical activity, Sports massage therapy every week or two may be a great addition to your normal regimen.

Set up a time to talk with Roy about a plan that will work best with your training schedule and budget in mind.

Give Roy a call at 631-375-0962 or email him at:    roy@wavecrestmassage.com

#crossfit  #wod  #crossfitmassage  #wodmassage  #sportsmassage

 

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Heated Bamboo Massage

What is Heated Bamboo Massage
Heated bamboo massage is a technique for anyone wanting a relaxing and luxurious spa massage or for anyone who needs some serious deep-tissue bodywork for overworked and injured muscles. Throughout the massage, different warmed pieces of compressed bamboo are used to work the tension out of each muscle. Long fluid strokes in different styles like Swedish, deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, or neuromuscular therapy are used to stretch and compress the muscle and tissue. 

Heated bamboo massage incorporates the use of oil and essential oils to allow for smooth, long strokes and varying levels of pressure. Some strokes will start at the feet and continue all the way to the hands in one unending movement. Your session will usually start with a lighter touch with progressively deeper techniques varying from Swedish strokes to deep tissue and has the added benefit of deep penetrating heat.

What are some of the benefits of Heated Bamboo Massage?

• Increases circulation
• Flushes body of metabolic wastes (i.e., lactic acid) for faster healing time and detoxification
• Decreases muscle spasms
• Breaks up tissue adhesions
• Releases endorphins to promote relaxation and pain reduction

Who should receive Heated Bamboo Massage?

Anyone who has tissue adhesions, long periods with little movement, spasms, muscle tightness, insomnia, strains, sprains, headaches, a cold (tail-end), and plain old daily stress.

 

Heated Bamboo massage would not be advised for people with:

• Lymphatic Cancer
• Nausea
• Fever
• The beginnings of a cold or flu
• Any condition that taxes the circulatory system (i.e., uncontrolled high blood pressure)
• Most bacterial infections

For added convenience, Wave Crest Massage Therapy will go to your home or place of business. During the month of December you will receive a 10% discount and free upgrade of  Heated Bamboo Massage with Aromatherapy.
Contact us at 631-375-0962 to schedule your next appointment.

 

 

Always consult your doctor to see if massage or specific massage types are right for you.

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#heatedbamboomassage  #bamboomassage

Massage For Back Pain

Can Massage Help Your Back Problem?

For most of us, the answer is probably 'yes', since massage is non-invasive and considered very low risk for most people. In addition to physical benefits, certain types of massage have been shown to help psychologically via relaxation and increased production of 'feel good' chemicals that the body naturally produces (endorphins)--helpful for people with both acute back problems and chronic back pain.

 

Research shows that massage therapy has several potential health benefits for back pain sufferers, including:

•Increased blood flow and circulation, which brings needed nutrition to muscles and tissues. This aids in recovery of muscle soreness from physical activity or soft tissue injury (such as muscle strain).

•Decreased tension in the muscles. This muscle relaxation can improve flexibility, reduce pain caused by tight muscles and even improve sleep.

•Increased endorphin levels--the "feel good" chemicals in the brain. This mood enhancer can ease depression and anxiety, which can help reduce pain and speed recovery--particularly important for those suffering from chronic back or neck problems.

Most episodes of acute lower back pain are caused by muscle strain, such as from lifting a heavy object, a sudden movement or a fall. The low back pain can be very severe and last for several hours, several days or even a few weeks. When back muscles are strained or torn, the area around the muscles can become inflamed. With inflammation, the muscles in the back can spasm and cause both severe lower back pain and difficulty moving. The large upper back muscles are also prone to irritation, either due to de-conditioning (lack of strength) or overuse injuries (such as repetitive motions). Upper back pain may also be due to a specific event, such as a muscle strain, sports injury, or auto accident. Massage can help work out the spasm/irritation and improve range of motion.

Final Thoughts

Patients with severe back pain should be checked by medical personnel before beginning massage therapy, and patients should always obtain an accurate medical diagnosis for the cause of their back pain prior to beginning a new treatment such as massage therapy to rule out potentially serious conditions.

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#Backpain  #Backproblems  #Lowbackpain  #Upperbackpain  #Sciatica  #Massage  #Neckpain 

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets the deepest parts of the muscle tissues and tendons. This therapy also focuses on the fascia, which protects joints and muscles. Massage is ideal for people who have particular trouble areas in their bodies. Massage therapists apply slow and deliberate strokes that are less rhythmic compared to other forms of massage.
Deep-tissue massage offers a variety of emotional, biological, and physical health benefits.

1. Muscle Tension Relief

Deep tissue massage offers long term relief from muscle tension and muscle cramps. This massage is therapeutic because it focuses on the muscles that are tense. The pressure helps to relieve tension by enhancing blood circulation in the affected area.
Improved circulation helps to offer immediate relief. Muscle tension is common among people who suffer from chronic pain. The massage is an ideal way to deal with this kind of tension.

2. Toxin Release

Toxin build up is one of the main causes of degenerative diseases in human beings. Exposure to environmental chemicals can lead to toxin build up. However, we also get toxins through normal internal body processes.
Toxins can be stored in the body tissue and this can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases. Deep tissue massage helps the body to release toxins by increasing oxygen and blood circulation in the tissue.

3. Chronic Pain Reduction

Deep tissue massage has been identified as one of the most effective ways to manage chronic pain. It is also affordable compared to the prescription and over-the-counter medications that most people rely on to reduce pain. The pressure applied during this kind of massage promotes blood flow in the body, which in turn reduces inflammation. Most chronic pain is caused by inflammation.

4. Promote Scar Healing

People who have scars from injuries or surgery can use deep tissue massage to promote healing. This form of massage helps to break up the tissue that forms after injury and surgery. The scar tissue can disappear after repeated massage sessions. It works because it enhances circulation in the lymphatic system.
The pressure put on the tissues also promotes drainage in the lymphatic system. The presence of scar tissue can cause stiffness and constant pain. Deep tissue massage offers relief and it is ideal, especially if you are recovering from an accident or surgery.

5. Enhance Emotional Health

A deep tissue massage can help to promote emotional health by reducing stress levels. Stress is a part of daily life and it is considered necessary but when it gets out of hand, it can have adverse effects on your emotional and physical health. When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol.
This stress hormone is released in response to any physical or psychological stress that you face. The massage lowers the levels of stress hormones in your body. It also reduces heart rate, which goes up when you are stressed.
A massage also improves your mood and promotes relaxation because it triggers the release of serotonin and oxytocin in the body. When your serotonin levels are up, you feel happier. Hectic day-to-day activities can cause stress and this leads to tense muscles, tension headaches and bad moods. A deep tissue massage relieves the stress and lifts your mood.

For added convenience, Wave Crest Massage Therapy will go to your home or place of business. During the month of December you will receive a 10% discount and free upgrade of Aromatherapy.
Contact us at 631-375-0962 to schedule your next appointment.

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#deeptissue #deeptissuemassage #massage

Massage and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder is defined as winter depression. It is triggered by the onset of winter, and is thought to be due to the decrease in sunlight, which decreases vitamin D levels. Studies have shown that low vitamin D may be linked to depression [1].

If you are experiencing symptoms of SAD, consider therapeutic massage. Massage is, in essence, its own medicine. Massage greatly reduces the symptoms of depression. Massage decreases cortisol levels, and with decreased cortisol levels there is a decrease in stress. Massage allows the body to restore parasympathetic nervous system functioning. In this state the body is at rest. Massage increases the level of endorphins (the body’s natural anti-depressant). Massage strengthens the mind/body connection and increases our general sense of wellbeing, our immunity and vitality.

For added convenience, Wave Crest Massage Therapy will go to your home or place of business. During the month of December you will receive a 10% discount and free upgrade of Aromatherapy.
Contact us at 631-375-0962 to schedule your next appointment.

Footnotes:

1 — A recent study of more than 12,500 people aged 20 to 90 showed that people with the lowest levels of vitamin D were more likely to report symptoms of depression, compared to those with higher levels. This relationship was strongest among people with a history of depression. 

#seasonalaffectivedisorder  #sad  #winterdepression

The Benefit of Massage for People With Diabetes

 

As with any population, massage is a beneficial complementary therapy -- diabetics, however, can find the results especially helpful.

Circulation -- There is no getting around the fact that massage can increase circulation, thereby encouraging the efficient transport of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Improved circulation, in turn, improves the cells' insulin uptake.

Relaxation -- The benefits of relaxation should not be underestimated, especially within the diabetic community. Consider the physical and psychological stresses of living with a debilitating disease and the need to self-medicate and monitor on a daily basis, as well as the burden diabetes puts on the body and its systems. That said, it's easy to see the therapeutic correlation between massage and diabetes. With the release of endorphins, the nervous system calms, there is a reduction of stress hormones and the diabetic client can find a homeostasis with their blood sugar levels.

Myofascial Effects -- For the client with diabetes, there may be a thickening of their connective tissue caused by increased blood sugars. Massage will help to increase mobility and tissue elasticity that has been hindered by that thickening effect. Of course, a good exercise program -- with an efficient stretching regimen -- will also be of benefit.

Advice to Diabetics
Tell your therapist what you need, and do not be afraid to give them honest feedback about your experience. This is an opportunity for both therapist and client to learn from each other, enjoying the experience of giving and receiving massage. No matter what specific type of therapy is used, it is the communication and rapport between therapist and client that is most important.

If you have particular needs and concerns, share those with your therapist. Let them know what is most helpful to you. Know it is okay to stop and drink some juice during a massage if you need to, and let them know if a shorter session is more in order for you.

Definitely consult with your physician to see if this is for you. Ask what types of massage would be beneficial if approved.


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#diabetes  #diabetesmassage

The Benefits of Sports Massage

Sports massage therapy is geared toward athletes of every kind, from world-class professionals to weekend golfers and tennis players. The particulars of the sports massage technique are specific to the athlete's sport of choice. Focusing on areas of the body that are overused and stressed from repetitive and often aggressive movements.

Aspects of sports massage therapy are gaining popularity as useful components in a balanced training regimen. Sports massage therapy can be used as a means to enhance pre-event preparation and reduce recovery time for maximum performance during training or after an event. Athletes have discovered that specially designed sports massage promotes flexibility, reduces fatigue, improves endurance, helps prevent injuries and prepares their body and mind for optimal performance.
One of the key benefits of Sports massage therapy compared to other modalities is its ability to target muscle-tendon junctions. A 2010 study in the journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that even a 30-second massage improved hip-flexor range of motion. Another study conducted by Margaret Jones, Ph.D. of the American College of Sports Medicine, demonstrated a notable trend toward decreased muscle soreness in the athletes who received massage either before or after exercise.
For anyone participating in regular physical activity, Sports massage therapy every week or two may be a great addition to your normal regimen. Working together, we will find a plan that will work best with your schedule, level of activity and budget.

The American Massage Therapy Association states that research shows that in relation to exercise and athletic participation, massage can do the following:
Reduce muscle tension
Help athletes monitor muscle tone
Promote relaxation
Increase range of motion
Decrease muscle stiffness and soreness after exercise
Enhance athletic performance
Help prevent injuries when massage is received regularly

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#sportsmassage  #crossfit  #crossfitmassage  #wod  #massage

Raindrop Aromatherpy

Raindrop Aromatherapy is the use of 7 essential oils and 2 essential oil blends. Each essential oil is first used to massage the spinal reflexes on each foot. They are then dropped like rain onto the back, then feathered and massaged along the vertebrae and back muscles. They are then massaged into the body using gentle light-touch massage techniques. The application of these oils helps to release toxins, balance the body’s systems, and open the energy flow throughout the entire body. The treatment ends with moist heat applied to the back, followed by a gentle neck massage.
The oils promote muscle relaxation & continue to work for up to 1 week to reduce inflammation, balance energy & support the immune system.


1. Raindrop Technique helps reduce pain.

2. Raindrop Technique helps relieve stress.

3. Raindrop Technique helps improve circulation.

4. Raindrop Technique helps reduce inflammation.

5. Raindrop Technique helps improve immune function.

6. Raindrop Technique can facilitate the release of pent-up negative emotions.

7. Raindrop Technique can help prevent bacterial & viral causes of spinal

misalignment.

*Remember-plants were mankind's first medicine.

To book a session for yourself or as a gift, contact me at (631) 375-0962

#Raindroparomatherapy  #Aromatherapy  #Essentialoil #Aromatouch  #Aromatouchtherapy  #Raindroptherapy  #Raindroptechnique

Massage Therapy for Crossfit Athletes

Mobility and movement are the essential building blocks to CrossFit. Without proper movement and mobility we find ourselves unable to perform the CrossFit movements with full range of motion and pain free. There are many facets to mobility and one is ensuring that we keep our muscles in tip-top shape to keep us moving well. A great way to do that is to incorporate regular massage therapy into our training program.

Benefits of massage therapy:

 

◾Improves blood and lymph circulation

◾Improves flexibility, lengthening of fascia and muscle which increases range of motion and has the added benefit of making your muscles look more toned

◾Decreases inflammation

◾Improves respiratory functions

◾Stimulates the immune system

◾Improves lymphatic movement to break up and release toxins and helps reduce pain and inflammation in the joints and tendons

◾Decreases stress and anxiety

Self Myofascial Release

 

To a lesser degree, this offers the same benefits as massage but you can do it at home on your own. Think of it as “maintenance work” that you can do in between your massage therapy sessions.  The most common tools used are a Foam Roller and a Tennis Ball or a Lacrosse ball.  Just ask us how to use them and I’ll demonstrate them for you.  Highly recommended to make them part of your daily routine. 

Massages don’t just feel great, they also provide excellent recovery assistance for CrossFit athletes. Getting a regular massage once a month or more can help you reduce soreness and risk of injury while increasing mobility so you can perform better.

During high intensity exercise, lactic acid and general toxins from acidity increase in your muscles. Your body can naturally clear lactic acid and toxins with time and rest, however massage can help expedite the process, especially when you are working out often. 

The best times to get a massage:

•At least 45 minutes after you have completed your WOD for the day.

•During recovery periods – rest days or deload weeks.

•3 days before a competition or race. This will help improve your range of motion and mobility for your competition.

•After a competition or race to help you recover quickly.

Getting the most out of your massage

You may find that your muscles are sore the next 24 – 48 hours after a massage. Some ways that you can help your body recover and get the most benefits from your massage include:

•Drinking lots of water before and after your massage. Being properly hydrated assists lymphatic drainage and blood flow.

•Using heat packs or having a warm bath with Epsom salts reduces muscle tenderness.

•Get a good night of sleep.

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#CrossFit  #CrossFitmassage #Sportsmassage  #WOD  #Crossfitathletes

Essential Oil

Essential Oils

Wave Crest Massage Therapy uses only high grade essential oils and oil enhanced products. Essential oils are the world’s most powerful medicinals.

 Essential oils have been revered for centuries for their restorative properties of the body, mind and spirit. These pure essential oils are rapidly returning to our daily lives as a more holistic way of dealing with the challenging lifestyles of today.

Wave Crest Massage Therapy carries many of the more popular Young Living oil products and can assist you in enrolling so you may take advantage of 24% off the retail price of these high grade products.

If you have tried essential oils and did not experience an emotional shift or a physical healing you may not have been using therapeutic grade essential oil.  In this event, I invite you to give Young Living a try.  You won’t be disappointed!

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#essentialoil  #aromatherapy  #youngliving  #doterra

Massage Therapy Techniques

Massage Therapy Techniques

Currently, the most effective massage techniques that massage chairs are designed to try to be like are that of Shiatsu and Swedish massage.

Swedish massage is characteristic of long gliding strokes and kneading motions. This type of massage aims at fostering proper and strong circulation. A good hands-on massage can play a crucial role in alleviating back pain. Similarly, a good massage chair is designed to provide some measure of pain relief and relaxation, however, without the need for person-to-person interaction. Getting a massage in the privacy of home, along with convenience and time efficiency, are the major reasons why some are opting to go with a massage chair as a potential means to ease their back pain.
Massage improves venous and lymphatic flow—manipulating muscles increases blood flow. Increasing blood flow facilitates the circulation and absorption of nutritional elements into the muscles and tissues. Increasing lymphatic circulation clears toxins out of these areas. Together, this revitalizes the massaged area.

Shiatsu tends to use pressing, sweeping, patting, rolling, and rotating movements. The defining characteristic of Shiatsu is its focus on releasing tension in specific locations of the body.

Benefits of Massage Therapy and Massage Chairs

Comprehensive research has demonstrated that there are three central reasons why massage is beneficial:

Massage therapy decreases tension and improves flexibility - massaging helps loosen tight and strained muscles. Stretching and kneading problem areas allow muscles to relax as well.
Massage therapy increases endorphin levels - possibly the most beneficial aspect of massage. Endorphins are the 'feel good' chemicals that run through the body - increasing their levels induces positive results. Among other benefits, increasing endorphin levels has been correlated with quicker recovery, reduced pain, and reduced anxiety.

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#massagechair  #chairmassage  #backpain