Learn more about the different types of massage incorporated into Elixirs, read historical news in the Elixir's Extracts archive or visit some of my favorite websites.
The field of bodywork & massage is diverse and ever expanding, with roots that extend over thousands of years, into nearly every culture. Our capacity for touch is at once simple and complex, primal and sophisticated; we use it to care for, communicate and connect with each other and the way we touch is as unique as we are.
Before I began this life long study, I had a very limited idea of the different massage traditions around the world and didn't even know the difference between "normal" massage or "deep tissue" massage--a delineation made quite often in our society. If you're interested in learning about how my practice developed, included below are (very) brief synopses of each modality that I incorporate into my treatments.
Swedish Massage
This modality is the base of most Western massage traditions, and often what people refer to when they say they want a "regular" massage in the US. It uses a generalized protocol of effleurage, or sweeping strokes, petrissage, or kneading, and friction, deeper and more focused strokes. Additionally, it utilizes vibration and tapotement (tapping) to invigorate and redistribute fluidity in the tissue. Traditions such as Deep Tissue and Sports Massage have some roots in the basic ideology and approach of Swedish massage, although they do branch out into other, very specialized directions.
Myofascial Release (MFR)
Your body is an interconnected web of tissue that runs in "trains" based on muscle fiber direction and structural placement. MFR is a manual technique that focuses on improving the movement between the tissue layers that connect your outer skin tissues to your muscles, bones and organs. This work is often performed with little or no oil and does have the potential to be a bit more uncomfortable than other modalities. MFR can result in an increase in overall flexibility and decrease generalized feelings of "tightness" in your body. This modality is utilized often during tissue warm-up and focus work in Elixirs.
Ayurveda
This several thousand year old Indian healing tradition focuses on body constitutions, called Doshas, developed to investigate and provide balance within the body. Ayurveda encompasses all aspects of health, from nutrition to curative methods to mental function to bodywork. Abhyanga, the Ayurvedic massage discipline, features strokes delivered in multiples of three, warmed oils and activation of energetic Marma points.
Lomi Lomi
By far one of the most graceful disciplines, the sacred dance of Lomi is part of the Hawaiian spiritual and healing tradition. Designed to invoke the sensation of rhythmic, rocking ocean waves, Lomi features whole side integration and the strokes flow from head to toe, unlike the more regionally-specific approach of Swedish, MFR or Ayurveda.
Acupressure
Based on the energetic meridians of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Acupressure involves activating specific energy points throughout the body in order to improve movement of energy (Qi). The form of acupressure used at Elixir is based in Shiatsu, a Japanese massage modality that employs jostling, compressions and pressure point work in order to increase the flow of Qi.
Polarity Energy Therapy
Polarity is a hybrid energy modality with roots in both TCM and Ayurveda. It concentrates on balancing the negative and positive energetic fields surrounding the body by gently rocking while activating energetic points and/or Chakras to increase the connection and flow of the energy. This non-invasive, relaxing and nurturing modality begins and ends each Elixir.
Elixir's Extracts is a quarterly newsletter sent out via post to anyone with whom I've worked. It includes seasonal tips and recipes, information on promotions or specials and details on any new services I've introduced. If you'd like to be on my mailing list, please email me with your postal address and you'll be added to all future mailings.
Treat yourself to delicious, nurturing bliss at the hands of the talented Fauzia Morgan. Her holistic, organic treatments are renowned as the best facial in Seattle and are highly recommended!
Laurieanne is a skilled Acupuncturist, Chinese Herbalist and RN, melding a rich understanding of the human body with a grounded, effective approach to your treatment. Acupuncture can help with everything from the common cold to chronic pain and is also infinitely relaxing.
This is my favorite shop for herbs, essential oils, handmade soaps and teas. Located in the Ballard area of Seattle, Dandelion is a wonderful, eclectic place to spend an afternoon.
If you need to get into shape but hate the idea of a busy, chain gym, Sara Sutherland's personalized training sessions in one of her two small studios (located in Magnolia or Wallingford) might be the motivation you're looking for. She's humorous, down to earth and really loves her job--all very important qualities in a trainer!
Crafted in Hungary, Eminence Organic Skin Care features yummy concoctions inspired by Earth's beautiful bounty.
