Gemma

Deep tissue massage is a therapeutic technique that targets deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. Here's a comprehensive explanation:
Key characteristics and techniques:
Slow, deliberate strokes apply sustained pressure using knuckles, forearms, elbows, and thumbs. The therapist works against the muscle grain, focusing on chronic muscle tension and adhesions (knots) in deeper tissue layers.
The main techniques include:

Stripping: Slow, deep pressure along the length of muscle fibers
Friction: Pressure applied across the grain of muscles to break up scar tissue and realign tissue fibers
Trigger point therapy: Focused pressure on specific points to release concentrated tension

Deep tissue massage differs from Swedish massage in several ways:

Uses more intense pressure
Focuses on problem areas rather than full-body relaxation
Works deeper muscle layers and connective tissue
May cause some therapeutic discomfort during treatment

Common applications include:

Chronic muscle tension and pain
Recovery from injuries (after proper healing time)
Postural problems
Repetitive strain injuries
Lower back pain
Limited mobility
Muscle adhesions and scar tissue

While effective for many conditions, deep tissue massage isn't suitable for everyone. It's important to communicate with your therapist about pressure and comfort levels, and it's normal to experience some muscle soreness for 1-2 days after treatment.
You should avoid deep tissue massage if you have:

Bleeding disorders
Blood clots
Osteoporosis
Recent injuries or surgeries
Inflammatory conditions in acute phases

Lomi lomi is a traditional Hawaiian massage technique. Here's what it involves:
Traditional Approach:
Lomi lomi sees the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected. The technique originated with Hawaiian healers (kahuna) and was often used as part of healing rituals.
Key Characteristics:

Long, flowing, rhythmic strokes using forearms and hands
Continuous, fluid movements that can work multiple body parts simultaneously
Gentle stretching and joint rotation
Sometimes incorporates Hawaiian music and movement similar to dance
Often uses generous amounts of oil
Can include work with hot stones or bamboo sticks

Unique Elements:

Therapists often use their forearms in long sweeping movements
May include gentle rocking of the body
Traditional practitioners may incorporate prayer or energy work
Works both superficial and deep tissues
Often performed in a flowing, intuitive manner rather than following a set routine

Benefits include:

Deep relaxation
Improved circulation
Release of muscle tension
Enhanced flexibility
Stress reduction
Emotional and spiritual well-being

Traditional lomi lomi is more than just a physical practice - it's considered a healing art that addresses the whole person. Modern adaptations may vary, but they typically maintain the flowing, rhythmic nature of the technique.

The session begins with a brief assessment and identification of target areas. The therapist starts with warm oil to prepare the muscles.
Traditional Massage:
The therapist uses gentle to moderate pressure with standard massage techniques to warm up the tissue. This prepares the muscles for the scraping treatment.
Heated Scraping Treatment:
The therapist uses specially heated tools to perform the scraping. They apply appropriate massage oil or lotion, then use the heated tools to scrape in specific patterns:

Long strokes along muscle fibers
Cross-fiber friction over adhesions
Circular motions over larger muscle groups
Special attention to areas of tension

Integration:
The session concludes with gentle massage techniques to soothe the treated areas. This helps integrate the effects of the scraping and ensures client comfort.
The entire treatment usually takes 60-90 minutes. During the scraping, clients typically feel a warming sensation and pressure that shouldn't be painful. Some redness is normal and temporary - it shows increased blood flow to the area. The combination of heat and scraping helps release muscle tension, break up adhesions, and improve circulation more effectively than either technique alone.

Indian head massage, also known as "Champissage," is a therapeutic treatment that originated in India and has been practiced for over 1,000 years. Here's a detailed description:
Traditional Focus Areas:

Scalp and hair
Face and ears
Neck and shoulders
Upper back
Upper arms

Key Techniques:

Circular finger movements across the scalp
Gentle to firm kneading of neck muscles
Pressure point stimulation on face and head
Sweeping strokes across shoulders
Hair tugging and smoothing movements
Gentle ear manipulation
Temple massage with circular motions

Benefits:

Relieves tension headaches
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves scalp circulation
Promotes hair growth and health
Eases neck and shoulder tension
Can help with sinusitis and jaw tension
May improve sleep quality
Reduces eye strain

Treatment Process:
The massage is typically performed while seated in a chair, fully clothed. It can be done with or without oil. The therapist uses varying pressure and rhythmic movements, working systematically across the upper body. A typical session lasts 20-45 minutes.