Josie’s Massage Therapy

Deep-tissue massage is a specific type of massage therapy that concentrates on the deeper layers of muscle and fascia in the body. Because deep-tissue massage increases the flow of blood through the body, it helps reduce the inflammation that causes pain. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, tightness in the lower back and sore shoulders. It helps ease stress and tension, which can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure. Deep-tissue massage can help increase the body's production of serotonin, the hormone that promotes happiness and good feelings. Over time, deep-tissue massage therapy can help to break up adhesions and scar tissue from previous injuries. It does this by improving lymphatic circulation and drainage to improve flexibility and range of motion in the affected area.

Traditional Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient style of massage influenced by the traditional medicine systems of India, China, and Southeast Asia, as well as by Yoga. The treatment is performed on a mat on the floor and the client wears loose comfortable clothing. Acupressure, stretches and the beautiful postures of Yoga are applied during the treatment.
Traditional Thai Yoga Massage is considered to be an energy work rather than a bodywork. This energy body is known as Pranamaya Kosha, and under normal, healthy circumstances, the body’s energy (or lom) flows freely throughout the Pranamaya Kosha, which consists of a network of 72000 energy lines (sen). In Thai massage there are 10 main sen lines that are worked on (sib sen), along which are very important acupressure points. Massaging these points can help with certain illnesses and help to relieve pain. These 10 sen are sufficient to conduct practical treatment to the whole body and it’s internal organs.
In the Yoga tradition these energy lines are called the Prana Nadis, and it is believed that life energy (Prana) is absorbed with the air we breathe and with the food we eat. This vital life energy is supplied along these energy lines. Breakages and blockages in these lines can be caused by sprains, muscle strains, injuries, stress and other factors. This causes an insufficient supply of Prana which can lead to sickness. Thai massage helps to promote healthy and strong sen, unblock any blockages and help with the free flow of Prana and restore the body’s normal function with improved health and general well-being.

Thai Foot Massage balances and enhances chi (life energy) to bring the body into a state of health. Reflex points are stimulated in the feet which benefit the entire body including internal organs and emotions. It helps to reduce stress, tension, anxiety, fatigue and pain. It increases local circulation and also helps with digestion, relaxation and sleep.

The fascial system is a totally connected, uninterrupted three dimensional, web-like network of connective tissue, that spreads throughout the body. This structure covers all other soft tissue and organs of the body; from the top of the skull to the soles of the feet. Fascia also surrounds every cell in the body. Any distortion of the fascial network can cause negative forces in other areas of the body. When we treat fascia, we influence the whole body.

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a specialised physical and manual therapy used for the effective treatment and rehabilitation of soft tissue and fascial aches, pains, tension and restrictions.