What type of massage do you offer? (Back to Top)
Essential Kneads offers Swedish-style massage, deep tissue massage, and CranioSacral therapy.
Swedish massage is based on 5 specific techniques of soft tissue manipulation and is usually used for stress relief, relaxation, straight up enjoyment and works the superficial muscles. Deep tissue work gets into deeper muscle layers & more specific. Deep tissue is sometimes used for chronic problems, and indicated for muscles that are very tight & overused. Each person is different and often different each day. The type of massage will depend on what you ask for, and what you need once we start the massage & find what your body needs.
CranioSacral Therapy is a whole body therapy. The treatment may aid almost every condition, raising the vitality and enabling the body's own self healing process to be utilized. The rhythm of the CranioSacral system can be detected in much the same way as the rhythms of the cariosvascular and respiratory systems. But unlike those body systems, both evaluation and correction of the CranioSacral system can be accomplished through gentle palpation. CranioSacral Therapy is so gentle that it is suitable for babies, children and the elderly, as well as adults. It may even be performed on fragile or acutely painful conditions. CranioSacral Therapy is used for a myriad of health conditions; headaches, neck and back pain, pain due to accident or injury, TMJ dysfunction, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, motor-coordination difficulties, vision problems, attention deficit disorder, central nervous system disorders, depression and many other conditions. Kim Kee has been practicing CranioSacral Therapy since 1995 and specialized in this work as a massage therapist.
What are the benefits of massage? (Back to Top)
There are several benefits of massage, some listed on the home page of this site. For a more complete picture, there is tons of information on the internet as well as several published books & journals. Massage is a soft tissue manipulation that increases circulation, also helping to flush out toxins that are stuck in your tissue. That is why it is important to drink lots of water after a massage- to get that bad stuff out that was just loosened up and released.
It also provides pain relief, greater flexibility, help with immune system, aids in digestion, and releases locked up muscles. For athletes or people with athletic lifestyles, massage greatly aids in muscle recovery time, and can help prep muscles for sporting events. On a more basic level, it is just a great way to take time out for yourself and kind of check out of your busy life for a bit. Massage is indicated for all types of pathologies & continues to be recognized & referred to by physicians, chiropractors & other health care professionals.
Do I need a physician's referral? (Back to Top)
You don't need a physician's referral for massage unless you are experiencing significant health problems, or taking specific medications. A complete intake form before your massage will also indicate whether or not you need some type of medical clearance by your doctor. If a doctor does refer you to a massage therapist for massage, be sure to bring your prescription if you have one, and let your therapist know of any conditions that may affect your overall health.
Does insurance cover massage? (Back to Top)
Some insurance companies cover massage in their policy, but it is up to their therapist if they want to bill for it. Sometimes your therapist will give you a payment receipt for the massage and you can be reimbursed by your insurance company. Ask your therapist before your appointment about their policy. Essential Kneads will surely give you a payment receipt for services received, but does not do any insurance billing at this time
It is recommended that you undress entirely, and remove any jewelry. This allows better access to some muscles, like gluteus muscles, and allows for some techniques on those muscles that are better performed on skin rather than fiber. However, your comfort level is important. You can leave your undergarments on, and your therapist can alter the massage. Also, if you have certain pieces of jewelry that you would rather not remove, that is fine, you can leave them on. Remember, you will be draped at all times during the massage, except for the part of your body that is receiving work. Draping is not optional, you will always be covered.
Oils, creams, gels & lotions are generally used. Different skin types require different lubricant. Essential Kneads uses products that do not stain clothing, and carry little or no scent. You have the option to request what products you want on your skin. Please make your therapist aware of any skin allergies. Also, Essential Kneads uses no incense. Candles are used, but are not heavily scented. You may also bring your own music, if the music is appropriate.
What is a full body massage? (Back to Top)
A full body massage is work on the entire body minus the breast & genitalia area. Generally, you will lay on the table face up for a portion of the massage that focuses on the anterior of your body (scalp, face, head, neck, arms, abdominals, legs & feet) and then you will be asked to turn over for the posterior portion of your body (calves, legs, gluteals, & back). Remember, if there is a portion of your body you would rather not have worked, please tell your therapist.
Do I need to do anything during the massage? (Back to Top)
Try to relax, this is time for you. It is encouraged that you communicate with your therapist during the massage regarding pressure & your comfort. Otherwise, talking is up to you. You can also tell your therapist that you don't want to converse, but they may check in with you from time to time regarding your comfort level. Also, breath awareness is important. Breath deeply and regularly to get the maximum benefits of your massage. Also, try to breathe into your belly (hara) rather than shallow chest breathing. Your therapist may coach you on some breathing during the massage. Drinking water after the massage is important. The bodywork you receive will release some waste out of your tissues, and you need to flush them out. Lots of fresh water everyday is really great for your muscles & skin, and especially after any bodywork.
A massage is a personal service, and tipping is customary. It is not required, but appreciated.
