Soft Cupping/Neuromuscular Cupping Treatment
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy is the use of soft suctioning cups that are designed to be applied to human skin. The vacuum effect that is created with the application of the soft cup allows fresh, oxygenated blood to be directed into the area that it is applied. With the introduction of fresh blood into a specific area, the body's ability to regenerate and refresh itself is improved and expedited. Some people believe that this process eliminates toxins from the body, as this is an ancient practice stemming from practices of the ancient Egyptians, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Ancient Greece. Hippocrates himself advocated for cupping, and spoke of it in his writings.
Traditional Thai Massage & Swedish Massage
Traditional Thai Massage
Thai Massage is a practice that implements similar body mechanics as yoga to therapeutically stretch the client, and it also implements a traditional system of acupressure points to administer concentrated pressure to the body.
Traditional Thai Massage is performed on a tatami/thin mattress that is on the floor. The client also remains fully dressed, and may be provided with a pair of pants and a shirt that allow more freedom of movement for the client and therapist to perform stretches. There is no oil in Traditional Thai Massage, but there may be a small application of heating or cooling balm to specifically afflicted areas at the end of the session.
If you enjoy a deeper pressure or "sports" massage you may really enjoy this modality.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage is a technique that did indeed originate in Sweden with roots in the Netherlands and requires the therapist to use only their hands and arms during the practice. Swedish massage almost always includes the application of oil to implement a gliding sensation, except for specific techniques that require more friction on the skin. The massage is also done on a traditional massage table that is raised off the ground, with the client undressed (to their level of comfort) and the client's body underneath the sheets.
Only the area of the body that is currently being massaged is uncovered from the sheet, with more repetitive and concentrated movements being used directly on the skin.
Combining the Two
An amazing experience that I am honored to offer is a combination of the two modalities in one session. This would mean we begin with Thai Massage, with (you) the client fully clothed and laying on a floor mat. A session of 30 minutes to one hour of Thai massage would be performed, and then the massage therapist (me) will leave the room, and allow you to prepare yourself and get on the table for a Swedish massage.
The Swedish massage would last another 30 minutes to one hour, with the client now receiving a full body massage with oil. After this experience it is imperative to rest for the remainder of the day, and to drink plenty of water and herbal tea to allow the body to optimally circulate all of the fluids that were moved around during the massage.