Issue link: http://www.bodysensemagazinedigital.com/i/765813
Bodywork *Definition provided by The Upledger Institute. Unless otherwise noted, abbreviated definitions come from www.massagetherapy.com. AROMATHERAPY Use of essential oils (extracted from herbs, flowers, resin, woods, and roots) to aid in relaxation, improve circulation, and help healing of wounds. Diffusers are used to fill the massage room with the scent of oils. Specific essential oils are added to carrier oils to be used during the massage. Each oil has its own unique characteristics and benefits. AYURVEDIC MASSAGE Part of the traditional detoxification and rejuvenation program of India called panchakarma, in which large amounts of warm oil and herbs are vigorously massaged into the entire body or poured at specific energy points called chakras. Techniques can be done either as stand-alone treatments or in conjunction with a full-body massage. HEALING TOUCH An energy-based therapeutic approach that uses touch to influence the energy system, thus affecting physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health, as well as healing. The goal is to restore harmony and balance in the energy system to help the person self-heal. The quality and impact of the healing is influenced by the relationship between the giver and receiver. HOT STONE MASSAGE Use of smooth, heated stones as an extension of the practitioner's own hands to massage the body. The heat can provide relaxation benefits and bring relief to tight muscles so therapists can work deeper. LYMPH MASSAGE Practitioners palpate the lymphatic flow (part of the circulatory system). Advanced practitioners map the lymphatic flow to find alternate pathways for drainage. Evolved from years of training in traditional medicine, Asian medical practices, and manual therapies.* POLARITY THERAPY A clothes-on, noninvasive system complementing existing modalities with an integrated, holistic model. Based on the belief that positive and negative poles exist in every cell, the body is gently manipulated to balance the positive and negative energies. In addition to physical manipulation, blockages are eliminated through a cleansing diet and simple exercises. PRENATAL/PREGNANCY Prenatally, specific techniques can reduce pregnancy discomforts and enhance the physiological and emotional well-being of mother and fetus. Facilitates labor, shortening labor times and easing pain and anxiety. In the postpartum period, rebalances structure, physiology, and emotions of the new mother and may help with mother-child bonding. REIKI An energy healing art. Practitioners access and serve as a channel for life force (chi or qi) by placing their hands on or just above the client's body to activate healing energy within receptive points. Then they move progressively with a passive touch through 12 positions, remaining at each for 3–5 minutes. As the flow of energy is strengthened, healing occurs. SWEDISH MASSAGE The most well-known, practiced, and experienced massage modality. Designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive, and tapping movements, with the application of oil. THAI MASSAGE Practiced on a firm mat on the floor instead of on a table, and instrumental in the effective use of the practitioner's body weight. Except for the feet, the client remains fully clothed. Also involves peripheral stimulating, meaning it acts as an external stimulant to produce specific internal effects. This point serves as the main division between Thai and Western massage. TRIGGER POINT MYOTHERAPY Noninvasive modality for the relief of myofascial pain and dysfunction. Consists of trigger-point compression, myomassage, passive stretching, and corrective exercises. Intended to reduce pain and increase range of motion, strength, and endurance. Compiled by Darren Buford Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals www.abmp.com CHAIR MASSAGE Involves the use of a specially designed massage chair the client sits comfortably in. Includes bodywork and somatic techniques, such as shiatsu, amma, and Swedish massage, provided to the fully clothed client in a variety of settings, including businesses, airports, and street fairs. sz of