Jen Raimondi, LMT

what is massage?

Massage therapy is both an ancient art and a contemporary form of wellness care. A massage therapist is trained to work with the body’s soft tissues: muscle, skin, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and some organs. A massage can include kneading, compression, stroking, friction, stretching, and sustained pressure.  

Massage increases blood and lymph circulation, allowing the body’s self-healing mechanisms to work. Massage provides relief from pain, giving space for the body/mind to mend. And massage reduces stress, which is one of the greatest contributors to ill health.

Other potential health benefits of massage include: assisting injury recovery, easing symptoms of chronic conditions, moving lactic acid out of tired muscles, lowering blood pressure and heart rate, improving digestion, alleviating muscle cramps and spasms, and revitalizing the body. Massage can have a positive effect on the immune system. It can even affect the appearance of the skin.

Massage brings you back to your body and can have a centering, grounding effect.

options

I perform both Swedish and deep tissue techniques. I define a “Swedish massage” as a serene, rejuvenating experience, with the purpose of soothing the body’s nervous system. For a Swedish massage, I use light to moderate pressure with flowing and kneading strokes, keeping the overall relaxation of the client in mind.

My deep tissue massages are more intense. I use moderate to deep pressure, working within the client’s tolerance levels. But the main difference is the amount of focused intention: I concentrate on those areas that cause pain or discomfort for the client, using slow, sustained pressure and/or friction to break up adhesions and bring heat to the area. A deep tissue massage can still be relaxing–it’s a matter of personal preference.

links

massage and the immune system

massage and athletics

massage and fibromyalgia

massage and celiac disease

the Peregrine Institute, oncology massage certification

when not to massage

Back to Basics natural food store

Providence Community Acupuncture

South County Community Acupuncture

Eyes of the World Yoga in Providence

---

 

Practicing at Sundance Therapies, East Greenwich RI, and at Balanced Touch Massage, Providence RI. Call 401.837.6204 for an appointment!

Nationally certified, Rhode Island licensed, insured.