therapeutic massage

We take a therapeutic approach to our massage practice, which means listening carefully to the client's concerns and needs and then designing a session to address those needs.

We both practice a number of different styles (the fancy word is "modalities") of massage. We find that for most clients, using all of the tools in our kit is better than trying to provide a pure experience of simply one style.

The effects of massage are cumulative. As one area of the body relaxes into a new, healthier pattern, this allows us to work on new details over time.
​
Here's a listing of the basics of what we offer. Pricing is the same for all styles.

We use Organic Jojoba oil (certified by MOFGA) from the Maine-based Jojoba Company, and our linens are washed in unscented laundry detergent, usually from 7th Generation.

deep tissue &
​myofascial release

This form of massage is designed to improve range of motion and restore muscle function. The work itself can be painful at times, but generally results in released muscles and reduced pain overall. The myofascia, or connective tissue, which holds the muscles into a shape, can become bound together and feel sticky. This work helps to unstick patterns from repetitive use or disuse.

---

trigger point therapy

The body contains a host of points that can refer pain to other areas. These odd little points are very useful when, for example, your arm hurts but you can't pinpoint and resolve the issue in the arm itself. Sometimes it's in the shoulder and refers all the way down to the tip of a finger. This is a very effective method to release tension throughout the body including headaches.
​

clothed, Floor-based massage (thai & Shiatsu)

Chrystina's training is closer to Thai and Sean's is closer to Shiatsu. In both forms, however, the client is fully clothed and the work is performed on a mat on the floor. This usually involves a lot of range of motion (moving the limbs and stretching) and compressions on the energy lines of the body. Many people find this work particularly relieving for the hips. ​

---

intra-oral tmj release

The jaw or Tempromandibular Joint may not be something you're familiar with in a massage session. If you grind your teeth or you're a clencher, you know how sore the jaw can get. This work is performed with a gloved hand inside the mouth and works to release those muscles. Many people with dysfunction in the mouth and jaw find this to be incredibly relieving, and it can reduce headaches.

---

abdominal massage

This isn't a modality in itself, but it is something that is somewhat unique to our practice. Many massage therapists in the United States omit abdominal work, but we find it to be integral. We have both studied abdominal massage from a number of different perspectives including Rolfing, Structural Integration and Taoist Chi Nei Tsang. 

---

swedish Massage

Gentle, repetitive strokes, generally with oil or lotion designed to invite the parasympathetic nervous system (the rest and digest mode) to turn on. Benefits include relaxation, stress relief, and better sleep. This is the basic massage modality upon which most Western massage is based.

couple's massage

Sometimes you just want to be on the same page with your partner or relax with a friend or family member. We are happy to coordinate a massage for you and your chosen partner. Just let us know what time you are both available and whether you'd prefer to be in the same room or separate rooms. You may book concurrent appointments online as well -- please send us a note or call if you'd like to be in the same room.

Children & elders

We absolutely work with children and elders and understand that the approach can be different. With children under 18, we ask that the parent be present for the massage.

sports massage

​This form of massage is used to warm up or cool down the body, often on-site at a race or other event. This category also refers to maintaining the body at peak performance by improving flexibility, preventing injury and increasing circulation (the body's repair system, among other things) for athletes. Techniques used are specific to your biomechanical needs. We can do recovery and maintenance work in our office -- just call or book online. Please call to arrange on-site work. We can travel with portable tables for teams and events.

---

seated massage

Office work can be stressful and hard on the body, and many workplaces are now offering massage as part of their wellness program either as an ongoing program or a one-time treat. Seated massage can offer much needed relief, particularly in the shoulders, neck, head, arms, hands, and back. Please contact us directly to arrange.

---

Google reviews

For more reviews, please see our listing on Google, Facebook or Yelp.