In a massage session, a combination of modalities and pressure may be needed for different areas of the muscles.
The massage session may include medium to firmer/deeper pressure that will help with pain relief as well as a lighter touch that can help soothe the nervous system. It might also include firm Swedish strokes that will help stimulate the lymphatic system, which will carry away the body’s waste products. Joanna uses hypoallergenic/ vegan massage lotion and essential oil aromatherapy treatment with no extra charge.
The variety of of strokes along with different levels of pressure all help the body improve its circulation. This increased blood flow provides nourishment to the muscle cells and it can also have a sedative affect on your muscles causing them to relax and elongate.
When to avoid a massage: If you have a fever, infections, inflammation, are prone to blood clots or other medical conditions.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
The first visit will be 75 minutes for consult and review of intake form. We will review Lymphedema and contraindications and what to expect during your first session. MLD is a very soothing relaxing stretch and release of the skin to allow fluid to flow through the indicated pathways. Your comfort level is very important, please feel free to ask any questions.
As mentioned earlier Joanna's credentials indicated she is a CDT. What is a CDT? Certified De-congestive Therapist. What that means to you? Joanna has been trained by Vodder school of Lymphatic Therapy. This technique enables her to do bandaging/wrapping under a physicians care, Skin care, measuring lymphatic levels, nutrition and patient education. Joanna has also completed her 200 hour yoga certification to assist with exercise needs.
MLD aims to gently and rhythmically move the lymph through the body, especially in swollen areas of the body, relieving pressure and enhancing the functioning of the immune system. This type of pressure is very light in nature, about the weight of a nickel.
MLD is a gentle, non-invasive bodywork technique that stimulates the flow of lymph fluid. It is often used pre-and-post cosmetic surgery and as a way to assist with lymphedema. MLD has been shown to be very effective as being part of a treatment plan to help people manage their lymphedema.
In addition, MLD is very effective for many concerns including faster recovery from injury, reduction of swelling and discomfort from surgery, radiation therapy, and assists to effect strengthened resistance to illness.
What is the lymphatic system and how does it affect us? The lymphatic system is part of the body’s circulatory system and a vital part of the immune system. The lymphatic system runs parallel with the veins and removes cellular waste, bacteria, proteins and excess water from the tissues. When it becomes blocked, lymph nodes may become swollen. Your system fails to remove the body’s toxins and this can even affect white blood cell counts.
Lymphatic drainage is believed to reduce blockage, which promotes health in the lymphatic system as well as in other bodily systems such as the circulatory, respiratory, muscular and endocrine systems. By stimulating congested areas in the lymphatic system, it can cleanse the body of waste products and debris at the cellular level. The technique used in this massage helps to recirculate body fluids, stimulate the immune system and promote relaxation.
Precautions: MLD is contraindicated for those people who have congestive heart failure, deep vein thrombosis, open wounds, fever or active skin infection. If you have any heart or kidney disease, please check first with your medical doctor before booking this service.
Payment/Cancellation Notice Info
Outcall Services - Outcall services are offered within 10-30 mile radius with a travel fee. Please contact me for more detailed info.
Payment
Payment is due at time of service and will be accepted in cash, Check or CC
Important cancellation fee information
A cancellation notice of 24 hours is required to avoid being charged for the missed appointment.