It has been spitting snow on and off all day here in Stowe. So excited for the season to begin!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
The Season is Almost Upon Us!
It has been spitting snow on and off all day here in Stowe. So excited for the season to begin!
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Benefits of Massage
Human beings are tactile creatures; not only do we crave touch, we need it in order to survive and thrive. Massage as a healing practice has been around for thousands of years. Virtually every culture on Earth uses massage in some form or another to facilitate the healing process. In our Western culture, massage is often considered a luxury: a once-a-year treat for special occasions or the ultimate in pampering. But is it so much more than that!
As we re-discover massage therapy, it is becoming an accepted treatment option in physical rehabilitation and medical doctors are finding it to be a useful tool in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, depression and more. In addition to finding massage therapists in spas, you may also discover them working in conjunction with chiropractors, physical therapists, and even your local hospital.
Massage can:
· Help alleviate pain
· Help expectant mothers shorten and ease labor
· Stimulate the body’s lymph system, increasing immunity
· Increase joint flexibility
· Lessen stress, depression and anxiety
· Reduce and relieve migraine pain
· Improve circulation
· Relax and soften tired, over-used muscles
Today’s Western culture is built on stress. We are always rushing to work, to school, to here, to there. We have short deadlines that require us to work long hours, and what little vacation we take we find ourselves checking in with the office. The human body was designed to deal with short bursts of stress in order to get us out of immediate danger. This is called the “fight or flight” mode. Our modern society keeps up in a near-constant state of fighting or fleeing, and our bodies simply cannot handle it. So many of our illness and diseases are directly related to the fact our bodies are over-taxed. Massage helps bring us from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.” It gives our bodies time to reset and heal so they are better equipped to handle what life throws at us.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of massage, the American Massage Therapy Association has an informative Research page that can give you more information and statistics.
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Sources:
http://muskingum.edu/~psych/psycweb/history/harlow.htm
http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php
http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/796/The-Visible-Effects-of-Stress
As we re-discover massage therapy, it is becoming an accepted treatment option in physical rehabilitation and medical doctors are finding it to be a useful tool in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, high blood pressure, depression and more. In addition to finding massage therapists in spas, you may also discover them working in conjunction with chiropractors, physical therapists, and even your local hospital.
Massage can:
· Help alleviate pain
· Help expectant mothers shorten and ease labor
· Stimulate the body’s lymph system, increasing immunity
· Increase joint flexibility
· Lessen stress, depression and anxiety
· Reduce and relieve migraine pain
· Improve circulation
· Relax and soften tired, over-used muscles
Today’s Western culture is built on stress. We are always rushing to work, to school, to here, to there. We have short deadlines that require us to work long hours, and what little vacation we take we find ourselves checking in with the office. The human body was designed to deal with short bursts of stress in order to get us out of immediate danger. This is called the “fight or flight” mode. Our modern society keeps up in a near-constant state of fighting or fleeing, and our bodies simply cannot handle it. So many of our illness and diseases are directly related to the fact our bodies are over-taxed. Massage helps bring us from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.” It gives our bodies time to reset and heal so they are better equipped to handle what life throws at us.
If you would like to learn more about the benefits of massage, the American Massage Therapy Association has an informative Research page that can give you more information and statistics.
Sources:
http://muskingum.edu/~psych/psycweb/history/harlow.htm
http://www.massagetherapy.com/learnmore/benefits.php
http://www.massagetherapy.com/articles/index.php/article_id/796/The-Visible-Effects-of-Stress
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you new to massage therapy? Do you often hear friends, family or coworkers rave about a treatment yet find yourself hesitant to try bodywork because you don’t know what to expect? We’ve compiled a list of questions we as therapists are often asked, and given you the answers in order to ease some of your concerns. Hopefully these answers will encourage you to make the leap from curious to client.
Do I have to get naked?
While traditional massage is typically done directly on the skin, a good therapist will be able to work with your needs. You will be given privacy to disrobe to your comfort level (underwear is fine) and get between the sheets on the table. The therapist will knock before entering the treatment room. At Stowe Village Massage our Reflexology, Reiki, Thai, and Shiatsu treatments can be performed fully clothed.
Will I be Exposed?
Legitimate massage wellness centers have strict policies regarding the draping of the sheets. The breasts, gluteal cleft, and genitals should never be exposed. If you feel uncomfortable, request a more conservative drape. If the therapist cannot or refuses to adjust the sheets, you are within your rights to end the massage.
What Can I Expect During the Massage?
Every massage is different. A typical relaxation massage often starts with your back then moves on to your legs. After turning over, the therapist will work their way around your limbs, neck and feet. If you are receiving specific work due to pain or injury, your massage may be very different. You are encouraged to ask your therapist his/her plans.
What if it Hurts?
In massage, “no pain, no gain” does not apply! Muscles stretching after long periods of being stuck can be intense, and if you are not used to the feeling it can be overwhelming. Intensity is okay; pain is not. If you find yourself tensing up or cringing as the therapist works, request that the therapist use a lighter pressure. If you experience intense, sharp pain or feel something going numb, let your therapist know immediately.
What if They Touch my Butt?
Some of the body’s most powerful muscles are in “the butt”. When clients indicate lower back discomfort or sciatic issues, the problem is often coming from tight gluteal muscles. If you are not comfortable with work in the area just let your therapist know. If exposure is of a concern you are welcome to keep your underwear on during the massage.
What if I Have a Question in the Middle of the Massage?
Feel free to ask any questions you might have. Some people have an easier time relaxing if they can talk a bit during the first part of the massage. However, if you find that your therapist is a bit more verbal than you would like, it is okay to say “if you don’t mind, I’d prefer to focus on the massage and not chat today.”
I hope these FAQ’s answer some of your questions. If you have another question that you don’t see here, please leave a comment and we’ll be sure to answer it for you. If you’d like more information on our massages here at Stowe Village Massage, feel free to give us a call or email.
Do I have to get naked?
While traditional massage is typically done directly on the skin, a good therapist will be able to work with your needs. You will be given privacy to disrobe to your comfort level (underwear is fine) and get between the sheets on the table. The therapist will knock before entering the treatment room. At Stowe Village Massage our Reflexology, Reiki, Thai, and Shiatsu treatments can be performed fully clothed.
Will I be Exposed?
Legitimate massage wellness centers have strict policies regarding the draping of the sheets. The breasts, gluteal cleft, and genitals should never be exposed. If you feel uncomfortable, request a more conservative drape. If the therapist cannot or refuses to adjust the sheets, you are within your rights to end the massage.
What Can I Expect During the Massage?
Every massage is different. A typical relaxation massage often starts with your back then moves on to your legs. After turning over, the therapist will work their way around your limbs, neck and feet. If you are receiving specific work due to pain or injury, your massage may be very different. You are encouraged to ask your therapist his/her plans.
What if it Hurts?
In massage, “no pain, no gain” does not apply! Muscles stretching after long periods of being stuck can be intense, and if you are not used to the feeling it can be overwhelming. Intensity is okay; pain is not. If you find yourself tensing up or cringing as the therapist works, request that the therapist use a lighter pressure. If you experience intense, sharp pain or feel something going numb, let your therapist know immediately.
What if They Touch my Butt?
Some of the body’s most powerful muscles are in “the butt”. When clients indicate lower back discomfort or sciatic issues, the problem is often coming from tight gluteal muscles. If you are not comfortable with work in the area just let your therapist know. If exposure is of a concern you are welcome to keep your underwear on during the massage.
What if I Have a Question in the Middle of the Massage?
Feel free to ask any questions you might have. Some people have an easier time relaxing if they can talk a bit during the first part of the massage. However, if you find that your therapist is a bit more verbal than you would like, it is okay to say “if you don’t mind, I’d prefer to focus on the massage and not chat today.”
I hope these FAQ’s answer some of your questions. If you have another question that you don’t see here, please leave a comment and we’ll be sure to answer it for you. If you’d like more information on our massages here at Stowe Village Massage, feel free to give us a call or email.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Our New Space
Over the past several months, we've undergone an extensive renovation project. Initially located on the first floor of our Depot Street house, in March of 2013 we took over the entire building and began our transformation. We have updated our lobby and reception area, and added a beautiful new staircase, an upstairs seating area and three new treatment rooms. Here's a look at our new space:
We are very proud of our new space, and invite you to come in for a tour (and a treatment!) soon.
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| 49 Depot Street, Stowe Vermont. Although it looks like the same place on the outside, the inside is very different. |
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| Our new lobby. We will continue to expand and update this space, including offering a hot and cold beverage selection. |
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| Originally a treatment room, this new reception space is bright and welcoming. |
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| Originally the reception area and lobby, our new staircase is a beautiful addition. |
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| Our new second floor seating area is a homey little nook, a perfect place to relax before your treatment. |
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| The first of our second floor treatment rooms is a bright, roomy space that looks out into the trees in our front yard. |
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| Our next new treatment room is a couple's room, perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or any special occasion. |
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| Our last new room on the second floor is cozy and inviting. |
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Tell Me More About: Thai Bodywork
“Tell Me More About:” will be an on-going series that highlights types of bodywork you may have heard about, but might like more information on before pursuing a treatment. We welcome comments and questions with these posts, and encourage you to suggest future topics as well!
The first topic of our series will be Thai Bodywork. Also known as Thai Massage or Thai Yoga Massage, it is a traditional Eastern practice that helps the body regain its balance, both physically and energetically. It affects both the superficial and deep layers of the muscles, ligaments, joints and connective tissue to encourage deep yet gentle release.
The practice itself goes back thousands of years, and was developed by a physician named Shivago Komarpaj. It has a close relationship with Ayurveda (a traditional healing system in India), Yoga, traditional Chinese medicine, and Japanese Shiatsu. In fact, many of its movements are reminiscent of postures found in Yoga.
Thai Bodywork works by encouraging you to release holding patterns in your breath, body, and energy. By using gentle rocking, breathing exercises, and facilitated stretching, the therapist helps you lengthen and open tight joints and muscles, which encourages the flow of energy, often known as “ki,” “chi,” or “prana.” You leave the session feeling relaxed, more open through your joints and muscles, and more energized.
Thai Bodywork sessions vary from practitioner to practitioner. Some prefer two- or even three-hour sessions; others keep sessions down to an hour or 90 minutes. Sessions are generally performed on a large floor mat, and you are provided with pillows and bolsters to ensure comfort. You remain fully clothed the entire time and loose, comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, sweats, or yoga pants are encouraged.
While the practice itself is appropriate for everyone, not all stretches will be. It is very important for you to let the therapist know of any recent injuries or medical procedures that have occurred in the last three to six months, or if you are pregnant. If an injury has occurred in the last week it may not be appropriate for that area to be treated. As any therapist will say, please let him or her know if something becomes uncomfortable or painful.
Stowe Village Massage has been offering Thai Bodywork in 60- and 90-minute sessions since December of 2012, and we also offer a Shiatsu/Thai Package deal. You can book treatments online or by calling 802-253-6555. We look forward to seeing you soon!
The first topic of our series will be Thai Bodywork. Also known as Thai Massage or Thai Yoga Massage, it is a traditional Eastern practice that helps the body regain its balance, both physically and energetically. It affects both the superficial and deep layers of the muscles, ligaments, joints and connective tissue to encourage deep yet gentle release.
The practice itself goes back thousands of years, and was developed by a physician named Shivago Komarpaj. It has a close relationship with Ayurveda (a traditional healing system in India), Yoga, traditional Chinese medicine, and Japanese Shiatsu. In fact, many of its movements are reminiscent of postures found in Yoga.
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| Two of our therapists practicing "Cobra," a wonderful stretch that opens the shoulders |
Thai Bodywork works by encouraging you to release holding patterns in your breath, body, and energy. By using gentle rocking, breathing exercises, and facilitated stretching, the therapist helps you lengthen and open tight joints and muscles, which encourages the flow of energy, often known as “ki,” “chi,” or “prana.” You leave the session feeling relaxed, more open through your joints and muscles, and more energized.
Thai Bodywork sessions vary from practitioner to practitioner. Some prefer two- or even three-hour sessions; others keep sessions down to an hour or 90 minutes. Sessions are generally performed on a large floor mat, and you are provided with pillows and bolsters to ensure comfort. You remain fully clothed the entire time and loose, comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, sweats, or yoga pants are encouraged.
While the practice itself is appropriate for everyone, not all stretches will be. It is very important for you to let the therapist know of any recent injuries or medical procedures that have occurred in the last three to six months, or if you are pregnant. If an injury has occurred in the last week it may not be appropriate for that area to be treated. As any therapist will say, please let him or her know if something becomes uncomfortable or painful.
Stowe Village Massage has been offering Thai Bodywork in 60- and 90-minute sessions since December of 2012, and we also offer a Shiatsu/Thai Package deal. You can book treatments online or by calling 802-253-6555. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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| Our Thai Bodywork therapists |
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Welcome to Stowe Village Massage... Again!
Happy Independence Day and welcome to the new home of the Stowe Village Massage blog. As you can see, we have a new look and a new address. If you bookmarked our old address, please be sure to update your reading list.
If you visited our locations on Depot Street or in the Club House recently, you will have noticed that we’ve been changing and expanding. As part of Green Mountain Inn’s renovation project, Stowe Village Massage is taking over the second floor of our building and adding in three new treatment rooms. Our lobby and waiting area are also receiving a facelift. We are excited to unveil our new space and hope to do so within the next couple of weeks.
In addition to a new space, we will also be offering some new services. We now offer Thai Massage, Reiki, an Exfoliating Body Scrub and a Hydrating Wrap. We invite you to check out our full menu. If you would like to book an appointment, you can do so online or call us at (802) 253-6555.
In the coming months, we look forward to sharing informational posts about the benefits of our different treatments, re-introducing you to our staff, and answering any questions you may have.
Thanks for visiting the new Stowe Village Massage blog. We welcome comments and suggestions to make this a space that works for you.
If you visited our locations on Depot Street or in the Club House recently, you will have noticed that we’ve been changing and expanding. As part of Green Mountain Inn’s renovation project, Stowe Village Massage is taking over the second floor of our building and adding in three new treatment rooms. Our lobby and waiting area are also receiving a facelift. We are excited to unveil our new space and hope to do so within the next couple of weeks.
In addition to a new space, we will also be offering some new services. We now offer Thai Massage, Reiki, an Exfoliating Body Scrub and a Hydrating Wrap. We invite you to check out our full menu. If you would like to book an appointment, you can do so online or call us at (802) 253-6555.
In the coming months, we look forward to sharing informational posts about the benefits of our different treatments, re-introducing you to our staff, and answering any questions you may have.
Thanks for visiting the new Stowe Village Massage blog. We welcome comments and suggestions to make this a space that works for you.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Meet Our Therapists: Part Two
In our last post, we highlighted six therapists
currently at Stowe Village Massage. Now, it is our pleasure to introduce
to you the second half of our staff:
Kate Graves has taught anatomy, deep tissue, and energy work. She has worked with high-performance athletes as well as those seeking gentle relaxation and stress relief.
Kate Williams is a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist and has received certification in Usui Reiki II. She is looking forward to being trained as a Yoga Teacher in 2013.
Mary Ellen Gordon is Nationally Certified and has a background in Nuclear Medicine.
Michelle Foster holds a BS in Wellness and Alternative Medicine. In addition to relaxation and deep tissue, she practices Shiatsu and Neuromuscular Therapy.
Rosie Manning is a Certified Massage Therapist and personal trainer.
Shoshana Frieden has over 20 years of education and experience in the field of massage, including a certification in Neuromuscular Therapy.
Stephanie Mead is a certified massage therapist and is very active with the Vermont Soccer Association.
(This entry was originally posted on November 2, 2012 on our old blog. It has been updated to reflect current staff).
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| Some of our talented therapists. |
Kate Graves has taught anatomy, deep tissue, and energy work. She has worked with high-performance athletes as well as those seeking gentle relaxation and stress relief.
Kate Williams is a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist and has received certification in Usui Reiki II. She is looking forward to being trained as a Yoga Teacher in 2013.
Mary Ellen Gordon is Nationally Certified and has a background in Nuclear Medicine.
Michelle Foster holds a BS in Wellness and Alternative Medicine. In addition to relaxation and deep tissue, she practices Shiatsu and Neuromuscular Therapy.
Rosie Manning is a Certified Massage Therapist and personal trainer.
Shoshana Frieden has over 20 years of education and experience in the field of massage, including a certification in Neuromuscular Therapy.
Stephanie Mead is a certified massage therapist and is very active with the Vermont Soccer Association.
(This entry was originally posted on November 2, 2012 on our old blog. It has been updated to reflect current staff).
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