Musings

Challenging the dominant paradigm

Many of my clients have come to me after a massage that was uncomfortable or even painful. While some folks enjoy a lot of pressure, others put up with it out of a mistaken belief that in order to be therapeutic, a massage must be “deep.”

My approach - based on my study of pain science, DermoNeuroModulation, and other topics - is different. Instead of trying to force a muscle to relax through ever-increasing pressure, I coax relaxation by addressing the nervous system, which controls the muscles and other tissues. By doing this, I am reminding your body how to let go of tension — and this release will be longer-lasting and more holistic.

Nurturing massage is also great for anyone dealing with chronic conditions or trauma, as it will not tax the body’s resources or increase inflammation. A gentle approach encourages psychological relaxation as well, and this reduction in stress is in turn beneficial to the body.

Give it a try!

What does "client centered" mean?

I always feel a bit strange when new clients say something along the lines of, "You'll find the places that need work." Their trust is gratifying, but I'm not an expert about anyone's body but my own. 

This is the heart of being "client centered": You are the only one who can know what feels good and helpful to you. Manual therapists may know how bodies work and what might help them heal, but they will never experience how their work feels to you. And that experience is a very important part of a good massage.

So please, take this as permission - even encouragement - to speak up, to tell us what feels right and what makes you uncomfortable. You're the expert, after all.