Muscles contract and relax. Chronic muscle contraction is a physiological
response to stress. When the relaxation phase is inhibited,
circulation decreases and pain increases. Muscular therapist
Gail Martin aims to relax muscular
tension and increase circulation to improve overall health
in her clients. The following manual therapies may be
used:
Deep tissue massage
This technique gets deep into the muscle and connective
tissue to break down scar tissue and adhesions. Gail
goes deep gradually to be effective, but not so hard
that it produces pain to achieve a release…it’s
important to keep the client relaxed, not put him
or her in “fight
or flight”. Deep tissue massage is helpful for chronic muscle tension,
old injuries, and athletic performance.
Swedish/relaxation massage
Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes (called
effleurage) with oil or lotion to promote circulation,
relaxation, and a sense of well-being.
Myofascial release
Myofascial Release uses subtle pressure and stretching
on the skin and connective tissue to unwind and
release restrictions that affect posture and limit movement.
Myofascial release is helpful for restrictions
that
cause pain, like surgical scars, or trauma from
an old injury.
Pregnancy massage
Using a side-lying technique, the client is supported with
cushions and pillows. Using a variety of techniques
(primarily Swedish), pregnancy massage helps relieve
tension and muscle pain associated with pregnancy,
and promotes rest and relaxation.
Sports massage
Sports massage uses compressions and percussive techniques,
along with passive stretching and range of motion.
This technique is used at the beginning of each massage
when appropriate, to initiate contact, assess tension,
and promote relaxation. Sports massage is excellent for improving performance
and speeding
recovery.
Craniosacral therapy
Craniosacral Therapy is a subtle but powerful technique
where the practitioner tunes in to the rhythm
of the cerebral spinal fluid and uses gentle pressure
to balance and optimize energy
flow. This technique
helps connect the client to his or her body,
promotes an understanding of where
the body is in space, and improves the structural
balance of the entire body.
"Gail Martin is a very talented massage therapist and breathwork
coach, among other things. I have had 12 breathwork
sessions with Gail and at least 12 massages. They have all been
terrific. If your physical body needs
attention, get a massage from Gail; if you are
ready for a transforming experience, book a breathwork session
with Gail." - L.D., Sharon, MA
If you would like to receive more information about therapeutic massage,
please use the contact
form or call Gail at 781-784-1232.
