Mark Gerard's Therapeutic Massage

Classic Swedish Massage
A classical European massage technique of the muscles with special oils by therapeutic stroking and kneading of muscle tissue to promote stress relief. It is used to improve circulation, relieve muscle pain and tension, increase flexibility and induce relaxation. It combines three basic strokes to the skin: long, firm strokes; kneading strokes; and small circles. This is the most requested and one of the most enjoyable massages.

Deep Tissue Massage
Is a combination of massage that gets to the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia. It can release tension in the tissues, or have a psychological release. It will loosen bonds between the layers of connective tissues.

Hot Stone Massage
Is a deeply relaxing massage that combines the penetrating effect of Basalt hot stones with soothing manual massage. Basaltic river rocks are heated to between 125 and 145 degrees Fahrenheit and then either statically placed on or under the client or used as massage tools. The therapy can relax deep muscular tissue and soothe aching joints while feeling gentle and relaxing.

Sport Massage
A form of massage which utilizes specific strokes and stretches to help obtain maximum performance and physical conditioning with less chance of injury or pain. It increases power, endurance, and flexibility both before and after an event or workout

Trigger Point Release
Is a pain-relief technique to alleviate muscle spasms and cramping. The therapist locates and deactivates `trigger points', which are often tender areas where muscles have been damaged or acquired a recurring spasm or `kink' that worsens painfully when aggravated. Trigger Points typically 'refer' pain to areas surrounding or even very distant from the 'tender' point'. The major goals are to reduce spasm inducing new blood flow into the affected area. The spasms are partly maintained by nervous system feedback (pain-spasm-pain) cycle. Spasms also physically reduce blood flow to the trigger point area (ischemia), reducing oxygen supplied to the tissues and increasing the spasm.

Reiki
Reiki is a subtle energy healing system, utilizing a light, direct touch of the client's body to channel *Ki. This is achieved through the use of a number of hand positions which cover most of the clients body, both front and back creating a sense of peace and relaxation.

*Ki [key] in Japanese, or C'hi [chee] in Chinese, is the subtle energy which flows in every living thing. Ki is what an acupuncturist manipulates with needles. In Reiki, Ki is manipulated and transferred by the hands of a Reiki practitioner allowing for relaxation and healing to the client along with all of its benefits.

REI (ray) Universal Life Energy
KI (kee) Breath / Life Force