Low back pain can be a tricky symptom to assess; thankfully more often than not, the discomfort can be attributed to soft tissue tension and weakness, frequently traced to the deep and mysterious QL, or, quadratus lumborum. The QL is our deepest abdominal muscle, though easy to consider a back muscle due to its location and function. It is located under our superficial back muscles posteriorly, and under our superficial abdominal muscles and psoas anteriorly, where we bend at the waist.
Read moreMassage Methodologies 102
In my last wellness article published in May, I explained a smorgasbord of foundational massage modalities offered in our culture, including Swedish, deep tissue, sports massage, and myofascial release techniques. That article can be found on my website. Herein I address additional techniques, which add variety and focus to the previous menu of bodywork modalities. Some I currently offer, others I have limited experience with.
Read moreMassage Methodologies 101
What flavor massage would treat you best? Like a smorgasbord full of delectable treats, it can be a bit confusing for people with all of the different massage techniques advertised to select the proper bodywork provider for their particular needs. Some clients seek nothing but 60-90 minutes of utter relaxation, while most want a combination of that and therapeutic methods to help with ailments causing discomfort.
Read moreChallenging this Massage Therapist’s Mind
Off-season in resort towns such as ours is a time for locals to slow down, regenerate and do things we otherwise can’t find time for in our increasingly boisterous fast-paced community. This fall I never slowed down, but I did find the time to combine a bit of travel with interesting continuing education courses in bodywork modalities new to me. Colorado doesn’t require Licensed Massage Therapists to acquire education credits annually, but it’s something that I find invaluable, and pursue regularly regardless. Adding to the toolbox, stimulating the brain, and refreshing one’s practice can only be a good thing, for practitioner and client alike!
Read moreUnleash the Mighty Psoas
The psoas, a dynamic 16-inch-long involuntary hip-flexing, core muscle which connects the upper and lower body, providing structure, stabilization, and locomotion, can also contribute to healthy digestive, emotional and sexual function.
Read moreTime to Slow Down and Enjoy Off-Season
Autumn has blown in and the golden leaves will depart before we know it! With off-season comes a time to slow down, contemplate wellness and nurture ourselves before the onset of wintertime activities. Enjoy a calming therapeutic massage session in my peaceful studio, located just a few blocks west of downtown Telluride. Consider a couple’s massage to celebrate your down-time with a loved one, or simply indulge yourself. Hot stones used with every in-studio treatment.
Massage is for Teens, Too!
While the majority of my massage clients range in age from their thirties to seventies, I’m delighted to be seeing an increasing demand for massage for teenage clients!
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