Craniosacral Therapy: Craniosacral therapy was introduced in the 1970s by osteopath John Upledger. It involves gently releasing tensions by applying very mild pressure on various cranial bones near the sutures of the skull. These techniques are thought to be effective not only in treating such conditions as headaches, chronic ear infection, sinusitis, and facial pain but in enhancing overall physical and emotional health, given that many conditions referred from other parts of the body, even old injuries, register in the craniosacral system and respond to this form of therapy.
Deep Tissue Massage: This massage technique separates muscle groups and loosens fascia (a thin layer of connective tissue covering, supporting or connecting the muscles or inner organs of the body) so as to bring about the realignment of the body and freedom of movement.
Esalen
Massage: As described by Arthur Munyer of the Esalen
Institute, Esalen massage uses long, integrating strokes that
enhance relaxation. Typical also of Esalen massage is that it
maintains a sense of presence with another being throughout the
massage, allowing full contact through hand touch. It is both
energetic and relaxing because it releases muscle tensions and
opens and harmonizes the whole body.
Hellerwork™: Named after its founder, Joseph Heller, Hellerwork is a series of eleven 90-minute sessions of deep tissue bodywork and movement education designed to realign the body and release chronic tension and stress. Verbal dialogue is used to assist the client in becoming aware of emotional stress that may be related to physical tension. It is regarded as preventive rather than curative, and reflects a holistic approach to health. Hellerwork is designed to produce permanent change.
Hot Stone Massage: Although generically referred to as hot stone massage, this new addition to the armamentarium of spa practices can almost be regarded as a "treatment." Designated "La Stone therapy" by its originator, Mary Hannigan, each hot stone massage uses 54 hot stones (usually black rock that holds heat), 18 frozen stones, and one at room temperature. Hannigan's training is elaborate and comes with her distinct philosophy; most spas, however, have adapted her treatment to suit the needs of their own clients. With the patient prone on a massage table, the practitioner places the heated stones on pressure points where energy may be trapped, using cold stones of white marble where there is inflammation, or around the face where many experience tension. Alternatively, stones may be placed underneath your back, between your toes, in your palms and along the chakras of the body. Because it is non-invasive, it is ideal as a gift certificate for the newbie or anyone averse to be being touched by what they perceive to be "the hands of a stranger." [Note: I have seen this treatment also referred to as a Native American practice.]
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©Courtesy of Laurel Olson Cook, author of Spas of California (2002) and Wine Country Spas of California (2003). Visit www.LaurelCook.com