Stress vs. Trauma
Stress is a normal part of your life. A stressful experience temporarily kicks your body into high-gear to cope, even thrive, during the stressful situation.  Normally, your bodies can expect to return to normal within a few days. As your nervous system returns to normal, so do sleep patterns, appetite, and mood.

That return to normalcy is not the case when you experience trauma. Though trauma means different things for different people, you can tell the difference between intense stress and trauma by looking at the outcome - how much residual effect an upsetting event is having on your life, relationships, and overall functioning.  As a survivor of trauma, your body does not fully reset, and the physical effects can be debilitating . You might experience symptoms of numbness, sleep disturbance, eating disturbance, low energy, agitation, and unexplained and chronic pain. Because your mind and body are not separate, the physical symptoms from trauma are typically coupled with psychological and emotional symptoms. The best approach to healing is to address both your mind and body.


About Massage for Trauma 
Massage to address trauma is a different than a massage you would expect in a spa. Earning your trust is the most important aspect of this massage.  Additional time and care will be taken to ensure that trust. Therapeutic touch, from a trusted therapist in a safe space, can have a profound impact in reversing the physical effects of trauma. Being in a state of sincere, deep relaxation is how your body is reminded of what life was like before the trauma. With both talk therapy and bodywork, it is possible to get both mind and body back to normal, so you can move on with your life.

What to Expect Before Treatment
Setting the stage for your treatment is just as important as the bodywork itself. Your massage therapist will talk with you extensively before hand, and together you will co-create a plan that best fits you. During this time you can expect to talk about the physical manifestations of the trauma you have experienced, as well as any other pertinent physical issues.  Any questions you have will be addressed at this time, and you are encouraged to express your concerns until everything is explained. You will also receive an orientation packet full of useful information about massage, and our policies, practices, and services.

About Your Massage
The massage therapist strives to create a safe, nurturing environment to help you relax, unwind, and relieve your physical problems. You will not be touched in any way you do not agree to beforehand. During massage without clothing you should expect modest and secure draping at all times. Cream or oil will be used over your skin; gentle pressure is applied to muscles. Gentle stretching may be used to increase movement. You may choose reflexology (foot massage), aromatherapy (with aromatic oils), hot stones, Craniosacral Therapy, or energetic work (Polarity Therapy) with your massage, or completely separate from it. The therapist might also employ a chiropractor’s tool called the “Muscle Master” that does not require person-to-person contact, where a vibrating pad is pressed against your body. In addition, fully-clothed table and chair massage should be available to you, if you wish.


What Does Massage Help?
The following are a few benefits of massage discovered in clinical (scientific) trials.  Massage:
*Lessens depression and anxiety.
* Eases medication dependence.
* Enhances immunity by stimulating lymph flow—the body’s natural defense system.
* Exercises and stretches weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
* Relieves migraine pain.
* Pumps oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
* Reduces post surgery adhesions and swelling.
* Reduces spasms and cramping.
* Relaxes and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
* Improves mood by releasing endorphins—the body’s natural anti-depressant and painkiller.