Massage is defined as "the manual manipulation of soft tissue using the techniques of rubbing, stroking, kneading or compression to produce relaxation, pain relief, injury rehabilitation, athletic preparedness or recovery, health improvement, increased awareness and a sense of well being". 

Since ancient times, the power of touch has been recognized as a powerful healing agent.  It is engrained into our most basic instincts.  When we hurt ourselves, or when a muscle aches, our first reaction is to 'rub it where it hurts'.   Out of this very basic reaction many techniques have evolved. 

Maria specializes in the following types of massage:

Neuromuscular Massage

Neuromuscular Massage is a form of medical massage which incorporates trigger point therapy, myofascial therapy, and accupressure.   It is used for alieviating post trauma condtions such as whiplash, sports injuries or  repetetive strain injuries.    It helps to correct the muscle imbalances caused by these types of injuries,     In these situations the massage therapist often works in conjunction with a physical therapist, sports medicine doctor, or chiropractor.    The manipulation of the soft tissue and realignment of the muscle fibers enable the skeletal structure to be corrected and maintain that correction.

Swedish/Esalen Massage

Swedish massage is the most popular form of western massage, and incorporates rythmic pressure, stretching and percussion designed to affect the skin texture, appearance, blood vessels, lymph vessels, and the muscles and fascia.   Esalen Massage was started in the 1960's in the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California.  It utilizes the basic Swedish strokes, but emphasizes the long, flowing, gliding movements for their sensual, sedating effect.

Accupressure

Based on ancient Chinese techniques, accupressure is pressure applied to specific points on the body surface, and also includes knuckle rolls, rubbing, squeezing, kneading, and pulling to stimulate the body's natural healing capacity, and get the 'chi' (Chinese word for 'life essense') flowing through the body again.