Wholesome Life, LLC.
Balancing the World one Massage at a time...
Bodywork and Massage Modalities:
Nathalie Francois is specialized in holistic and integrated massage therapy. During unique personalized sessions she combines multiple bodywork modalities according to the client’s preferences and needs. Nathalie Francois studied Swedish massage, Neuromuscular Therapy, Shiatsu, Polarity and On-Site Chair massage at the Health Choices Institute and Holistic Massage School in Hillsborough, New Jersey. There she was also introduced to reflexology, aromatherapy, joint mobilization, sports massage and spa treatments. She continued her massage training at the Healing Hands Institute in Westwood, New Jersey where she studied Trigger Point Therapy, PNF stretching, clinical sports massage, advanced Shiatsu and hospital based medical massage. She now is a Nationally Certified and NY State Licensed MT.
Massage and Bodywork Modalities:
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Swedish MassageDeep tissue Massage Modalities: Myofascial ReleaseNeuromuscular Modalities: Neuromuscular TherapyTrigger Point Therapy, PNF stretching, Reflexology.Oriental or Eastern modalities: Shiatsu or AcupressureEnergy Modality: PolarityOther Modalities: Aromatherapy and Essential oils, Raindrop Technique, Sports MassageSwedish Massage
A variety of strokes and pressure techniques are used to create a flowing, relaxing and circulation enhancing massage session. This modality combines long gliding (effleurage), kneading (petrissage), percussion (tapotement) and friction strokes to the superficial tissues of the body. Swedish massage is especially beneficial to increase blood and lymph circulation through the body, to increase the mobility in joints, and ease physical and emotional tension. All relaxing and health maintaining massages are considered Swedish Modalities.
A variety of strokes and pressure techniques are used to create a flowing, relaxing and circulation enhancing massage session. This modality combines long gliding (effleurage), kneading (petrissage), percussion (tapotement) and friction strokes to the superficial tissues of the body. Swedish massage is especially beneficial to increase blood and lymph circulation through the body, to increase the mobility in joints, and ease physical and emotional tension. All relaxing and health maintaining massages are considered Swedish Modalities.
DEEP TISSUE MODALITIES
As the name suggests it is intended to affect the tissues that are located ‘deeper’ in to the body, and therefore more difficult to palpate. These modalities also focus on loosening adhesions in the connective tissue; like fascia, muscles, tendons and ligaments. Adhesions are restrictions usually resulting from injuries, chronic muscular tension patterns, overuse, bad posture etc. They may limit movement, create pain and result in postural and compensational patterns. Breaking up the adhesions and restrictions might be uncomfortable to the client, but is essential to restore the space in and between tissues, so that circulation and lymphatic flow are increased, and health, mobility and flexibility restored. Deep tissue modalities often consist of cross fiber friction and vibrational techniques and deep, localized pressure to access a deep tissue layer. It is a misconception however that ‘deep’ means ‘hard’ and painful. Pain is actually counterproductive since it causes the muscles to tighten, making it impossible for the massage therapist to loosen the fascia.
Myofascial Release
Gentle pressure and body positioning are used to relax, stretch and loosen the muscles, fascia (connective tissue), and related structures. Both physical therapists and massage therapists who are appropriately trained use this technique. Myofascial release techniques include skin rolling, wringing, cross fiber friction techniques, etc.
For more information go to the John Barnes Myofascial Release Association at www.myofascialrelease.com
Gentle pressure and body positioning are used to relax, stretch and loosen the muscles, fascia (connective tissue), and related structures. Both physical therapists and massage therapists who are appropriately trained use this technique. Myofascial release techniques include skin rolling, wringing, cross fiber friction techniques, etc.
For more information go to the John Barnes Myofascial Release Association at www.myofascialrelease.com
NEUROMUSCULAR MODALITIES
As the word ’neuro-muscular’ suggests, these techniques engage the relationship between the nervous and muscular system to create reflex responses. Some of the neuromuscular modalities use massage, but they are considered to be more of a bodywork modality.
Neuromuscular Therapy
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is a very specialized form of manual therapy. A therapist trained in NMT is educated in the physiology of the nervous system and its effect on the muscular and skeletal systems. By definition, NMT is the utilization of static pressure on specific myofascial points to relieve pain. This technique manipulates the soft tissue of the body (muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue) to balance the central nervous system. In a healthy individual, nerves transmit impulses (which are responsible for every movement, function and thought) to the body very slowly. Injury, trauma, postural distortion or stress cause nerves to speed up their transmission, inhibiting equilibrium and making the body vulnerable to pain and dysfunction. It is therefore necessary to stabilize low levels of neurological activity to maintain normal function and overall health.
Neuromuscular Therapy is used to address ischemic muscles, trigger points, nerve compressions and entrapment, bad posture and biomechanical dysfunctions that cause pain:
1. Ischemia: Lack of blood supply to soft tissues which causes hypersensitivity to touch
2. Trigger Points: Highly irritated points in muscles which refer pain to other parts of the body
3. Nerve Compression or Entrapment: Pressure on a nerve by soft tissue, cartilage or bone
4. Postural Distortion: Imbalance of the muscular system resulting from the movement of the body off the longitudinal and horizontal planes
5. Biomechanical Dysfunction: Imbalance of the musculoskeletal system resulting in faulty movement patterns (i.e., poor lifting habits, bad mechanics in a golf swing of tennis stroke, computer keyboarding)
For more information on NMT, visit St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy at www.stjohnseminars.com
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is a very specialized form of manual therapy. A therapist trained in NMT is educated in the physiology of the nervous system and its effect on the muscular and skeletal systems. By definition, NMT is the utilization of static pressure on specific myofascial points to relieve pain. This technique manipulates the soft tissue of the body (muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissue) to balance the central nervous system. In a healthy individual, nerves transmit impulses (which are responsible for every movement, function and thought) to the body very slowly. Injury, trauma, postural distortion or stress cause nerves to speed up their transmission, inhibiting equilibrium and making the body vulnerable to pain and dysfunction. It is therefore necessary to stabilize low levels of neurological activity to maintain normal function and overall health.
Neuromuscular Therapy is used to address ischemic muscles, trigger points, nerve compressions and entrapment, bad posture and biomechanical dysfunctions that cause pain:
1. Ischemia: Lack of blood supply to soft tissues which causes hypersensitivity to touch
2. Trigger Points: Highly irritated points in muscles which refer pain to other parts of the body
3. Nerve Compression or Entrapment: Pressure on a nerve by soft tissue, cartilage or bone
4. Postural Distortion: Imbalance of the muscular system resulting from the movement of the body off the longitudinal and horizontal planes
5. Biomechanical Dysfunction: Imbalance of the musculoskeletal system resulting in faulty movement patterns (i.e., poor lifting habits, bad mechanics in a golf swing of tennis stroke, computer keyboarding)
For more information on NMT, visit St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy at www.stjohnseminars.com
Trigger Point Therapy
Pressure is applied to "trigger points" or stress points in the muscles to alleviate muscle spasms and pain. Trigger points are tender areas where the muscles have been damaged by trauma (like a fall, hit or accident) or they may develop over time from the stress and strain of overuse, heavy physical exertion or from repeated use of a particular muscle. These points are specific spots in muscles and tendons which cause pain when pressed, and which may radiate pain to a larger area.
PNF stretching
PNF stands for Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. This technique is used by Physical Therapists, athletic trainers and Massage Therapists to increase flexibility and muscle strength. Injury prevention, muscle strength, better posture, increased mobility, blood and nutrient supply to muscles, reducing muscle soreness, and relaxation are amongst the many benefits of both assisted and unassisted PNF stretching. This technique is very popular in clinical sports massages for athletes because it proved to be an effective and efficient one to improve performance.
PNF stands for Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. This technique is used by Physical Therapists, athletic trainers and Massage Therapists to increase flexibility and muscle strength. Injury prevention, muscle strength, better posture, increased mobility, blood and nutrient supply to muscles, reducing muscle soreness, and relaxation are amongst the many benefits of both assisted and unassisted PNF stretching. This technique is very popular in clinical sports massages for athletes because it proved to be an effective and efficient one to improve performance.
Reflexology
Specialized thumb and finger pressure, stretch and movement techniques are applied to the hands, feet and/or ears. Reflexologists believe that these areas contain "reflex points" or direct connections to specific organs and structures throughout the body. The feet and hands are seen as a mirror image of the body. By applying technique a reflexologist can break up patterns of stress and tension in other parts of the body. How does reflexology work? Pressure applied to the feet generates a signal through the peripheral nervous system. From there it enters the central nervous system where it is processed in various parts of the brain. It is then relayed to the internal organs to allocate the necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen, and finally a response is fashioned that is sent onto the motor system.
Specialized thumb and finger pressure, stretch and movement techniques are applied to the hands, feet and/or ears. Reflexologists believe that these areas contain "reflex points" or direct connections to specific organs and structures throughout the body. The feet and hands are seen as a mirror image of the body. By applying technique a reflexologist can break up patterns of stress and tension in other parts of the body. How does reflexology work? Pressure applied to the feet generates a signal through the peripheral nervous system. From there it enters the central nervous system where it is processed in various parts of the brain. It is then relayed to the internal organs to allocate the necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen, and finally a response is fashioned that is sent onto the motor system.
ORIENTAL OR EASTERN MODALITIES
Traditional eastern philosophies are based on the concept of meridians, or energy pathways through which Qi, Chi or life-force flows. Our body is healthy, or in balance when the energies flow freely, as soon as there is a blockage in our energy channels there will be a disharmony in the body, causing un-ease and ultimately a disease. Eastern modalities use mechanical pressure techniques with fingers, hands, elbows, knees and feet, to manipulate the flow of Chi and remove any blockages in the meridians so that health may be restored and maintained. All eastern modalities work with the same meridians and energy points, just different techniques to attain the same result: a balanced and healthy body, mind and spirit. Examples are Acupuncture, Shiatsu, Jin Shin, etc.
Shiatsu or acupressure
Is a Japanese massage technique where gentle finger, hand, elbow and sometimes even foot pressure is applied to specific points on the body to relieve pain, aches, tensions, fatigue and enhance the flow of energy (known as qi) through the body's energy pathways (called meridians). These points are called tsubo’s. The 361 tsubos, also called Acupuncture points and pressure points, are located along the 14 major channels of energy through which the body’s energy flows, also called meridian lines. Shiatsu is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The effect is similar to that of acupuncture treatment without the needles. This therapy is beneficial for reducing pain and relieving tension. While at the same time balancing and revitalizing the energetic pathways of the body, and bringing the mental and emotional states into harmony. The client stays fully clothed for these sessions.
For more information on Shiatsu go to the Acupressure Institute at www.acupressure.com and the American Association of Bodywork Therapies of Asia at www.aobta.org
Is a Japanese massage technique where gentle finger, hand, elbow and sometimes even foot pressure is applied to specific points on the body to relieve pain, aches, tensions, fatigue and enhance the flow of energy (known as qi) through the body's energy pathways (called meridians). These points are called tsubo’s. The 361 tsubos, also called Acupuncture points and pressure points, are located along the 14 major channels of energy through which the body’s energy flows, also called meridian lines. Shiatsu is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The effect is similar to that of acupuncture treatment without the needles. This therapy is beneficial for reducing pain and relieving tension. While at the same time balancing and revitalizing the energetic pathways of the body, and bringing the mental and emotional states into harmony. The client stays fully clothed for these sessions.
For more information on Shiatsu go to the Acupressure Institute at www.acupressure.com and the American Association of Bodywork Therapies of Asia at www.aobta.org
ENERGY MODALITIES
Polarity
Polarity therapy is a hands-on approach to balancing the human energy field and its structural counterpart. Polarity facilitates the dissolving and releasing of energy blocks and deep-seated tensions. Techniques include circular pressure on sensitive contact points, light rhythmic rocking and stretching motions, joint mobilization, and energy holds. Client may be clothed for these sessions.
Visit the website of the American Polarity Therapy Association at www.polaritytherapy.org for more information on Polarity.
OTHER MODALITIES:
Raindrop Technique
The Raindrop Technique combines the art and science of aromatherapy, reflexology and Swedish massage techniques in the application of therapeutic grade essential oils to the spine, back and feet stimulating the body’s natural healing response. This sequence was designed by Dr. Gary Young, naturopathic physician and founder of Young Living Essential Oils, based on his research with the Lakota Indians in the 1980’s.
We all carry immune system depleting viruses and bacteria. Essential oils applied along the back are absorbed through the nerves that feed the entire body. Within moments the oils are absorbed through the skin, and in a matter of minutes through each cell of the body, bringing the body in structural and electrical alignment. Raindrop is reported to be beneficial for skin rashes, back pain, scoliosis, improve immunity and energy levels, pain relief, detoxification, relaxation and invigoration.
The Raindrop Technique combines the art and science of aromatherapy, reflexology and Swedish massage techniques in the application of therapeutic grade essential oils to the spine, back and feet stimulating the body’s natural healing response. This sequence was designed by Dr. Gary Young, naturopathic physician and founder of Young Living Essential Oils, based on his research with the Lakota Indians in the 1980’s.
We all carry immune system depleting viruses and bacteria. Essential oils applied along the back are absorbed through the nerves that feed the entire body. Within moments the oils are absorbed through the skin, and in a matter of minutes through each cell of the body, bringing the body in structural and electrical alignment. Raindrop is reported to be beneficial for skin rashes, back pain, scoliosis, improve immunity and energy levels, pain relief, detoxification, relaxation and invigoration.
Aromatherapy
Pure Essential Oils have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties, therefore they may assist in detoxifying the body naturally. They are also loaded with antioxidants and rich in oxygen molecules. Essential oils have a chemical structure similar to that found in human cells and tissues. This makes them compatible with human proteins and enables them to be readily identified and accepted by the body. EO are so small in molecular size that they penetrate the tissues of the skin. EO are also lipid soluble and are capable of penetrating cell walls, even those hardened as a result of oxygen deficiency. Essential oils contain oxygen molecules, which help transport nutrients to cells. Since nutrient deficiency equals oxygen deficiency, disease begins when cells lack oxygen for proper nutrient assimilation. By providing oxygen, essential oils work to stimulate the immune system. EO can affect every cell of the body within 20min. and are metabolized like other nutrients. And last but not least, EO smell great -filling the air with fresh and pleasing aromatic scents, exerting strong effects on the brain, esp. the hypothalamus (the hormone command center) and the limbic system (the seat of emotions). Essential oils contain so many chemical constituents that they are still being studied.
It is important to use only therapeutic grade essential oils for health benefits, if the bottle does not state it is therapeutic grade it is in a deluted form often mixed with cheap chemicals that could cause more damage than benefit!
Pure Essential Oils have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties, therefore they may assist in detoxifying the body naturally. They are also loaded with antioxidants and rich in oxygen molecules. Essential oils have a chemical structure similar to that found in human cells and tissues. This makes them compatible with human proteins and enables them to be readily identified and accepted by the body. EO are so small in molecular size that they penetrate the tissues of the skin. EO are also lipid soluble and are capable of penetrating cell walls, even those hardened as a result of oxygen deficiency. Essential oils contain oxygen molecules, which help transport nutrients to cells. Since nutrient deficiency equals oxygen deficiency, disease begins when cells lack oxygen for proper nutrient assimilation. By providing oxygen, essential oils work to stimulate the immune system. EO can affect every cell of the body within 20min. and are metabolized like other nutrients. And last but not least, EO smell great -filling the air with fresh and pleasing aromatic scents, exerting strong effects on the brain, esp. the hypothalamus (the hormone command center) and the limbic system (the seat of emotions). Essential oils contain so many chemical constituents that they are still being studied.
It is important to use only therapeutic grade essential oils for health benefits, if the bottle does not state it is therapeutic grade it is in a deluted form often mixed with cheap chemicals that could cause more damage than benefit!
Sports Massage
Often used on professional athletes and other active individuals, sports massage can enhance performance and prevent and treat sports-related injuries. Massage is a very necessary component of any rigorous fitness program. It will shorten the recovery time between workouts; reduce your chance of injury, through proper stretching and event preparation, and through deep tissue manipulation; improve your range of motion and muscle flexibility, resulting in improved power and performance; and maximize the supply of nutrients and oxygen through increased blood flow.
Often used on professional athletes and other active individuals, sports massage can enhance performance and prevent and treat sports-related injuries. Massage is a very necessary component of any rigorous fitness program. It will shorten the recovery time between workouts; reduce your chance of injury, through proper stretching and event preparation, and through deep tissue manipulation; improve your range of motion and muscle flexibility, resulting in improved power and performance; and maximize the supply of nutrients and oxygen through increased blood flow.
There are different types of sports massage. The ‘recovery type’ is to enhance the athlete’s physical and mental recovery from sports activity. For best results massage is recommended at least 24-hours post workout. The Remedial Sports Massage helps improve a debilitating condition. The Rehabilitation massage facilitates the healing after a disabling injury. And most importantly the maintenance massages, to enhance recovery and help the athlete maintain optimal health.
During competitions, such as tournaments and races, athletes push themselves to their limits, performing at maximum effort. At these events sports massage is used to prepare for, and recover from the stresses of all-out effort.
During competitions, such as tournaments and races, athletes push themselves to their limits, performing at maximum effort. At these events sports massage is used to prepare for, and recover from the stresses of all-out effort.
But you don’t have to be a professional athlete to benefit from therapeutic massage. Massage feels great. Maybe that’s why some people still mistakenly consider it a luxury as opposed to what it really is – a very necessary component of your fitness program.
Holistic and Integrated Massage Therapy
By Nathalie Francois in Summit, NJ 07901
