Policies

Therapeutic massage is treatment that is more focused on dealing with a specific issue or injury. The pressure and technique will vary depending on the individual, but the goal is resolution of the issue.
It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff neck, back and shoulders, TMJ, Sciatica, Tendonitis, and other overuse injuries. The treatment can be uncomfortable, so communicate with your therapist during the treatment and to report any lasting discomfort post-treatment.

A gentle hands-on technique, Myofascial Release Therapy works with the connective tissues of the body to promote healing and ease restriction of movement. This therapy takes advantage of the body's innate healing wisdom and utilizes the fascia's pliable nature in order to achieve increased range of motion along with decreased incidence of pain and discomfort.

Cupping Massage brings the ancient art of fire cupping into modern day massage practice. Cupping is a technique whereby a vacuum is created in a cup, drawing the skin up and separating the layers of superficial fascia. This allows space for freshly oxygenated blood to rush into the layers below, relieving adhesions and metabolic stagnation. The technique is applied anywhere from 10 seconds to 30 minutes, with varying degrees of intensity, depending on the condition
Cupping has a long lasting affect on deep tissues, fascial restrictions, the movement of fluids, and in increasing ranges of motion. Cupping Massage can also have a strong sedative effect when the cups are left on for longer periods of time.
Ecchymosis (bruising) is a common side effect of cupping, but does not always occur. The bruising commonly last 1-5 days.

The Bowen Technique is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that can have incredible results in the relief of pain. It is a structural treatment for musculoskeletal pain and imbalance that allows the body to "reset" itself, thereby improving its function. (It has been compared to homeopathy in that it encourages the body to heal itself.)

The "Bowen move" is a gentle stretch/release of specific points on the body to stimulate the nervous system to be aware of these areas. The points are typically on postural muscles and nerve bundles, so in addition to being therapeutic, the treatment can be very relaxing. The Bowen Technique can be used on anyone with chronic discomforts or acute pain or trauma, and can be particularly beneficial in the treatment of muscular and joint dysfunction. It is a very gentle technique, and highly effective for anyone from children to the elderly.

The Craniosacral system is made up of the cranium (skull), the spinal cord, and the sacrum (tailbone), and the membrane that envelops the brain and the spinal cord (the dura). It is a hydraulic system, with the bones of the skull expanding and contracting to maintain a consistent flow of cerebrospinal fluid and to prevent pressure from building within the system. Since this system influences the development and functioning of the brain and spinal cord, an imbalance or restriction in it could cause various sensory, motor or neurological disabilities.

This very gentle osteopathic technique involves mobilization of the cranial bones, the dural membrane, as well as the deep layers of myofascial connective tissue of the body where restrictions are held. The therapist uses a very light touch which allows the body to self-correct and restore balance thereby relieving pain and increasing mobility. It is a very effective treatment for headaches/migraines as well as long standing pain syndromes.

Research done in the 1970’s by Dr. John Upledger and biophysicist Zvi Karni led to the discovery that the body often retains the emotional imprint of physical trauma. These “imprints” of intense feelings (anger, fear, resentment) that may have occurred at the time of injury leave residues, restrictions and pain in the tissues of the body. Purely emotional trauma or stress also create physical restrictions and pain in the tissues. Through Somato-Emotional release, the therapist engages in imaging and dialoguing techniques combined with gentle manual techniques to guide the client through an otherwise challenging encounter with long held emotions. The client does not need to analyze the problem in order to release it from the body. As these imprints/restrictions are released, the body is free to return to its optimal level of functioning.

Marian Sears-Carter

Thai Yoga Massage is an ancient massage therapy technique based on yoga and Ayurvedic bodywork.The practitioner guides the recipient through a series of yoga postures while massaging with palms and thumbs along the "Sen" or energy lines and acupressure points.

This therapy stimulates the body's own recuperative powers by removing energy blockages in these areas. Thai Yoga Massage is a full-body treatment that is the ideal massage for stress reduction, and is effective in relieving muscular tension, improving circulation, boosting immune function and balancing the bodys energy.

Thai Yoga Massage is usually administered over loose clothing, with the client stretched out on a large floor mat. No oils or lotions are used in traditional Thai massage.

Indi Head Massage is a form of massage therapy that focuses on the face, head, neck, shoulders and upper arms. The purpose of the treatment is to stimulate acupressure points and energy centres in these areas to help relieve tension and congestion.

This treatment combines the physical elements of massage with Ayurvedic energy balancing. It can have profound effects on the body, leaving the client with a deep feeling of relaxation and well-being. An excellent technique for headaches, stress and anxiety.

The lymphatic system is a complex network of lymph nodes and vessels that carry and remove lymph fluids throughout the body. Lymph nodes filter bacteria and foreign matter from the bloodstream, which is why they are sometimes called the "garbage collectors" of the body.

Movement of the lymph fluid is essential to prevent swelling in the extremities leading to Lymphedema or to improve immunity and remove toxins from the body naturally. Lymphatic Massage helps the lymph system perform its usual function. It is beneficial for both healthy individuals and persons with a compromised lymphatics system.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a gentle and rhythmic technique. It is often the only technique a palliative patient can tolerate as it is also very analgesic. Most people experience lymphatic massage as deeply relaxing and even rejuvenating. Despite the light massage technique it is very effective in its intentions to awaken the lymphatic system and create pathways for the lymph fluid to flow and be removed from the body naturally. 

Hot Stone massage therapy combines the benefits of heat with traditional massage techniques (Swedish Massage). Heated stones are used as tools to deliver a massage at a pressure that is most comfortable to the client, whether through light, gentle strokes, or deep-tissue treatment.

Stones are used in two ways during this massage therapy treatment: first, the body is heated by placing the stones in specific areas on and under it; the therapist then simultaneously massages the client with oiled, heated stones, using firm strokes along the back, arms and legs.

The heat relaxes the muscle tissue, increasing blood flow to the area being treated. This accelerates the healing process, and is also deeply relaxing. In addition to its therapeutic uses, this massage therapy technique is ideal for neck and shoulder tension and dealing with stress.

There is an additional $10 charge on the treatment price. (ex. 60 min Hot Stone is $135, not $125)

Relaxing, balancing and rejuvenating. Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, single use needles into specific Acupuncture Points to stimulate the body's own natural healing. We like to think of the needles as a switch; turning off something the body is doing too much of, or turning on something the body is not doing enough. The basic principles of traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) teach that all aspect of body and mind need to be in balance to maintain health. Acupuncture is one part of TCM used to restore or maintain that balance. Acupuncture is highly effective in the treatment of insomnia, depression & anxiety, digestive disorders, fertility, PMS, migraines, menopausal symptoms, arthritis, pain, colds & flu, skin disorders, seasonal allergies, smoking cessation and labour induction. 

Meghan DeSousa - Orleans

Wen Qing Guo - Bank St

Shahrbanoo (Sherry) Rahimi - Sandy Hill

Acupuncture + Tuina  session:

Tuina is a kind of non-drug natural therapy and physical therapy. It usually refers to the practitioner using hands to act on the patient's body surface, injured part, discomfort, specific acupoints, and pain. Tuina is a deep and powerful massage along the meridian to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood, to promote the balance of yin and yang in the body. Tuina removes blockages of Qi and blood stasis by applying pressure to meridians, acupuncture points, muscle, and nerve groups. 

Acupuncture + Tuina combo session can remove pain more effectively and treat scar tissue sequelae and restore physical health.

Acupuncture + Cupping session:

Cupping therapy is one of the oldest and natural medical treatment in history. Cupping use suction cups on the skin of the body surface, activating Qi and blood circulation.

Acupuncture + Cupping can play a synergistic healing effect to move blood & Qi and break up obstructions, detoxifies, relieves acute or chronic pain, expels external pathogens, releases fascia, helps lymphatic drainage and improves circulation.

Acupuncture + Guasha session:

Guasha is a healing method guided by the theory of traditional Chinese medicine. the TCM practitioner repeatedly scrapes and rubs on the body surface, promoting blood circulation.

Acupuncture + Guasha is very effective to remove the soreness, the numbness, the swelling, the pain, the knots, and the taut band of muscle fibers in fixed parts of the body.

Facial Acupuncture

Your initial appointment will review your lifestyle, sleep, stress, emotions and overall energy. You will then relax into your treatment enjoying a comprehensive, personalized facial acupuncture service tailored to your individual needs and goals. Your registered acupuncturist will use a combination of gentle Gua Sha with organic serum, facial cupping and ultra fine needles during your treatment. All facial acupuncture treatments have  additional acupuncture points along the body to address the root causes of any imbalances.

Osteopathy is an extremely gentle form of treatment that is suitable for everyone including infants and elderly. In Canada, Osteopathic Manual Practitioners complete a rigorous  program of clinical and academic study in osteopathic manipulation. They treat patients using manual techniques only. They do not use drugs, medication, surgery or other medical procedures.

What can Osteopathy Help? 

Neck and Back Pain

Osteopathic manual practitioners can relieve neck and back pain like sciatica, rib pain, torticollis, headaches and migraines. They can work deeply on the muscles and tendons when required. 

Joint pain

Shoulder pain and mobility restriction, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, hip pain and mobility restrictions, knee problems, ankle or foot pain. 

Visceral Treatments

Osteopathic approach does not only concentrate on the spine and the structural aspects of the body but integrates the organs. This is why it can help with digestive disorders (constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, acid reflux and heartburn) or urinary and gynecological issues. 

Head related Problems

Using cranial techniques, Osteopaths treat various conditions that are often not addressed by other therapies. Jaw pain and tempomandibular disorders, ear, nose and throat problems like chronic ear infections, recurrent sore throats, frequent colds, glaucoma, sinusitis or tinnitus. 

Pregnancy

A pregnant woman sees her body undergo multiple transformations: the digestive organs are pushed up with the increased volume of the uterus, the bladder is compressed, and the pelvis changes significantly, there is an increase supply of blood and lymph and many hormonal changes. Therefore women often experience lower and upper back pain, heartburn, rib pain and breathing issues, edema and swelling. The osteopathic treatment helps the body making the necessary adjustments. And remember that relaxed muscles and a free pelvis will be the basis for an easy delivery. 

*Osteopathic services are covered by most insurance companies. We recommend you verify with your insurance provider that your policy covers osteopathy and the practitioner's osteopathic association.* 

Michel Favre and Esther Becart 

Foot reflexology is a massage therapy technique based on the principle that reflex points on the feet and hands correspond to various organs and systems in the body. Balance is restored to the body through the application of pressure to these points.

It is an extremely relaxing technique and is excellent for dealing with stress and anxiety. Foot reflexology is also an excellent introduction to touch for those unaccustomed to or uncomfortable with massage therapy.

Carole Joly and Paulette Hebert

The word Reiki means Universal Life Energy. Reiki is a simple and natural bodymind healing method that channels this life energy through the practitioner into the patient.

The treatment begins with the clothed client lying on a massage table while the practitioner’s hands "scan" the energy field. Areas of blocked energy are felt as either hot or cold, and so the practitioner will try to normalize the flow of energy and eliminate the blockages. The client will often feel warmth or tingling during the treatment.

The purpose of this treatment is to create balance in the body and harmonize the different systems. It is very effective in dealing with stress and anxiety, and can also be beneficial for digestive disturbances.