ESSENTIAL MASSAGE:
REDISCOVER YOUR ESSENTIAL SELF



Why do most of us modern Americans seemingly have such a difficult time nurturing ourselves? Taking care of ourselves is sometimes even seen as shameful or selfish. But, really, nothing is more important than our well-being. When we feel good, we’re able to meet life’s challenges and stresses better. And a well performed bodywork session not
only feels wonderful, but is therapeutic physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Oftentimes, a client’s first massage is motivated by some acute condition, perhaps physical pain relief or
for the psycho-emotional support needed during the grieving process. What the novice soon discovers though is that the benefits of massage are far more widespread than they suspected.

Even one 60 to 90 minute session can help alleviate stress, lower the “flight or fight” neurotransmitters and increase the body’s chemicals and hormones which help us to relax, or tissues to repair and replenish, restore us to equistasis and even help with pain relief. Massage also aids in digestion, detoxification, improves circulation and mood, keeps our skin taut and healthy during weight loss, can help to achieve better range of motion and joint mobility, and, of course, relieves sore or tight muscles. And, bodywork is also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety and create an overall sense of well-being.

Receiving regular massage, with an ethical, qualified therapist can improve one’s quality of life dramatically. Alex and I named our business Essential Massage for a few reasons. One of our practice’s missions is to help facilitate our client’s good health and balance with a myriad of modalities and treatments to help return them to their essential selves. Our indoor and outdoor environments are always warm and inviting with light essential oil candles and soft, pleasant music in the background.

When you’re here with us, you are treated as royalty. (Hawaiian royalty if you’re lucky enough to be receiving our full Lomi Lomi Nui massage.) You are the boss when you are here. We always begin with a free 5 to 20 minute consultation. We want to get to know you and understand your body’s wants and needs. And we always ask our clients to complete our intake form and health history because there are some medical conditions that may be contraindicated for a deep tissue session. And, even though we both incorporate Reiki Jin Kei Do and other forms of energy work into our session when appropriate, we also have strong backgrounds
in western medicine, so our clients feel well supported. We strongly believe that therapeutic bodywork needs to be an affordable luxury: the gift we deserve to give ourselves with health and well being benefits.

Kathleen & Alex have been in practice in Arcata for seven years at 309 F Street. Call for current brochure, price list and $5.00 off coupon good till 4-1-07.
(707)825-7655. essentialmassage@mcn.org