WELCOME! Since I am one of only three massage therapists who are trained in this Eastern Indian modality in all of Michigan, you may find the following information interesting. It tells a bit about my work and my philosophy, both for the Asian modality and for my regular massage and Spa-a-ah practice. Enjoy.
One of my favorite quotes about Ayurvedic treatments comes from something my honored instructor of Ayurvedic therapies Kathryn M. Koliss wrote which says:
"The primary purpose of anointing of the body with oil is to give the client a sense of the stupendous love that flows through the universe at all times. The outpouring of love is provided by one or two therapists massaging the body in a pattern of rhythmic strokes. The warm oil, soothing herbs or essential oils, and caring strokes calm the nervous system and ease the tensions in the mind. There is a moment of surrender in the massage when the mind is no longer attached to trying to figure out and follow what is being experienced by the body."
All of those statements are so true, especially for me in my practice of massage. I have always felt it was a privilege to work with the clients that have come to me because I recognized the trust one has to have to receive bodywork. But I respect and honor those who overcome whatever hesitancy they may have, to come and care for themselves.
There are many reasons why someone will have a massage -- to feel good, to reward themselves, to try something new, to relieve stress, to cope with grief, to be touched by another human being in a safe and non-threatening atmosphere of acceptance -- and all of these reasons are wonderful.
I practice my massage therapies in a nurturing and safe manner. Since one of our cultural problems is liking ourselves and our bodies, I've found that when people nurture themselves, and when they do things that make them feel good, they are able to have a better, healthier attitude about the body they carry with them everywhere!
If you have never experienced a massage before, start with a short session. Make sure the massage practitioner has a good reputation, good training, and is a member of a professional organization with policies they uphold. Mentally prepare yourself by understanding that you are trying something new.
If you have "body issues" of too skinny, too dry, too fat, too tall, too ugly, too out of shape, too . . . . whatever, remember that the massage therapist works with many people and accepts each where they are at that moment, and holds positive hope for them in their journey.
Massage -- and Ayurvedic massage in particular, is one of the most delightful and enjoyable gifts you can give yourself. I welcome you to my practice and hope you will come and see what Ayurvedic massage can do for you.
