A 2004 graduate of Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Syracuse, NY, Diane Stordock is licensed in both New York State and South Carolina.  She is also certified in Integrative Reflexology®.

 

 

Massage and bodywork can help release chronic muscular tension and pain, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, reduce mental and physical fatigue and stress, promote faster healing of injured muscular tissue, improve posture, and reduce blood pressure.  Massage and bodywork are also known to promote better sleep, improve concentration, reduce anxiety, and create an overall sense of well-being.

 

 

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, you may decide what amount of clothing you prefer to wear for your own comfort.  You will be properly draped during the session.

 

 

The therapist will leave the room while you undress, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet.

 

 

You and the therapist will discuss the desired outcome of your session.  This will determine which parts of your body require massage.  A typical full-body session will include work on your back, arms, legs, feet, hands, neck, and shoulders.  South Carolina law prohibits the exposure and/or massage of the gluteal cleft or genitals.  Under certain conditions; such as when a mastectomy has been performed and scar tissue is present, the female breast tissue may be massaged, however in such a circumstance Graceful Healing would require written consent from the client.

 

 

It depends on the techniques used.  In a general Swedish massage, your session may start with broad, flowing strokes that will help to calm your nervous system and ease exterior muscle tension.  As your body unwinds, pressure will gradually be increases to relax and relieve specific areas of muscular tension.  You should communicate with your practitioner immediately if you feel any discomfort so that another approach may be taken.  Massage and bodywork are most effective when your body is not resisting.

 

 

The average session lasts approximately one hour.  A half-hour session only allows time for a partial massage, for instance the neck and shoulders.  Many people prefer a sixty-to-ninty minute session for optimal relaxation.

 

 

Make yourself comfortable.  The therapist will either gently move you or tell you what is needed throughout the session (such as lifting your arm).  Many people just close their eyes and completely relax.  While this is highly encouraged, you should always feel free to ask the therapist questions about massage and bodywork in general or about the particular technique you are receiving.

 

 

Most people feel very relaxed.  Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity.  After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience increases energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity, which can last for days.  Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink pleny of water afterward.

 

 

Yes.  Before your first session at Graceful Healing you will be required to complete a health history form, which will be reviewed, with you, by the therapist.  It is very important that you inform the therapist of any health problems or medications you are taking.   If you are under a doctor's care, it is strongly advised that you receive a written recommendation for massage or bodywork.