We Make You
Feel Good
Come discover the health benefits
of relaxing, healing massage.
OFFICE HOURS
| Monday – Friday | 9:00 – 7:00 |
| Saturday | 9:00 – 4:00 |
| Sundays | 9:00 – 4:00 |
(541) 484-3055
Welcome to About Touch Massage
Does your body hold you back from doing what you love? Whether your goal is to recover from an injury, manage chronic pain, improve your posture or relax and destress, we use a variety of bodywork styles and modalities to support your health and wellness.
MASSAGE
We offer medical/therapeutic, back massage, chair, sports, cranial sacral, myofascial, pregnancy massage and more.
ACUPUNCTURE
Modern acupuncture treatments correct imbalances of energy in the body, to promote a variety of health and wellness benefits.
ASHIATSU
The therapist uses her feet and body weight to provide a deep tissue massage incorporating myofascial release, trigger point and passive stretching.
MEET OUR THERAPISTS
Our staff has extensive training in a variety of massage, acupuncture and ashiatsu techniques to assist you in healing and destressing. Our clients have been helped with conditions as varied as tension, stress, low back pain, headaches, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel, whiplash, TMJ dysfunction and muscle strain. We can help you get your life back and return to the activities you love.
OUR FEATURED POSTS
Wellness Is a Journey. We Can Help Get You There.
Allergy Relief with Acupuncture
Allergy Relief with Acupuncture If you need allergy relief due to a stuffy nose, congestion, coughing, watering eyes, or ear itching, you’re not alone. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of [...]
Unlocking the Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is an ancient healing art that has been practiced for thousands of years. From the skilled hands of therapists, massage offers a wealth of benefits that extend far beyond relaxation and indulgence. This comprehensive practice has gained recognition for its ability to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In this article, we will delve into the profound benefits of massage therapy, exploring its therapeutic effects and its capacity to enhance overall health and quality of life.
Stress Reduction and Relaxation:
One of the primary benefits of massage therapy is its ability to alleviate stress and induce deep relaxation. Through the application of various techniques such as long, flowing strokes, kneading, and gentle pressure, massage triggers the body’s relaxation response, releasing tension and promoting a sense of calm. The reduction in stress levels can lead to improved sleep quality, reduced anxiety, and enhanced mental clarity.
Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery:
Massage therapy is highly effective in relieving both chronic and acute pain. The manipulation of soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments, increases blood circulation and stimulates the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. This can provide relief from conditions such as back pain, headaches, sports injuries, and even fibromyalgia. Moreover, massage aids in muscle recovery by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and improving range of motion.
Improved Circulation and Detoxification:
Massage therapy enhances blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and vital nutrients to various parts of the body. Increased circulation also helps to remove metabolic waste products and toxins, promoting detoxification and improving overall organ function. By stimulating the lymphatic system, massage further assists in eliminating toxins and boosting the immune system.
Enhanced Mental Health and Emotional Well-being:
The benefits of massage extend beyond the physical realm and have a profound impact on mental and emotional health. Regular massage therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. The release of serotonin and dopamine during massage promotes feelings of happiness and relaxation, while the nurturing touch creates a sense of connection and emotional support.
Improved Posture and Flexibility:
Massage therapy can help correct postural imbalances caused by prolonged sitting, poor ergonomics, or muscular imbalances. The manipulation of soft tissues and targeted stretching techniques can relieve muscle tension and tightness, promoting better alignment and posture. With regular sessions, massage can improve flexibility, range of motion, and joint mobility.
Enhanced Athletic Performance:
Massage therapy plays a crucial role in the training and performance of athletes. Pre-event or pre-workout massages can help warm up muscles, increase blood flow, and improve flexibility, thereby reducing the risk of injury. Post-event or post-workout massages aid in muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and promote faster healing, allowing athletes to bounce back and perform at their best.
Boosted Immune System:
Regular massage therapy has been shown to enhance immune function by increasing the activity of natural killer cells, which play a vital role in fighting off infections and diseases. Moreover, the reduction in stress hormones, such as cortisol, during massage contributes to a strengthened immune system.
Massage therapy offers a multitude of benefits that extend to physical, mental, and emotional well-being. From stress reduction and pain relief to improved circulation and enhanced mental health, regular sessions can positively impact every aspect of our lives. Whether seeking relaxation or addressing specific health concerns, massage therapy is a holistic practice that promotes balance and overall wellness. Embracing the profound benefits of massage can lead to a healthier, happier, and more vibrant life.
The Art and Science of Swedish Massage
Among the diverse range of massage techniques, Swedish massage stands as a cornerstone of relaxation and rejuvenation. Developed in the 19th century by a Swedish physiologist named Per Henrik Ling, this therapeutic practice has become renowned worldwide for its soothing and healing effects. In this article, we will explore the principles and techniques of Swedish massage, shedding light on its benefits, process, and the profound relaxation it offers.
Principles and Techniques:
Swedish massage is based on four fundamental principles: effleurage, petrissage, friction, and tapotement. Effleurage involves long, sweeping strokes with varying pressure, promoting relaxation and improved blood circulation. Petrissage employs kneading, squeezing, and rolling motions to release muscle tension and increase flexibility. Friction involves deep circular or transverse movements to break down knots and adhesions, enhancing mobility. Tapotement utilizes rhythmic tapping, cupping, and chopping motions to invigorate the body and stimulate nerve endings.
Deep Relaxation:
At the core of Swedish massage lies the pursuit of deep relaxation. The combination of gentle strokes, soothing touch, and rhythmic movements induces a state of tranquility, allowing the body and mind to let go of stress and tension. As the therapist’s hands glide over the body, tension dissipates, muscles unwind, and the nervous system calms, promoting a profound sense of relaxation and well-being.
Improved Blood Circulation:
Swedish massage increases blood flow throughout the body, delivering vital oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and organs. The long, flowing strokes of effleurage stimulate the circulatory system, dilating blood vessels and enhancing the oxygenation and nourishment of tissues. Improved circulation also aids in the removal of metabolic waste products, promoting detoxification and overall health.
Muscle Tension Relief:
The kneading and squeezing techniques of petrissage employed in Swedish massage target muscle tension and tightness. By applying gentle pressure and manipulating soft tissues, the therapist releases knots, adhesions, and trigger points, promoting muscle relaxation and relieving pain. This process can alleviate chronic muscular discomfort, reduce muscle spasms, and improve flexibility and range of motion.
Stress Reduction and Mental Well-being:
Swedish massage is renowned for its ability to reduce stress levels and promote mental well-being. The release of endorphins and serotonin during the massage session elevates mood, induces a sense of happiness and relaxation, and helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The rhythmic movements and nurturing touch of the therapist create a safe space for clients to unwind, rejuvenate, and find inner peace.
Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage:
Swedish massage aids in stimulating the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in eliminating toxins, boosting immune function, and reducing swelling or edema. The gentle pressure and movements applied during the massage assist in the removal of waste products, promote lymphatic flow, and enhance the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Overall Wellness and Vitality:
Regular Swedish massage sessions can have a profound impact on overall wellness and vitality. The combination of physical and mental relaxation, improved circulation, and relief from muscle tension contributes to a balanced and harmonious state. With consistent practice, individuals may experience improved sleep quality, increased energy levels, and a strengthened immune system, leading to enhanced overall well-being.
Swedish massage offers a blissful journey into deep relaxation, rejuvenation, and well-being. Its gentle yet effective techniques, combined with the nurturing touch of the therapist, provide a therapeutic experience that benefits the body, mind, and spirit. From relieving muscle tension and enhancing blood circulation to reducing stress and promoting mental wellness, Swedish massage holds many benefits for our patients.
Sports Massage: Empowering Athletes for Increased Performance
Sports massage is a specialized form of bodywork that has become an integral part of athletes’ training and recovery routines. Designed to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and aid in post-event or post-workout recovery, sports massage is a targeted approach that focuses on the unique needs and demands of athletes. In this article, we will delve into the principles, techniques, and benefits of sports massage, highlighting its role in optimizing athletic performance and promoting overall well-being.
Principles and Techniques:
Sports massage is rooted in the principles of anatomy, physiology, and sports science. It employs a variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage, stretching, compression, friction, and trigger point therapy. These techniques are applied with precision and adaptability to address specific muscular imbalances, promote flexibility, improve range of motion, and alleviate muscle soreness and tension.
Enhanced Athletic Performance:
Sports massage plays a crucial role in enhancing athletic performance. Pre-event or pre-workout sessions focus on warming up the muscles, increasing blood circulation, and preparing the body for intense physical activity. This helps improve flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and optimize muscle function, allowing athletes to perform at their peak.
Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation:
Sports massage is effective in preventing injuries by identifying and addressing potential areas of tension, imbalance, or weakness. By improving muscle flexibility, reducing scar tissue, and enhancing blood flow, sports massage helps maintain proper muscle alignment and reduces the risk of strains, sprains, and other athletic injuries. Moreover, it aids in the rehabilitation process by promoting faster healing, reducing inflammation, and assisting in the restoration of normal range of motion.
Reduction of Muscle Soreness and Fatigue:
Intense physical activity often leads to muscle soreness, fatigue, and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Sports massage helps alleviate these symptoms by increasing blood circulation, flushing out metabolic waste products, and reducing inflammation. The application of targeted techniques to affected areas aids in the breakdown of adhesions and the release of tension, promoting muscle recovery and reducing post-exercise discomfort.
Flexibility, Range of Motion, and Joint Health:
Sports massage incorporates stretching techniques that improve flexibility, increase range of motion, and maintain optimal joint health. By targeting specific muscle groups and applying deep tissue and stretching techniques, sports massage helps lengthen and release tight muscles, improve joint mobility, and prevent muscle imbalances that may lead to chronic injuries.
Psychological Benefits and Mental Focus:
Athletic performance is not solely dependent on physical conditioning; mental focus and clarity are equally important. Sports massage provides a valuable opportunity for athletes to relax, release stress, and cultivate mental resilience. The nurturing touch and rhythmic movements of sports massage promote a sense of calm, reduce anxiety, and enhance mental well-being, allowing athletes to enter a state of heightened focus and concentration.
Individualized Treatment and Performance Optimization:
Sports massage is highly individualized, tailored to the unique needs and goals of each athlete. Whether an elite professional or a recreational enthusiast, athletes can benefit from personalized treatment plans that address specific concerns, such as muscle imbalances, overuse injuries, or performance plateaus. Sports massage therapists collaborate with athletes to optimize performance, develop injury prevention strategies, and provide ongoing support throughout their training journey.
Sports massage is a powerful tool that empowers athletes to achieve optimal performance, prevent injuries, and expedite recovery. By combining targeted techniques, stretching, and individualized treatment plans, sports massage addresses the unique needs of athletes, enhancing flexibility, range of motion, and muscle function. With its numerous physical, psychological, and performance-related benefits, sports massage has become an indispensable component of athletic training and overall well-being. Embracing the transformative power of sports massage is good for your body, mind and performance.
The Healing Art of Acupuncture: Ancient Wisdom for Well-Being
Acupuncture is an ancient practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine that has gained widespread recognition for its profound healing and therapeutic effects. Dating back thousands of years, this holistic approach involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to restore balance, promote health, and alleviate a wide range of conditions. In this article, we will delve into the principles, techniques, and benefits of acupuncture, exploring its role in enhancing physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Principles and Techniques:
Acupuncture is based on the principle of Qi (pronounced “chee”), the vital life force that flows through meridians or pathways in the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine, imbalances or blockages in the flow of Qi can lead to illness or discomfort. Acupuncture works by stimulating specific points along these meridians, encouraging the smooth flow of Qi and restoring balance to the body’s systems. Fine, sterile needles are inserted at precise points and manipulated gently to elicit therapeutic effects.
Pain Management and Relief:
One of the most well-known benefits of acupuncture is its effectiveness in managing pain. Acupuncture has been used to alleviate various types of pain, including musculoskeletal pain, headaches, migraines, and chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia. By stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals, acupuncture can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
Stress Reduction and Emotional Well-being:
Acupuncture has a remarkable impact on reducing stress levels and promoting emotional well-being. The insertion of needles stimulates the production of neurotransmitters and hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate mood, promote relaxation, and reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. Acupuncture sessions provide a calming and nurturing environment, allowing individuals to release tension, restore balance, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
Improved Sleep Quality:
Many individuals struggle with sleep-related issues, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. Acupuncture can offer a natural solution by addressing the underlying imbalances that contribute to sleep disturbances. By promoting relaxation, regulating hormone levels, and reducing anxiety, acupuncture can help individuals achieve better sleep quality, leading to improved energy levels, mental clarity, and overall vitality.
Enhanced Digestive Health:
Digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, or constipation, can significantly impact quality of life. Acupuncture can help restore digestive balance by regulating gastrointestinal motility, reducing inflammation, and alleviating discomfort. Through targeted acupuncture points, digestive function can be improved, leading to better absorption of nutrients, enhanced bowel regularity, and overall digestive wellness.
Boosted Immune System:
Acupuncture has been shown to have immune-boosting effects, improving the body’s natural defense mechanisms. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, the production of immune cells, such as T-cells and natural killer cells, is enhanced, thereby strengthening the immune response and increasing resistance to illness and infection.
Holistic Approach to Wellness:
One of the key benefits of acupuncture is its holistic nature. It treats the individual as a whole, considering the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. Acupuncture practitioners work with patients to address underlying imbalances, focusing not only on symptom relief but also on the root causes of the condition. This comprehensive approach promotes long-term well-being and supports the body’s innate ability to heal and restore itself.
Acupuncture offers a time-honored approach to healing and well-being that continues to resonate with people seeking natural and holistic solutions. By restoring balance, promoting relaxation, and addressing a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional concerns, acupuncture holds immense potential to enhance your overall well being.