Is pain after a massage normal?

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Have you ever gotten a great massage only to have pain the next day?  Pain after a massage can be a normal part of healing.

If you haven’t had a massage in a while, are brand new to massage or have a new issue that you are working on the chances are fairly high that you might experience some level of pain in the day or two following a massage.  There are many explanations for this and though the experience and specifics will be unique to each person there are a few standard reasons on why this phenomenon happens:

  • Everyone has muscular patterns that have been created and reinforced over time and sometimes these patterns aren’t healthy resulting in inefficient ways of moving.  The result is an overall imbalance with some muscles being tight and shortened while others are weak and overstretched.  Eventually this can cause pain and/or injury as well as a sort of numbness.  When massage begins to help release these unbalanced muscle patterns, the body has to adjust to a new and unfamiliar way of being, which can feel uncomfortable or even painful for a time.  This is also the reason that regular massage combined with a self care plan is so important. As you might imagine it will take quite some time and effort to undo something that took so long to create.

  • Your massage therapist may move your body in a way that it is not accustomed to and just like a new exercise routine it can cause fatigue or soreness the following day or two.  Staying active, hot baths with Epsom salts, ice therapy or heat therapy can help ease this type of discomfort as your body adjusts to these new feelings.

  • There is a lot of controversy surrounding detoxification and massage, I don’t want to add fuel to this debate in any way.  I will stick to this:  massage increases circulation and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system which can sometimes cause an overload to your mind and body.  Especially when it hasn’t experienced these sensations before, recently or if your body’s resources are going toward healing another issue such as an injury at the time of your massage.  Drinking water, resting and taking care of yourself in general following a massage is important to lessening the possibility of fatigue or pain response.

Not all pain is created equal and it is always important to communicate with your massage therapist during your treatment.  You should ask your therapist to lighten up on the pressure if you are experiencing pain during your massage that is sharp, shooting, numbing, tingling or 7+ on a pain scale of 1-10 (1 being very little to no pain and 10 being severe pain).  You should always be able to breathe during your massage and if all your muscles are tensed against the pressure it defeats the purpose of trying to get tense muscles to let go.  Good pain is ok but beyond that pain is not beneficial to your health.  If you are experiencing sensations during or after a massage that seem abnormal you should communicate them to your therapist and if you think something is wrong it may be a good idea to check in with your doctor.   In general there is nothing abnormal about experiencing a little pain after massage and it will likely stop happening after you begin to get regular treatments.

We are looking forward to seeing you soon!  Book online today:)

Should I get a massage?

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should I get massage?

Have you ever thought to yourself “Should I get a massage?” If so then this post is for you!

If you are experiencing any of the following issues then massage is definitely right for you:

  • First and most important is that you enjoy being touched and find it comforting

  • If you have a serious medical condition or specific concern surrounding massage you should get clearance from your doctor before making an appointment

  • You live a high stress lifestyle and have limited time for yourself-massage can be a great way to reward yourself for working so hard and can help you feel renewed after giving so much to your job/family/friends/business etc…

  • You experience chronic pain-often times people believe they have to live with pain but this is not always the case!  Regular massage treatments can help relieve or at the very least lessen chronic pain cycles.

  • You have tension headaches-massage can help loosen the muscles of the head neck and jaw to help you find release from the tension that causes headaches

  • You have a difficult time relaxing or shutting off your mind-massage, especially certain types of massage such as Thai and hot stone can be very effective in helping you wind down and find inner peace.

  • You are prone to injury involving pulled muscles and tears-massage truly can help unravel those long time patters of muscle tightness that eventually leads to injury.  It is no magic pill but with regular treatments and a good self care routine you will find that you can become more balanced.

These are just a few of the reasons massage might be a good fit for you!  If you have questions about your particular situation please feel free to drop me a line via email at wonthebody@gmail.com.  I will look forward to hearing from you!  Ready to book?  Head to our online booking site and set your appointment today:  Written on the Body Massage and Acupuncture Studio

Celebrating our team!

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We love our team!

They are such a sweet and talented group and well they are all just so dang cute:)  We decided to celebrate them with a little dinner party the other night and thought we would share a few of the fun moments with you:

team

We love our neighborhood and decided to go with snacks from our fave Bollywood Theater! So yummy

team

We are gearing up for our favorite downtime game: Cards Against Humanity

team

Alexandra’s last day is next week and we wanted to send her off to baby land in style! Written on the baby style-lol! She also got the cutest hand made tiny owl hat from our receptionist Carly. We are really going to miss Alex!

team

 

Great times were had and we were all reminded of why we love where we are and what we are privileged enough to do for a living.  We hope you love our team as much as we all love you!  Have a lovely week and we hope to see your beautiful faces soon:)

ps.  check out Bollywood Theater on Alberta street here and indulge in the yumminess yourself

What is acupuncture?

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What is Acupuncture?

what is acupuncture

Here is a short list to help you understand what acupuncture is:

  • An important component of traditional Chinese Medicine

  • An ancient healing tradition that is at least 2500 years old

  • A technique that uses thin needles that are inserted into specific points on the body to help bring the qi (flow of energy or life force) into balance, the balance of qi is believed to be essential for health in traditional Chinese Medicine

AND what it is good for:

  • Pain of all sorts!  Acupuncture results vary depending on the person and situation (just like any form of medicine) but it is a safe addition to or alternative to any western treatment

  • Nausea

  • Fertility

  • Increasing circulation and a general sense of ease and well-being

  • Injuries

  • Quitting habits

  • Stage fright! Who knew?

  • And so much more!  If you have an issue or a goal the chances are very good that your acupuncturist can help you.

Still have questions?  Ask away in the comments section or contact us directly!  Ready to book?  Let’s do it-click HERE now

Massage membership

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Everything you want to know about Written on the Body’s VIP Monthly Massage Membership

It seems like everyone is coming out with a membership these days and I know how overwhelming it can be when you have a lot of choices!  That’s why I thought I would take a minute this week to tell you all about our massage membership and why it’s a great choice for your health care plan.  Here we go:

Why you should sign up for our monthly massage membership-

  • Duh! You will be WOTB VIP-Yeah!  Seriously though, you will be the first to know when we are offering something new and you may even get the chance to try a new treatment before anyone else!  You also get first dibs on great discounts and extras.
  • You are signing yourself up for the regular treatments you need and deserve.  Consider it the first step to self renewal and a true commitment to your optimal health.
  • If you have never had regular massage you are in for a serious treat, the difference it will make in your mind and body are truly unmatched!
  • It’s low risk-we let you choose everything from the billing date to how you utilize the benefits, we even let you share with friends!
  • Unlike corporate entities, Written on the Body is owned by real people who actually provide the services you will be utilizing.  If you are ever unhappy all you have to do is let us know and we will always go above and beyond to make the situation right
  • The VIP monthly massage membership is super affordable and that is always nice:)

What you are signing up for-

  • 6 month contract where you are billed automatically by our secure system via the credit card you provide on the day of the month that you choose
  • Monthly charges are based on the type of massage that you choose:  60 minute Find Your Peace=$55 monthly payment (normally $70!), 60 Minute I’m in too deep=$75 monthly payment (normally $90!) , 60 minute hot stone=$65 monthly payment (normally $80!) *there is a $15 enrollment fee when you join and after that there are no other extra fees
  • For the monthly fee you get to come in for the type of massage you chose for your membership each month plus you get added to our weekly happy hour email list.  The happy hour email is sent every Friday (if there is availability) and offers appointments at a very discounted price during certain hours for the following week.  You can book as many of these appointments in addition to your monthly VIP massage as you like!

FAQ-

  • You can choose to upgrade anytime to add extra minutes to your monthly massage or add-on’s such as hot stones, deep tissue and foot/hand treatments  just let us know when booking by making a note or via phone or email.
  • You can use all 6 massages in one month, 2 in a month or any combination of these.  Though we do feel you get the most out of your membership when you are getting regular monthly treatments!
  • You can share your monthly massages with a friend or family member at no charge a total of two times during your 6 month contract
  • You have 60 days after your final billing in your 6 month contract to use all remaining massages in your membership
  • We do not auto renew your contract unless you directly let us know that you would like to continue your membership when the 6 months are up
  • Early cancellation fee is $100 or the balance of your contract (whichever is less).
  • Unforeseen circumstances-we do make exceptions on the cancellation fee if the circumstances warrant it such as an unexpected move out of state or severe illness.  We encourage you to contact us if you find yourself in need
  • Pause a membership:  We do allow you to pause your membership for up to 2 months at a time
  • You are subject to the same cancellation and tardy policies that apply to all clients at Written on the Body and we reserve the right to deduct your monthly treatment as the payment for last minute changes to your appointment.  We will always try to work with you ahead of time.
  • You may change the credit card on file at any time during your membership by logging into your mind body account or by contacting us directly

How to sign up-

  • Create or log into your online account through Mind Body
  • Choose the tab “online store” and then the “contracts” link (located just under the online store tab)
  • Choose the type of contract you are interested in
  • Agree to the terms and choose “make purchase”
  • Check out when you are ready
  • OR-give us a call, email us or ask to sign up at your next visit!

Should I tip my massage therapist?

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A common question in our industry is “should I tip my massage therapist” and if so how much is appropriate?

tips

I think I can speak for all therapists when I say the most important thing to us is that you feel happy and comfortable at all times. This means that tipping is a very personal choice and should be made based on your happiness level and personal preferences.  A massage therapist who puts their clients happiness first will never become upset at your choice to leave, or not to leave, gratuity.  Here are a few important things to think about when asking yourself the question:  “should I tip my massage therapist”

  • Gratuity is often seen as a “thank you” for a job well done-Does your massage therapist give you excellent service, personalized treatments and offer exceptional quality in their work with you?  If so it might be nice to leave gratuity, even if it is just occasionally, as a thank you for taking your time with them to the next level.  If leaving cash tips doesn’t feel quite right to you, you can always give your therapist a hand written card or just let them know how much you appreciate their attention and time verbally.  Saying thank you to the people in your life who help make your world a better place is always a great idea!

  • Keep in mind that depending on where you choose to receive your massage the therapist providing the service may not receive even close the total cost of the treatment which means they may be more reliant on tips than a practitioner in private practice for example.

  • You can always ask!  If you aren’t sure about tipping you can always ask your therapist or the front desk person directly about the etiquette for the specific place you are visiting.  Don’t be shy!  We would much rather you ask us these questions than feel uncomfortable every time you are  leaving our offices.

  • How much?  Again a personal decision but most people tip their massage therapist the same way they would a server, 10-25% of the service price.

  • Not leaving a tip is OK too!  Seriously, if you choose not to tip or to only tip on occasion we don’t mind.  We love seeing you and the way you feel during and after your treatments is the most important thing to us so please make the choice about gratuity that YOU feel most comfortable with and that is sustainable enough for you to get the body work that you need.  Personally, I would much rather receive $0 tips and see you for an extra visit:)

  • How should I leave my tip?  The answer to this question will vary greatly depending on where you go.  If you are leaving cash there may be envelopes in the treatment room available for this purpose and if not it is completely appropriate to leave your tip on the table or hand it directly to your therapist.  If you are using a check you should ask your therapist or the front desk person if you should make it out to the business name or the therapist themselves.  If you are using a card you should let the front desk person or your therapist know right away that you want to add gratuity and how much they should add to the bill for you.

Whatever choice you make is the right one, you should feel great about it and know that your therapist will think you are wonderful no matter what you choose!

Learn more about spa etiquette at this great article.

Have more questions about tipping and massage?  Feel free to leave them in the comments!

Can massage help my posture?

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Yes! Massage can help improve your posture read on to find out how…

We are sitting more than ever before with long hours at the computer, commuting, watching TV and it is affecting the way our body is aligned.  Our shoulders and neck are pulled forward due to tight, shortened pectorals (chest), scalene’s and my favorite named muscle the sternocleidomastoid (front of neck).  Our pelvis’s are out of whack from weakened abdominal muscles, shortened hip flexors and more.  While we are busy slumping and slouching from sitting waaayyyy more than our bodies were intended to we need our grandmother’s in our ears to nag us to take breaks, pull our shoulders back and down and stand up straight, for goodness sakes!

posture

How can massage help you achieve your goal of beautiful straight posture?  Here is the short list of what we can help you accomplish:

  • Almost every Massage Therapist I know pays attention to posture all the time.  We can’t help it!  Even when I am out and about I am noticing other people’s posture and thinking of ways that I could help return them to a balanced frame.  If you are working towards correcting your posture you should talk to your Massage Therapist about your goals, they will most likely have some insight on where they notice imbalances and what type of treatment plan could work for you.
  • Massage therapy helps to ease the tension in tight muscles caused by postural imbalances, for instance I mentioned the forward body posture above often caused by long hours at the computer which can cause arm, hand, neck and upper back pain.  Targeting specific muscle groups such as the pecs and the muscles on the front of the neck can help lengthen them allow the body to find the space to realign itself into the proper position.  This applies to other areas as well such as releasing the hip flexors for the low back to help relieve pain in this area.
  • Massage relaxes you, improves your circulation, helps eradicate stress and is one of the best pain relievers out there.  Many of the unhealthy patterns our body creates are caused by stress tension and pain which means getting regular massage is a key ingredient to letting go of those things that are having ill effects on your posture.

I would never try to mislead you into believing that massage is a miracle cure, that you won’t have to work hard to return to a healthy posture or that massage will be the only tool you might need.  However I do believe that regular massage is an important (and hopefully really lovely) piece of the amazing posture puzzle.  Don’t take my word for it Book Your Massage Today!

Join our monthly mailing list to learn all about us, the ways massage and acupuncture can save your life and so much more! Scan our QR code to join:  posture qr code

 

3 ways to live a healthier and happier life in 2014

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3 ways to live a healthier and happier life in 2014

I always slack a little on most of my routines (outside of hammock laying and beach going) through the Summer, we get such a short visit from the sun here in Portland that I feel justified in my laziness.  But It’s back to school time here in Oregon and I know that, like myself, many of you parents out there are ready to get back to the grind.  When the kids go back to school it becomes easier for us to get back on top of work, exercise, healthy eating habits and in general taking care of ourselves.  If you want to make a huge positive impact on your health and happiness you should try adding regular massage into your self care routine, you won’t believe what a difference it will make!  Still not sure?  Check out these great facts about the many ways regular massage can improve your overall well-being:

Find Relief from pain:

Millions of Americans suffer from pain and back pain seems to be the leader of the pack, in fact, low back pain is one of the most common reasons for missing work.   In fact, back pain is one of the most listed reasons for visits to the doctor’s office.  Treat low back pain with a combination of stretching, exercises and getting regular massage, acupuncture and/or chiropractic care.  It is important to remember that surgery or pharmaceuticals are not the only option for finding freedom from pain.  Many times with a little energy and regular self care you can live a happier and healthier life without the extra side effects that come with invasive surgery or drugs.healthier and happier life

Free yourself from Stress and Anxiety:

The world is always changing, moving more quickly, raising it’s expectations-heaping more and more onto our plates.  It is no wonder that many Americans are frequently suffering from bouts of depression, anxiety and insomnia.  Stress is a killer and if left unregulated it can cause all sorts of issues in the body.  Dr. Sheldon Cohen discovered in a 2012 study that “When under stress, cells of the immune system are unable to respond to hormonal control, and consequently, produce levels of inflammation that promote disease. Because inflammation plays a role in many diseases such as cardiovascular, asthma and autoimmune disorders, this model suggests why stress impacts them as well.”  Help yourself regulate stress hormones with massage.  Regular massage reduces the hormone cortisol in your body, and give the happiness inducing neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine a boost.  Check out our buy 3 get 1 free massage packages and $55 monthly membership to get yourself on the path to freedom from stress today!

Look better, feel better and have more energy:

Speaking of stress, we all know it takes a toll on our energy levels as well as our appearance.  Weight gain or loss, dark bags under our eyes, dull skin and exhaustion are all common side effects of stress.  Massage can help these too by reducing stress levels and helping to boost your bodies natural healing abilities.  Massage also improves circulation and skin tone to promote that beautiful healthy glow we are all striving to achieve.    Learn more about the ways massage can help you feel and look better in this great article:  The amazing ways massage can help you look prettier

Living a healthier and happier life is contingent on a healthy routine including exercise, diet and self care.  Dedicate yourself to this cause-you are worth it!

Natural remedies for Neck Pain

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Massage and Acupuncture are natural remedies for Neck pain

Neck pain is very common in our culture and there are many different reason’s a person can experience neck pain.  Some of these include poor posture, unhealthy holding patterns created by repetitive motion or overuse, injuries, structural issues and changes are just a few.  Neck pain can be very disruptive to a person’s everyday routine especially sleep patterns and regular work, when your body is chronically experiencing pain you are unable to function optimally.  This in addition to the possibility of permanent disability and severe injury are important reasons to address neck pain as early and aggressively as possible.  Here are some of the ways massage and acupuncture can help:

Acupuncture for neck pain:

acupuncture for neck pain

  • Can reduce spasms and lesson pain

  • Acupuncture can reduce inflammation and even obliterate it with regular treatments

  • Acupuncture promotes better blood flow through treated areas which promotes healing

  • Releases endorphins changing the way the brain and spinal cord perceives pain

  • Acupuncture addresses underlying issues such as stagnant energy, holding patterns, stress and other problems that are at the root of your neck pain

  • Cupping helps relax and break up stuck fascia and scar tissue freeing your body to move more efficiently

Massage for neck pain:

massage for neck pain

  • Increases blood flow which promotes healing

  • Decreases tension in muscles

  • Increases endorphin’s

  • Calms the body releasing tension all over the body rather than just in the select concentrated areas

  • Regular massage can help lengthen muscles that are shortened allowing your posture to correct itself

Consider massage and acupuncture as part of your health care plan, you are important and taking good care of your body is essential to living a long, healthy and happy life.  Check out our packages and memberships for affordable options in getting the treatment you need to become free of pain!

Happy hour appointments

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$45-$55  Happy Hour massage and acupuncture appointments for the week of August 15th-21st

-These appointments are first come first served and are subject to availability.  Email to book at wonthebody@gmail.com and please email at least 2 hours in advance to book an appointment

Happy hour openings for today Friday August 15th:

3pm or 6:15pm with Bethany for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

4pm or 7pm with Richard for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage or $55/60 min Acupuncture

Openings for Saturday August 16th:

11am or 12:30pm with Kathy for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

9am, 10:30am or noon with Terry $55/60 min Acupuncture

3pm, 4:30pm or 6pm with Bethany or Richard for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

Openings for Sunday August 17th:

3pm, 4:30pm or 6pm with Richard for a $45 Find Your Peace Massage or  $55/60 min Acupuncture

Openings for Tuesday August 19th:

10am, 11:30am or 1pm with Alexandra for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

3pm, 4:30pm or 6pm with Kathy for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

Openings for Wednesday August 20th:

4:30pm or 5:30pm with Terry $55/60 min Acupuncture

Openings for Thursday August 21st:

4:30pm or 6pm with Kathy for $45/60 min Find Your Peace Massage

3pm or 5:30pm with Terry $55/60 min Acupuncture

*you can add hot stones for $10 or deep tissue for $20  email wonthebody@gmail.com to book a happy hour appointment today!

Book other appointments online anytime!

Have a wonderful week:)