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

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!

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!

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:)

 

 

 

 

Take a Staycation with Rooftop Massage and Acupuncture!

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Summer won’t last forever

it’s time to make help yourself live a happier and more relaxed life by taking advantage of Written on the Body’s Rooftop Massage and Acupuncture treatments!

rooftop massage and acupuncture

Rooftop relaxation featuring:

Massage.Acupuncture.Sauna

Click here to Book online by August 31st and take $20 off of your visit.

*make a note in your appointment that you are using the summer rooftop offer or first timer special for indoor appointments.   You are also welcome to call 503.473.8515 or email wonthebody@gmail.com to book if you prefer

Affordable massage for Portland, OR!

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Do you need a massage but can’t figure out how to fit it into your budget?

Check out our affordable massage opportunities for a sliding scale option to get the relief your body and mind are longing for.  These opportunities are limited and will be given on a qualified and first come/first served basis so don’t wait,  Apply today!

To qualify please use the following worksheet guidelines (you may email us for a copy of the worksheet to download if you prefer at wonthebody@gmail.com): sliding_scale_income_worksheet
once you have determined the category you qualify for you may be offered the following pricing options for sliding scale massage:

  • A.  $40 per one hour Peace Massage

  • B.  $45 per one hour Peace Massage

  • C.  $55 per one hour Peace Massage

  • D.  $60 per one hour Peace Massage

  • E.  Full Price

*These sliding scale massage appointments are limited and are given on a first come first serve basis.  Please send the completed sliding scale form and  supporting income documents to wonthebody@gmail.com.  We will notify you within 7 business days if you have been approved and the timeline/therapist available for you to book within.  We retain full rights to ask you for updated information and to alter your fee and booking/therapist schedule at any time.  If we choose to do so we will notify you via email.  Our regular cancellation policy applies to all sliding scale appointments.

If you don’t qualify for our sliding scale massage opportunities we have many other ways to get regular massage on a budget!  Check out our VIP Membership starting as low as $55 per month or our Buy 3 get 1 Free Packages Here.

Whichever way you go we hope to see you soon!  Thanks for reading and have a wonderful day!

Awesome deals on massage and acupuncture Portland, OR

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Find freedom from pain with these great summer deals on massage and acupuncture Portland, OR!

massage and acupuncture deals Portland, OR

Ease your aches and pains with Acupuncture and Cupping

$70 for a Private Acupuncture treatment plus fire cupping

Book online here and make a note that you are using the summer acupuncture special

deals on massage and acupuncture portland, or

Find Your Peace with Massage

We have 3 new massage therapists who will be starting within the next couple of weeks:  Summer, Kathleen and Richard (Rich is also an Acupuncturist and can combine his specialties into a beautiful blend of acupuncture and massage-email us for more info)
We would love to give you an opportunity to receive their excellent work and so we thought why not let you have a chance by allowing you to use the $20 off first timer special when you book with a massage therapist that you haven’t worked with before!  Just make a note that you are using the first therapist deal (good through 9/1/14) when you book your appointment online here.

deals on massage and acupuncture portland, or

Get relief from muscle tension with an Infrared Sauna Session

At half off for the whole summer you just can’t beat the price!  Book your appointment online today and make a note that you will be using the summer sauna special.

 

We hope to see you very soon!

Schedule Online with your favorite massage and acupuncture studio

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Schedule online with your favorite Portland massage therapist or acupuncturist at Written on the Body with our brand new Mind Body scheduler!

We took the leap from our old online scheduling system to a new and easier to use system called Mind Body.

What’s new:

  • Easier functionality for booking with a specific therapist, appointment type or specific time
  • Easier tracking of your memberships and packages
  • Options to share packages and memberships with friends and family
  • Options to pay for appointments for friends and family members
  • Set up music and pressure preferences in your online account
  • All of your previous information should have been converted to our new scheduler-especially remaining gift certificates, packages, future appointments and memberships.  If you login to your account and are missing something that should be there, please contact us immediately so that we can fix it.

How to schedule online:

  1.  Go to our online scheduler:  https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=158494 (Or use the mobile app:  Mind Body Connect)
  2.  Login with your email and password in the upper right hand corner of the page or if this is your first time logging into Mind Body at Written on the Body choose “sign up” (if you have been to WOTB before then you will have the ability to choose your name from a list after giving a little information-complete your sign up and move forward from there).
  3.  Under “find your appointment” and “what are you looking for” choose the general type of appointment you would like to book.
  4.  Choose specific appointment type of appointment you would like to book and any other criteria you prefer and then click “search”.
  5. When you see the appointment you are interested in choose “book” and you may choose to enter payment information or not.
  6. Choose “Book appointment” and you will be redirected to a confirmation screen

Client’s of Julie Campbell, LMT OR#15892 please read:

Julie has made the difficult decision to close off her appointment availability to new clients for the time being so that she can better serve the needs of her regular clientele.  To schedule with Julie you will need to have permission set up in your account, if you have been in to Written on the Body anytime before June 22nd, 2014 then you are welcome to request this permission by emailing us at wonthebody@gmail.com or giving us a call at 503-473-8515.

How to schedule online with Julie:

*If you have not done so already email or call us to request permission to schedule with Julie (return clients only)

  1. Go to our online scheduler:  https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=158494 (Or use the mobile app: Mind Body Connect)
  2. Login with your email and password in the upper right hand corner of the page or if this is your first time logging into Mind Body at Written on the Body choose “sign up” (if you have been to WOTB before then you will have the ability to choose your name from a list after giving a little information-complete your sign up and move forward from there).
  3.  Under “find your appointment” and “what are you looking for” choose “Julie’s Client Services”.  *You may still book with other massage therapists as well if you like by choosing “massage” instead of “Julie’s Client Services”
  4. Choose the type of appointment you would like to book and any other criteria you prefer and then click “search”.
  5. When you see the appointment you are interested in choose “book” and you may choose to enter payment information or not.
  6. Choose “Book appointment” and you will be redirected to a confirmation screen

We know and greatly appreciate that many of Julie’s regular client’s enjoy telling friends and family members about her work and we hope that you will continue to send us your referrals!  Our business is built on word of mouth recommendations and we hope that you will continue to help us grow.  If you have only seen Julie at WOTB and would like to have the opportunity to experience the work of our many talented therapist’s so that you can feel confident about referring friends or family members to them, please let us know via phone or email and we will happily give you 50% off of any appointment that is $70 or more for each new therapist you book with (1 per person/per massage therapist).  Julie is also happy to make recommendations specific to your friend or family member’s needs if you prefer.  We thank you in advance for considering these options and for your continued support!

If you have any troubles, comments, concerns or suggestions on how things are going or how they could work better for you please do not hesitate to let us know!  email:  wonthebody@gmail.com  Phone:  503-473-8515

 

Rooftop Massage

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Rooftop Massage: we challenge you to Find Peace

…If only for an hour

rooftop massage

massage.sauna.relax

Close your eyes and imagine yourself under a clear blue sky, the wind is lightly blowing, rustling the leaves of a nearby bamboo tree.  You are completely relaxed, your mind is a bird floating through the sky, the tension you have been holding in your muscles melts away.

You are finding freedom in your body and mind in the comfort of a massage table. You are on a rooftop deck under the canopy of a wooden pergola with flowing white curtains.  You have been warmed by an infrared sauna and your mind slowly drifts to the hammock you will enjoy at the end of your treatment.

There is nothing that can shake you, you are in a world of your own choosing.

We challenge you to enjoy peace through massage in Written on the Body’s Rooftop Relaxation area.

Book online today