Trigger Point Therapy involves focusing on trigger points that may cause local aches and pains, or that refer pain to other areas of the body. Manual pressure and vibration are applied to these points to help relieve myofascial pain. Your practitioner is educated in the “map” of known trigger points and how they affect other areas of the body.

Myofacial Release

Myofascial release is the manual massage technique for softening and releasing tight fascia and muscles with the aim of easing pain and increasing range of motion. Myofascial release usually involves applying slow, gentle, and constant compression in various directions by following the body’s signals, and moving limbs in the same subtle way.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu means, literally, “finger pressure”.

The client lies on a mat on the floor or a more traditional massage table, wearing loose fitting clothing. The practitioner uses their body weight to press their thumbs, palms, fingers, and elbows along acupuncture or acupressure points. Shiatsu also incorporates rocking and stretching.

Working the energy meridians, as Shiatsu does, opens up the chi (vital life force) of the client, and also helps to balance yin and yang energies.

Thai Massage

Traditional Thai Massage, also called Thai Yoga Massage, mimicks yoga moves for both the client and the practitioner.

No oils are used, as the client lies on a mat on the floor, and wears loose–fitting clothing. The practitioner positions the client’s body into passive stretches that allow the muscles to sometimes stretch farther than when the client practices yoga on their own, when their muscles may be engaged.

The practitioner also uses their hands, elbows, thumbs, and feet, leaning their body weight into the Sen lines on the client. The rhythmic rocking involved often brings about a feeling of nurturance and deeper relaxation.

David Bell LAc

David received his Masters degree in acupuncture and herbal medicine from the Five Branches University in Santa Cruz, California.  His related experience includes positions in the Five Branches University library and herbal pharmacy, as well as manager of the Staff of Life’s vitamin and Chinese Medicine departments.  David is especially adept at treating musculoskeletal injuries and pain.  David recently completed a two month Thai Massage intensive in Thailand and is eagerly incorporating this deeply corrective system of stretching and massage into his practice.