Monica’s Massage Techniques

I call my approach integrated manual therapy. It is a synthesis of the following bodywork disciplines: 

Benjamin System of Muscular Therapy

The Benjamin System of Muscular Therapy is a unique combination of treatment and client self-care education designed to reduce or eliminate chronic muscle tension, treat soft tissue injuries, and promote health. Treatment incorporates a series of specialized massage techniques relating to each muscle group, applied with varying rhythms, speeds, and pressures. This system integrates orthopedic, deep tissue, and sports massage with an understanding of the physiological, psychological, and energetic components of tension and pain. Orthopedic assessment and manual techniques are used to treat soft tissue injuries and reduce or eliminate pain that results from adhesive scar tissue. An integral part of this system is empowering clients to maintain and extend the benefits of treatments with self-care techniques to do at home and at work.

Deep Tissue Massage

This approach uses slower, more-forceful strokes, applying compression and friction techniques to target deep muscle and connective tissue fibers. It is effective in addressing muscle damage from injuries and releasing both toxins and deeply held patterns of tension

St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy

The St. John Method of Neuromuscular Therapy (NT) is a comprehensive program of soft tissue manipulation and trigger point techniques. This particular system seeks to balance the central nervous system with the musculo-skeletal system. I utilize these techniques to help clients find ways to move and function that eliminate or alleviate the pain response. I apply the principles of NT to improve blood flow, discover sources of nerve entrapment, rebalance postural distortions and improve biomechanical dysfuntions. This work has proven to be very effective with tempero-mandibular joint pain (TMJ).

Myofascial Release

Myofascial Release addresses restrictions of underlying soft tissue that can create limitations in movement and cause pain. This approach is extremely effective in treating fascia, the dense connective tissue that surrounds everything in the body from muscles and blood vessels to nerves and organs. Releasing fascial restriction helps restore full range of motion by allowing stuck surfaces in muscles to slide and glide. The result is comprehensive and lasting relief that has been known to occur even in cases where traditional massage or medical approaches have not helped.

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy

Basic Craniosacral Therapy addresses cerebrospinal fluid and its importance in ordering the body’s function and structure. Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy adds the dimension of energy dynamics and takes the work to a deeply profound level. I studied and received certification from the Wellness Institute in this wonderful technique, which combines traditional skills of osteopathic medicine with modern insights. Utilizing Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy I am able to assist clients in accessing the inherent state of health that exists in all of us.

Polarity Therapy

Polarity Therapy balances the body’s energy fields and currents. When this happens, tissues, organs and systems are better able to heal. Emotions, mind, spirit and body can then become integrated, allowing fuller recovery to take place. As a certified Polarity Therapist, I find that this technique helps facilitate deep changes and increase well-being.

Feldenkrais Method

The Feldenkrais Method explores the biological and cultural aspects of movement, posture and learning. Its insights explain how long-ingrained habits can constrain us to a small portion of our potential. I studied the Awareness Through Movement approach for two years, learning how to understand patterns and limitations. Utilizing this method, I am able to teach clients ways to reduce unnecessary effort and learn alternatives that result in more efficient movement.