What is the science behind touch?

When the body is touched, the brain releases a chemical called oxytocin. This chemical is known as the “bonding hormone” that makes you feel happy, connected, and less stressed. Oxytocin also stimulates the release of other happy chemicals, like dopamine and serotonin, while reducing the stress chemicals of norepinephrine and cortisol. All of this combined can help lower blood pressure, heart rate, lessen depression and anxiety, boost your immune system, and even relieve pain! 

What is the importance of touch after loss, grief, and trauma?

Besides helping with the physical symptoms of grief and trauma like high stress levels, sleep disturbances, elevated blood pressure and heart rate, touch also helps with the feelings of isolation, uncertainty, and anxiety of unknowns by grounding your body in the touch and allowing you to feel safe. The safety of touch can allow your brain to process without the noise of everyday life and provide moments of peace. 

What is trauma-informed massage?

The massage provided is a relaxation massage provided in a way that makes you feel secure and listened too. Prior to each massage, a full questionnaire will be given to ensure that you feel safe moving forward with each touch and phase of the massage. The whole process will be explained completely to make sure there will be no surprises while you are being massaged. 

What type of massage is given?

A relaxation massage is a comforting and easy pressure massage that is tailored to the needs of each individual. Each massage will come with options like a weighted blanket, hot or cold towels, music and sound, light and dark room, etc., to ensure the best quality massage for each individual. There is no therapeutic or deep tissue aspects of the massage that will cause any pain. 

Is this also talk therapy?

Because the body is a vessel for many emotions, there may be times that an emotional release may happen when certain areas are massaged. This is normal and a safe space will be held during those times of release. But the massage therapist is not going to provide talk therapy during the massage, though empathy and comfort will be a major part of this whole process. 

What happens if an emotional release does happen? 

Many who are going through their grief and trauma journey are afraid to “loss it” so the idea of an emotional release is scary. Rest assured that the time provided before and after each massage allows for some special time to feel what needs to be felt before walking out of the door. If there are certain emotions that come up that need to be discussed, a referral to one of the wonderful counselors will happen. You are not alone! 

Is this massage only for grief after death or major trauma?

No. Grief and trauma can be different for each individual. Those who have experienced any type of loss or trauma are welcome. Some examples may be:

• • Infertility 
  • Postpartum depression or anxiety
  • Pregnancy loss or miscarriage
  • Caregivers of chronically/terminally ill people
  • Divorce, marital separation, or break-up
  • Parents with special needs
  • Loss of a pet
  • Difficult life transitions
  • Those recovering from addiction or their family

 

What is the minimum age requirement?

Ages 12 to 17 can be massaged but a parent must be present in the room and a full 90-minute massage may not be suitable. Call to discuss this option.