Chiropractic Naturally Wellness Center ––Berkeley Chiropractor - The Healing Touch: Massage Therapy and Acupressure: Barbara Salomon, Melanie Hofmann, Christy Dikes CMT

Massage is a healing art, which is both scientific and artistic in nature. It therapeutically improves physical, mental, and spiritual health. It uses most of the five senses to give the recipient several benefits including stress relief and aiding in relaxation, reduction of muscular spasm and soreness, raising immune system efficiency, and promoting overall well-being and self-awareness. Most of us have stress and tension in our muscles. Most of the time, the first place that will suffer from the result of stress will be our muscles.

Massage therapy refers to the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the body. It consists of a group of manual techniques that include applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, and/or causing movement of or to the body, using primarily the hands.

Massage therapy is recognized as one of the oldest methods of healing, with references in medical texts nearly 4,000 years old.

The reason why it can help you feel so good is easily explained by these simple physiological benefits:

Relaxes the whole body.
Relieves nerve constriction by relaxing muscles that put pressure on nerve flow.
Loosens tired and aching muscles.
Increases flexibility and range of motion.
Diminishes chronic pain.
Calms the nervous system.
Enhances skin tone.
Assists in recovery from injuries and illness.
Strengthens the immune system by removing unwanted toxins, virus, bacteria and fungus.
Reduces tension headaches.
Improves circulation by allowing arteries and veins to become stimulated and flow more easily.

A chiropractic spinal manipulation directly and specifically removes the pressure off of the nerves. Massage therapy can enhance the chiropractic adjustment by relaxing the muscles and preventing old muscular patterns from pulling on the bones in such a way that they touch or inflame the nerves. The combination of these therapies speeds up the healing process and reduces symptoms faster. Melting muscles and energizing nerves is the most effective way to restore the body's natural ability to heal itself, without drugs or surgery.

~Massage Therapy Practitioners~
A professional certified massage therapist (CMT) always respects the modesty, comfort, needs and limitations of the client throughout each treatment. In addition, the massage therapist should give specific instructions and encourage feedback at the beginning, during, and after the massage to best meet the client's goals. Specific styles of massage therapy utilized by therapists may include, but is not limited to: Acupressure, Rolfing, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Swedish, Thai, Cranial Sacral and Active Release techniques.

Our therapists are professionally trained and have years of experience. When needed, they consult with Dr. Lanett for information on how to best address your specific circulatory, muscle, bone, and nerve problems. A massage feels great when it is done right. They are the best!

Barbara has seven years of therapeutic massage experience. Formerly educated at Ashmead College in Washington State, with 1200 hours of study completed with honors, her massage modalities include Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, Postural Assessment, Myofascial Release, Trigger Point, Polarity, MLD, and Chakra Balancing. In addition to massage therapy, Barbara's style of energy work has evolved over the last 15 years, beginning with an apprenticeship under Kate Ellis-O'Brien in 1993. All massages are designed to meet your wellness needs with a warm, nuturing touch.

Melanie graduated from the Soma School of Massage in 1978. She has done additional training with Rosalyn Bruyere of the Healing Light Center in energy work and sports massage at the McKinnon School of Massage in Oakland. Melanie’s massage combines features of Swedish and sports massage with energy work, and her own intuitive style.

Christy has over 5 years experience, 1100 hours education, and an A.A.S. degree in Massage Therapy from Trocaire College in Buffalo, NY. She uses Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports, and Thai techniques in each massage. Christy also incorporates communication and intuition to ensure that each and every client has his/her specific needs met.

Massage Therapy: All massage therapy services are offered at the following prompt pay pricing, with a discount when purchasing a pre-paid package of 5-one hour sessions.

Additionally, first time massage therapy clients receive the introductory special of a
one-hour massage for $60.

All packages are non-divisible, non-transferable and must be used within 5 months of purchase.

Massage not only feels good, it's good for you! Here's an easy way to take care of your loved ones, including yourself. By purchasing a gift certificate for massage therapy or reflexology you give the gift of well-being. While you’re taking care of them, buy one for yourself too - just when you need it the most, your massage will be waiting. Just don’t forget to schedule it ahead to get the time you want.

~How to Schedule a Massage~
Call the office at 510-644-4414 to schedule your appointment with the therapist of your choice.

~Who Can Get a Massage ~
You do not have to be a chiropractic patient to receive massage in the office. If you are a patient and want to refer your spouse, children, friends, or co-workers for massage therapy, they are welcome! If you are not a patient and have never received a massage here, you will be very impressed with the rejuvenating results.