At Four Seasons Spa we specialize in thoughtful, careful and intentional attention to your specific needs. With thirteen years of training and experience in a wide range of massage modalities, at Four Seasons Spa we can carefully tailor your treament to your specific needs and requests.

Defintions of Massage Styles
Acupressure Myotherapy Prenatal Massage
Aromatherapy Neuromuscular Therapy Sports Massage
Deep Tissue Massage PNF Stretching Swedish Massage
Myofascial Release Postpartum Massage Hot Stone Massage

Acupressure - Acupressure is utilized to remedy illness and balance energy through the application of deep finger pressure at points located along an invisible system of energy pathways, called meridians; the same used in acupuncture. Traditionally Acupressure is performed on a floor mat, although most practitioners now do their sessions on a massage table, with the recipient fully dressed in loose fitting clothing. Most eastern cultures practice some type of Acupressure; Tuina is a Chinese variation and Shiatsu is the Japanese version of Acupressure.

Aromatherapy - is the use of essential oils (Essential oils are concentrated extracts taken from the roots, leaves, or blossoms of plants.) from plants for healing purposes. The word aroma in aromatherapy is misleading because essential oils are not solely used as inhalants; they can also be massaged into the skin. Aromatherapy has a wide range of benefits and uses. Some studies have shown that people massaged with aromatherapy experience pleasurable feelings, lowered levels of anxiety, and heightened states of relaxation.

Deep Tissue Massage - Deep Tissue Massage is a modality used to reach deeper layers of muscle tissue, by applying bodyweight and using larger surface areas such as fists and elbows, I will employ slow even pressure to penetrate superficial muscle layers and reach lower lying, chronically tight muscles. Do not confuse Deep Tissue Massage with deep pressure. This form of massage can be very intense.

Myofascial Release - Movement and range of motion analysis, a standing postural assessment, and a thorough examination of the history of your ailment are typically completed to determine the course of treatments. MFR helps restore mobility to the connective tissue in the body called fascia. Fascia a tough, sheath-like substance throughout the body, wraps muscle fibers and muscle tissue into groups. It can become damaged or scarred through a variety of causes including trauma, surgery, poor posture and repetitive stress. The work itself is typically done with little or no lubricant. The therapist gently stretches your skin and underlying muscle to correct and lengthen fascia and increase mobility.

Hot Stone Massage - Hot stone massage is a very soothing massage that uses smooth, heated stones. The stones are basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and holds the heat. Many times smooth river stones are used also. The heat helps tight muscles release allowing client to relax. Traditional strokes of Swedish massage are done while holding a heated stone. As the stone cools, the therapist replaces it with another. Heated stones can also be placed in specific points along your spine, and in the palms of your hands and between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body. If you have inflammation or muscle injury cold stones can be used in those areas. The stones that are used are sanitized in 120 - 150 degree water before use. This is a massage that everyone should at least experience once.

Myotherapy - Myotherapy is a specialized form of deep muscle massage performed to quickly relieve muscle-related pain. Deep finger pressure is applied to trigger points (tender spots that refer or radiate pain) in the muscle tissue to reduce spasm. Treatments can be painful but in many cases provide almost immediate relief. Ailments such as back pain, fibromyalgia, headache, muscle spasms, repetitive stress disorders, strains, and sprains can be helped with Myotherapy.

Neuromuscular Therapy - NMT is based on neurological laws that explain how the central nervous system initiates and maintains pain response. Your therapist will apply pressure varying from light to deep on specific trigger points (tender spots that refer or radiate pain) on your body that help to address the underlying causes of the pain, spasm or tension.

PNF Stretching - A Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation stretch uses the agonist (working muscle) and antagonist (relaxed muscle) relationship to lengthen chronically tight muscles. I will stretch the muscle as far as it will go comfortably and provide resistance while you tighten the muscle. When you relax the muscle, your therapist will stretch it a bit more, and the sequence continues as the muscle's length increases. You may also know this as the "hold-relax" technique.

Postpartum Massage - Postpartum Massage helps a woman's body rebound from pregnancy as well as supports the mother's emotional adjustments. Postpartum Massage also eases the muscle aches and pains that develop from nursing and carrying her new infant.

Prenatal Massage - Prenatal Massage can help reduce the fatigue, headaches, swelling and edema associated with pregnancy, preparing the body for the stresses of labor and delivery. Sessions are done with you lying on your side, or on prenatal massage pillow or table that will allow you to lie face down. I will use light to medium pressure. I usually incorporate different styles and techniques such as Swedish, Shiatsu and Reflexology massage. Your massage sessions will not include deep or vigorous work unless I have the permission of your doctor or midwife.

Sports Massage - Sports Massage is a style that incorporates massage, rocking, shaking and stretching, to loosen tight muscles, relieve pressure on joints and increase blood flow. Although not just for athletes it is most effective and widely used both pre and post event.

Swedish Massage - Swedish Massage is the foundation upon which most modern massage styles have developed. It is what most people think of when they think of massage. The massage therapist who uses oil with smooth gliding strokes and rhythmic kneading, with light to medium pressure to relax tired muscles. Most often Swedish massage is practiced in spas and salons. Because it is a very relaxing and soothing style of massage, it is great for stress reduction.




Elizabeth (Betty) Morris, Licensed Massage Therapist #MA0019792