Therapeutic Massage

A style of massage which focuses on getting results vs just relaxing.

This term indicates that the purpose of the massage is to achieve a structural change or therapeutic benefit in the body. 

Since every massage is customized according to our client’s specific goals and preferences, which techniques are actually used during a session can vary greatly from client to client—even from session to session. 

Thai Massage Therapy

Rooted in Thai Medical Theory-traditional Thai massage is a physical therapy composed of deep compression, myofascial release, stretches, joint mobilization and channel work.

Channel work is fine tuned compression inside the physical trenches found between muscles, or between muscle and bone. This work is deep, but not necessarily painful.

This work when done slowly and with care-creates better flow within the circulatory and lymphatic systems. It also helps to release pain or discomfort within joints, muscle and fascia (fascia is a thin casing of connective tissue that surrounds and holds every organ, blood vessel, bone, nerve fiber and muscle in place)

How does Thai massage differ from table massage?

• Performed on a mat on the floor
• Clients remain clothed
• No creams or lotions used
• In addition to hands, forearms and elbows, Thai practitioners also use feet, knees and legs to deliver massage techniques.
• The approach is different, the benefits are the same.

Pregnancy Massage

Certified in ¨Nurturing the Mother¨ by Claire Marie Miller

Safe for ALL trimesters when approved by your health care provider.

In the early weeks, momma can lie on her back without any problem. After about the 16th week, pillows will be introduced and massage will be performed with mom mostly laying on her left side. This supports the venous return by allowing the baby to roll off the vena cava.

Deeper, therapeutic techniques can be applied to the upper body, low back and hips. Light lymphatic strokes will be used for ankles and legs. Reflexology and stretches incorporated as well. 

Unscented, cold-pressed, fractionated coconut oil will be used. 

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a specialized therapeutic massage technique designed to stimulate and improve the flow of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining our body's immune function and fluid balance. Unlike the circulatory system, which has the heart to pump blood, the lymphatic system relies on the body's movement and external stimulation to keep the lymph fluid circulating.

During an MLD session, the therapist uses gentle, rhythmic strokes and precise hand movements to encourage the movement of lymph fluid through the lymphatic vessels. The light pressure applied aids in reducing any blockages or congestions in the lymphatic pathways, allowing the fluid to flow more smoothly. This process helps to detoxify the body, remove waste products, and reduce swelling or edema.

MLD is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from surgeries, such as cosmetic or lymph node-related procedures, as it can help reduce post-surgical swelling and promote faster healing. It is also often used in the management of lymphedema, a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fluid and tissue swelling.

Hi! I´m Marilyn,

I was born and raised in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, CO. Long before massage therapy came into my life, I attended art school-earning a bachelors degree in photography and painting. I spent nearly a decade in Brooklyn where I started a small book-binding studio and met my husband. We spent a little time in Philadelphia, and started a family in Montclair, NJ before settling in Belmont, NC to be closer to all of the grandparents. 

I shifted gears to massage therapy in 2015 after sitting sideline to my husband's long recovery from a rock climbing accident. It was that experience (and an amazing massage therapist) that encouraged me to persue a career in a field that physically helps people through the tough stuff life has to offer. 

I enrolled into a program that is based in neuromuscular therapy and continued to build on that foundation with additional stretch techniques, orthopedic techniques, and a certification in medical massage.  I have been told that I have an intuitive approach to massage that helps people relax but also produces long-lasting relief. 

I look forward to working with you!

Meet Shelley!

Shelley Brown is a PT assistant who has specialized in Pediatric Physical Therapy since 1987. Additionally, she is a Massage therapist with National Certification since 2000, specializing in myofascial release and trigger point therapy for pain relief. She holds a BS degree from Western Carolina University in Sport Management with a concentration in kinesiology and sports injuries.

In her free time, Shelley enjoys cycling and spending quality time with her family. She also has a passion for creating graphite/pencil wildlife and pet commissions.

Meet Paula!

Paula Perdigeuro is a dedicated Certified Massage Therapist hailing from Chile and bilingual in Spanish and English. She graduated in 2020 from Gaston College North Carolina, where she honed her skills and expertise in therapeutic massage techniques.

Paula's specialization includes lymphatic drainage massage for post-surgical, plastic surgical, and lymphedema clients, as well as deep tissue, Swedish, hot stone, cupping, trigger point, and medical massages. Her passion lies in helping individuals find relief from physical discomfort and achieve better mental well-being.

With a strong commitment to professionalism and personalized attention, Paula aims to improve the health and well-being of each client. Through her caring touch and extensive knowledge, she provides effective solutions to alleviate pain and reduce stress.