Massage
Massage involves the manipulation of soft tissue, ligaments, and joints for relaxation and relief from physical and mental stress or pain. As with other healing modalities, the range of styles and techniques of massage is wide-ranging, from gentle, energy-based bodywork to the more intense varieties of deep tissue and myofascial release. Some techniques involve the therapist placing hands directly on the client’s body; others are done through clothing, and some forms, like reiki and craniosacral, involve very little touching, or touching of only a few limited areas. See our list of offerings for a fuller sense of what each option entails.
Massage and other forms of bodywork are known for their relaxation properties, and for the relief they can provide from muscle strains, overuse, and joint problems. Equally powerful are the benefits bodywork can provide those struggling with mental and emotional health challenges: the experience of grounding in one’s body, of safe and healing touch, and of physical connection with a skilled therapist can be powerfully restorative to those experiencing grief, isolation, depression, and other forms of stress. And even in the absence of any of those health concerns, a good massage can be one of the very best kinds of self-care—which, of course, benefits everyone around you! Common Ground offers a variety of massage and body work modalities from different traditions and practitioners.
Zero Balancing (ZB) is a gentle but powerful touch therapy for the body and mind. ZB practitioners use gentle pressure and traction to release areas of tension in the bones, joints, soft tissues and energy fields of the body. Deeply relaxing and energizing, ZB helps relieve symptoms of physical and emotional stress, clears blocks in the body’s energy flow and amplifies vitality on all levels. During ZB clients stay fully clothed. As such, please wear comfortable clothes.
Swedish Massage involves soft, long, kneading strokes, as well as light, rhythmic, tapping strokes, on topmost layers of muscles. This is also combined with movement of the joints. By relieving muscle tension, Swedish therapy can be both relaxing and energizing, and may help after an injury
Deep Tissue Massage is best for giving attention to certain painful, stiff areas in your body. The massage therapist uses slow, deliberate strokes that focus pressure on layers of muscles, tendons, or other tissues deep under your skin. Though less rhythmic than other types of massage, deep tissue massage may be therapeutic — relieving chronic patterns of tension and helping with muscle injuries, such as back sprain.
When you come in for a massage, the massage therapist will do a brief conversational consultation about why you are interested in having a massage. After the consultation, the massage therapist will leave the room and give you time to undress and get under the sheets and blankets. Most of our clients choose to be fully undressed under the sheets and blankets, but you are welcome to undress to your comfort level. The massage therapist will knock to make sure you have had time to get under the sheets.
If you prefer to stay fully clothed, Common Ground strongly recommends that you try Zero Balancing (ZB). Clients remain fully clothed during all ZB sessions. As such, please wear loose, comfortable clothes if you are coming in for ZB.