Elements of Bodywork

Massage Packages

2012-01-27T09:52:00.000-08:00

Massage Therapy Packages

Choose between our custom, deep tissue, nirvana, chakra balancing, back torso or the back, neck and shoulder massage. You may choose a different massage style for each session if you wish. You may share a massage therapy series with a friend or family member. Visit our Massage Therapy page for a description of these massages.

These massage therapy series may be purchased online. As of 1/17/12, members of a health plan Paul is an approved discount provider for, get an additional 15% off the cost of the Massage Therapy Series listed below. Please call or text Paul at 774-267-9148 to order one of these packages with this discount. This discount does NOT apply to combination packages or airbrush tanning.

(5) 30 min treatment series - $100 (save $75)
(10) 30 min treatment series - $180 (save $170)

(3) 60 min treatment series - $135 (save $60)
(5) 60 min treatment series - $200 (save $125)

(2) 90 min treatment series - $135 (save $55)
(5) 90 min treatment series - $300 (save $150)

Anti-Cellulite Massage Therapy

Deep tissue massage using Repechage Vita Cura Triple Action Slimming Body Cream. This body contouring cream has been scientifically formulated with patented active ingredients that are clinically proven cellulite fighters. The three way slimming action improves body contours and reduces "orange peel" appearance by 33%. The deep tissue massage enhances the benefits of the slimming body cream to further break up cellulite deposits.

Cellulite on the thighs and backside is every woman’s nightmare. Around 90% of women experience some level of cellulite, mostly affecting the upper thigh area. Cellulite can take down self esteem and cause embarrassment when wearing certain clothes such as bathing suits and shorts. There is no conclusive cure for cellulite, but there are techniques such as anti cellulite massage that can help reduce or eliminate cellulite when paired with proper nutrition and exercise.

(5) 30 min treatment series - $120 (save $80)
(10) 30 min treatment series - $200 (save $200)

Massage Draping

2009-08-31T03:07:00.000-07:00

Some of the online reviews of myself have commented that I am "sloppy" or "casual" with my draping. It is true that I am casual with the draping. If this bothers you, then it would be better for you to find someone else to go to.

Most massage therapist give the type of massage that they like to receive. I do not like to have the therapist sticking their hands between my legs stuffing the drape in there not do I like it being tucked under a leg or behind my back. I find this to be very disruptive of the flow during the massage. Therefore, when I give a massage I do not do this. I prefer to give a massage that is flowing.

I do understand that there are many people that do prefer to have the draping tucked in. Like other aspects of massage, there is not a single style that is for all.

I have been to three business in the metro west region that have offered no draping! One of these an upscale spa near Worcester, one that is a retreat near the Rt 2 area and one other at a long time massage therapy business that is also near Rt 2. I cannot imagine what the critics of my casual draping would say about these places.

I allow the client to choose between a sheet, towel or blanket. I tell the client to undress to their level of comfort. Some clients leave everything on, some take everything off and others leave their under garments on. I also ask what parts of the body the client wants me to work on. This may include the glutes, abdomen and chest. If there are areas they do not want massaged, they are avoided.

I find it unfortunate that most massage therapist are afraid of the human body and choose to ignore 2/3 of the torso. Perhaps they think of massage as something sexual and that is why they will not massage the entire torso. I look at massage as a much needed therapeutic treatment. The benefits of massaging the chest, including breast, the abdomen and glutes are many.

Earthsong Yoga

2009-04-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

This past Nov, I purchased Earthsong Yoga located at 186 Main St in downtown Marlborogough. The studio offers Svaroopa, Anusara Inspired, Hatha, Kripalu, Vinyasa, Kundalini Yoga along with, Gigong and Zumba Fitness. Check out the offerings at our web site http://www.earthsongyoga.com

Hot Gemstone Massage

2008-05-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

If you like hot stone massages, you need to try a hot gemstone massage. I use smooth tumbled gemstones including; red jasper, jade, rose quartz, black agate and amethyst. The warmth and energy that come from these stones help to bring you to a higher state of relaxation.

This massage is offered as a full body massage or focusing on a trouble area. 30 min - $35, 60 min - $65, 90 min $90

Goodbye Corportate World

2008-04-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

The end of my life in corporate world is ending on Apr 30, 2008. YEAH!!!! I am officially retiring from Raytheon after 33 1/2 years.

Starting May 1st my schedule for massage and day spa services will be:

Mon 08:00am to 09:00pm
Tues 12:00am to 09:00pm
Wed 08:00am to 04:00pm
Thur 12:00am to 09:00pm
Fri 08:00am to 04:00pm
Sat 08:00am to 04:00pm
Sun 10:00am to 06:00pm

Online Gift Certificates

2007-12-07T06:01:00.000-08:00

Gift Certificates may now be purchased online for any of the massage therapy or day spa services we offer. You can select the service, design your gift certificate, preview it, and then send or print it immediately. It’s fast and easy! Payment may be made using either your Visa or Mastercard.

Health Plans Offer Massage Therapy Discounts

2007-11-28T09:56:00.000-08:00

Most health plans are now offering massage therapy discounts to their membership. My clients are frequently surprised to hear that their health plan offers this discount for massage therapy. I have become an approved discount provider for 53 different health plans. Under this plan I give clients that are members of these plans a 20% to 25% discount off any of the massage therapy services that I offer. This discount cannot be used for ear candling and spray tanning services.

It is very easy for you to take advantage of this discount. When you come in for your first visit, I will have you fill out an intake form. On that form it will ask for your health insurance plan name and id number. If your health plan is one of the 53 that I am associated with, you get the discount. No referrals, no paperwork is required. The other great news is that there is no limit to how often you can use this discount. I provide this discount because the health plan companies provide me advertising via their web sites. An additional way that you can save money for massage therapy is that with every 4 massage sessions, the 5th session is free!! This combined with the health plan discount makes receiving massage therapy on a routine basis very affordable. However, not every massage therapist has enrolled with the health plans so if you are not coming to me, you will need to verify if they are a qualified provider.

For reasons that I do not understand, I am not permitted to list the health plans that I am affiliated with???? You can verify if I am or not on your health plans web site or give me a call at 774-267-9148. I am affiliated with MOST of the major plans in the New England area.

Your health plan provider's web site will have a link to alternative care providers or complimentary care providers. Typically, you can search for a provider by entering a zip code and distance that you are willing to travel.

In addition to massage therapy, this same service can be utilized to find an acupunturist or chiropractor.

Inch Loss Body Wrap Study

2007-09-18T03:05:00.000-07:00

We are conducting a study to measure the inch loss when receiving a parafango body wrap over a 12 wrap series.

The treatment begins with a dry brushing, followed by an application of ANESI Aminocel serum to remove dead skin cells. An application of body slimming gel from Pevonia is then massaged onto your body. Warm parafango, a mixture of paraffin and dehydrated mud, is then painted on you. You will then be wrapped in a solar blanket and comforter to seal in the heat from your body. After 30 min you are unwrapped and the mud is pealed off. The treatment concludes with an application of Vita Cura™ Triple Action Slimming Body Cream.

Currently, after 6 wraps our test client, April, has lost 9.5 inches!! The results of our study are posted at:

http://www.elementsofbodywork.com/dayspa/therapy/April.pdf

Post Airbrush Spray Tanning Photo

2007-07-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

Post Airbrush Spray Tanning using Fantasy Tan Chocolate solution.

Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage

2007-07-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

A massage concentrating on the back, neck and shoulder is a great choice for stress relief or if this is the area where your discomfort is located.

The massage starts with you laying face up on a heated massage table. Your neck and shoulders will be worked from this position. I incorporate some streching, concentrating on the neck and shoulder blades before having you turn over.

The entire back, shoulders and neck will be massage once you have turned. Hot stones and hot towels may be used to help sooth the muscles, allowing them to relax. If you are experiencing lower back pain, then consider having your glutes worked as well. See my prior posting on lower back pain posted on June 01, 2007 for further information.

Peppermint Sea Twist Body Wrap

2007-07-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

The Repechage Peppermint Sea Twist Body Wrap is reputed to be helpful in reducing cellulite thus resulting in a smoother skin tone and inch loss.

The wrap is done using bandages that have been soaked in a seaweed solution that has drops of peppermint essential oil. The bandages are first wrapped around your torso while you are standing on a mat or towel. Disposable undergarments are available for your modesty. Your arms and legs are then wrapped after you lay down on mylar sheets. Following the wrapping with bandages you will be wrapped in mylar sheets that help to retain your body heat and a comforter. While you lay cocooned for 20-30 minutes you will be treated to a face and scalp massage.

The wrap will be removed from your body and you will then be massaged with a creme active lotion that has a few drops of essential oil of peppermint. The final step of this body slimming treatment is an application of the Vita Cure Triple Action Slimming Lotion.

A series of twelve treatments are recommended received twice per week for six weeks.

Tanning Parties

2007-07-05T04:27:00.000-07:00

Have a night with the girls different to any you have had before. You've done makeup parties, chef parties, fashion parties, lingerie parties and more. Surprise them all by inviting them to a spray tan party! Mix a few friends, some good music, a few drinks, stir in plenty of good fun and try this unique and enjoyable experience.

You and your friends can relax and indulge yourselves with a gorgeous fantasy tan applied by a professional. It couldn't be easier to look and feel like a million dollars as a spray tan therapist gives you an incredible 'just off the beach' body in only a few minutes.

We will come to your home, setup a portable tanning booth and in next to no time you and your friends will look as though you have just come back from a great tropical vacation.

Anti-Cellulite Massage

2007-06-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

Elements of Bodywork is now offering an Ant-Cellulite Massage. Between 85% and 98% of post-pubescent females display some degree of cellulite. There appears to be a hormonal component to its presentation. It is rarely seen in males. While harmless, the dimpled appearance is a cause of concern for some people.

Our new anti-cellulite massage is a deep tissue massage using Repechage Vita Cura Triple Action Slimming Body Cream. This body contouring cream has been scientifically formulated with patented active ingredients that are clinically proven cellulite fighters. The three way slimming action improves body contours and temporarily reduces "orange peel" appearance by 33%. The deep tissue massage enhances the benefits of the slimming body cream to further break up cellulite deposits.

We offer a 30 minute treatment designed to target problem areas or a full body 60 min treatment. For best results we recommend a series of 12 treatments, comprised of 3 - 30 minute treatments a week for 4 weeks. Monthly maintenance treatments are recommended following the series.

Hot Stone Massage

2007-06-21T06:58:00.000-07:00

The soothing heat from smooth basalt stones placed strategically on your body soaks deep into your muscles while you are massaged from head to toe. Hot stone massage helps to relieve sore muscles, and produce a soothing and meditative state of peace, calm and balance.

There are many different techniques used for hot stone massage. The method I use is to start you laying face up. Stones are placed on your abdomen and sternum (over the sheet or towel), on the palms of your hands, and under your knees. Hot stones are then used to massage the front side of your body. After you turn over, I place stones on your sacrum (lower back) and all along your spine and Scapulas (shoulder blades). I will then use hot stones to massage the back of your body.

It is amazing to experience how the muscles release tension from using hot stones. This is a favorite massage therapy treament for many clients. I find a 90 min session is best for stone massage due to the time spent on the placement and removal of the stones.

Another technique that is used for hot stone massage is to have the stones placed on the massage table and then have you lay on them. Still another technique some therapist use is to lay out the stones on the body but do not do any massage.

For information on La Stone Massage check out http://www.lastonetherapy.com/

Therapeutic Breast Massage

2007-06-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

Therapeutic breast massage is a bit of a controversial subject. Most massage therapist avoid anything other than the very upper chest, near the shoulders. They choose to not massage the chest for females or males.

The massage therapy school I attended, Dovestar, trains their massage therapists in breast massage. They emphasize the benefit of massage to promote healthy breast tissue and for lymphatic drainage. Therapeutic breast massage is recommended for clients that have sore pectorals or have had breast surgery.

Post operative therapeutic breast massage following breast augmentation helps to keep the breast implants wide open, that is how the implants stay soft, freely moveable, soft to the touch and natural-appearing to the eye.

Sinus Relief

2007-06-12T13:41:00.000-07:00

An alternative care treatment for relief from sinus discomfort is a hot ginger compress and sinus massage treatment.

A ginger broth is made by grating fresh ginger root. The grated ginger root is placed inside a spice bag that is then placed in a crock pot filled with water to stew for at least 30 minutes. The compresses are made by soaking face cloths in this ginger solution, wringing out and then applying over your sinuses. The combination of the heat and ginger helps to loosen any congestion.

Following the ginger compresses, a massage is done focusing on both the upper and lower sinuses.

These sessions can be scheduled for either 30 min ($35) or 60 min ($65) or you may choose to have it added onto to your massage session.

Ear Candling

2007-06-11T10:29:00.000-07:00

Elements of Bodywork combines acupressure, massage and reiki with ear candling creating a therapy to help relieve discomfort in your sinuses and ears. The treatment, that is also known as ear coning is performed on a massage table with your head turned to the side resting on a comfortable pillow.

The session begins with a relaxing facial massage, concentrating on the sinus areas. The far end of the candle is then lit before placing into your ear. The heat from the flame creates a slight vacuum to draw out fungus, yeast, wax and bacteria. While the candle is burning, acupressure, massage and reiki are performed on the sinus area. The candle is removed two or three times during the session to cut of the burnt end and to tap out any debris that has accumulated. We use two candles in each ear.

The material that you see on the plate after the candling is from the candle.

Ref: http://www.wallysnatural.com/faq.html

Then why bother doing ear candling? I believe the combination of the warmth from the candle, the smoke and the massage all go together to provide the relief my clients report back to me.

If ear candling is still not for you then consider a sinus treatment consisting of a warm ginger compresses and sinus massage. More about that in my next post.

Abdominal Massage

2007-06-08T09:51:00.001-07:00

Benefits of abdominal massage

relieve constipation, bloating and flatulence
adjustment of the uterus
soften musculature
alignment of the pevlic bones
improves circulation of blood
improves circulation of lymphatic fluids
improves digestion
impoves elimination
post operative, once tissue has healed to prevent adhesions and scar tissue formation

Abdominal Massage is not recommended

when there is inflammation of any abdominal organs
using deep pressure when pregnant
using deep pressure during the onset of menstruation
within one hour of a full meal
when you have a full bladder
over RECENT scar tissue however, it is benefitial to prevent adhesions once healed

References:
http://www.arvigomassage.com/
http://www.massagemanual.com/

What To Wear During A Massage

2007-06-05T12:47:00.000-07:00

The most important consideration, is that you undress only to your level of comfort. I have had clients that have been fully dressed and those that remove all their clothing including under garments and everything in between.

Some people wonder if it is disrespectful to remove all their clothes. It is completely acceptable to me for you to remove all your clothing as long as the intent of the massage is therapeutic. We offer sheets, blankets or towels for draping to provide warmth and modesty.

Some suggestions ......

If you are having mid and/or upper back problems it is better for you to remove your bra. If that is uncomfortable for you then consider having the straps unhooked while the back is being worked on.

Those of you experiencing lower back pain, I suggest that you remove your underpants/panties to allow the glutes (butt) to be massage. Frequently I find clients that have no idea the amount of pain they have in their buttocks.

In general, the less clothing that is used permits a more flowing massage, adding to the relaxation and therapeutic value of the session.

Paraffin Back Treatment

2007-06-04T05:44:00.000-07:00

Several of my clients have found the heat of the paraffin helps the muscles in their back and shoulders to relax.

The session begins with a salt scrub of your back to remove dead skin and to stimulate new skin cell growth. This is followed by an application of moisturizing body butter. Paraffin is then painted on your back and shoulders. Hot towels are placed on top along with a bath towel to help seal in the heat. While the muscle tension in your back melts away your lower body is given a massage using hot stones. After 20 minutes the paraffin is removed from your back which is then given a hot stone massage to complete the treatment.

This treatment may be extended to the glutes for those of you that are suffering from sciatic or piriformis pain.

Lower Back Pain

2007-06-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

The source of lower back pain frequently originates from tightness in the major muscles of the gluteals and legs. Sciatica-like pain patterns can be referred from gluteal and hip flexor muscles. The gluteus maximus or buttock muscle is the biggest of the 639 named muscles in the human body. The gluteals are what connect the lower back and hamstrings.

Sciatica is a severe pain in the leg, usually the back of the leg, caused by compression or irritation of the nerve roots exiting the spine that form the sciatic nerve.

There is a condition that mimics sciatica called "false" sciatica such as Piriformis Syndrome where the sciatic nerve is entrapped by the piriformis muscle in the buttocks area.

Another problem that can mimic sciatic pain is having trigger points in the Gluteus Minimus muscle. The trigger points in this muscle can refer pain sensations down the back of the leg along the path of the sciatic nerve and also on the outside of the leg.

Massage Therapy and Bodywork can help Sciatica, Sciatic Nerve Pain, and conditions which mimic sciatica. At Elements of Bodywork, my full body massage includes massage of the glutes. Stretching is often integrated with the massage along with hot stone massage to provide further relief. Massage therapy helps to relax muscles, release trigger points and abnormal tissue adhesions, and improve posture to relieve the pressure on nerve roots and other sensitive structures. Depending on your individual condition, massage therapy and bodywork may provide significant long-lasting relief.

Favorite Treatments

2006-06-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

What is your favorite spa treatment?

Airbrush Spray Tanning Guidelines

2006-05-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Airbrush Spray Tanning Preparation

Careful preparation of your skin is essential for the best, even looking tan. Exfoliating a few hours prior to your session is the most important step to prepare for a spray tan. Particular attention needs be given to the dry areas of the body such as knees, elbows and ankles. Moisturizing these area will help to produce a better looking tan. We offer as an add-on service, a dry brush exfoliation for $5 that is done immediately before the spray tanning session.

Balm acts as a barrier to the tanning solution. We advise applying balm to your lips, eyebrows, and palms of your hands. You may opt to apply balm as well to your nails to avoid staining.

Do not apply lotions or perfumes prior to tanning. Use deodorant very sparingly. You should shave the day before you tan. Remove make-up and jewelry before the tanning process to avoid blocking the spray mist.

What to Expect During a Tanning Session

If this is your first visit, we will ask that you fill out a short intake form, providing Elements of Bodywork with your contact information.

The therapist will step out of the room to provide privacy while you undress. You may choose to wear a bathing suit, tight fitting underwear, disposable underwear or you may prefer to have no tan lines. A robe will be provided for your comfort.

During the spray tanning session the therapist will instruct you on how to position your body to allow for an even application. The spray session will take 5 to 10 minutes to complete.

Please wait 10 minutes after the tanning application for the solution to dry before putting on any clothing. Loose, dark clothes should be worn after tanning as the solution may stain clothes if not completely dry. Any color that does rub off on clothing usually washes out. However, please wear clothes that you don’t mind the possibility of staining.

After Tan Care

Immediately after your spray tanning session avoid activities that may cause you to sweat excessively to avoid streaking of the cosmetic bronzer.

The cosmetic bronzer in the Fantasy Tan solution provides an instant radiant tan while the active ingredient DHA continues to develop over the next 4 to 8 hours. It is advisable not to bath or shower for 8 hours after a spray tanning session. When you shower, the water will run red-brown. This is the bronzer being washed off, revealing a great, natural looking tan that your own skin developed underneath.

Avoid swimming is a pool or hot tub with chlorine treated water for at least 24 hours.

Moisturizing daily will help to prolong the tan and stops the skin from drying.

Your Fantasy Tan should last between four and eight days.

Keep Your Body Hydrated

2006-04-03T11:56:00.000-07:00

Keeping your body hydrated is always important for maintaining good health. The more you weigh the more water you need to stay hydrated. To determine the amount of water that your body requires, divide your body weight in half to calculate how many ounces you should drink daily. For example, if you weigh 120 lbs then you require 60 ounces of water daily. Keep in mind that many beverages, including caffeinated drinks and alcohol, act as diuretics and deplete water stores. For every cup of coffee you need to drink three additional cups of water.

Drinking plenty of water is especially important following a body wrap or massage. A body wrap promotes sweating thereby depleting your body of fluids. These fluids then need to be replenished. Massage helps to release toxins from your muscles, drinking water helps to then flush those toxins from your body. The deeper the massage, the more the need to be careful to drink enough water to avoid post massage soreness.

Body Wraps

2006-03-22T07:35:00.000-08:00

There are many different body wraps that are offered throughout the spa industry. The main difference in these wraps are the products that are used and the benefits that they provide. There are also difference in the methods and facilities used to administer the wrap.

Facilites: A "wet room" is the ideal facility to receive a body wrap. These rooms are designed to permit the use of large amounts of water without damaging the table or room. The rooms are usually tiled with a drain built into the floor, equipped with a table designed to withstand water. Many of the wet rooms have a Vichy Shower, a series of overhead shower heads that rain down on the client. Special hydrotherapy tubs with programmable water jets are less frequently found but are a great addition to a wet room. Spas that do not have a wet room or shower facilities may offer body wraps but will be limited in the type of body wraps they can offer.

Exfoliating: The first step for most body wraps is an exfoliation. There are as many different types of exfolitating scrubs/polishes as there are body wraps. They all have the same goal in mind, shedding the skin of dry, dead skin cells while stimulating the growth of new skin cells. This helps to clear the pores to enhance the benefits of the body wrap. The main types of exfoliating techniques can be grouped as follows: dry brushing, salt scrubs, sugar scrubs and body polishes.

Product Application: Following the exfoliating the product is applied to the body. The therapist may apply the product using their hands or a brush. Products used for body wraps include:

Moor Mud
Sedona Mud
Black Sea Mud
Dead Sea Mud
Parafango
Paraffin
Seaweed
Rosemud
Desert Heat

Cocooning: Your body will be wrapped into a cocoon following the application of the product. The wrapping is done in layers; plastic, solar/space blanket, and a blanket or comforter. Some spas use heated blankets for this last layer. You will stay cocooned for between 20 and 40 min depending on the spa.