Myofascial Massage, Gua Sha & Cupping
This Myotherapy treatment is a combination of manual myofascial release, Gua Sha, and myofascial cupping.
Myofascial release is an effective form of pain management, combining trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and structural integration. It is used to release and relax muscle knots, fascial restrictions, and specific points in the body that cause muscle tightness, pain, fatigue, and stress.
Gua Sha techniques are based on theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a manual, healing, therapeutic technique believed to promote a healthier flow of energy. This is done by gently scraping or rubbing the skin to break down fascia adhesions, scar tissue, and connective tissue (Gua Sha) AND gently pressing onto key points within muscles and soft tissues (Acupressure) to simulate pain relief and encourage muscle relaxation. Through strokes on the key fascial lines that run along the legs, arms, and spine (Meridians), we open energy pathways for better nourishment of our body. Gua Sha can either be done on the face and neck only or as a full body treatment.
Myofascial cupping is the therapeutic application of cups that are designed to release and mobilize soft tissue restrictions, increase blood flow to aid natural healing, and facilitate lymphatic movement. Myofascial release through cupping is a decompression technique which means it pulls tissue apart instead of compressing it together. It works through mechanical and chemical changes that occur as a result of tissue and fluid movement. Cupping deforms the tissue all the way down to the muscle and increases tissue length along lines of tension, fascial lines, or along a muscle’s origin to insertion. The increase in blood flow helps clear waste and lymph and brings in oxygen and nutrients thus accelerating tissue healing and assisting with inflammation.
A myofascial massage can either be done as a treatment on its own where we do the work while you relax. Or if you prefer, a 1:1 private class can be arranged. You will be guided throughout, similar to attending a yoga or Pilates class. This is a unique guided self-myofascial release class using a range of blocks, balls, and straps. See our Myofascial Release class description for more info.
Benefits of myofascial release and Gua Sha:
*Reduce stress and tension
*Increase blood circulation and decrease fatigue
*Promote a deep state of relaxation
*Improve sleep
*Encourage ease of movement
*Relieve (joint) hip, knee, back, shoulder, and neck pain
*Can restore postural balance after a few sessions
*Reduce inflammation and chronic pain
*Hydrate skin and muscles
*Remove toxin build-up
*Promote lymphatic drainage
*Rid the body of metabolic waste stuck in our tissues
*Relieve muscle pains and strains
*Reduce congestion, headaches, and jaw tension
*Break down fascia adhesions & scar tissue
Benefits of myofascial cupping:
*Release of trigger points through decompression
*Reduces tissue stiffness
*Reduce inflammation
*Reduce muscle spasms and pain
*Improves muscle and nerve mobility
*Can release nerve entrapments
*Can desensitize regions of pain and irritability
*Increase soft tissue length and extensibility
*Mobilize scar tissue and adhesions
*Remove toxin build-up
*Promote lymphatic drainage
*Rid the body of metabolic waste stuck in our tissues
What to expect during a session
A Myotherapy treatment will begin with a gentle acupressure massage to relax the body and open the meridian/energy channels followed by the Gua Sha/myofascial release techniques. A Jade stone will be used to gently scrape the skin on the leg, neck, back, shoulders, arms, and/or face. We avoid tender and private areas such as the chest, belly, buttocks, and hips. In ancient cultures, Jade symbolizes gentleness, serenity, harmony, and purity, and is also revered for its healing properties to balance and cleanse the body’s processes. Cupping will be done last, either through static cupping on a specific area, through gliding movements over the fascial line, or by gently stretching (tissue lengthening) while the cups are in place. Bruising or discoloration might occur but our treatment is gentle and it is important to know that bruising is not necessary to produce results. Cupping will only be done on the arms, shoulders, back, and legs – not on the face or abdomen.
Why should our myofascial tissues stay hydrated?
Our fascia and muscles do more than provide internal structure. Our fascia wraps around and supports every structure in our body and plays a major role in our posture, movement, joint health, proprioception, and coordination. Unhealthy soft tissue forms restrictions, adhesions, and pain within the body. Lubricating our soft tissues will strengthen our muscles, prevent stiffness and pain, allow us to move fluidly, and provide stability and mobility.
Myofascial release should be avoided post surgery or on any inflamed areas. Please allow yourself to heal before incorporating these techniques or receiving a treatment. This is not suitable for acne skin, open wounds, burns, psoriasis, infection, rash, or any skin condition that might be triggered. Myotherapy is safe and effective but please check with your doctor first if you are pregnant or should you have any heart conditions, kidney/liver failure, clotting/blood disorders, arterial/venous disease, or bone fractures.
To find out more, how to prepare for a session, or to book a session please enquire via email or WhatsApp.