“Santa
Barbara Massage” - These two terms just seem to go hand-in-hand.
Life in Santa Barbara can take on the form of one continuous
massage.
I
have had the honor of receiving massage therapy from dozens
of therapists over the past decade and a half – each
one a little different, as each practitioner incorporates
their own energy, style, and modalities to create their own
unique version.
Shiatsu,
Reflexology, Lomi Lomi Hawaiian,
deep tissue, craniosacral,
Pregnancy, Swedish, Sports –
these ancient massage techniques take on many names and forms,
with more styles being incorporated daily. Massage may also
be incorporated in a grander program to include acupuncture,
Reiki, Chiropractic
services, tailored to a clients desires, or to address
particular conditions.
Physically
and emotionally demanding, massage is by no means an easy
occupation. Many therapists speak of the emotional energy
drain inherent in the practice as they act as anchors for
clients releasing their toxins, stress and injuries.
Massage
and bodywork may be for the purpose of relaxation, pleasure,
stress reduction, injury rehabilitation, pain relief, and
may be accompanied by appropriate music and aromatherapy.
Couples’ massage can be a great romantic Valentine’s
Day activity.
Many
Employers now offer massage and other forms of “alternative”
or “complementary therapies” as health benefits
to employees, as stress reduction has been shown to improve
employees’ concentration and reduce injuries, and thus
improve productivity and reduce absenteeism in the workplace.
So
when you visit Santa Barbara, or any of its charming neighbors
such as Montecito, Goleta, Carpinteria or The Santa Ynez Valley,
be sure to get yourself (and your partner) a world-class massage.