Category: Santa Barbara Massage

Massage for TKR & THR

Massage for TKR & THR

For many people, the answer is massage therapy. This is an all-natural and proven method of pain management that more and more knee surgery patients are seeking. And when you see the benefits, it’s no wonder why.

Let’s look closer at why knee pain happens and how massage therapy can aid your recovery and help you get back on your knees, er, feet, and do your normal activities again

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Relaxing Swedish Massage

Relaxing Swedish Massage

Swedish massage involves mild to deep pressure with a variety of massage techniques such as kneading, tapping, and stroking. People use Swedish massage as a way to promote relaxation, which is why many people experience their first massage while on vacation in Santa Barbara. If you want to go to “La LA Land” using this modality then call Nicola. Of course, you have to be receptive to my style. What do Nicola’s clients say after having one of Nicola’s “La LA Land” massages,” “Amazing” “Tremendous” and “Fantastic”.

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What is CRAC, PNF, RI, MET, & OMT Stretching?

What is CRAC, PNF, RI, MET, & OMT Stretching?

The word “antagonist” is a derivative of the Greek word antagonistēs, which translates into some form of opponent or competitor, and which stems from a combination of the words anti- (“against”) and agonizesthai (“to contend for a prize”). So when you take origins into account, you’d be correct to suspect that an antagonist’s muscle is something to fight against.

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CVST – Two-Cups Cranial Vibro-Sound Therapy © – Creator – Nicola, LMT

CVST – Two-Cups Cranial Vibro-Sound Therapy © – Creator – Nicola, LMT

CVST vibrations are a relaxing massage modality technique in which Cranial muscles and tissues are pressed and released in an up and down movement. A Cranial sound vibration massage creates a vibrating sound and shaking motion onto the facial muscles and facia muscles that can be performed in a soothing or a more stimulating way. Lighter vibration sound techniques can also help stimulate the Parasympathetic nervous system which is linked to the Autonomic Nervous System and the Sympathetic nervous system and helps the Cranial muscles relax. An increasing speed of vibrations sounds can be used to stimulate the circulatory system and loosen soft tissues. The length of the CVST massage session is anywhere between 10 and 60 minutes depending on your individual needs.

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Massage for Tinnitus

Massage for Tinnitus

Tinnitus is when you experience ringing or other noises in one or both of your ears. The noise you hear when you have tinnitus isn’t caused by an external sound, and other people usually can’t hear it. Tinnitus is a common problem. It affects about 15% to 20% of people and is especially common in older adults. For some, it is felt like a buzzing or whistling sound that troubles them at night. Tinnitus is actually very common and affects about one in five people. The disturbance may be continuous or periodic in nature.

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What are the Chemicals that make you Happy? Serotonin, Dopamine, Endorphins, Oxytocin

What are the Chemicals that make you Happy?  Serotonin, Dopamine, Endorphins, Oxytocin

Chemicals & Happiness

Each of these chemicals plays a huge part in the way our bodies function: physically, mentally, and emotionally. I’ve only touched the surface, and I really encourage you to learn more on your own. By understanding the role these hormones have, you can better understand how they are affecting you in everyday situations. The more you know, the more you’ll be able to take control of those effects and enjoy a healthier, happier life. 

The 4 brain chemicals:

Serotonin – The “leadership hormone.” Heavily related to pride, loyalty, and status.
Dopamine – The (good & bad) habit former. An incredible tool when used appropriately
Endorphins – The natural painkiller. The runner’s high!
Oxytocin – The hugging drug or “love hormone.” Oxytocin makes us social and builds relationships with trust and loving feelings.

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