Descriptions
Informational background on therapies for those who would like to further explore
Click on the therapy name above, or scroll through the descriptions below
Face Sculpting
How it Works
This is the Yakov Gershkovich, Russian method, with a fusion of my own style. It complements, or is an alternative to injectables. Considered an active gym workout for the face, akin to going to the gym. Targets habit-forming muscles used in facial expression and emotion, by switching off and resetting their responsive mechanism, thereby creating a sense of freedom to more easily express.
How I Practice it
The work is rhythmical and repetitive, mimicking the body’s own internal rhythms. The intention is to enter the muscle from within, then work outwards towards the surface - thereby addressing the inner emotion associated with its outer facial expression. There is emphasis on the cheekbone area as it is the epicenter of all facial bones. When this zone is relaxed, the internal bone pressure is released, allowing breath to come in and cerebrospinal fluid to flow more optimally. The session may or may not include intra-oral techniques, depending on goals and comfort levels.
How it Benefits
On an as per need basis for a temporary 'face' lift to restore radiance, contour and smooth out features as well as reduce emotional stress. For longer lasting results it heals tissues, creates space for better jaw function and improves articulation. Cosmetically it improves elasticity, tones and lifts muscles as well as smooths out deep wrinkles and folds. A series of 6-10 treatments once weekly is recommended, with monthly sessions for maintenance thereafter.
Face Contouring
(Myofascial Release & Osteopathic Massage)
How it Works
Started in osteopathy schools for osteopaths, then extended to physiotherapists, chiropractors and massage therapists. It is a holistic, soft-tissue focused form of massage that incorporates both osteopathic and stretching techniques. It rehydrates the tissues, bringing fresh oxygen to the cells, which are then healthy enough to absorb water on their own. My style also includes structural integration techniques designed to correct posture and increase range of motion.
How I Practice it
A gentle, sustained pressure performed on dry skin in stationary positions, until a release is felt by both the client and the therapist. As tissue softens (melts), lets go of tension, and reverts back to its original unencumbered state, hand manipulation increases. So, the work generally starts off very slowly then speeds up. While clients leave a myofascial release session in a very deep relaxation, it is not uncommon for there to be some temporary, residual muscle soreness. However it is not the same intensity soreness felt after deep tissue work. If it is performed to support pre- or post-surgery, the technique is modified in order to leave no discomfort during or after the session.
How it Benefits
To improve postural habits, reduce stuck stress and tension, as well as treat pain and increase mobility. It helps to alleviate headaches, and is great for neck, jaw and TMJ tension, especially paired with intra-oral work. It is particularly beneficial for physical and emotional trauma residue, and to help calm nerve conditions. It is also a good way to prepare connective tissue pre-surgery and reduce scar tissue post-surgery. The number of sessions depends on the body’s ability to release and relearn. On average a series of 2-4 sessions is recommended, with no longer than two weeks between treatments.
Buccal/Intra-Oral Massage
How it Works
Different disciplines incorporate their version of intra-oral massage. My training includes medical massage, face sculpturing (also referred to as buccal massage) and craniosacral forms of intra-oral. It is a safe and effective manual technique that works on muscles and fascia inside the mouth. Typically it involves those muscles used for chewing and clenching around the TMJ (Temporomandibular joint), the cheekbones and the mouth. Craniosacral therapy taps into cranial rhythms with very light touch to the roof of the mouth and on the teeth (on their biting side).
How I Practice it
Performed wearing disposable, medical-grade gloves. The work can be intense, but isn’t typically painful. Some clients go through periods of discomfort and others do not. This depends mostly on the level of tension on the muscle structure and fascial restrictions. Since it deals with muscles that are rarely touched, the best results are from very slow, methodic and gentle pressure.
How it Benefits
It improves articulation, and provides a sense of space, freedom, and openness in the jaw. It also reduces discomfort of TMJ, clicking, popping or grinding, and lower jaw deviations. It can also help to alleviate tender and sensitive teeth, muscle spasms, facial pain, headaches, ear pain and vertigo. It is worth mentioning that it can initiate an emotional release for any residual trauma that may be ready to let go. The number of sessions depends on the body’s ability to release and relearn. On average a series of 2-4 sessions is recommended, with no longer than two weeks between treatments.
Medical Thai Stretching
How it Works
Also known as Thai yoga massage, it is a traditional healing system, combining acupressure, Indian Ayurvedic principles, and assisted yoga postures.
How I Practice it
My Thai massage and Thai stretching style is less traditional and more therapeutic in nature. It is performed very slowly and conscientiously, to induce a meditative release of mind and body. These mindful stretching and compression techniques are customized to your own flexibility and comfort levels. Gentle traction may be used if stretching is not appropriate for certain clients.
How it Benefits
It is a strong stress reliever, which also frees aches and pains and improves mobility. It reduces restrictions in the range of motion, in order to move with less discomfort and more ease. It is incorporated on an as per need basis into any modality.
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
How it Works
Developed in 1930, it caught on quickly in France, where it was known as the Vodder technique, which continues to be taught today. Since then, other professionals have come up with their own variations. While MLD tends to fall under the massage umbrella, its goals are different. It is aimed at moving fluid from the spaces between the tissues, back into the cardiovascular circulation. Unlike blood, there is no circulatory pump to move lymph. Rather it flows through movement and pressure. It occurs between skin and fascia, so very light touch is required to move the lymph through these very superficial capillaries. Too much pressure compresses the capillaries and suppresses the flow of lymph.
How I Practice it
Lymph has its own rhythm. Tuning into this rhythm, I am able to feel its movement and direction, the strength of flow, and the resting stage when capillaries fill back up. A progression of light strokes follows, slightly stretching the skin. In this way, lymph is sent to the nearest group of lymph nodes in the area being drained. While I traditionally perform manual lymph drainage with my hands, at times I also incorporate Guasha and Air Cupping techniques to achieve similar results.
How it Benefits
It eases sinus congestion and headaches, and eliminates stagnation, which improves lymph flow. Toxins are removed from the area and tissue degeneration is prevented. The immune system is stimulated, so this is helpful as a preventative during flu season. It softens tissue, which reduces facial tension from TMJ, day-to-day stress and post-dental procedures. The softening also prepares tissue prior to surgery (with M.D. approval). It is also beneficial post-surgery (with M.D. approval) to reduce facial edema, bruising and excess blood, as it directly removes excess fluid from the area and indirectly improves blood stagnation. Another great benefit is that it calms the nervous system, making it very effective for neuralgia, facial spasms and tics. It is incorporated on an as per need basis into any modality, or as a stand-alone. The number of sessions required depends on the condition and circumstances.
Guasha Fusion
How it Works
Guasha is a healing technique derived from traditional Chinese medicine. It works on energetic meridians to naturally heal skin, muscle and fascia. Other techniques like manual lymph drainage and facial contouring are also integrated into the session.
How I Practice it
The work involves gentle sliding, rubbing and vibrational techniques, using a variation of contoured gem stones. Various levels of pressure are used to achieve different goals. On the body it is more frictional, however an adapted version is applied to the neck and face with no discomfort.
How it Benefits
Achieves the ultimate balance of renewing cells, detoxifying surrounding tissue, improving blood circulation, breaking up fascia adhesions and relaxing muscles. It is extremely relaxing and often induces sleep. It is great as a homecare practice between sessions. Tuition is available upon request. It can be performed daily by the client, or integrated into a monthly maintenance program.
Air Pressure Cupping
How it Works
A machine that uses air pressure and suction movements through a cupping wand, to break down fat and stagnated fluids. First lymph nodes are activated, then lymph is directed towards them for the removal of excess waste and excess fluid. It also balances the nervous system.
How I Practice It
There are different levels of pressure to work with the lymph, connective tissue and muscle layers. There is no discomfort and the machine is adjusted according to tolerance. It is usual to experience erythema (slight redness) during the treatment and for a few, a short time afterwards. The machine does produce some sound, however it has a rhythmic effect that together with the air pumping, often induces a deep relaxation during the session.
How it Benefits
Aesthetically, it tightens and contours, so the face has a filled-out, supple and youthful appearance. From a health perspective, it eases congestion and reduces swelling by increasing circulation and removing waste. It also removes emotional stuck stress and regulates mood, and has a feeling of being more open & free afterwards. Great on an as per need basis for an emotional and physical boost that lasts a few days. For longer lasting healing results, 2-3 sessions may be required. For longer lasting cosmetic results, a series of 6 treatments, within a 4-6 period is recommended, then monthly maintenance.
Dynamic Microcurrent
(new generation)
Using NeurotriS
for its dynamic capability,
which sets it apart from
other machines for quicker
application and better results
How it Works
A very low electrical current that mimics your body’s own bio-electrical activity for non-invasive facial contouring, toning, and firming of aging skin. It also helps to normalize and repair damaged cells, which supports the body’s own healing process. The term “microcurrent" is used a little loosely these days, from home devices to professional variations in salons. Microcurrent does not produce muscle contraction of the motor nerve, that causes the muscle to visibly twitch and contract, as the intensity is too low (that is another form of current, with different goals). Rather the contraction happens in the muscle itself, on the fibers that make up the muscle tissue, and is invisible to the eye.
How I Practice it
Microcurrent machines differ in their performance levels. The dynamic feature of the NeurotriS machine factors in the individual’s skin resistance, to deliver an optimal level of combination waves, to reach into the muscle cell (found inside the muscle fiber). Essentially this makes it a personalized current, which is customized for each individual. There are 4 separate signal channels that work independently from each other, therefore it is also four times faster than other machines. It is very relaxing and de-stressing. Incorporating facial contouring massage into the session beforehand can be helpful for those with overly stagnated and dry areas. This will soften and rehydrate the tissue first, which will improve the effect and conductivity of the microcurrent. Performing lymph drainage massage after receiving microcurrent, can be helpful for those prone to congestion and headaches. This will help flush out toxins that can potentially cause pressure to build up. A soothing and calming mask is also a beneficial add-on as microcurrent facilitates the active ingredients to penetrate better through the skin.
How it Benefits
On an as per need basis for a special-occasion facelift that lasts up to 2 days. It enhances existing features, and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles. It is particularly good for lifting eyebrows, over hanging eyelids and corners of the mouth. Muscles are physically moved into a desired position, while relaxing overused expression muscles and tightening those beginning to sag and drop. For longer lasting, cosmetic and therapeutic results, it improves collagen production by increasing activity of the fibroblasts (cells that make collagen). It also increases ATP, which is the cell energy in muscles needed to maintain tone. As it increases blood flow, it promotes tissue healing and plumps up the skin. Improved lymph circulation evens out the skin tone, and increased cell production, revives the skin’s ability to hold water. It also prolongs the effects of Botox and fillers, and is recommended by many doctors, two weeks after these injectables, as the low current helps contour muscles for a better result. A series of 2 treatments weekly over 4-6 weeks is recommended, with a monthly session for maintenance thereafter.