Pregnancy Massage
Why Massage During Pregnancy?
Massage during pregnancy not only makes a woman feel pampered, but offers undeniable physical benefits as well. Massage can relieve fatigue, enhance sleep, and calm an active baby.
First Trimester
- Relieve headaches
- Help alleviate morning sickness
- Reduce fatigue
Second Trimester
- Alleviate backaches
- Relieve leg cramps
Third Trimester
- Reduce swelling/edema
- Relieve pain from varicosities
- Enhance sleep
- Prepare pelvic muscles for birth process
During the entire term of the pregnancy, massage can stimulate blood flow, which may assist in the prevention of anemia. An increase in muscle tone and flexibility will occur, alleviating leg cramps and muscle spasms. Massage during pregnancy is also a great way to relieve everyday tension and the general aches and pains your body is suffering. It stimulates your lymphatic system, increasing immunity and the removal of excess toxins, while also stabilizing hormonal levels and balancing the glandular system.
How Will I Receive My Massage?
When receiving pregnancy massage, you are positioned on your side to give the therapist access to your back, or in a semi-reclining position for massage on the front of your body. You will be supported with pillows or special cushions. Here at Holistic Care Approach, we have a pillow specifically designed for pregnant women, including a “breakaway tummy” to support the pelvic area if it is safe for you to lay on your stomach. (This is normally within the first trimester, depending on your level of comfort.) You will be properly draped while the therapist is working.
What Techniques Will Be Used?
Our pregnancy massage specialists integrate a variety of techniques into their work. Depending upon where you are in your pregnancy, the therapist may utilize Reflexology, CranioSacral Therapy, Relaxation Massage, or Deep Tissue Massage.
Are There Times When Massage During Pregnancy Should Be Avoided?
Women with normal, low-risk pregnancies can benefit greatly from massage by a trained pregnancy massage therapist. However, women in high-risk pregnancies would consult with their doctor before beginning a massage therapy program. If at any time during your massage you experience discomfort, tell the therapist immediately.
What About Massage After Delivery Of My Baby?
Massage during the weeks after delivery helps to restore muscle tone in the abdomen and reposition the pelvis. And remember, touch is a very important part of bonding with your baby. Ask about receiving instruction in massaging your baby.
Wendy Schweifler
Wendy has over 12 years experience as a massage therapist and 3 years experience as a chiropractic assistant. She graduated from the Santa Barbara School of Intuitive Massage in 1995 and the Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy in 2000. She is a licensed massage therapist in the State of New York. Her continuing education specialty is in myofascial techniques.
Mary Beth Holtz
Specializing in the One Brain System developed by Three in One Concepts and Therapeutic Massage.
Mary Beth has been practicing in the holistic health field since 1990. Her credentials include Massage Therapist, Advanced Practitioner (specializing in energy works), Facilitator (Three-In-One Concepts, Inc. One Brain system). Mary Beth is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Healing Science from the Barbara Brennan School of Healing. Besides private practice with adults and children, Mary Beth has worked in corporate settings involved with training, motivation, and education others on aspects of health and movement.
Molly Kehoe
Specializing in CranioSacral Therapy, Therapeutic Massage, Kototoma (vibrational healing) and Pregnancy Massage.
Michelle Doetsch
Michelle Doetsch is a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist, a Certified Infant Massage Instructor, and a Reiki Master. She graduated from Spring Renewal Holistic Wellness Center in 2002, and taught anatomy, physiology, vibrational healing, chair massage, hot stone massage and general bodywork at Spring Renewal before coming to Holistic Care Approach in 2005.
Jamilah Friesema
Jamilah Jane Friesema holds a B.A. from Calvin College in sociology and a certification in therapeutic massage from the Michigan Institute for Healing Arts and Sciences since 2008. She provides several integrative techniques in her work that include aromatherapy, cranio sacral therapy and reflexology. Jamilah specializes in in relaxation massage, headache relief, and the treatment of chronic pain. Her services include Therapeutic and Relaxation Massages, Ear Candling, Hot Stone Massage, CranioSacral Therapy, Ionic Footbath Treatments and Pregnancy Massage. She is a member of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals and the Internal Alliance of Healthcare Practitioners. Jamilah is available at Holistic Care Approach for appointments Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1p.m. - 7p.m. and on the second Saturday of every month from 9a.m. - 3p.m. Jamilah has been with HCA since 2009.
