People with diverse levels of ability are thankfully much more accepted these days. Each person with their uniqueness, strengths and challenges are valued as important members of the community.  In our therapy room we see young adults with special needs, people who are recovering from brain injuries and strokes, spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis, cerebral palsy Parkinson’s disease, cystic fibrosis to name just a few.

We help improve lives with a Multi sensory experience with essential oils, sound of relaxing music, cool filtered water, soothing strokes, safe environment, calming images and routine.  Therapeutically we provide comfort, relaxation, emotion regulation, digestive and circulation ease, stress reduction and decrease in musculoskeletal pain and tautness using a holistic and integrative approach.

In my many years as a massage therapist, treating the senior population holds many challenges and privileges.  Complex medical conditions, mobility, balance, strength, flexibility, polypharmacy, social connection, community access and a changing life in a changing world. We have clients in their 90’s who have regular treatments.
One thing I know is they are always appreciative and they embody life experience spanning most of the 1900s.  Massage for these clients is more moderate in pressure, gentle trigger points, lymphatic drainage, aromatherapy oils, bowen therapy and the use of  Low Level Laser and Dry Needling.  Many are in pain and have arthritis are unsure of posture, strengthening and stretching exercises. There can be difficulties adjusting to the loss of a spouse and self care in the home with and without external support from family and professionals in the care industry.  From a previous model of put up with it because nothing can be done, taking pain medications and giving up hope,  we now encourage a pro-active attitude to optimise health physically, emotionally and holistically. Management, maintenance and determining which types of treatments bring the best outcome as well as giving an achievable and understandable home program is a priority.  Many seniors require an integrated approach using several modalities.  Massage Therapy is helpful in conveying physical touch, relaxation, relief of pain, improved circulation, reduced congestion in lungs, sinuses, ankles and legs, an awareness of where their body is in space (proprioception) and what parts of their body feel like being massaged.  It is a time devoted to them for a whole hour where life challenges can be expressed and heard unconditionally. I know when I am an octogenarian, this is what I will want, but isn’t it what we all crave at any age?  If you are or know of a senior person needing some extra support, please ask Valerie how she can be of service. We can help every body!

Treating young clients is such a joy. I encourage parents to bring their children for a short session with or without a need.  Massage at a young age can give children a positive experience of feeling relaxed, still, experiencing therapeutic safe touch and they look forward to their special time as much as their parents.
Frequent presenting conditions include sleeplessness, agitation, sore muscles and joints (I know – its hard to believe!), postural problems, nightmares, headaches, constipation, difficulty with change in life circumstances.   Sometimes Treatment length is 5 minutes and occasionally its 60 minutes but it is always what the child prefers.  Bowen Therapy, Trager, aromatherapy with a blend to take home blend too, gentle massage and cranio-sacral therapy are gentle and effective. Valerie has had 4 children of her own and has a special affinity with young ones.