Chinese Abdominal Massage

     Abdominal massage is a much underrated and underutilized modality in the United States. People usually think about their back and shoulders first when it comes to booking a massage. Also, most Americans are a bit self-conscious about their stomachs. If you can get past that, the benefits of abdominal massage are pretty extensive, particularly if you have a massage therapist who is trained in specific techniques suited for that area of the body. The stomach is the first place many people feel stress. A relaxed abdomen allows for release of low back tension and better energy flow throughout the entire body. It creates a wonderful sense of being calm and centered...

     At Urban Sanctuary we offer a specialized massage we call Chinese Abdominal Massage. Our Chinese Abdominal Massage routine borrows techniques from the East to deeply relax the muscles and fascia of the abdominal region, rib cage and hips. The massage incorporates techniques to release built-up tension and knots in the stomach area. People often experience a surge of energy upon release of some of the knots and tension that this massage addresses. For many, the experience is quite exhilarating!

     Here are some of the key benefits, areas that can addressed and what to expect. This could help you decide if you'd like to experience this modality for yourself.

Chinese Abdominal Massage is great for:

• unwinding and centering your energy
• tension in the abdominal region
• a nervous stomach
• low back tension
• insomnia or difficulty sleeping
• tension in the hips
• fatigue
• anxiety
• irritable bowel syndrome
• sluggish digestion
• acid reflux
• headaches
• slumpy posture
• restricted range of motion in the hips, low back and torso
• detoxing

Chinese Abdominal Massage can address issues in:

• the front of the hips
• the top of the pelvis
• the solar plexus area
• the rib cage
• the small and large intestines
• the muscles and connective tissue in and around the entire abdominal region

     Chinese Abdominal massage utilizes very respectful and gentle touch to address the deeper tissue of many areas of your abdomen. These areas usually house a lot of feeling, energy and emotion.We use very rhythmical movements to coax the tension out of the body and allow for these areas to completely unwind and recharge. Wavelike movements, circular movements, rocking, palm presses and stretching are all incorporated to relieve excess stagnation, sluggish metabolism, chronic pain, tension, knots, and poor posture.

     People often feel taller, longer and lighter after a Chinese Abdominal Massage. People often experience a release of emotions during a session or the day after a session. The massage often results in one or more full bowel movements (more than your usual) on the day of the massage due to the intestines being addressed during the session. This is a very good thing and something you can look forward to.

     If you are trying our Chinese Abdominal Massage for the very first time, you might like to start with a shorter session of 30 or 45 minutes instead of a full hour. Booking this specialty massage does require calling a bit more in advance, because not every massage therapist at Urban Sanctuary has had the training for it yet. You'll need to give the front desk person who books your appointment the opportunity to select a massage therapist for you who has that on their personal service menu.

     As with all of our massages, you can let your massage therapist know what you would like to result from your massage (for example, addressing a nervous stomach, sluggish bowels, back pain, sleep troubles, etc.) and your session can be modified to focus on your needs or goals. The pace and pressure can be modified to stay within your comfort zone as well.

     If you are on the fence, I invite you to go for it! Your stomach works overtime every day, even when you are sleeping. Give yourself the gift of a massage focused on recharging and nurturing this very important and central area of your body...

     Call 706-613-3947 to schedule a session or write to candice@urbansanctuaryspa.com for a consultation.

Myofascial Release Massage

     Myofascial massage focuses on releasing restrictions and adhesion in the fascia or connective tissue to free up your body.

 This massage approach seems to melt, elongate and practically "liquify" the connective tissue. What is actually happening when that melting effect occurs for people is a slow burning sensation resulting from many tiny connective tissue fibers become "unstuck" or unglued during the massage. The fascia is not actually becoming longer, but it truly seems that way as areas that have been bound up untangle and release. Many find the experience to be exhilarating due to the  dramatic increase in range of motion which results from a good myofascial massage.

     Fascia is the web of connective tissue which connects, covers and holds together the muscles, organs, and bones in your body. We are all covered in it. When restrictions in the fascia let go in one area, it's often felt in other areas of the body. A myofascial release in the chest tissue can often be felt all the way through the arms to the finger tips. A release in the shoulder often releases tension in the jaws and face. It is wonderful, the perfect massage to illustrate just how intricately all of our body parts are connected!

     If you feel stuck or restricted in some area of your body, this could be resulting from connective tissue restrictions and adhesion causing you to be all too "glued together"... Stress, past injuries, trauma, poor posture and just plain living can cause this, which in turn causes aches and pains and limited range of movement. The good news is that it's very easy to make a difference in the soft tissue! And most people's bodies respond very well and very easily to myofascial release massage, even if some of the areas have been stuck for a long time... Here is a list of who and what myofascial massage is good for and who and what it isn't, along with a few recommendations.

Myofascial Massage is good for:

• frozen shoulder
• headaches
• tennis elbow
• TMJ
• low back pain
• some hip problems
• slumped or rolled forward shoulders
• whiplash
• limited range of motion
• people who like deep tissue and sports massage (in most cases)
• people with chronic pain
• plantar fasciitis
• people who enjoy focused massage to concentrated areas
• people who enjoy very slow-moving massage
• backaches

Myofascial Massage may not be good for:

• your very first massage
• people with sunburn
• pregnant women
• people who prefer a lot of oil or cream applied during massage (myofascial uses little to none)
• skin that tears easily
• people who would be annoyed by a very slow-moving massage

     For many people who enjoy regular myofascial massage sessions, the results seem to be nothing short of miraculous! It's certainly a results-producing massage style. The most noticeable result is greater freedom of movement. With greater freedom of movement comes ease of self-expression, increased energy and a renewed sense of balance.

     If you are someone who prefers a full-body massage and you really want to try a myofascial massage, you may need to make a special request in advance to have both in one session. Many myofascial sessions do not cover the entire body, because it is a very slow moving massage technique. However, you could ask for a full body massage with just 30-40 minutes of myofascial  in a 60-90  minute time slot.

     Types of myofascial techniques incorporated vary quite a bit from one massage therapist to the next, but the slow burning effect is usually a common thread as are the wonderful results. You can always request to have the same person for each session to help with continuity.

     Myofascial massage does fall under the umbrella of deep tissue massage styles. As with any deep tissue massage, the pressure should stay within a healthy comfort range for you. It should "hurt good" and create a nice release rather than a teeth gritting, white knuckling, hard-to-bear pain. The difference between one and the other is usually pretty clear and your massage therapist can modify the pressure to find the right balance for you.

     For a personal consultation or to purchase a series call 706-613-3947. Please share personal testimonies and questions about myofascial and deep tissue massage by writing to candice@urbansanctuaryspa.com.

The Potent Healing & Beauty Benefits of Mud

Mud is pain relieving, restorative and purifying.

     Mud is known around the world for its incredible pain relieving, restorative and purifying properties. Mud baths date back to the days of Cleopatra and probably before... In addition to having many of the wonderful detoxifying and anti-aging effects also present in seaweed, mud has incredible pain relieving properties. If you are trying to decide between a mud or a seaweed wrap, that would be the main distinguishing factor between the two. If you can have both treatments on separate occasions, definitely do so! Seaweed's wonderful metabolism-stimulating effects are second to none. Mud's pain relieving properties are second to none...

     Mud is one of nature's most potent anti-inflammatory agents. People have been using mud for centuries (especially in Europe) to treat pain and inflammation. Mud has healing qualities that are very good for treating arthritis, muscle aches and joint pain. In facials, the anti-inflammatory properties of mud work wonderfully to reduce skin outbreaks and treat skin disorders.

     At Urban Sanctuary, we use Alaskan Glacial Mud for our mud wrap and body mask. This particular type of mud is fantastic for all skin types. It is some of the most pure, mineral-rich mud in the entire world. Our Alaskan Glacial Mud is sustainably harvested from the remote waters of the Copper River in Alaska, which drains from four mountain ranges and catches a vast array of mineral deposits...

     Below are some of the main benefits you can expect from a mud wrap or bath and some of the vitamins and minerals present in most types of mud, as well as those ingredients that have been added to ours. There are no synthetic fragrances, dyes or fillers present in Alaskan Glacial mud. That's one of the many reasons we chose it for our services.

Benefits of using mud for the face and body:

• firms and smooths the skin
• relaxes the mind and body
• supports skin cell regeneration
• has anti-aging effects on the skin
• reduces signs of aging and stress on the body
• provides quick relief for aching joints
• reduces pain and inflammation in the body
• aids in the release of impurities through the pores
• aids in the absorption of minerals and essential trace elements
• helps relieve fatigue
• rebalances the nervous system
• helps the skin to hold moisture and form collagen, resulting in radiant skin
• promotes good circulation
• purifies and restores

Major elements, trace elements and minerals present in mud

• iron
• magnesium
• copper
• zinc
• sulfur
• silver
• silica
• calcium
• sodium

* There are over 60 naturally occurring major and trace elements in mud. This is only a partial list.

Wild crafted and certified organic extracts have been added to Alaskan Glacial Mud to give antioxidant and moisturizing benefits, including:

• kelp 
• elderflower
• nettle extract
• horsetail
• cranberry
• blueberry
• yarrow
• Vitamin B5
• Vitamin E

     While seaweed wraps envelope you in the beautiful healing energy of the sea, mud wraps envelope you in the wonderfully grounding and healing energy of the earth. Most of us could stand to benefit from both.

     You'll feel totally renewed after just one mud wrap, however a series of 4-6 mud wraps is recommended for maximum benefit. At Urban Sanctuary you'll save $85 when you purchase a series. Mud wraps are great in combination with salt scrubs, massage, pedicures and facials. Give us a call for personal recommendations at 706-613-3947.

     Mud wraps are contraindicated for people who are pregnant, adverse to heat, on heavy medications (check with your doctor) or allergic to sulfur. For a more detailed list of ingredients used for Urban Sanctuary's treatments write to candice@urbansanctuaryspa.com.

The Incredible Healing & Beauty Benefits of Seaweed

Seaweed is detoxifying, nourishing and renewing.

     Seaweed has been used as a health and beauty agent throughout the ages. Seaweed body wraps, baths and facials have been popular in spas for several decades. In addition to providing countless health and beauty benefits, seaweed puts people in touch with the infinite healing and rejuvenating energy of the ocean. It's just lovely to be able to experience that for those of us who live inland.

     At Urban Sanctuary, we currently offer a full-body seaweed mask and wrap. We will likely bring in other seaweed skin and body therapy offerings in the near future, due to seaweed's amazing healing properties and its rich mineral content... Here is a list of some of the main health and beauty benefits of topically applied seaweed, as well as the essential vitamins, minerals, amino acids and trace element contents.

Seaweed Applied to the Body in a Mask or Wrap:

• smooths and softens the skin
• eliminates dead skin cells
• heals psoriasis, eczema & dry skin conditions
• heals acne
• stimulates the body's metabolism
• facilitates the absorption of nutrients into the body
• facilitates the elimination of toxins and wastes
• facilitates recharging of the body's own systems
• stimulates circulation
• combats skin irritation and inflammation
• helps slow the aging process
• protects the skin from harsh elements and pollution
• is instrumental in maintaining a healthy body and skin
• promotes an enhanced sense of well-being and focus
• energizes the body

 
Seaweed is packed with more than 60 essential minerals and trace elements, including:

• iodine
• potassium
• calcium
• magnesium
• phosphorus
• iron
• zinc
• manganese
• selenium

Seaweed contains many vitamins essential to maintaining healthy energy and youthful skin:

• A1
• B1, B2, B6 & B12
• C
• E
• K
• pantothenic acid
• folic acid
• niacin
• essential fatty acids

     A seaweed body wrap creates an amazing exchange for your body. Your pores open up and release sweat and toxins during the treatment. With the release of these toxins, pent up tensions, negativity and stress are also released, freeing you to experience a wonderful "letting go". The seaweed also facilitates the absorption of  countless nutrients into your system, stimulating your metabolism and recharging your entire body. The result is smooth, supple skin, a recharged body and feeling brand new.

     A series of 4-6 weekly seaweed wraps is ideal from a skin & body conditioning standpoint. Anyone wanting to jumpstart their metabolism will enjoy great support from a series of seaweed wraps. Wanting to recover your skin from harsh elements in the air and water? Try four seaweed wraps over a period of 4-8 weeks. If you are focused on detoxing from caffeine, nicotine or anything else you are trying to purge from your system, a once or twice per week series will be very instrumental in your detoxification process...

     Our wraps include a dry brush exfoliation to prep the body for the mask. You may choose to pair your seaweed wrap with a salt scrub instead of the dry brushing. This is a good combination. Choose from our aromatherapy salt scrubs selection on the Scrubs, Mud and Seaweed page on our website. We have body scrub choices ranging from energizing and detoxing to deeply relaxing. Seaweed wraps also pair well with 30 or 60 minute massages and facials. Consult our service menu for options and pricing.


     Whether you choose to schedule a seaweed wrap as a one-time treat or a series, you'll benefit from the nourishing and healing effects of this marine wonder. Call Urban Sanctuary at 706-613-3947 with questions or write to candice@urbansanctuaryspa.com. 

*** Seaweed wraps are contraindicated for people in the acute stages of sunburn, those allergic to iodine or seaweed, people on heavy doses of medication (check with your doctor if you are not sure about your medication's interaction with seaweed) and women who are pregnant. 

Staff Highlight: Kela Griffith

Kela Griffith

     Kela Griffith was the very first person to do a pedicure at Urban Sanctuary in the summer of 2010, when we first opened the nail department at our new Boulevard location. We were a little worried that the hustle and bustle of nail services might compromise our otherwise serene spa atmosphere, but Kela set the tone perfectly from the start. Her clients get to enjoy the most peaceful, pampering and relaxing manicures and pedicures you could imagine. She is extraordinary! We've struck gold...

Here's a little Q&A so you can find out even more about Kela!

Kela, where did you grow up?

     Green County

How long have you been here?
     10 years

Is there anything you want to share about yourself?
     My Dad taught my brother and I how to lay a foundation, literally! Our family owned a restaurant and night club when we were growing up, and we actually built it from the ground up. My Dad had his own construction company, too. Dad also used to have a pair of alligator shoes in each and every color! He was very debonaire... He has always been a very sharp dresser and still is.    

What do you do in your free time?

Kela's Dad

     I write poetry and spoken word, and I workout.

Do you like music?
     I like blues, jazz, R&B, some hip-hop and oldies

Do you have any favorite movies?
     Yes, The Green Mile and Book of Eli

What are your favorite TV shows?
     Family Feud is my favorite game show, and I like to watch cooking shows, game shows and reality television.


Kela is a gem and a real breath of fresh air... She has a little boy and a girl and she's an all around positive person! We are still trying to to figure out how she finds the time to workout with two young children and a dog at home!

Book a pedicure or a manicure with Kela soon at Urban Sanctuary. You will love it!
To schedule call 706-613-3047.

Prenatal Massage: Benefits and What You Need to Know

   
  Relaxing massage can be incredibly beneficial during pregnancy. Throughout each trimester, women undergo a series of physical and emotional changes. As the baby grows, Mom's center of gravity changes, increasing the strain put on her back and leg muscles as well as other body parts. This can lead to daily aches and pains.

     A multitude of factors can create quite a bit of discomfort and fatigue for women who are with child. Achy low backs, swollen ankles, problems sleeping at night and sinus trouble top the list of most common complaints.

     Many women report that they feel terrific throughout the entire pregnancy. They glow, they're energized, they are rested and excited about the baby's arrival! For those lucky souls, a prenatal massage is still a great idea. After all, massage isn't just for solving problems and relieving chronic pains. A massage is a good idea even when nothing is "wrong," so to speak. Massage creates a pause in your day, an hour of quiet, the opportunity to feel nurturing touch, put your feet up and be completely taken care of. And it's healthy!

     Whether you would categorize yourself as a woman experiencing a super "easy" pregnancy, one who's absolutely worn out or you're somewhere in the middle; consider having prenatal massage to take care of yourself throughout this very special time...

Benefits of Prenatal Massage

• eases backaches
• settles the nerves
• relaxes tense muscles
• boosts circulation all over
• reduces swollen ankles
• relieves low back and hip pain
• stimulates sluggish circulation in the legs
• helps with numbness in the feet & hands
• reduces sinus pressure
• reduces tension headaches
• relieves sore feet and sore knees
• moisturizes and hydrates your skin
• reduces irritability
• calms mood
• rejuvenates

     The above list of benefits is not all-inclusive, but touches on the main benefits of massage during pregnancy. Some women have experienced improved sleep, decreased anxiety and decreased chronic pain as a result of regular massages received during their pregnancies. Others notice much more subtle benefits.

What You Need to Know

--Let the spa know that you are pregnant when you call to book your appointment. Do not wait until later. Not all massage therapists perform prenatal massage. The spa needs to be sure to book you with one of the people who specializes in prenatal massage.

--If you have trouble climbing stairs or would rather not, request a service room on the ground floor at the time of booking. It may be hard to switch rooms once you arrive, if the spa is busy.

--If you have any concerns about the safety of getting prenatal massage for yourself, talk to your doctor. If you have any medical challenges or questions, please, bring them to your doctor. We cannot give medical advice at the spa. It is not our place to do so.

--We offer side lying massage with lots of special body pillows for pregnant women at Urban Sanctuary... It's really quite comfortable! The pillows can bolster the chest, belly, knees and so on. If you are still comfortable laying supine (on your back), that's okay, too.

--You can get up to relieve your bladder halfway through the massage, if you need to. Anyone can, but we know that this is something that pregnant women might especially need with more pressure on the bladder. We understand!

--Lavender aromatherapy has a reputation for being wonderful for pregnancy and very safe. We avoid using other essential oils for the most part to err on the conservative side. Inform us if you'd prefer we do otherwise for you.

--Things that you enjoy during your "usual" spa visits may not agree with your system during pregnancy. It's amazing how the body changes and adjusts for the baby.

--There are a few services we avoid with pregnant clients. We do not usually offer much heat, deep tissue massage, hot stones, scrubs, muds or seaweeds to pregnant women... They seem to be too taxing to the system and tend to be very detoxifying services.

--If you prefer very firm pressure during your prenatal massages, that is something to request ahead of time when booking. We do not want you to be disappointed with your massage therapist. Not all massage therapists are comfortable giving firm pressure during prenatal massages, but some are. We trust that you know your body and you know what you want. Provided that you've cleared it with your doctor, we will strive to give you just what you want, as long as you let us know in advance what that is.

--Lastly, please arrive early and please linger after if you have time! We have created a beautiful space for you to enjoy a nice pause in your day to regroup... Please accept our invitation to be kind to yourself and unwind at Urban Sanctuary!

**Call 706-613-3947 for a personal consultation to match you up with the best services and the right massage therapist to suit your unique needs and preferences. Or write to us at info@urbansanctuaryspa.com with questions and suggestions.

Your First Massage: How To Choose and How Long It Should Be

Urban Sanctuary is nestled in the historic Boulevard district of Athens, Georgia.

     Massage is the most popular of all types of spa services. Massage therapists use various techniques to heal and relax both mind and body. There are many types of massage to choose from. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers regarding the massages we offer at Urban Sanctuary.

What kind of massage should I get? 
     There is no short answer to this question. It all depends on your personal likes and dislikes. Here are a few to consider:

• Swedish Massage-- is a safe bet for a first time client who would just like to relax. It is the most well-known type of massage and incorporates lots of kneading and long gliding strokes.
• Our Signature Massage-- we recommend for clients who want to experience a sampling of several  techniques and massage styles during one massage. It's a good way to help you learn what your preferences are. Our Signature Massage rolls Hot Stones, Dry Brushing, Aromatherapy and Deep Tissue techniques into one graceful treatment.
• Back, Neck and Shoulder-- this massage targets where many people ache the most. A good choice for a first timer.
• Deep Tissue or Sports Massage-- are perfect for you if you'd like to work out a few specific areas of your body or prepare yourself for strenuous activity. Both massage styles target the client's goals in a very productive, result-oriented way. The focused and directed attention to detail makes a lot of people feel very satisfied. If that sounds good to you, choose either deep tissue or sports massage for your first time. Both modalities appeal to people who prefer deeper pressure.
• Prenatal Massage-- addresses the special needs of an expecting mother. We perform prenatal massages in the side lying position and incorporate special techniques to address swollen ankles, legs and sinuses. Extra time and attention is devoted to the low back and hip area as well. We avoid using extra heat, very deep pressure and most aromatherapy during prenatal massages.
• Aromatherapy Massage-- focuses on incorporating essential oils in the massage and working the aromatherapy into your system. Lots of wave-like and rhythmical strokes orchestrate this very graceful, mood-altering massage. A great choice if you like aromatherapy. Not for pregnant women or people craving deep tissue work.

Want to try something other than the massages described above?
     We also offer Hot Stones, Thai massage, Foot Massages and Scalp Treatments to name a few. Read about the massages that aren't described here, on our website www.urbansanctuaryspa.com or  call us for help choosing which one to schedule... Your massage therapist will be a good person to help you decide which massage style will best serve your needs.

How long should my massage be?
     

• Half Hour Massages-- work great for attending to a specific area, like a face and scalp massage, foot massage, or back, neck and shoulder massage. A Headache Massage, sinus massage, or TMJ Massage fit into 30 minutes nicely. It's not long enough for a full body massage, but it is long enough to turn your day around. Tess Wilson and Alan McArthur both enjoy giving thirty minute massages.

• 1 Hour Massages-- are the most common length booked. Full body massages and massages for specific areas of tension work very well in an hour's time. Our Signature Massage starts at an hour because it combines three techniques. The Aromatherapy Massage and Full Body Hot Stone Massages are booked at an hour and up. Elizabeth, Suzy and Becca love to give 60 minute massages.
• 1.5 Hour Massages-- work best for tension and knots all over,  for deep relaxation and for people who need a combination of several different massages. Some of our clients with high-stress jobs like to get a 1.5 hour Swedish so they can completely unwind and turn off their racing minds. My'leka, Jen Berry and Nathan enjoy giving 90 minute massages.
• 2 Hour Massages-- are best if you need complete transformation. Do you need thorough coverage of a chronic pain area with plenty of time left over for a full body massage? Would you enjoy Reflexology, Scalp Massage and a Deep Tissue Massage all combined in one visit? Two hour massages are very transformative. Nina Paterson, David Williams, Candice and Krista Kramer each love to give 2 hour massages at Urban Sanctuary. 

  We can help you determine which massage type will best address your needs. We can also pair you with a massage therapist who will be a nice fit for you. Send your inquiries about massage by e-mail or call us. Our email is info@urbansanctuaryspa.com and our phone number is 706-613-3947.