Sports Massage for Athletes

Sports Massage for AthletesThe purpose of Sports Massage is not well understood and its use would most likely increase with a greater understanding of how how exercise impacts our muscles.

Benefits of Sports Massage for Athletes

After hard training or an athletic event, taxed muscles become constricted and shortened. Micro-tearing of muscle fibers also results from extended strenuous activity leading to swelling and adhesions (like strands of spaghetti stuck together). Without proper rest and stretching between exercise, muscles become increasingly fatigued and contracted. Constrictions prevent free muscle movement and literally destroy range of motion.

During massage, circulation is stimulated and muscle tissue is stretched helping muscles recover faster and more completely. Sports massage focuses on the muscle groups most used by the athlete and incorporates stretches to maintain muscle elasticity. Over the long-term, sports massage helps athletes sustain higher levels of performance and remain free of injuries.

Enhancing the Rest and Recovery Period

There should be a period of rest after hard training to allow muscle recovery to take place. Depending on the intensity of the physical activity, the rest period can be anywhere from a day to several weeks.   By stimulating circulation and the lymphatic system, sports massage coupled with appropriate low-level activity increases the quality and effectiveness of the rest period. Some refer to it as ‘turbo-charging.’

The Importance of Warm-Up and Cool-Down

Neglecting to warm-up can result in injury because cold muscles are less elastic and more vulnerable to damage. A proper warm-down with ample stretches helps start the muscle recovery process, re-aligning muscle fibers and preventing tightness.

Adapting Sports Massage for Age

As we get older, our muscles become more prone to damage due to wear and tear, so stretching and proper warm-up and warm-down become more important. Since it takes muscles longer to recover as we age, a longer rest period and more regular massage is beneficial.

Pre-Event Sports Massage

Pre-event sports massage can take place from two days to two minutes before a race. Two days before, sports massage can be thorough and deep to ensure you are in optimum condition and fully recovered from any previous exercise. Shortly before an event, sports massage uses passive stretches and muscle warming techniques for maximum muscle elasticity. Some also choose to get massage the day of an athletic event with the goal of either relaxing their nerves or “firing-up” for the competition, depending on the athlete’s particular needs.

Post-Event Sports Massage

If you are like many, you may be skipping the warm-down after an athletic event, whether due to exhaustion, elation or forgetfulness. Whatever the reason, sports massage can be a reasonable substitute for a warm-down since it stretches muscle fibers and helps effectively remove metabolic waste (through increased circulation). If there is an injury, cold therapy and cross-fiber massage techniques can be used to reduce swelling and remove muscle adhesions.

Why Sports Massage Matters for Athletes

In summary, sports massage helps active individuals maintain flexible, rested and healthy muscle tissue helping to improve athletic performance. If you consistently suffer from stiffness or muscle fatigue after athletic activity, consider adding sports massage to your overall routine.

By Larisa Goldin, MBA, LMP

Restoring Your Health with Massage Therapy After a Car Accident

medical massage after car accident

Why Medical Massage Matters After a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident — whether major or minor — can take a toll on both your body and mind. Often, even if you feel fine right after the incident, symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, or reduced mobility may show up days or weeks  later. This can happen even if you were wearing your seatbelt or if the accident seemed insignificant at the time. The reality is that any car accident has the potential to cause muscle injury..
Medical massage is a highly effective approach for helping the body heal after an MVA (Motor Vehicle Accident). In addition to promoting physical recovery, medical massage can also assist in relieving emotional stress that often follows a traumatic event.  Let’s review why medical massage is such an important part of post-accident care — and how it can help you feel like yourself again.

What Happens to Your Body During an Auto Accident

Beyond the visible damage to a vehicle, car accidents place sudden, intense strain on your body. In a split second, your body goes from moving at speed to coming to an abrupt stop. This rapid shift forces your muscles to stretch and then contract defensively, quicker than expected,, and this often results in small tears within the soft tissue.
The micro-injuries over time  lead to inflammation, scar tissue, and tightness — all of which will impact your mobility and create ongoing discomfort. Incorporating medical massage into your recovery plan to reverse the muscle injury is critical for long-term wellness.

How Medical Massage Helps After a Car Accident

At Dreamclinic, our licensed massage therapists take a thoughtful, customized approach to every client’s needs. When you come in for medical massage treatment following an auto accident, we assess your symptoms — such as neck, upper or lower back pain — and come up with a personalized care plan.
Here are some of the key ways medical massage can support your recovery:

Restoring Range of Motion

It’s common to lose flexibility after an accident — especially in the neck, shoulders, or lower back. Medical massage techniques are designed to loosen your fascia, gently release tension, improve flexibility, and help you regain natural movement over time.

Relieving Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms are another frequent side effect of car accident injuries. These involuntary contractions can be painful and persistent. Medical massage, including deep tissue techniques, can help relax the affected muscles and interrupt the cycle of spasms.

Improving Circulation for Faster Healing

Proper blood flow is essential for healing injured tissue. Medical massage promotes circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to damaged areas while helping flush out toxins — all of which supports your body’s natural healing process.

Supporting Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Car accidents don’t just affect the body — they can leave lasting emotional stress as well. One of the lesser-known benefits of medical massage is its ability to ease mental tension. Creating a calming space for your body to heal can also help your mind process and recover from the experience.

Need Medical Massage? Let Us Handle Your Insurance

Recovering from a car accident takes time, patience, and the right kind of care. At Dreamclinic, we’ve specialized in medical massage therapy for over 20 years — and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may already have massage therapy or acupuncture coverage through your insurance. Let our experienced team take the guesswork out of the process. We’ll verify your benefits and handle the billing, so you can focus on healing.

Ready to Start Feeling Better?

Contact us today to schedule your medical massage session. Let us handle your insurance — so you can focus on feeling like yourself again.

The Physiological Impact of Different Massage Techniques

Different Massage Techniques

Key Takeaways:

  1. Different Techniques, Different Results: Each massage technique has unique benefits that target specific physical and medical needs.
  2. From Relaxation to Rehabilitation: Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, improve flexibility, or relieve chronic pain, there’s a massage style tailored to your goals.
  3. Informed Choices Lead to Better Outcomes: Understanding the physiological effects of various techniques can help you choose the most effective treatment for your needs.

Massage therapy isn’t just about relaxation—it’s a tool to improve physical health, manage stress, and address chronic conditions. At Dreamclinic, Seattle’s premier destination for medical massage, we know our clients have questions about the benefits of different techniques and how they can address their specific concerns. That’s why we’re here to break down the physiological impacts of four popular massage styles, helping you make an informed decision about your next session.

1. The Relaxation Benefits of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is one of the most well-known and widely practiced forms of massage. It uses long, smooth strokes and kneading techniques to promote relaxation and stress relief.

Physiological Benefits:

  • Stress Reduction: By lowering cortisol levels (the stress hormone), Swedish massage can create a calming effect on the body and mind.
  • Immune Boost: Regular sessions have been shown to improve immune function, helping to ward off common illnesses like colds and the flu.
  • Circulation: Enhanced blood flow delivers more oxygen and nutrients to tissues, promoting overall health.

This is an ideal option if you’re seeking a foundational massage experience focused on stress relief and general wellness.

2. The Rejuvenating Power of Thai Massage

Thai massage is an invigorating technique that blends acupressure, assisted stretching, and movement. It’s more active than Swedish massage, making it an excellent choice for those who want to feel re-energized after a session.

Physiological Benefits:

  • Improved Flexibility: Through guided stretching, Thai massage helps release muscle tension and improve range of motion.
  • Energy Balancing: By targeting energy centers (sen lines), it helps restore balance and reduce tension-related headaches or muscle spasticity.
  • Stress Relief: While more stimulating, Thai massage can also provide deep relaxation and mental clarity.

This technique is ideal for those dealing with chronic tension or looking for an energy boost alongside physical relief.

3. The Gentle Approach of Cranio-Sacral Therapy

Cranio-Sacral Therapy focuses on subtle adjustments to the spine and cranial structures, using light pressure to address imbalances in the body’s fluid systems.

Physiological Benefits:

  • Relief from Chronic Pain: Effective for migraines, jaw pain, and neck stiffness.
  • Nervous System Support: Gentle manipulations help restore the body’s natural rhythm, reducing stress on the central nervous system.
  • Subtle, Non-Invasive: Perfect for individuals seeking a less intense approach to pain relief.

This is a great option if you’re dealing with specific issues like TMJ or chronic migraines and need a lighter touch.

4. The Targeted Relief of Deep Muscle Therapy

Deep Muscle Therapy goes beyond surface-level relaxation, targeting the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue to release chronic tension and knots.

Physiological Benefits:

  • Pain Management: Effective for conditions like Parkinson’s Disease, Muscular Dystrophy, or general muscular tightness.
  • Enhanced Recovery: By breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, it promotes better movement and flexibility.
  • Improved Posture: Releasing deep-seated tension can correct imbalances and support better alignment.

This technique is perfect for individuals dealing with chronic pain, recovering from injuries, or looking to address long-standing muscle issues.

Choosing the Right Technique for You

At Dreamclinic, we understand that every client has unique needs. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, pain relief, or a boost in flexibility, our team of skilled therapists can guide you to the technique that will benefit you most.

Take the First Step Toward Better Health
Ready to experience the benefits of therapeutic massage for yourself? Contact Dreamclinic today to schedule your session at one of our convenient locations in Queen Anne, Roosevelt, and Bel-Red. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Join the Dreamclinic Team: Massage Therapy Careers

Are you a massage therapist seeking an environment that not only respects your craft but also supports your professional growth and well-being? At Dreamclinic, from our first days, we recognized that massage is a true profession, requiring skill, caring and worthy of full respect.  When compensation for massage professionals started falling due to the arrival of massage franchises, Dreamclinic held ground and refused to lower compensation.   As a result, Dreamclinic attracted the best massage therapist in the industry to work at our clinics and built a highly trusted reputation with clients for the high skill and caring outlook of our massage team.

With high demand for our service today, Dreamclinic has several openings for additional  massage professionals who are skilled and truly passionate about client well-being.  Perhaps this is you?  And our success starts with taking care of our team first.  Since our inception in 2003, we have built a culture that prioritizes the needs and career longevity of our team members, recognizing that client experience, and ultimately our success, is deeply intertwined with the outlook and well-being of the therapists themselves. satisfaction and growth.

What Sets Dreamclinic Apart?

Supportive Business Practices:   We offer various shift options, allowing enough time between sessions for self-care and client coaching. We also offer free massage and there are alway snack in the breakroom (in case you forget to bring lunch).

Non-Competitive, Collaborative Culture: We’ve cultivated a workplace where therapists feel valued and supported, emphasizing teamwork over competition.

Focus on Education & Skills Exchange: Continuous learning and sharing of skills and techniques are at the heart of our operations. We encourage our therapists to grow their skill sets and share their knowledge with others.  And they love doing so.

Freedom of Practice:  No cookie-cutter massages here. At Dreamclinic, you’re encouraged to use your full toolkit of techniques to provide personalized, effective treatments.

Industry-Leading Compensation:  We offer competitive pay and truly generous benefits  to ensure that massage therapists feel valued and supported.

Client Base and Shift Flexibility: With busy clinics and a large, established client base, you can set a schedule that fits your lifestyle and quickly achieve a full schedule of clientele.

It’s all About the Team – We’re the Company you Keep

We embody the principle, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Our team members absolutely love working together.  There is a calmness and emotional maturity in our space. Everyone recognizes we have a shared passion to help clients achieve optimal well-being.  When any one therapist does a great job and a client is happy, this results in return visits and referrals and creates collective success. This is well understood in our culture and life long friendships are formed at Dreamclinic.  The incredible team synergy has positioned us as a leader in the wellness industry.

Professionalism and Respect

We believe in elevating the professions of massage therapy and acupuncture as vital components of long term health maintenance.  This begins with treating our therapists with the utmost respect and providing a work environment that is professional, compassionate, and co-creative. Our approach builds sustainable careers, offering living wages, ongoing mentoring, and a supportive community focused on self-care and dynamic professional growth. Our therapists uniformly share that they feel truly respected working at Dreamclinic.

Join Us and Grow

Dreamclinic supports the development and excellence of our team, offering:

  • Industry Leadership: Benefit from our outstanding reputation, established client base, and opportunities across 3 Seattle-area clinics and mobile options.
  • Therapist-Centric Business Model: Enjoy top-tier wages and benefits, tuition reimbursement for recent graduates, and a focus on career longevity.
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Receive coaching on practice development, supportive management, and chances to become a mentor or teacher.
  • Schedule Flexibility: Choose from part-time or full-time positions, morning or evening shifts, and work in clinics, in-home, or workplace settings.

At Dreamclinic, we recognize that to provide the best care to our clients, we must first care for ourselves. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where the voices and needs of all team members are heard and valued.

Ready to Join Our Team?

If you’re a licensed massage therapist looking for a rewarding career path that respects and supports your professional development and personal well-being, Dreamclinic is the place for you. Contact us to learn more about how you can join our team and contribute to a healthier, happier world.

Can Massage Heal Old Car Accident Injuries?

After a car accident, unless the accident is severe, individuals tend to do nothing. They may feel some tenderness and just live through it for a few weeks. Or they turn to pain killers temporarily for relief from their injuries. While the immediate pain may subside, underlying health issues often linger or may take some time to appear. Whiplash is not understood which is why people often do not get appropriate treatment for Whiplash and resulting muscle injury. This is where massage therapy steps in as a beacon of hope for long-term healing.

Key Takeaways about Massage Therapy after a Car Accident:

  1. Long-Term Relief: Massage therapy can significantly aid in healing injuries from a car accident, whether they’re recent or years old.
  2. Addresses Chronic Pain: Massage therapy is particularly effective for persistent pain in the upper back, lower back, neck or shoulders. 
  3. Promotes Natural Healing: Through various techniques, massage therapy enhances the body’s healing process, improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
  4. Insurance Coverage: Many health insurance plans cover massage therapy for accident-related injuries, making it accessible for more patients.
  5. Professional Expertise Required: Certified massage therapists use specialized techniques to address and repair chronic injuries and scar tissue.

The Impact of Car Accidents on the Body

Even minor car accidents can cause significant physical trauma to muscles, tendons and fascia. This often leads to bruises, partial muscle tearing, headaches, and more. The name for injuries from an auto-accident is Whiplash. With Whiplash, the force of impact stretches muscles and tissues beyond their normal limits, creating partial tearing. When the muscle heals, there are often adhesions, resulting in aches and lack of mobility. This is why you benefit from the expertise of a skilled massage therapist to alleviate long-term chronic pain that comes from the adhesions.

The Healing Power of Massage Therapy for Whiplash

Massage therapy offers a safe, effective, and soothing approach to healing. For those who have tried medications or home remedies for pain management without lasting success, turning to a certified massage therapist could be the key to long-term relief. IN fact, massage is the most popular approach to recovering from Whiplash. With deep tissue, rehabilitative, and relaxing massage techniques, patients can experience:

  • Reduced Inflammation: Massage helps to decrease swelling and promote recovery.
  • Pain Relief: Alleviates soreness and discomfort from injuries.
  • Improved Mobility: Enhances range of motion and loosens tight muscles.
  • Increased Circulation: Boosts blood flow to injured areas, supporting the body’s natural healing abilities.
  • Scar Tissue Repair: Breaks down adhesions and manipulates older scar tissue, restoring flexibility and function.

Please note, best practice is that massage therapy should only begin after the active inflammation from the car accident has subsided. This may take two to four weeks. Once tissue is no longer tender, and instead feels ‘tense’ is how you know you are ready for massage therapy

Understanding Whiplash Treatment and Insurance Coverage

The benefits of massage therapy for car accident injuries are influenced by the duration and severity of the injury. Medical massage, focusing specifically on the injury site, generally will require a series of sessions for maximum effectiveness. It’s crucial for patients to consult with their doctor for a referral and check their health insurance plans, as many cover the cost of massage therapy for accident-related injuries, offering a financially viable option for those in need of rehabilitation.  The good news, however, is that Massage Therapy can effectively treat lingering injuries even when a car accident happened months or years ago.  You don’t have to live with chronic aches and tension!

Conclusion

If you’ve been suffering from the lingering effects of a car accident, know that you don’t have to live with the pain indefinitely. Massage therapy presents a proven solution for healing recent and old injuries, supported by the expertise of medically informed therapists and often covered by health insurance. At Dreamclinic, we specialize in providing tailored massage treatments that address the root causes of your pain, promoting a return to full health and mobility.

For those navigating the aftermath of a car accident, consider massage therapy as a viable and effective treatment option. Reach out to your healthcare provider for a referral and explore how massage therapy can be integrated into your recovery plan, often at little to no out-of-pocket cost thanks to auto-insurance coverage.

Spa Massage vs. Medical Massage: Understanding the Differences

medical massage paid by insurance

When navigating the world of massage therapy, it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between spa massage and clinical or medical massage. Though both modalities involve skilled therapists working to ease tension in your body, the context, techniques, and objectives behind each are markedly different. At Dreamclinic, we want to enlighten our clients about these differences, ensuring you make the best choice for your health and well-being.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Distinct Purposes: Spa massages aim for general relaxation, while medical massages target specific health issues.
  2. Technique and Training: Medical massages utilize specialized techniques and require therapists to have additional training.
  3. Customized Care: Medical massage therapists tailor sessions to individual health needs, unlike the general approach of spa massages.
  4. Outcome-Focused: Medical massages are part of a treatment plan with regularly scheduled visits and goals for health improvement, contrasting with the sporadic nature of spa visits.

Understanding Medical Massage Patient and Client Relationships

A key differentiator between spa and clinical massages lies in the nature of the therapist-client relationship. Clinical or medical massages are often integrated into a larger medical treatment plan, potentially recommended by a physician and sometimes covered by insurance. This professional setting focuses on alleviating specific ailments or injuries. In contrast, spa massages are geared towards relaxation and stress relief, providing a general sense of well-being without a targeted health outcome.

Targeting Your Needs with Differing Techniques

The purpose behind the massage influences the techniques employed. Spa massages typically involve relaxing methods like Swedish Massage, designed to soothe and destress. Medical massages, however, may incorporate a variety of advanced modalities — from Trigger Point Therapy to Cross Fiber Friction to Myofascial Release — chosen for their therapeutic benefits in muscle recovery and health improvement.

Expertly Addressing Your Specific Circumstances

Medical massage therapists, especially those at Dreamclinic, are equipped with extensive training that allows them to address a broad range of health issues. This expertise enables them to customize their approach for individuals dealing with specific conditions, such as sports injuries, recovery after surgery, or chronic pain. Spa massages, while beneficial for overall wellness, do not offer this level of personalized, health-oriented service.

Wrapping Up Your Massage Therapy for Healthy Results

The suggested frequency and structure of massage sessions also differ.  Medical massages are typically part of a strategic treatment plan, with regular sessions designed to achieve specific health goals. This contrasts with the less frequent, more spontaneous nature of spa visits, which focus on occasional relaxation rather than consistent therapeutic progress.

Conclusion

Whether your goal is to find relief from a medical condition or to indulge in a moment of relaxation, understanding the differences between spa and clinical or medical massages is essential. At Dreamclinic, our team of skilled professionals specializes in medical massage techniques, providing targeted, personalized care that address your specific health needs. If you’re considering medical massage therapy, Dreamclinic offers expert services across several locations in Seattle and the surrounding areas. Contact us to learn how we can assist you in achieving optimal health and wellness.

5 Things You Need To Know About Acupuncture

Acupuncture has gained widespread acceptance as a valuable component of health and wellness, supported by growing evidence of its benefits and an increasing number of insurance policies covering its services. At Dreamclinic, we’re dedicated to educating our community on effective, natural health modalities, including acupuncture. Here are five crucial aspects of acupuncture that everyone should understand.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Qualified Practitioners: Acupuncturists undergo extensive training and licensing to ensure they provide safe and effective care.
  2. Holistic Approach: Acupuncture is a key element of Chinese Medicine, focusing on restoring balance and harmony to the body.
  3. Mechanism of Action: It works by addressing blockages in the flow of life force energy (Chi or qi) to promote health and balance.
  4. Gentle Techniques: Modern acupuncture uses thin, sterile needles that are as thin as a strand of hair, creating no discomfort.
  5. Proven Benefits: Research supports acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating various conditions, including pain, headaches, and depression.

1. Highly-Trained and Licensed Professionals

The path to becoming an acupuncturist is rigorous, encompassing 1200 hours of classroom instruction and 500 hours of clinical practice, followed by a comprehensive national examination and background check. This ensures that acupuncturists are well-prepared to provide safe and beneficial treatments. The acupuncture degree is comparable to that of an allopathic or naturopathic doctor.

2. An Integral Part of Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture is a cornerstone of Chinese Medicine, a holistic health system that also includes herbology, bodywork, and health-promoting exercises. Originating from a blend of influences including India, the Middle East, and Daoism, Chinese Medicine is practiced by East Asian Medicine Practitioners in Washington State. These practitioners offer a tailored approach to treatment, potentially incorporating various techniques and advice to support healing.

3. The Working Principle of Acupuncture

At its core, acupuncture is designed to restore the free flow of qi, the vital life force, by addressing blockages that lead to pain or illness. By inserting needles into specific acupuncture points along the body’s meridian pathways, acupuncture encourages the body to return to its natural state of balance and health.

4. Modern and Comfortable Needling Techniques

Forget the large, intimidating needles you might associate with medical treatments. Acupuncture needles are thin, sterile, and designed to provide a therapeutic experience with little to no discomfort. Regulated by the FDA as safe and effective, these needles help to facilitate the body’s healing response.

5. Documented Medical Benefits

Despite the challenges of applying conventional research methods to body-based healthcare modalities, the evidence in favor of acupuncture is compelling. Studies have confirmed its effectiveness in treating conditions like headaches, chronic pain, and depression, contributing to its growing acceptance in the medical community. Acupuncture is probably most often used for pain mitigation and is also powerful for boosting the immune system and recovering from stress or anxiety.

Experience the Benefits of Acupuncture at Dreamclinic

Dreamclinic is a leader in health and wellness, offering a range of the most popular bodywork services including massage and acupuncture. Our clinics in Roosevelt, Queen Anne, and Redmond/Bellevue are committed to helping you achieve greater health through natural and effective treatments. Whether you’re new to acupuncture or looking to continue your wellness journey, Dreamclinic welcomes you to discover the benefits of this ancient practice.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Dreamclinic. Let us support you and your family, or your workplace, in achieving better health and well-being through our expert care.

What Do I Wear to a Full Body Massage?

What Do I Wear to a Full Body Massage?

Deciding what to wear for a full body massage can be a bit perplexing, especially for first-timers. The key is to prioritize comfort and ease of movement, both for you and the massage therapist. Whether you’re planning to visit Dreamclinic or another reputable massage center, understanding the appropriate attire can enhance your massage experience. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your session.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Comfort is Key: Choose loose, comfortable clothing for before and after your massage.
  2. Less is More: You will be asked to undress to your comfort level for the massage.  
  3. Personal Preferences Matter: Communicate your comfort level and preferences with your therapist.

Best Clothing Before and After the Massage

Upon arriving and leaving your massage appointment at Dreamclinic, comfort should be your primary concern. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing that’s easy to take off and put on. This is particularly relevant if you’re coming straight from work or heading out afterward. You can even bring a change of clothes with you if work requires more formal wear. Comfortable attire allows you to extend the relaxed, stress-free state post-massage as you transition back to your daily activities.

What you Wear During the Massage Session

When it comes to what you wear during the massage itself, the general rule of thumb is “less is more.” Most full body massages are received with minimal clothing. However, it’s crucial to remember that your comfort and privacy are always a priority. At Dreamclinic, like most spas and professional massage therapy centers, clients are typically asked to undress to their level of comfort. You might choose to wear underwear or be fully undressed; either way, you are appropriately covered with a sheet or blanket throughout the session, with only the area being worked on exposed.

Communicating with Your Massage Therapist

Communication is essential when it comes to your comfort and ensuring the massage meets your needs. If you have any preferences or concerns about undressing or the massage in general, please do discuss them with your therapist beforehand. Professional massage therapists at Dreamclinic are skilled at ensuring clients feel safe, respected, and comfortable throughout their massage experience.

Final Thoughts for your Massage Day

Choosing what to wear for a full body massage shouldn’t be a source of stress. The aim is to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible before, during, and after your session. At Dreamclinic, our goal is to provide a welcoming, respectful environment where your comfort and relaxation are paramount.

Ready to experience the benefits of a professional full body massage? Consider making an appointment at Dreamclinic. Our team of expert therapists is here to guide you through the process, ensuring a relaxing and beneficial massage experience tailored to your needs and preferences.

What is the Difference Between Swedish and Thai Massage?

What to Expect During Your deep tissue massage Session

When considering massage therapy, two popular styles that come to mind are Swedish and Thai massage. Both offer unique benefits and experiences, but they differ significantly in techniques, goals, and origins. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right type of massage for your needs and preferences. Let’s explore the key distinctions between Swedish and Thai massage.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Technique and Focus: Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes for relaxation, while Thai massage combines stretching and pressure points for flexibility and energy flow.
  2. Positioning and Clothing: Clients are typically unclothed and covered with a sheet during Swedish massage, whereas Thai massage is performed with clients fully clothed and involves more dynamic movements.
  3. Overall Benefits: Swedish massage is aimed at relaxation and muscle tension relief, while Thai massage focuses on improving flexibility, circulation, and energy balance.

Origins and Philosophy

Swedish Massage: Originating in the 18th century by a Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling, Swedish massage is part of the Western tradition of massage. It focuses on the anatomy and physiology of the body, aiming to relax the entire body through various techniques that release muscle tension and improve circulation.

Thai Massage: Thai massage, on the other hand, has its roots in ancient healing traditions from India and Thailand over 2,500 years ago. It is based on the concept of energy lines that run through the body, similar to the meridians in Chinese medicine. Thai massage seeks to clear blockages in these lines to restore health and vitality.

Techniques Used

Swedish Massage: The techniques used in Swedish massage include effleurage (long, smooth strokes), petrissage (kneading, rolling, and squeezing of the muscles), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), and friction (deep circular movements). These techniques are designed to relax the muscles, improve blood circulation, and promote overall relaxation.

Thai Massage: Thai massage is more dynamic, incorporating stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques to relieve tension and enhance flexibility. Practitioners use their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure along the body’s energy lines, as well as to manipulate the body into various yoga-like stretches. This type of massage is often described as a passive yoga experience.

Experience During the Massage

Swedish Massage: During a Swedish massage, clients are usually unclothed and covered with a sheet or towel. The massage is generally performed on a table, and oil or lotion is used to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes over the muscles.

Thai Massage: In contrast, Thai massage is performed with the client fully clothed, typically on a padded mat on the floor. No oils are used, and the massage involves a lot of movement, making it a more active experience. The therapist moves the client into various positions that stretch the body and release tension. Some refer to it as “lazy man’s yoga.”

Benefits

Swedish Massage: The primary benefits of Swedish massage include relaxation, decreased stress levels, improved circulation, and relief from muscle tension and pain. It is an excellent choice for those new to massage or looking for a more gentle, relaxing experience.

Thai Massage: Thai massage offers benefits such as increased flexibility, improved range of motion, better circulation, and a balance of the body’s energy system. It is ideal for those who enjoy a more active form of massage and are looking to improve their physical flexibility and energy flow.

Conclusion

Choosing between Swedish and Thai massage depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking to get out of the massage experience. Whether you’re in need of deep relaxation and tension relief with a Swedish massage or seeking to enhance your flexibility and energy balance with a Thai massage, both styles offer unique benefits that can contribute significantly to your overall well-being. 

Ready to experience the benefits of a professional Swedish massage? Consider making an appointment at Dreamclinic. Our team of expert therapists is here to guide you through the process, ensuring a therapeutic and beneficial massage experience tailored to your needs and preferences.

Dreamclinic and University of Washington Athletics: A Winning Partnership

Dreamclinic is truly honored to have its longstanding partnership with the University of Washington (UW) Intercollegiate Athletics. As a beacon of excellence in sports massage therapy, Dreamclinic has been at the forefront of providing specialized care to student-athletes, contributing to their performance, recovery, and overall well-being. This collaboration embodies our commitment to excellence and the pivotal role of sports massage in athletic achievement.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Proven Partnership: Over a decade of collaboration with UW Athletics, serving hundreds of student-athletes across various sports.
  2. Comprehensive Support: Tailored massage programs for football, volleyball, gymnastics, tennis, basketball, golf and other intercollegiate teams.
  3. Performance and Recovery: Regular sports massage contributes to enhanced athletic performance, muscle elasticity, and injury prevention.

The Relationship Details

Dreamclinic’s relationship with UW Intercollegiate Athletics is a testament to our expertise and the trust we’ve built in the area of Sports Massage over more than ten years. UW, a member of the NCAA Division I-FBS and competing in the Pacific-12 Conference, has a diverse and talented roster of over 700 student-athletes. Dreamclinic’s role in their athletic program is multifaceted, providing on-site massage services to the football and volleyball teams at their facilities and welcoming athletes from gymnastics, tennis, basketball, and golf to our clinic locations on a weekly basis.

“Thank you so much! The girls have really enjoyed going off site for massages so it’s worked out great. Thanks again for working with us and being so accommodating!”

The Impact on Teams

The partnership between Dreamclinic and UW Athletics is not just about offering massage services; it’s about integrating sports massage into the athletes’ regular training and recovery programs. This approach has proven beneficial for enhancing sports performance, maintaining muscle elasticity, and significantly reducing the risk of injuries. Targeted sports massage sessions ensure that athletes can achieve optimal power and performance, essential for excelling in highly competitive environments and giving athletes a competitive edge.

The Importance of Sports Massage

Sports massage is an invaluable component of modern athletic training. Its benefits extend far beyond relaxation and recovery, impacting athletes’ performance in several key ways:

  • Enhanced Performance: Regular sports massage improves muscle elasticity and flexibility, leading to increased power and performance. This is crucial for athletes across all disciplines, from the explosive power required in football and basketball to the endurance and precision in tennis and golf.
  • Injury Prevention: Tight muscles are more prone to injuries. By ensuring muscles are loose and flexible, sports massage significantly reduces the risk of strains, sprains, and other common sports injuries.
  • Faster Recovery: Sports massage aids in the quicker recovery of muscles by enhancing blood circulation. This increased blood flow accelerates the removal of toxins and replenishes muscle tissues with vital nutrients, helping athletes to recover faster and more effectively from training and competitions.

Growing Together

The partnership between Dreamclinic and UW Athletics has grown stronger over the years, evolving to meet the changing needs of student-athletes. This dynamic relationship is a cornerstone of Dreamclinic’s commitment to supporting the athletic and personal development of athletes of all ages. By continually refining our services and techniques, at Dreamclinic, we aim to keep pace with the advancements in sports science, ensuring that UW athletes always have access to the best in massage therapy.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Dreamclinic and the University of Washington Athletics Department exemplifies the critical role of sports massage in the world of collegiate sports. It’s a partnership that enhances athletic performance and fosters a culture of overall health and well-being among student-athletes. Dreamcilinic looks forward to continuing this fruitful relationship and remains dedicated to providing exceptional care that meets the unique needs of each athlete, helping them to achieve their highest potential both on and off the field.

(Photography by Scott Eklund/Red Box Pictures)