Our Services.

Simon Graves, L.M.T. received his training at the Calistoga Massage Therapy School in Santa Rosa, CA in 1999. He gained his experience from two different prestigious Napa Valley spas, the Calistoga Spa Hot Springs Resort and the Mount View Hotel and Spa, it was here he became one of the most requested therapists in the area. Below are some of the massage services offered by the magic hands of Simon.

Hot Stone Therapy

The healing power of warmed stones has been recognized by numerous cultures for centuries. The deep heat of the basalt (river rock) stones penetrates the muscles, providing an immediate relaxation response. Mentally, the individual can reach a state of relaxation within minutes of applying the first stones. This deep state of relaxation usually takes 15-20 minutes to occur in a traditional massage. Smooth, hot basalt stones are placed on a client’s body. Warm stones may be placed in the palms and/or between the toes. The massage therapist may also use the hot stones to perform soothing, long massage strokes.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage is a massage technique that focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It aims to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas, either following or going across the fibers of the muscles, tendons and fascia.

Swedish Massage

The term “Swedish Massage” refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

Sports Massage

Sports Massage is a special form of massage and is typically used before, during, and after athletic events. The purpose of the massage is to prepare the athlete for peak performance, to drain away fatigue, to relieve swelling, to reduce muscle tension, to promote flexibility and to prevent injuries.

Pregnancy Massage

A specially designed body cushion allows pregnant woman to lie comfortably in the prone position while putting no weight or pressure on her womb. The pregnancy massage reduces stress, promotes relaxation, and provides emotional support. While not recommended during the first trimester, it is a wonderful way to help your body cope throughout the remainder of your pregnancy. Ask your doctor if there are any risks to receiving a massage before you schedule one as all pregnancies are unique and massage is contra-indicated in some high-risk pregnancies.

Reflexology

Reflexology, a massage technique with roots in ancient Egypt, is designed to stimulate pressure points in the feet and hands that correlate to specific organs, muscle groups and other tissue in the body. It clears energy blocks and promotes a sense of balance. Excellent to combine with any massage or other treatments in the Spa. Perfect for those not comfortable with full bodywork.

Benefits of Massage.

What exactly are the benefits of receiving massage or bodywork treatments?
This is Useful for all of the conditions listed below and more, massage can:

• Alleviate low-back pain and improve range of motion.
  
• Assist with shorter, easier labor for expectant mothers and shorten maternity hospital stays.
  
• Ease medication dependence.
  
• Enhance immunity by stimulating lymph flow-the body’s natural defense system.
  
• Exercise and stretch weak, tight, or atrophied muscles.
  
• Help athletes of any level prepare for, and recover from, strenuous workouts.
  
• Improve the condition of the body’s largest organ-the skin.
  
• Increase joint flexibility.
  
• Lessen depression and anxiety.
  
• Promote tissue regeneration, reducing scar tissue and stretch marks.
  
• Pump oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs, improving circulation.
  
• Reduce post surgery adhesions and swelling.
  
• Reduce spasms and cramping.
  
• Relax and soften injured, tired, and overused muscles.
  
• Release endorphins-amino acids that work as the body’s natural painkiller.
  
• Relieve migraine pain.
  

A Powerful Ally

There’s no denying the power of bodywork. Regardless of the adjectives we assign to it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we seek it out (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be a powerful ally in your healthcare regimen.

Experts estimate that upwards of ninety percent of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. While eliminating anxiety and pressure altogether in this fast-paced world may be idealistic, massage can, without a doubt, help manage stress. This translates into:

• Decreased anxiety.
  
• Enhanced sleep quality.
  
• Greater energy.
  
• Improved concentration.
  
• Increased circulation.
  
• Reduced fatigue.
  

Furthermore, clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits.

Profound Effects

In response to massage, specific physiological and chemical changes cascade throughout the body, with profound effects. Research shows that with massage:

• Arthritis sufferers note fewer aches and less stiffness and pain.
  
• Asthmatic children show better pulmonary function and increased peak air flow.
  
• Burn injury patients report reduced pain, itching, and anxiety.
  
• High blood pressure patients demonstrate lower diastolic blood pressure, anxiety, and stress hormones.
  
• Premenstrual syndrome sufferers have decreased water retention and cramping.
  
• Preterm infants have improved weight gain.
  

Research continues to show the enormous benefits of touch-which range from treating chronic diseases, neurological disorders, and injuries, to alleviating the tensions of modern lifestyles. Consequently, the medical community is actively embracing bodywork, and massage is becoming an integral part of hospice care and neonatal intensive care units. Many hospitals are also incorporating on-site massage practitioners and even spas to treat postsurgery or pain patients as part of the recovery process.

Increase the Benefits with Frequent Visits

Getting a massage can do you a world of good. And getting massage frequently can do even more. This is the beauty of bodywork. Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you’ll be and how youthful you’ll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn’t mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your practitioner to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.