Enjoy a half hour (1/2) massage therapy session from the massage therapists at the Women's Health Resource Center at CPMC (California Pacific Medical Center).

Massage, the therapeutic use of touch to relax or energize the body’s muscles and soft tissues, relieves stress, improves blood and energy circulation, reduces swelling, and alleviates pain.

One or more of the following techniques may be used during your massage. When booking an appointment, please notify us if you have a technique preference.

Massage Methods and Techniques

Acupressure / Jin Shin Jyutsu

This method of healing seeks to harmonize vital body energy. Acupressure/Jin Shin Jyutsu is based on the Asian systems defining meridians of energy or Chi flowing throughout the body in much the same way that blood flows through veins and arteries. Pressure is applied along the meridians, using palms, thumbs, fingers, forearms or elbows to release blocked energy, alleviate symptoms of pain, and harmonize the body. 

Cranio Sacral Therapy (CST)

This technique consists of gentle massage to the head and neck, and base of the spine encouraging the body’s natural mechanisms to improve brain and spinal chord function. The negative effects of stress dissipate, general health is enhanced, and resistance to disease is increased. 

Deep Tissue

Pressure is exerted using hands, fingers, elbows, palms, and knuckles to affect the deeper musculo-skeletal system structures releasing chronic tension, soft tissue tension, and pain associated with stress, over-exertion and injury. This technique can be contraindicated with certain health conditions, therefore completion of a special risk assessment is required prior to deep tissue massage. Deep slow breathing is essential to facilitate relaxation and tension release throughout the body. 

Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage is performed in a side-lying position utilizing many pillows and wedges for comfort. The traditional massage table with cutout holes is not used, as laying on your stomach puts an unhealthy strain on abdominal muscles. Any massage technique can be requested, however acupressure is frequently utilized. Post-partum massage for both mom and baby must be requested in advance. 

Swedish / Esalen

This is the most common and well-known form of massage in the United States. Oil or lotion based massage, the Swedish/Esalen technique uses long, soothing strokes to aid in blood and lymph circulation, toxin release, ease aches and pains, and to promote deep relaxation. 

Shiatsu / Jin Shin Do

Range of motion movements and passive stretches are used along with traditional acupressure as part of this technique. Stretching opens the channels through which Chi energy flows, strengthening muscles and encouraging flexibility. Oil is not used for this technique. 

Thai Massage

This ancient form of healing is characterized by rhythmic pressure to the “sen” or energy lines, joint mobilization and deep yoga-like stretching techniques. Thai massage is traditionally received on a soft floor mat placed on the floor, through loose, comfortable clothing. Thai massage techniques may be combined with other techniques during a massage on a massage table.

Trigger Point Release / Myofascial Release

With trigger point release, continuous pressure is applied for up to two minutes on points in the body that refer to and release specific areas of muscular tension. 

Massage Therapists

Women’s Health Resource Center massage therapists are certified and specially trained in: