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Pauline Swenson is a nationally certified massage therapist who has a wide range of techniques to soothe body and soul. Within the Center for Mind Body Spirit, Pauline has a separate and wonderfully relaxing massage suite, pleasant and comfortable, with private facilities. Her practice is welcome to both males and females of all ages.

Pauline specializes in Swedish methods, sports massage, deep tissue massage and a variety of methods best-suited to the individual client. Pauline trained in many techniques and styles, in massage school and continued education. She tailors the session to each client, producing more effective results. Pauline’s unique style of blending deep and relaxing strokes allows for an exceptional session that enables the client to stretch and release tightness, tension and stress. This combination of techniques is most effective in relaxing the body and mind and energizing the health of the client.

Tension can build in us daily – from work, home, sports – from LIFE. Pauline has a way of making it “all go away.” By consistently incorporating massage therapy into our lives, the body and soul can achieve and maintain a healthier state.

TYPES OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Pregnancy massage (prenatal and postnatal)

Stress reduction/relaxation/rejuvenation

Repetitive sore spots (trigger points) relieved

Chair massage (brought to your office or club or meeting group)

Hot rock massage

Thai massage (see below description)

Most massage sessions incorporate a combination of techniques and strokes.

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

Promotes well-nourished and healthy skin Improves Circulation

Relaxes muscles and improves joint mobility Reduces anxiety

Improves immune system function Improves Energy Flow

Rejuvenates the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT

• Alleviates Problem Conditions:

Muscular tension and aches

Muscular back pain

Tension headaches

Stress and anxiety

• Supports fitness or sports programs:

Relieves tired and sore muscles

Improved Flexibility

Speeds recovery from strenuous physical exertion

Reduces the anxiety of athletic competition

• Complements Other Healthcare

Psychotherapy

Physical and Occupational Therapy

Chiropractic

ENHANCING THE RELAXATION EFFECTS OF MASSAGE THERAPY

The massage therapy suite is clean, relaxing, and appealing to create a warmth and comfort that can enhances the positive effects of massage. The room is quiet, dimly lit and at a comfortable temperature.

Below are some tips to help you create a relaxing massage experience:

• Please be prompt.
  It is recommended that you arrive at least five minutes in advance of your scheduled appointment time. It is counterproductive to be late or rushing in at the last minute.
  
  
• Turn off cellular phones or beepers.
  
  
• Breathe and relax.
  Slow down the pace of your breathing to facilitate relaxation. Give yourself permission to relax and enjoy the pleasure of massage.
  
  
• Be considerate.
  Please be considerate of those clients before and after you. Kindly give notice for cancellations and delays.
  
  Massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative; the more often a person receives a massage, the better it feels and the more quickly the body responds to massage therapy. From one session to the next, relaxation deepens as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are affected and released. These changes affect daily life as well, which further reinforces the overall positive effects of massage therapy on the body, mind and spirit.

Massage has its greatest benefits over time. The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative; the more often a person receives a massage, the better it feels and the more quickly the body responds to massage therapy. From one session to the next, relaxation deepens as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are affected and released. These changes affect daily life as well, which further reinforces the overall positive effects of massage therapy on the body, mind and spirit.

THAI MASSAGE

Thai Massage -- also known as "lazy man's yoga" – is called this because the therapist is skilled at supporting the client in stretches that are yoga-like poses. Thai Massage is a "flowing dance" between therapist and client. The therapist works energy lines (know as "sens") which have a synergistic effect in opening and energizing the body. In addition to stretching and toning muscles, Thai massage improves circulation, expedites the metabolism and boosts the immune system. It balances the body energetically, inducing a calmer mental state.

Thai Massage is a positive and uplifting experience. The client is passive and completely and safely supported in all positions. The client dresses in comfortable clothing and relaxes on a cushioned floor mat to receive the bodywork session. Sessions usually last approximately 75 minutes.

Thai Massage uses many positions and techniques including:

Pressure along energy lines

Gentle, soothing movement

Yogic stretching

Rhythmic rocking

Range of motion

Joint compression and decompression

Great for athletes of all kinds!!!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?

You will be asked to complete a health history form. Afterwards, the therapist will ask you general questions to establish what areas of the body you would like to focus on and why.

• Where will my massage session take place?

Your massage session will take place in a warm, comfortable, quiet room. Soft music will be playing to help you relax. You will lie on a table especially designed for your comfort. For Thai Massage, you will lie on a comfortable floor mat.

• What do I do during my massage therapy session?

Make yourself comfortable. Slow down your breathing and clear your mind. If the therapist wants you to adjust your position, she will either move you or will ask you to move as needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It is entirely up to you. It is YOUR massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to get the most out of your session. Do not hesitate to ask questions and/or give feedback during the session or afterward.

• How will the massage feel?

During Swedish massage, the therapist uses broad, flowing strokes that will help calm your nervous system and relax exterior muscle tension. As your body relaxes, the therapist may increase pressure to relax certain areas and relieve areas of muscular tension or restriction. A light lotion, specifically designed for massage therapy, is applied to allow your muscles and skin to be massaged without causing excessive friction to the skin.

• How long with the session last?

The average full-body massage session lasts an hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial session, such as neck and shoulders, back, or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 90-minute session for optimal relaxation. Thai sessions generally last 75 minutes or 90 minutes.

• How will I feel my session?

Most people feel very open and relaxed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains developed from tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling “slowed down”, people often experience increased energy, heightened awareness and greater mental and physical productivity, which can last for days. Since toxins are released from your soft tissues during a massage, it is recommended you drink plenty of water afterward.

For additional in-depth inquires about massage, contact: www.amtamassage.org

APPOINTMENTS

Morning, afternoon and evening appointments available, Monday – Friday; occasionally, weekend timeslots can also be accommodated at Pauline’s discretion. Appointments can be made directly with Pauline by calling 630-605-7591, or by contacting officemanager@mbsgeneva.com.

Attractive gift certificates are available and encouraged for those special friends and family in your life!

FEES

Chair Massage

$60 + one-time travel fee of $15.00
4 people @ 13 min/hr
5 people @ 10 min/hr
10 people @ 5 min/hr

INSURANCE: Payment is expected at time of service. Receipt provided upon request. Please note that insurance coverage for massage therapy is contingent upon the client’s individual insurance contract.

ABOUT PAULINE

Pauline is a very active and fit therapist. She enjoys running and racing competitively, having completed twelve half-marathons, four marathons, three triathlons and numerous 5K’s. Pauline strongly believes in the benefits of massage and yoga to stretch, strengthen and relax; she also cross-trains through cycling, swimming, kayaking, dance and strength-training. She takes her health seriously, seeking chiropractic/ acupuncture as needed and practicing a healthy diet as an example to her clients. Pauline has a tremendous appreciation of art and music, and enjoys learning, reading and writing in her spare time. Pauline considers her family to be most important her life and enjoys a wide circle of friends from all backgrounds, ethnicities and ages.