Lincoln Park, Chicago
2640 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60614
Massage Services
Clinical Deep Tissue Massage
Clinical Massage is a method of massage therapy that combines and applies a range of techniques to achieve a specific outcome, whether that be a reduction in pain, increased range of movement, improved posture or relaxation. This type of massage is tailored to each client. Our Clinical Massage Therapist, Racie often incorporates other modalities such as myofascial release, trigger point work, and stretching to achieve maximum benefits.
Clinical Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a gentle manual technique using four strokes created by Emil Vodder and further developed by Michael Földi. The goal of MLD is to move fluid caused by swelling into the lymphatic vessels. MLD stimulates the lymph vessels and causes increased lymph production, increased lymph angiomotoricity, and increased venous return. The treatment promotes relaxation and alleviates pain. The main job of the lymphatic system is to carry and dispose of waste. Without this technique, excessive waste contributes to excess body weight. MLD uses light pressure and rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymph flow. MLD works by releasing built-up toxins in your body and decreasing swelling and water retention. It also improves the appearance of cellulite and helps your body more naturally target fat deposits, which can be used for energy.
Please see the before & after image of MLD
Shiatsu: Offered Thursdays from 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese therapeutic massage that is based on principles similar to acupuncture without the needles. The term "shiatsu" means "finger pressure" in Japanese, and the technique involves applying pressure to specific points on the body using fingers, thumbs & palms.
It's a Clinical, fully clothed, therapy combines acupressure points, like acupuncture, and a series of stretches, much like Thai massage. The focus is on harmonizing your yin/yang, influencing your internal organs, and addressing your emotional well-being in every therapeutic session. The goal is to bring a sense of embodiment incorporating mind, body and spirit.
- Enhance Digestive Harmony: Experience the soothing touch of Shiatsu, celebrated for its unique ability to balance your body's internal energy. It promotes optimal digestive function, leaving you free from discomfort and embracing a harmonious gut.
- Release Emotional Burdens: I'm here to guide you through the transformative journey of healing and releasing emotional trauma. Together, we'll work towards emotional wellness, leaving you feeling lighter and at peace.
- Relief for Chronic Conditions: Find solace from the challenges of chronic conditions with Shiatsu. My therapy offers relief and comfort, providing a pathway to a more comfortable and enjoyable life.
- Calm the Mind, Relax the Nerves: In the battle against depression or anxiety, Shiatsu is your ally. It gently soothes the nervous system, ushering in a profound sense of relaxation and inner peace. I'm here to help you reclaim control of your mental well-being.
- Expand Your Range of Motion: Say yes to improved flexibility and a heightened range of motion. My Shiatsu massages are your key to enhanced mobility, making your everyday activities more comfortable and enjoyable. Together, we'll rejuvenate your body, one session at a time.
Sports Massage
A sports massage is a specialized type of massage therapy designed to enhance athletic performance, prevent injuries, and aid in recovery. Here are some key features:
It employs techniques tailored to the needs of athletes, such as deep tissue work, stretching, and trigger point therapy. These methods help to address muscle tension, increase flexibility, and improve circulation. Before an event, sports massage can help warm up the muscles, enhance performance, and reduce the risk of injury. After an event, it aids in recovery by reducing muscle soreness, flushing out metabolic waste products, and alleviating muscle fatigue. It can be used to help rehabilitate injuries by improving blood flow, reducing scar tissue, and restoring normal muscle function. Techniques and pressure are often adjusted based on the specific needs of the athlete, their sport, and their individual body.
Stephanie Kos
LMT, CLT, SEp, Lymphatic Enhancement Technology Therapist
Stephanie Kos is Chicago’s ONLY licensed Clinical Lymphedema Therapist (CLT) who provides LET with the FDA registered Aria LET Elite. She became interested in massage therapy and alternative healthcare in high school while working for an aromatherapy shop and spa. She attended the clinical massage program at the Soma Institute in Chicago and has been a licensed massage therapist since 2011. Through her own healing journey Stephanie discovered the healing benefits of Lymphatic Enhancement Technology (LET). Her experience receiving LET was so profound that she decided to offer it in her practice. She has been specializing in Lymphatic Enhancement Technology (LET) since 2018 and is the owner of an FDA registered Aria LET Elite. She has 5,000+ hours of experience applying LET.
Certified in:
Lymphatic Enhancement Technology (Arturus Star Med, 2018)
Somatic Experiencing Beginner, SEp (SE Institute, 2020)
BS in Biomedical Science (NUHS, 2022)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage Vodder Technique (ACOLS, 2023)
Complete Decongestive Therapy (ACOLS, 2023)
Licensed in:
Massage Therapy (2011)
Clinical Lymphedema Therapy (2023)
Racie Balajadia
LMT
Racie begins each meeting with listening, healing, compassion and empathy. Coming from a long line of healers, she has been informally trained from the age of 5 and a licensed practicing clinical massage therapist since 2014 from the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Her absolute love and forte are deep tissue clinical massage and sports therapy. However, she has many tools in her toolbox which include: Prenatal, Cupping, Guasha, Myofascial, Lymphatic Drainage, Acupressure, Table Thai, Tui Na, Shiatsu, Reflexology and Vibrational Sound Therapy. Racie also has an extensive background working with Chiropractors & Physicians who treat Musculoskeletal Pain. Her goal in treating clients is to offer the best possible care while offering insight and solutions based on a client’s needs.
Adam Franklin
Adam attended SIU where he earned is BA in Kinesiology. He then went on to earn his CPT from the American College of Sports Medicine and has been a Tier 3 Personal Trainer for Jim Karas Intelligent Fitness & Wellness for over 11 years. Adam has always had a passion for fitness and recovery so 5 years ago is when he decided to become a LMT from the New School of Massage. Adam specializes in deep tissue massage with a strong focus on joint mobilization and active release technique. Mission Statement: "Fitness & recovery are the cornerstone of overall health & wellbeing.
Tier 3 Coach | Licensed Massage Therapist
Certifications:
ACSM-CPT - American College of Sports Medicine / Certified Personal Trainer
FMS 1 &2 - Functional Movement Screening
NKT-1 &2 - Neurokinetic Therapy
ART - Active Release Technique (Upper Body)
BA from SIU in Kinesiology
Licensing:
LMT - New School for Massage
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Ariana Pedroza
Ariana received her training from Zen Shiatsu Chicago. She is a licensed massage therapist, member of AOBTA, and holds her 200 yoga teacher training. She believes in a holistic approach to trauma-informed bodywork and incorporates principles of Chinese medicine, massage, acupressure, stretching, and yoga to promote overall well-being. Her specializations are in Shiatsu, Reiki, Sports Massage, and Deep Tissue. She aims to promote the integration of mind, body, and spirit for everyone. During her sessions, she customizes treatments based on her clients' needs, equipping them with the necessary tools to enhance their lifestyle.
50% off your first massage with each of our massage therapists. 50% off your first Clinical Shiatsu Session.
PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE: 312-802-3172
AS A COURTESY TO OUR AMAZING THERAPISTS, WE KINDLY REQUEST A 24 HOUR NOTICE ON ALL CANCELLATIONS.
A CREDIT CARD WILL BE REQUIRED TO HOLD YOUR APPOINTMENT.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sports massage is a specialized form of massage therapy tailored to the needs of athletes and active individuals. It incorporates a variety of techniques, including deep tissue work, stretching, and trigger point therapy, to address specific muscle groups and areas of tension. The primary objectives of sports massage are to enhance performance, prevent injuries, and expedite recovery. It can be used both before an event to prepare muscles and improve flexibility, and after an event to alleviate muscle soreness and support the body’s recovery process. By addressing muscle imbalances and tightness, sports massage helps in injury prevention and can aid in the rehabilitation of existing injuries. Overall, it is designed to support optimal physical condition and performance for those engaged in regular physical activity.
Massage cupping is a therapeutic technique that integrates traditional cupping therapy with massage methods to enhance treatment outcomes. It involves using specialized cups that create a vacuum effect on the skin, either through suction pumps or heat. These cups can be placed on the skin and moved around, combining the lifting and stretching of underlying tissues with traditional massage strokes. This technique helps improve blood circulation, release muscle tension, and enhance overall relaxation. By drawing blood and lymphatic fluid to the surface, massage cupping can reduce pain, improve flexibility, and support the removal of toxins from the body. It is particularly effective for targeting specific areas of discomfort and can complement a regular massage therapy regimen.
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of therapeutic massage that combines elements of traditional Chinese medicine with modern techniques. The practice involves using finger pressure, palms, and thumbs to apply rhythmic pressure along the body's meridians (energy pathways) to stimulate energy flow and balance. Shiatsu aims to improve physical and emotional health by addressing energy imbalances, relieving muscle tension, and promoting relaxation.
Deep tissue massage and lymphatic drainage massage serve different purposes. Deep tissue massage targets deeper muscle layers with firm pressure to alleviate chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and improve flexibility. It’s ideal for addressing persistent muscle tension and injuries. On the other hand, lymphatic drainage massage uses gentle, rhythmic movements to stimulate the lymphatic system, reducing swelling, fluid retention, and supporting detoxification and immune function. It’s especially beneficial for fluid retention, post-surgical recovery, and enhancing overall detoxification. In summary, deep tissue massage focuses on muscle relief, while lymphatic drainage promotes lymph fluid flow and reduces edema.
Massage therapy offers a wide range of benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. It effectively reduces stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and lowering cortisol levels. The therapy relieves muscle tension and chronic pain, enhances blood circulation, and boosts lymphatic drainage. It also improves flexibility, increases joint range of motion, and reduces stiffness. Regular massage can promote better sleep, improve mood, and alleviate symptoms of depression. Additionally, it supports immune function, aids in post-surgical recovery by reducing swelling and softening scar tissue, and enhances digestive health. For athletes, it reduces muscle soreness and speeds up recovery, while also improving skin tone and hydration. Overall, massage therapy provides valuable self-care, contributing to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
50% off your first massage with each of our massage therapists. 50% off your first Clinical Shiatsu Session.
PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE: 312-802-3172
AS A COURTESY TO OUR AMAZING THERAPISTS, WE KINDLY REQUEST A 24 HOUR NOTICE ON ALL CANCELLATIONS.
A CREDIT CARD WILL BE REQUIRED TO HOLD YOUR APPOINTMENT.
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