MASSAGE AND BODYWORK


Debby Smith is a licensed massage and bodywork therapist (NC #5835) and co-founder of Carolinas Natural Health Center. She was introduced to massage as a form of healing during her four years in Indonesia. Upon returning to the United States, she attended and graduated with honors from the New York Institute of Massage.

In addition to her comprehensive education, she has obtained certification in Pre and Perinatal Massage Therapy and has advanced knowledge and training in the Eastern therapies of Shiatsu, Acupressure and Thai Yoga massage.

General Benefits of Bodywork

Improves circulation and aids in the elimination of toxins from the body.

Enhances the immune system.

Relieves muscles cramps, spasms and soreness.

Increases joint mobility and range of motion.

Eases pain and stimulates the secretion of natural endorphins.

Promotes relaxation and improves natural sleeping patterns.

Reduces stress and anxiety.

Completes the body-mind-spirit connection.

Types of Massage and Bodywork Available

Swedish Relaxation Massage
This exquisite full body massage relaxes the body, stimulates circulation and calms the mind. Swedish massage is available in 30, 60 and 90 minute sessions.

Therapeutic Massage
Massage that focuses on specific areas to aid in dissolving tightness and easing muscle pain.

Facilitates improved range of motion and is recommended for relief of chronic pain. Sessions are 30, 60 or 90 minutes in length.




Prenatal Massage
Relax and reclaim you body with a massage designed especially for expectant mothers. Soothe away tight muscles and achy joints while indulging in this full body treatment. Both mom and bay benefit from this revitalizing massage.

Debby utilizes a comprehensive cushioning system designed specially for use during pregnancy which allows for maximum client comfort during the massage. Prenatal massage sessions are either 60 or 90 minutes in length.

Receiving massage throughout pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and baby. Many of the common discomforts that mom experiences can be eased through massage.

Massage can:
  • Calm the nervous system resulting in a more restful sleep.
  • Relieve muscle and joint pain, backaches, headaches, and leg cramps.
  • Reduce excess fluid retention and encourages elimination of metabolic waste products.
  • Ease constipation, gas and heartburn as general relaxation stimulates intestinal movement.


    • Shiatsu
    Shiatsu has roots tracing back more than 2,000 years ago to China. The contemporary styles of Shiatsu were adapted and developed in Japan. Shiatsu is a Japanese word literally meaning, “finger pressure”. It is this application of pressure applied to acupoints and energy meridians in the body that is the underlying principle of Shiatsu.

    The practitioner may utilize fingers, thumbs, fists, palms, elbows, knees and feet to apply pressure during a shiatsu treatment. Gentle stretching and passive range of motion techniques are also performed. All of these techniques combined are aimed at smoothing the flow of the body’s vital energy, to prevent and treat disease and discomfort. Experience physical and emotional relaxation on a whole new level with this full body treatment.




    Shiatsu bodywork sessions are performed with the client resting on a thick, comfortable cotton mat, placed on the floor. No lotions or oils are used and sessions typically last from 60 – 90 minutes, and loose, comfortable clothing should be worn.

    Benefits of Shiatsu include:
  • Relief from chronic pain
  • Improved quality of sleep
  • Improved organ function
  • Relief from physical and mental stress
  • Increased flexibility
  • Strengthened immunity




    • Acupressure
    Light, sustained finger pressure is applied to specific acupoints on the body during this treatment. Acupressure can help relieve muscle pain, and ease emotional stress. Replenish you body, mind and spirit with this incredibly relaxing for of energy healing.


    Thai Yoga Massage
    Traditional Thai massage has been practiced for more than 1000 years. This form of bodywork combines the ancient philosophies of both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine. These medical paradigms are rooted in the belief that the human body is influenced by a vital force, or energy. This energy is found in pathways (meridians) throughout the body. When the energy flow is blocked or disrupted in some way, disease and illness result. Thai massage focuses on opening and stretching these energy lines to achieve a state of energetic balance.








    It's often referred to as “lazy man’s yoga” as it is a fusion of techniques providing muscle manipulation, twisting and deep stretching. These techniques facilitate and stimulate the flow of the body’s intrinsic energy. When you receive Thai massage you will experience flexibility, relaxation and peace of mind.



    Thai bodywork sessions are typically 60 – 90 minutes, and are performed on a mat, on the floor. No oils or lotions are used, and when receiving Thai massage, loose and comfortable clothing should be worn.
    © 2007 Carolinas Natural Health Center. All Rights Reserved.