Here are some common questions (and answers) about the work I do.
What is Bodywork?
Bodywork is a general terms that refer to body manipulation therapies used for relaxation and pain relief. Massage is a type of bodywork, as is CranioSacral Therapy and some other techniques I use. I use the term “bodywork” because I although I am a massage therapist, I do much more than traditional massage, and I specialize in CST and Visceral Manipulation.
The idea behind bodywork is that people learn (or are forced by injury or stress into) unnatural ways of moving or holding their bodies. This causes discomfort, loss of movement, and may contribute to health problems. The aim of bodywork is to realign the body to allow natural, graceful movement and full health.
What is CranioSacral Therapy?
CranioSacral Therapy is a highly effective light-touch form of bodywork that releases tensions in the central nervous system to allow every other system in the body to relax and self-correct. By addressing the central nervous system directly, CranioSacral Therapy enhances the body’s own healing processes. During a session a deep sense of inner stillness and peace is experienced. This state of stillness creates the right environment for the body to heal itself.
CST is so different from other kinds of massage/ bodywork– it works on the brain, spinal cord and nerve level, and is incredibly gentle and effective. This is a treatment technique used by chiropractors, physical therapists, dentists and osteopaths. I have been seeing SO many wonderful results as I work with people in this community!
Do You Do Reiki?
No, I do not. Both CST and Reiki involve a light touch and clients can experience a feeling of warmth where I place my hands, but that is where the similarities end! The manual therapies I use are grounded in Western medicine, developed by osteopathic doctors.
What are Your Qualifications and Background?
I am a massage therapist with over 15 years of experience and extensive advanced training. My studies include CranioSacral Therapy and Somato-Emotional Release with the Upledger Institute, Visceral Manipulation with the Barral Institute, and Breast Massage with Debra Curties.I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, with an emphasis in Women’s Studies. I am also DONA doula trained. I have had the pleasure of working in and learning from various healthcare settings, including an outpatient physical therapy clinic, the rehab unit at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, and in a Chinese Medicine clinic, among others.
I specialize in Women’s Health and use an array of healing modalities to treat a wide range of problems– some of my favorites are migraines, fertility and hormonal imbalances, chronic health problems, and stress-related issues. I have completed advanced training for working with children and women through the reproductive season– from pre-conception and pregnancy to post-partum and beyond.
Do You Treat Men too, or Just Women?
While my primary focus is on women’s health, men have always made up a significant percentage of my clientele. I am happy to help anyone I can– I am a Family Practice massage therapist, working with all ages! It’s been my pleasure to work with hundreds of women, men, children, and babies in the Rota community.
Do You Do Regular and Deep Tissue Massage?
I do not. There are other gifted individuals in this community that offer these services, and I will happily give you a referral if that is what you need. As I have developed my skills over the years, I have found that I can achieve much better results using very little force and working with the body’s own self-healing mechanisms– so I feel that it’s in the best interest of my clients to use the gentle manual therapies I feel will best help with the problems they come to me with. That said, I DO offer abdominal massage, which is often combined with other specialized techniques for dealing with reproductive and digestive issues, and I also have some specialized massage techniques for helping clients recover from surgical scarring and other special issues. So I incorporate massage into my work, but do not offer a full session of only massage.
Do I Have to Get Undressed for a Bodywork Session With You?
No, you get to keep all of your clothes on! I just have people wear comfortable workout-type clothes that I can work through.
What Do I Have to Do During a Session?
Your job is to lie down on my comfortable massage table and relax while I gently work with your body and help you release tension and restrictions. It feels GREAT.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
This really depends on your particular issue and how your body responds to the treatment. While many people notice significant improvements after just one session, others will need more time and treatment. For an issue like migraines or chronic pain, I would expect a minimum of three treatments. My promise to you is that I will always be honest about whether I feel you need more treatment, don’t need to come back for a while, or if you are good to go.
How Can I Book a Session?
Just send me a message through my page, fill out this form, or email me at info@arianamullinsbodywork.com. I’ll be happy to answer any additional questions you may have, and get you scheduled for the bodywork you need!