What was your calling to women's health?
My calling was my own pregnancy and the lack of information that I had at the time! I received a few massages after giving birth and realized how much it benefitted me, so I decided to go to massage school to help others. There is so much fear and misunderstanding . . . I felt a need to inform myself of issues of health and awareness for women.
I have typical degrees and license in massage, and I have also done many other trainings. I am grateful to have learned the Maya Abdominal Massage directly from the source, and to be part of the lineage through my instructor, Dr. Rosita Arvigo.
Why did you choose Massage?
I became a massage therapist because I have always believed in the power of touch as a healing tool for the body and consequently the mind. In my native Brazil I grew up in a family were they also believed in massage, herbs and prayers as way of healing. My experiences with local "sages of the healing arts" gave me an intrinsic knowledge of the connection of all things.
What drew you to Oriens Healing Sanctuary?
It was love at first sight. When I was interviewed by Elizabeth, and realized Oriens was really a support system for women, especially those trying to conceive, thru all the modalities of treatment here at Oriens, I realized that it was my perfect place for me. I had the feeling that my work here would really be part of the Oriens mission.
Oriens is very excited to have Women’s Health, Pre-Natal and Fertility Enhancement massage! Please tell us about your specialty, Maya Abdominal Massage. Could you describe what it's like?
Maya abdominal massage is a very therapeutic and nurturing treatment that not only helps with the health and alignment of the organs in the abdomen and pelvic floor, but it also helps the woman to be in touch with her own body.
The Maya tradition is ancient. Since the beginning and still today midwives and medicine shamans note that “when the uterus is in the center of the body so is the woman's mind.” It’s good to emphasize that this is our (female) center of creation! This energy center is the source of creation…in this work, in yoga and ayurveda (2nd chakra), in Chinese medicine (dan tien), in Japanese shiatsu (hara), and in the West we know it as pregnancy and birthing. But even if the woman is not looking to conceive it is smart that she get this massage to clear any blockages that may cause then menstrual issues, constipation, leg pain, and sometimes depression, and to keep the reproductive area healthy in menopause…so many reasons!
How does it help fertility?
Once the uterus is in proper position, there is improved blood flow to the area which will enhance and improve the fertility. All of the reproductive organs need this. And also it can help release adhesions, scar tissue and other blockages. MAM together with diet and lifestyle modification has helped many women conceive.
If I am trying to conceive, when would I have Maya Abdominal Massage?
5 days after your period, and as much as you can have before ovulation. If you are trying to conceive its important to know how to chart your cycle. And depending on some other factors, before your next period.
If I'm already pregnant, how often do you recommend pre-natal massage? And what are the benefits to the mother and the baby? Can I have massage all the way through my pregnancy?
Yes, pre-natal massage is very helpful to the mother and baby, again working on the circulatory system. Improving the flow of blood in the body it consequently helps the baby. MAM can be applied after the first trimester of pregnancy.
I heard Maya Abdominal Massage is partly based on ancient Mayan Spiritual Wisdom. Is that true? What does that mean?
MAM is founded on the ancient technique of Mayan abdominal massage, not really Spiritual Wisdom...Every ancient wisdom had a strong connection with Spirit. My teacher, Dr. Rosita Arvigo, learned this from her experience of 12 years with a Maya Shaman Don Elijio from Belize in Central America. She also studied with midwives in Mexico. The Mayas believed that spirit was/is present in everything.
Maya massage also helps IBS and digestive problems, is that right?
Yes, it releases tight muscles of the stomach and abdomen and soothes inflammation...good for men and women.
You do all kinds of other massage. What other techniques do you offer at Oriens?
Lymphatic Drainage is a light rhythmical massage which encourages the lymphatic system to eliminate metabolic waste products, excess fluid and bacteria. It is a real immune booster and reduces swelling and edema. It is very good to promote circulation. I also offer Relaxation massage and Reflexology. And I am a Reiki practitioner.
We invite you to ask Simone a question or make an appointment! 212.213.5785
Comments
Post has no comments.