Lymphatic Massage

Have you had surgery?
Do you have an autoimmune disorder?
Been sick recently?
Just feeling a little slow and sluggish?
Lymphatic massage, also called lymphatic drainage massage, is a gentle method of supporting the body’s lymph system – one of the ways the body processes toxins.  Unlike traditional Swedish massage, it involves light touch to move the lymph towards the three main lymph node areas in the body, in the neck, armpits, and groin.
We’ll begin our session with a chat about what’s going on in your body and your general health and together we’ll decide how much lymphatic work would be helpful – it could be just a bit at the beginning and end of your session, or it could be the whole session.  My rates for lymphatic drainage massage are the same as my rates for Swedish massage.
It’s my observation that those who are recovering from surgery benefit the most from having several sessions in a row.  Those with autoimmune disorders tend to benefit from regular sessions (once a month seems to work well).  I usually give you one massage, then touch base with you the day after to see how you’re feeling and we can discuss what frequency will work for you.
After your lymphatic massage, you may feel a little slow, sluggish, slightly nauseous – this is the body’s completely normal response to toxins moving through your system, and it should pass in about 24 hours.  Some people don’t feel that at all, but it’s normal if you do.  I recommend lots of water and rest the day after your lymphatic massage, and no heavy exercise (stretching-type activities and walking are fine).

Karin Wertheim: Certified Massage Practitioner

I was born and raised in the Midwest, and lived several places in the Midwest and then Washington DC before settling in the Bay Area in 1999.   Shortly thereafter, I trained at the World School of Massage and Holistic Healing Arts, and doing bodywork gave me a new way to love people – with my hands.  I’ve been doing it ever since.

I am a happy and optimistic person who has space for all kinds of feelings.  My life is joyful and sustainable. I get energized by swimming, and regular yoga keeps me flexible and chilled out. I love people, and I absolutely love relaxing, de-stressing and pampering them by giving them compassionate, nurturing bodywork.

Scheduling

You are welcome to email, call or text me – do whichever one is more
comfortable for you – and I will do my best to fit you in when it
works for you. Advance notice is more likely to get you the time slot
you want, but feel free to ask for same-day appointments, as I am
occasionally available for those.

My work hours are 9am to 7pm, 7 days a week.

Location

My studio is located an easy three-block walk from Ashby Bart. There is abundant street and bike parking available. Please note that there are 11 steps up to my apartment, and there is a railing.

Once we confirm your appointment time, I will send you my address in a confirmation email message.

Credentials

Holistic Massage Therapist program – The World School of Massage and Holistic Healing Arts, 1999. California Certified Massage Practitioner #31158

Your Session

Each session I do is unique, tailored to the needs of the person on the table at that particular moment in time. When I chat with you before your session, I’ll often ask the following questions: “What has you seeking bodywork at this particular time?” “Are there any parts of your body that are painful, uncomfortable, or just wanting attention right now?”  “When was your last professional massage?” “The information you give me verbally, as well as what your body tells me when I put my hands on you, helps shape your session.

Emotional Release

My massage table is a safe haven for your body *and* your heart. Sometimes people want compassionate touch in the form of bodywork because they are lonely, sad, or under stress. Whatever the case is for you, know that any emotional release you have on my table – giggling, tears, words – is welcome in my space, and will stay there.