Lincoln Park, Chicago
2640 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, 60614
Massage / Shiatsu / Reiki / Lymphatic Drainage
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.
Reiki: Offered Thursdays from 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Reiki is a form of that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. Our Reiki practitioner gently moves her hands just above or on the client’s clothed body, with the intention of and promoting healing by encouraging a healthy flow of energy.
Energy Transfer: Our practitioner channels energy through her hands to the recipient. Some people feel sensations like warmth, tingling, or pulsing during this process.
Reiki gives your body a break from the stresses of daily life, potentially helping relieve tension and return you to a state of relaxation. Once in this state, your body may be better able to heal any damage brought on by stress, injury, or disease. “By helping a person experience deep relaxation, Reiki [may] enhance and accelerate our own natural healing process, because the body can stop being stressed and focus on healing itself
During the session, our practitioner will place her hands lightly on or near your body in a series of hand positions, including positions around the head and shoulders, the stomach, and the feet, as well as other positions depending on the client’s needs.
Expect to feel deeply relaxed and content during the session. You’ll likely daydream, and you may even fall into a light sleep.
Reiki is a gentle, non-invasive practice that aims to promote healing and balance in the body through the transfer of universal life force energy. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, physical pain, or emotional issues, Reiki can be a supportive addition to your overall wellness routine.
Benefits of Reiki
- Stress Reduction and Relaxation: One of the most commonly reported benefits is a sense of deep relaxation and stress relief.
- Emotional Healing: Reiki can help alleviate emotional distress, anxiety, and depression.
- Pain Relief: Some clients experience relief from physical pain and discomfort.
- Enhanced Well-Being: Regular Reiki sessions can contribute to a general sense of well-being and spiritual growth.
Cupping
Cupping increases blood circulation by pulling the skin away from the tight or injured area to improve overall blood flow and accelerate repair. It may also help form new connective tissues and create new blood vessels in the tissue. Cupping also encourages tissues to release toxins, may reduce stretch marks and scars, can clear congestion and colon blockages and aids digestion.
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 and Reflexology. 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
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 all of our massage therapists. 50% off your first Reiki session. 50% off your first Clinical Shiatsu Session. PLEASE CALL US TO BOOK YOUR SESSION.
PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE: 312-802-3172
AN APPOINTMENT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL SERVICES.
We have a 24-hour cancellation policy for massage services, and a credit card will be required to hold your appointment. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
50% off your first massage with all of our massage therapists. 50% off your first Reiki session. 50% off your first Clinical Shiatsu Session. PLEASE CALL US TO BOOK YOUR SESSION.
PLEASE CALL TO SCHEDULE: 312-802-3172
AN APPOINTMENT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL SERVICES.
We have a 24-hour cancellation policy for massage services, and a credit card will be required to hold your appointment. Thank you.