LAUREN BERRY METHOD - Lauren Berry was a mechanic and engineer who believed that the distortion of the muscles, ligaments, and tendons contributed to the distortion of the spine and the extremities. If the center of gravity, which lies in the pelvic girdle according the Berry, is not aligned, then whatever lies above and below will be distorted as well. Soft-tissue manipulation and deep massage are used to break up muscle spasms and adhesions.
LENAIR TECHNIQUE - This energy medicine therapy abates addictions, compulsions, fears, phobias and stress-related problems with a hands-on, non-invasive treatment. It employs electromagnetic and bioelectrical modalities and works within a client's body.
LEVA - A specific machine recognized by Health Canada that is used in clinics to augment massage therapy, physiotherapy, and chiropractic treatments through carefully-modulated microcurrent stimulation of muscle and connective tissue. The specific pulse waveform is gentle, and stimulates healing in the area.
LIFESTREAM MASSAGE TECHNIQUE - This is a unique signature massage taught only at LifeStream Massage School in Napa Valley, Calif. This is a method of bodywork developed to fulfill a need for the busy massage therapist, especially those working in resorts, spas and health clubs. Students learn a one-hour, full-body massage that provides clients with the relaxation and enjoyment of a Swedish massage with the deeper release of deep-tissue work. They also are taught to use their body efficiently in a manner that prevents injury and burnout, yet increases stamina to maintain a busy practice.
LOMI-LOMI MASSAGE - This is a system of massage that utilizes very large, broad movements. Two-handed, forearm and elbow
application of strokes, which cover a broad area, is characteristic of lomilomi. Similar to Swedish massage in many aspects, this system uses prayer and the acknowledgment of the existence of a higher power as an integral part of the technique. Lomilomi - Hawaiian for "rub rub" - is described by teacher Aunty Margaret Machado as "the loving touch - a connection between heart, hand and soul with the source of
all life." Aunty Margaret was the first to teach lomilomi in a formal, classroom situation; previously the training was passed on within the family by Kahunas or shamans. Oils are used in the application of cross-fiber friction techniques. The practitioner often uses the forearm and elbow in the application of pressure.
LONSDALE METHOD OF LYMPHATIC MASSAGE - This technique offers a unique integration of osteopathic visceral manipulation, using both deep and superficial lymphatic drainage techniques and strokes that are nurturing and effective in detoxifying the body.
LOOYENWORK - Developed by Ted Looyen, a Dutch-born counselor and bodyworker from Australia now practicing in California. His system works with the core emotional issue of a client. Though the effect is deep, the massage is gentle in keeping with Looyen's belief that pain does not heal pain. This is one of many forms of bodywork that promotes emotional well-being through the physical release afforded by massage techniques.
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE (MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE OR MLD®) - The lymphatic system is a vital part of the immune system in the body. Lymphatic drainage massage assists the operation of the lymphatic system. The system was devised in the 1930’s by a Danish massage therapist, Dr. Emil Vodder, and is popular and well established as a health modality in Germany and Austria. Using exacting anatomical science and distinctive manual processes, LDT enables practitioners to detect the specific rhythm, direction, depth and quality of the lymph flow anywhere in the body. From there they can use their hands to perform Manual Lymphatic Mapping (MLM) of the vessels to assess overall circulation and determine the best alternate pathways for draining body-fluid stagnations. Therapists work with flat hands, using all the fingers to simulate gentle, specific wave-like movements. These subtle manual maneuvers activate lymph and interstitial fluid circulation as well as stimulate the functioning of the immune and parasympathetic nervous systems.
LYPPOSAGE - Developed by Charles W. Wiltsie III, lypossage is a combination of manual deep-tissue massage, lymphatic drainage and the principles of structural integration used to combat cellulite. An alternative to liposuction and body contouring machines, lypossage enhances firmness and tone, and increases skin resilience and smoothness. The treatment requires a series of sessions because the reduction of cellulite is only temporary unless treatment is continued. When combined with diet and exercise, lypossage produces a lifting effect in areas prone to sagging.