March 2, 2023 5:17 pm

Relieve aching muscles without immense pain

The main method of treatment I apply to every massage is a combination of two things, traditional deep tissue, and trigger point therapy.

What is traditional deep tissue massage? This modality consists of slowly warming the muscle tissue until we can address the deepest muscles of the body. Many people equate deep tissue to the use of extreme pressure and that is simply not the case. By slowly easing into the muscle, we can find those deep, aching knots and relieve them without immense pain. Traditional deep tissue massage can be a bit painful, but you shouldn’t be gritting your teeth the whole time. With this slow and methodical approach we can reach the trigger points in the muscle that may be referring pain to other areas.

What is a trigger point? Click this link for a more in depth description.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11871683/

This has been the most effective approach I’ve used on my clients, and you can expect to completely relax and let me find those annoying, painful knots and get them out for good. I originally started my career working with those who are active in a variety of fitness communities and focused mainly on aiding specific pathologies. But I have come to realize how beneficial deep tissue massage is for everyone, and quite simply how good it feels to finally have tension released.

Written By Liam Reykdal, RMT

February 14, 2023 4:18 pm

Heart Health on Valentine's Day

When it comes to our health, there are a lot of things we can do to keep ourselves in good shape. But when it comes to our cardiovascular health, there are five habits that are especially important.

1. Quit smoking. Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease, and it can also lead to other health problems like lung cancer and emphysema. If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important things you can do for your health.

2. Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet is important for your overall health, and it’s especially important for your cardiovascular health. Make sure you include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet, and avoid unhealthy foods like processed meats and sugary drinks.

3. Exercise regularly. Exercise is another important habit for maintaining a healthy heart. Exercise helps keep your heart healthy by reducing your risk of heart disease and improving your overall cardiovascular health.

4. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do to protect your heart.

5. Get regular checkups. It’s important to get regular checkups from your doctor, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. Your doctor can help you track your heart health and identify any potential problems early.

Heart disease is currently one of the leading causes of death in Canada, second only to cancer. Approximately 2.6Footnote1 million Canadian adults aged 20 and older live with ischemic heart disease (IHD), the most common type of heart disease.

February marks Heart Month and provides us with an opportunity to focus on the efforts we can make to improve our heart health. Although rates of heart disease in Canada have been declining, largely due to advances in research, drug therapies and prevention efforts, there are many risk factors that still contribute to heart disease. Lifestyle changes, small and big, can help reduce your risk.

January 24, 2023 5:18 pm

Exploring Alternative Medicine: Answering the Top 5 Questions.

Alternative medicine is a term used to describe a wide range of treatments and therapies that are not typically used in conventional medicine. These treatments and therapies often focus on natural remedies and holistic approaches to health and wellness. From herbal remedies, massage therapy, to acupuncture and yoga, alternative medicine is becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to improve their health without relying on pharmaceuticals.

The appeal of alternative medicine lies in its ability to treat the whole person, rather than just the symptoms of a particular illness or condition. It is believed that by taking a holistic approach to health and wellness, the body can be healed from within. This is why many alternative medicine treatments focus on diet, lifestyle, and stress management.

Alternative medicine is also gaining popularity due to its potential to reduce the cost of healthcare. Many alternative treatments are far less expensive than conventional treatments, making them more accessible to those who may not be able to afford traditional medical care.

However, it is important to note that alternative medicine is not a substitute for conventional medical care. While some alternative treatments may provide relief from certain symptoms, they should not be used in place of traditional medical treatments. It is always best to consult with a doctor of medicine or Naturopathy before beginning any type of alternative medicine regimen.

What are the top 5 questions asked regarding alternative medicine?

1. What are the risks associated with alternative medicine?

The risks associated with alternative medicine depend on the type of treatment being used. Generally speaking, there is a risk of side effects or adverse reactions to any type of medical treatment, including alternative medicine. It is important to discuss any potential risks with your doctor before beginning any type of alternative medicine regimen.

2. What are the benefits of alternative medicine?

The benefits of alternative medicine vary depending on the type of treatment being used. Generally speaking, alternative medicine treatments can help to reduce stress, improve overall health, and provide relief from certain symptoms.

3. How do I find a qualified practitioner of alternative medicine?

When looking for a qualified practitioner of alternative medicine, it is important to research their credentials and experience. It is also important to ask for references and read reviews from other patients.

4. What types of alternative medicine are available?

There are many types of alternative medicine available, including herbal remedies, acupuncture, homeopathy, yoga, MOT and massage therapy. img-apexhero

5. Is alternative medicine covered by my health insurance?

The coverage of alternative medicine by health insurance plans varies depending on the plan and the type of treatment being used. It is important to check with your health insurance provider to determine what types of alternative medicine treatments are covered.

January 16, 2023 5:05 pm

To every human that graced Apex over the last 28 years, thank you

I need to confess; I have made plenty of mistakes over the last 28 years as not only as a massage therapist, but as a massage clinic owner.

Each one, a lesson in humility.

Most recently, asking our Apex members and loyal community of clients to not only move once, but twice during this pandemic left me humbled and reflective of the journey.

Our final relocation in Parkdale in January 2022 came at a cost. A cost to our teams well-being, stability and recognition as a consistent reliable service.

So much change, in such a short period of time create an uncertainty I had never felt before. I consistently was waiting for the "shoe to drop". As the owner, I felt a huge sense of responsibility and commitment to all that chose to visit or work at our clinic. I was reminded of the importance of our personal health, while cultivating a service and clinic focused on connection during a time of healing our physical and mental health as a community.

The gifts from this commitment came to me last week when I had the privilege to meet face to face with each member of Apex to not only renew contracts but to revisit the importance of how each of us creates a culture we covet.

Meeting after meeting, each of us reconnected to our purpose and values to cultivate joy, contribute to our well-being and shared ideas, opportunities for improvement while having our thoughts and emotions recognized.

I am proud to say, each meeting resulted in a renewed contract with a raise for the next year.

I learned pay is not everything. We are not the lowest, nor the highest paying clinic in our industry. Our clinic is a community of Massage Therapists; our revenue is based on per minute of massage therapy and is not subsidized by a higher priced service from a doctor. We recognize the co-operative, sharing of costs associated with supporting 25 RMT’s, our administration and operating costs, gives us the ability to create our unique purposeful life, career, and wellness culture we have come to appreciate and expect.

I wholeheartedly believe this is why we currently have 7 Massage Therapists that at some point left Apex to try other clinics, locations or worked for themselves and have returned to Apex. Our shared lifestyle values and culture have supported our careers as Massage Therapists for 28 years.

As we celebrate our first year in our new location, I am honored to share our community of clients created the busiest month we have had in 2 years this past December, while we also welcomed 143 new clients to our clinic during the same month. As we slowly start to feel a renewed sense of security and appreciation for our longevity, consistency and integrity, we know we are not alone in learning how important our community is to our overall well-being.

I think my biggest lesson as an owner of a small business is that over the many years, I have surrounded myself with people much smarter than myself. People that know what they want. Those people have shared their ideas in creating our co-op culture. Their feedback, thoughts and heart centered way in this world has allowed me the honor to create, collaborate and be a part of the mission that aligns all of us at Apex; to live authentically while healing our community one massage at a time.

January 3, 2023 10:12 pm

Defining moments in our life, may help us give our tomorrows meaning

Welcome to 2023!

Two Clichés come to mind when a new year rings in:

1. Opportunity knocks and
2. Things happen for a reason

I think we can all agree, we all have high hopes for 2023.

The thought that a new year alone will bring us health, wealth and a new you.....How does anyone actually believe this?

I think we are realists, you and I know just thinking about something, does not make it happen.

I like to think the only way change happens is by initiating action. It is not likely anyone suddenly becomes healthier or less stressed without a little action.

Sometimes change does happen without our participation, this is when many will say "things happen for a reason".

I am one person that believes this is actually an opportunity for us to "give reason" to things that happen.

Based in our beliefs, values and perception, we can create the reason that fuels the narrative of our story.

Defining moments in our life, may help us give our tomorrows meaning.

Once we can define what action is needed to take advantage of the opportunities that are knocking, we can grab a hold of that door knob and peak inside the open door.

For me, I want to be tethered to the idea of "selection attention" in 2023.

Instead of seeing my life as "time spent" doing, I want to be conscious of spending my energy on selected priorities.

As a Massage Therapist and owner of Apex Massage since 2006, one of those priorities is creating a massage clinic you trust, as well, you feel heard, respected and appreciated.

The pandemic is a moment I could easily say was out of our control and "things happen for a reason".

I prefer to give meaning to this event.

It has given me the opportunity to reflect on our 28 years of experience offering Massage Therapy and how we can continue to provide you the space to heal, find relief and create time for you to renew your energy.

We look forward to intentionally increase your energy, restoring your sense of wellness so all your tomorrows have meaning.

With many ideas and new offerings to come, we wish you a year filled with curiosity, action and a sense of community at Apex.

With Gratitude,
Shelly MacGregor
Owner of Apex Massage Therapy

June 13, 2022 3:45 pm

Basics: You are sleepy....so sleepy

So many supplements for sleep – many people believe melatonin can be useful as a sleep aid. It carries the same potential downsides of psychological dependence as prescriptions medications.

It actually has little effect on your ability to fall asleep. Melatonin is a chrono biotic, not a hypnotic. This means that it can help regulate your circadian clock, making it quite useful for adjusting to jet lag, resuming regular schedule, and treating circadian rhythm disorders.

Cannabis has often been suggested as a helpful sleep aid and it can indeed help people fall asleep faster but eventually, a tolerance can occur and it may no longer have an effect.

Here are 4 things to try naturally to improve your sleep. When making changes, consider your willingness and ask yourself whether the discomfort of making changes is worth the improvement in sleep you are likely to experience:

1. Regular wake up time: wake up at the same time every day, this will strengthen your circadian clock and sleep drive. Sleeping in reduces your sleep drive at night.
2. Do not go to bed until you are sleepy. Can you tell the difference between tired and sleepy? Tired is what we feel in our bodies, sleepy forms more in the mind.
3. Do not stay in bed longer tan 15 minutes if not sleeping. Get up and do something low key and relaxing. Slow deep breathing, meditation, reading, play soft music. Train your body and brain that bed is for sleeping.
4. Attempts to sleep activate your sympathetic nervous system, when what you need is a strong parasympathetic nervous system activity to allow you to go to sleep. All you can do is set up an environment most conducive to sleep and then allow your body and mind to sleep.

One final note, light pressure and touch effect the parasympathetic nervous system.

Read medical study here: "The participants who received the moderate pressure massage exhibited a parasympathetic nervous system response"

Information and text shared from book "Biofeedback and Mindfulness in everyday life" - Inna Khazan, PH.D.

March 22, 2021 4:58 pm

Why would I ever limit myself to one Massage Therapist?

I receive approximately 15 massages a year, over the last 25 years that could have been 375 different massage therapists.

With so many choices for Massage Therapy, how do you choose?

I have been serious about receiving at least a monthly massage for over 25 years. I would never have considered having just one therapist but I have asked myself why someone would limit themselves in this way.

My needs change, my moods changes, my emotions flow.

Some times I want to be nurtured, other times worked over or have an issue dealt with during a treatment plan. I want a Therapist with great decision making skills, confidence, excellent communication, strong palpation and an understanding of anatomy. They should know when an area has had enough treatment and when they should continue to manipulate, stretch and treat that chronic tension.

Some times during a massage treatment, I want to talk and sometimes I want to listen but most of the time I prefer to share my health history, past injuries and the goals I would like addressed during the treatment. I like participating in the initial pleasantries, followed by 90 minutes of no talking.

Meditation while being massaged gives me a focal point, allows me to focus on my breathe and the touch of the therapist. Knowing when to breath into an area being treated allows me to withstand more pressure while keeping my mind in the present moment.

I have a massage therapist I prefer for each of these.

I know every Massage Therapist may have the required 2 years of education to be registered in Alberta, to me this is the start to a great relationship.

I want to experience many types of treatments, including the therapists techniques, their energy, their stories, their niches, their specific reason to touch and heal for a living.

I love being referred to someone's favorite Massage Therapist and then discovering their treatment was not for me. It helps me define what I do like, setting me up for a successful treatment the next time I need or want a treatment.

The idea of only having one Massage Therapist often comes from being afraid of being disappointed or feeling like your time was wasted.

I have felt that way. When I am disappointed I get clearer on my ability to articulate my needs going forward. Time is never wasted when we spend it expanding our beliefs, learning who we are and sharing time with each other.

Gathering insights about my needs while growing my understanding of what kind of massage I need this month, has helped me find my team of Massage Therapists that now create the healing experience I deserve.

If you know what kind of massage you need or may be you want to see many therapists without hurting anyone's feelings, our admin team will ask you questions and choose a therapist for you based on the experience you are looking for.

Let someone help you find the massage treatment you deserve.

Shelly MacGregor

Owner of Apex Massage Therapy ltd

Est 1994

February 16, 2021 3:10 pm

3 things you can do right now to put yourself on a pedestal

3 things you can do right now to put yourself on a pedestal.

Most of us know this term as a negative description of someone that has put themselves on a pedestal or the unbalanced romantic relationship when someone puts their partner on a pedestal (they can do no wrong).

We all know, each of us can do wrong and when we make mistakes, we are knocked off our pedestal, lowing our self esteem and creating self-doubt in our worth.

The reality is, we can put ourselves back up on a pedestal with these mindful thoughts and actions, while maintaining our view as equal to everyone else.

1. What story are you telling yourself when you see someone more successful, smarter, or prettier with more friends? This all may be true but it is how your let your thoughts go from “they are smart” to, “I am not smart” or “I have not done enough” or “I should be”. This thought pattern needs interruption. Watch your thoughts, when they take you to comparing yourself to others and before they take you down that rabbit hole, recognize what took you there and limit your access to it: IE Social media.

As soon as you hear your thoughts of doubt, stop what you are doing physically and change your pattern. Go outside, walk the dog or sit down and pick up a fictional book; you can also make a list of the things you have done, problems you have solved, make a list of your dearest friends or call a family member.

2. Ask yourself why you haven’t put your health and wellness above anything or anyone else? Putting our own needs first can be daunting, but claiming our needs are as important as someone else’s is the first step to changing the old pattern of self-sacrifice, that old belief benefits no one. At the very least, start thinking our health is as important as someone else’s, seeing our self as equally important will help us slowly crawl up onto the pedestal without knocking someone else off.

3. What are your core values? Discovering your core values will uncover why you do things the way you do them. Once you identify your values, you will make decisions that design a life that is in better alignment with your true self. If there is a growing gap between your actions and your values, we can feel lost, out of touch with our needs and suddenly extend ourselves in ways that are not healthy.

There is room in this life to stand on your pedestal with humility, pride and an awareness that we never have to knock someone off their pedestal to be on our own.

Shelly

January 16, 2021 3:55 pm

Don't Shop for Valentine's Until you read this

This year, influence the health of your community by join us in donating $10,000 to teachers in Calgary.

Teachers are our focus this month.

We all know front line workers continue to work, pivoting in their careers to accommodate the every changing landscape of the coronavirus pandemic, while providing face to face interactions.

I personally do not have children. My husband and I tried for the greater part of 5 years. After 4 losses and many other disappointments we decided to love the life we were living, letting go of the one we thought we should have.

As I watch my friends send their kids back to the classroom, I think about the teachers in our neighborhoods and city. Their career choice never included mitigating infectious diseases, but it sure does now.

I would like to support them, and with your help we could really impact our community.

Until Valentine's Day, we are going to donate $50 of every $100 gift card purchased to teachers in our community.

If you and every client of Apex purchase just One Gift Card, we have the potential to donate hundreds of thousands to teachers in Calgary.

Our goal is to donate $10,000.00

When you purchase a $100 Gift Card....For yourself or for Valentine's Day, or for a friend or neighbor, or someone you work with, we will donate 50% of its value to a teacher in our community.

Simply click this link and email yourself or someone you care about your $100.00 Gift

Purchase a Gift Card

Apex Massage is open 7 days a week. Starting Monday Jan 18th a referral note is not needed.

Schedule your next massage or picking up a gift card in the clinic is also an option.

We provide you with a positive human connection in a time of physical distancing.

With gratitude,

Shelly Macgregor

Owner of Apex Massage Therapy ltd

shelly@apexmassage.com

August 13, 2020 1:14 pm

Belly Busters!

Certain internal health challenges can be chronic conditions that cause ongoing stress for the individual. Seeking real relief can also be stressful in finding a viable solution to the condition. Let's look at two ***VERY*** common health concerns and explore avenues to potential pain relief.

MENSTRUAL PAIN

Menstrual pain and discomfort (DYSMENORRHEA) can affect up to 95% of women. You read that correctly - 95%. Menses are generally a 21 day cycle and can fluctuate between 21 - 35 days. Hormones are typically well balanced, but when there is a rise or fall in these levels, symptoms arise that are immediately reflected both physically and mentally.

Mood swings, cramps, anxiety, cravings, insomnia, acne, fatigue, and headaches are typical. At the least, these can appear as simple challenges but to some women, these can be seriously debilitating.

CONSTIPATION

A condition that everyone has experienced at some point *sigh* , the rates of constipation increase as we age. Lifestyle, foods, stress and other environmental factors can play major roles in contributing to constipation. The OTC laxative pharmaceutical treatments in North America was over $1 billion in 2019. That's billion with a "b."

~

Both of these conditions can be significantly assisted by belly massage.

For clarity, 'abdominal massage' would be medically accurate. This includes work to the region between the lower chest border and the top ridge of the pelvis, with all the various structures and systems that lay within.

Abdominal massage directly affects the parasympathetic nervous system. Parasympathetic is the "rest/digest/de-stress" response in the body. Accompanied by a slower heart beat and reduced respiration, a calmed body is naturally easier to stimulate for desirable positive outcomes.

The abdomen is special.

Understandably, it can also be an area that individuals do not wish worked on due to embarrassment or sensitivity. As healthcare professionals providing massage therapy, total client comfort is ensured for treatment from start to finish. A trip to restroom is recommended just before stepping into the private massage room to empty the bladder.

A heated, comfortable massage table with fresh linens is set for you as per usual. Undresssing to your level of comfort or fully clothed, you are covered by sheets. Towels are then carefully laid across the full chest area and across the pelvis rim, exposing only your abdomen. Your head and knees are fully supported by pillows for total relaxation. Heat is then immediately applied to the abdomen to soften the tissue for upcoming treatment along with an eye mask.

To further relax the body and mind, hand massage is first provided to enhance the experience. You may be guided here with direction to deepen your breath as you are led into the massage. This then moves to a base skull massage producing more relaxation to the whole. Heat is removed from the abdomen and gentle, feather touch is introduced with natural raw shea butter for easy massage on the skin. Raw shea is buttery and melts quickly upon contact. It provides a perfect slip to the hands & fingers as they work finely and intricately in this delicate region. Various techniques are used and extra time is spent unwinding 'hot spots' that are particularly painful to the client. The massage is free flowing and covers the sides of the body, back of the body in addition to the front belly. Work gradually goes deeper, accompanied by increased pressure, into the abdominal cavity but always within your comfort zone.

This fine-tuned massage often provides enough comfort and relaxation to reset the body internally and a marked improvement is felt within 24-48 hours.

Treatments for MOON MASSAGE and MIDDLE MASSAGE are 60 minutes in length and can be regularly scheduled as needed.

Moon Massage is ideally recommended 2-3 days prior to menstruation.
Middle Massage is ideally recommended after one week of no bowel movement.

Available at Apex Massage Therapy with Magie!

Magie Matulic, Author: My approach and practice are highly distinctive and effective. I created a specialized bodywork for clients I refer to as MAT MUSCLE MOBILISATION MASSAGE. This therapeutic treatment addresses:
• chronic pain relief
• deep tissue pressure
• myofascial unwinding

An experienced and compassionate health care professional, I have been providing professional massage therapy since 2012. My training is Canadian (Ontario) and Asian (Thailand). I have had the privilege of working together with elite professional NHL athletes, corporate executives, and the every person. In addition to working as a fully certified, licensed, and insured Registered Massage Therapist, I am also a certified yoga teacher.

Born and raised in Calgary, I have lived around the world. Personal interests include the arts, nature, photography, poetry, travel, writing, yoga and meditation.
My client focus of body+mind+spirit wellness is fully integrative and based in eastern traditions coupled with western modern science.

Relieve aching muscles without immense pain

Heart Health on Valentine's Day

Exploring Alternative Medicine: Answering the Top 5 Questions.

To every human that graced Apex over the last 28 years, thank you

Defining moments in our life, may help us give our tomorrows meaning

Basics: You are sleepy....so sleepy

Why would I ever limit myself to one Massage Therapist?

3 things you can do right now to put yourself on a pedestal

Don't Shop for Valentine's Until you read this

Belly Busters!

4 Parkdale Crescent NW

Calgary, AB T2N 3T8

Email us: bookings@apexmassage.com

Call us: 403.270.7788

HOURS

8:30am - 9:00pm, 7 days a week

JOIN our email list and Receive $20.00 off your first 60 Minute Massage