Michelle's new O'Fallon location is at 1 Eagle Center. Michelle's Massage Therapy is still open in Maryville, IL. Any expiration dates on special deals will be extended by 2 months (due to covid closure) and all certificate values will be honored past expiration. Gift cards do not expire. Our couples massage increase took effect for appointments made after 4/22/2021 due to the increased time coordinating on our schedules and setting up the room. Our individual session increase will take effect 1/1/2022.

Please note: Masks are not required at this time to be worn during services. Please do what makes you feel the most comfortable.

As always, we thank you for your continued business and support.
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Our Services
For the fastest booking experience, please use our online booking system. Thank you!
 
 
Massage & Bodywork
The fastest way to book is by using our online system for individual appointments. Leave us a note in your "customized massage" session to let us know if would like to add any special services such as aromatherapy, hot stones or a foot scrub at a no additional charge.

 
Aromatherapy
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Paula Tubbs, Julie Swogger
Aromatherapy is the use oils and hydrosols that are extracted from grasses, leaves, flowers, fruits, bark, wood, bushes, needles, twigs, roots, resins, and shrubs from all over the world and are used for the overall enhancement of our physical and emotional well-being. Modern research has confirmed the therapeutic and medicinal qualities of essential oils as being anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-venomous, anti-depressive, anti-neuralgic, stimulant, nervine, digestive, diuretic and more.


This ancient art and science is a wonderful compliment to massage, reflexology, and body treatments and can be included with your service at no additional charge. Please let us know in advance if you are sensitive to certain oils or smells. Blends are custom made after consultation and suited to your individual needs. Michelle is currently enrolled in Clinical Aromatherapy Level 2 through the Aroma Apothecary Healing Arts Academy. She offers Floracopeia essential oils available for purchase in her O'Fallon, IL office location.
 
Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Travis King, Paula Tubbs
Ashiatsu (Ash=foot, atsu=pressure) is a type of massage in which the therapist gives all or most of the massage treatment with his/her feet and often uses overhead bars to hold onto for balance (see video). This specialized massage was developed by Ruthie Hardee in the United States in 1999 and continues to be further developed by more advanced instructors. Barefoot massage has been practiced for thousands of years by Buddhist monks and is a part of ancient history in many eastern cultures.


Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy® (formerly Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy) is a westernized version of barefoot massage and is very much like Swedish massage with flowing and relaxing strokes, yet the pressure is very heavy on the body like deep tissue massage.

michelles ashiatsu massage video 43012 from Michelle's Massage on Vimeo

Forms
 
CBD Infused Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Paula Tubbs, Alex Hunsche, Julie Swogger
We use Inner Alchemy of St. Louis to provide CBD-Infused massage. Please select a staff member offering the service. An additional $10 per hour and $15 per 90 minute session applies.


Inner Alchemy CBD-Infused Massage Oil Ingredients

  • Raw Virgin Cold-Pressed Avocado Oil*, Hemp Oil*, Jojoba Oil*, MCT (Coconut) Oil*, CBD Isolate (Hemp) *Organic Ingredient. Each bottle infused with 500mg CBD
 
Couples Massage--Please email us
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Paula Tubbs, Julie Swogger
We require advanced notice for couples massages requests in order to have time to coordinate two therapists available at the same time. If you would like a couples massage, or mulitple services by different providers (such as a massage and facial) please email us details including the location you prefer, date and time of day needed, length of massage, and special requests: me@michellesmassagetherapy.com.


Enjoy a massage or body treatment with a spouse, friend, or loved one in the same room. Please let us know when booking if you have any special requests such as the providers and types of massage.

 
Cupping Massage
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
Massage Cupping is the combination of massage movements and negative pressure with the use of a suction device on the skin. A cup is positioned at the area to be treated and, depending on the type of cups being used; a vacuum is created within the cup to draw the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. The produced vacuum creates a suction effect that increases blood and lymphatic circulation systemically and to the local area, relaxes muscle tissue and support, draws stagnation, pathogenic factors and toxins out of the body and releases a myriad of pain causing factors.


The intended suction can range from light to heavy. This, along with the movements performed and areas treated by the therapist will produce stimulating (toning) or sedating (draining) effects. It is very important that therapists be able to effectively assess the condition (physical, mental and emotional) of their clients, before the procedure, so they employ the proper application of the cups to produce the desired outcome.

Cupping should not be applied on clients with cases of severe diseases, i.e. cardiac failure, renal failure, ascites due to hepato-cirrhosis and severe edema, as well as hemorrhagic diseases such as allergic pupura, hemophilia and leukemia, and clients with dermatosis, destruction of skin, or allergic dermatitis. Cupping should not be applied to clients where hernia exists or has occurred in the past.

Benefits to the Recipient
  • Deep tissue work and release without discomfort
  • Moves stagnation and drains fluids
  • Relieves inflammation
  • Nervous system sedation
  • Stretches muscle and connective tissues
  • Loosens adhesions
  • Pulls blood supply to the skin
  • Facilitates the movement of Qi and blood systemically and locally
  • Strengthens the immune system by promoting the flow of lymphatic fluid
  • Treats excess heat conditions, fever, stress, depression and anxiety
  • Cleans the blood and lymph and helps to balance PH levels
  • The suction created by cupping pulls stagnant fluids to the surface, removes toxic pathogens and promotes fresh oxygenated, nutrient rich blood & lymp
Conditions Responding to Cupping
  • Colds & Influenza
  • Headaches
  • Abscesses
  • Arthritis
  • Intercostal Neuralgia
  • Intestinal disorders
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Sciatica
  • Rheumatism
  • High blood pressure, stroke and arteriosclerosis
  • Bronchial asthma & congestion
  • Gynecological disorders
  • Kidney disorders (including frequent/urgent urination)
  • Dispels colds and respiratory infections
  • Relieves gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomachache, vomiting and diarrhea
  • Liver disorders
  • Gallbladder disorders
  • Dermatological disorders
  • Depression
  • Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • Anxiety & insomnia
  • Post-injury trauma
  • Post-surgery adhesions
  • Cellulite
  • Musculo-skeletal problems: pain, spasms, cramps, tightness, numbness, stiffness of the back and neck
  • Chronic gastric pain
  • Vertigo
  • Menopausal discomforts
  • Activates the skin, clears stretch marks and wrinkles and improves varicose veins
 
Deep Tissue Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Alex Hunsche, Julie Swogger
Deep tissue massage simply refers to massage techniques that are designed to go to the deeper layers of muscle tissue to break up chronic adhesions ( or "knots"), relax muscle tension, relieve pain, and induce relaxation. Some examples of deep tissue massage which may be integrated into your session are NeuroMuscular Therapy™ and Ashiastu Oriental Bar Therapy®.


If you experience chronic pain and tension please don't be discouraged if you still have tension after one deep tissue massage. We may ask you to come back again within a few days or a week so that you can get the full benefit. (It is also a good idea to plan ahead a monthly visit). If you are unable to come back again soon, it is recommended to use a heating pad, take hot bath epson salt bath, or use cold packs at home to lessen tension or pain. Sometimes after a deep tissue massage you may feel some soreness the next day. Please drink plenty of water after your massage to rehydrate your body and lessen the possibility of soreness. Also limit alcohol and caffeine intake, or anything that causes dehydration, and do not sit for long periods (such as in a car or on a plane) right after your massage.

michelles deep tissue massage video 43012 from Michelle's Massage on Vimeo.

 
Hot Stone Massage, Bamboo, or Hot Packs
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Travis King, Paula Tubbs, Julie Swogger
Smooth, warm or hot stones of various sizes or smooth heated bamboo sticks are used to massage and relax muscles following hands-on techniques. They can be used in a soothing, creative, and rhythmic motion and integrated into your session as needed or by request.

michelles hot stones massage video 43012 from Michelle's Massage on Vimeo.

 
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Provider(s): Dawn Ervin, Paula Tubbs
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a type of gentle massage which is intended to encourage the natural drainage of the lymph. The lymph system depends on intrinsic contractions of the smooth muscle cells in the walls of lymph vessels (peristalsis) and the movement of skeletal muscles to propel lymph through the vessels to lymph nodes and then beyond the lymph nodes to the lymph ducts which return lymph to the cardiovascular system. Manual lymph drainage uses a specific amount of pressure (less than 9 ounces per square inch) and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate lymph flow.


Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage:

The massage is, on the whole, a very light technique. This is because the practitioner is trying to influence vessels that are situated in the skin layers. The aim of the therapist is to restore equilibrium in the tissues. If the body is not in this state of equilibrium, and there is too much fluid in the tissues, they become soft and 'boggy' to the touch. If excess fluid is present it can interfere with cell nutrition – oxygen and nutrients will take longer to pass through the tissues and get from the bloodstream to the cells through the interstitial fluid. This will also mean that waste products from cell metabolism will take longer to move from cells to the transport system, which will remove them from the body. If the lymphatic system is functioning well, we feel well. There are many reasons for the Lymphatic system to be sluggish and not functioning well, leaving fluid static in the tissues. Pollution, toxins, poor nutrition, mucous formation, overload from previous viral or bacterial infections etc – these are all things that can give rise to cellular stagnation.

 
Myofascial Release
Provider(s): Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Alex Hunsche
Myofascial release is a soft tissue therapy for the treatment of skeletal muscle immobility and pain. This therapy aims to relax contracted muscles, improve blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulate the stretch reflex in muscles. Myofascial Release is a safe and very effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the Myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion.


Fascia is a thin, tough, elastic type of connective tissue that wraps most structures within the human body, including muscle. Fascia supports and protects these structures. Osteopathic theory proposes that this soft tissue can become restricted due to psychogenic disease, overuse, trauma, infectious agents, or inactivity, often resulting in pain, muscle tension, and corresponding diminished blood flow. Although fascia and its corresponding muscle are the main targets of myofascial release, other tissue may be addressed as well, including other connective tissue.

 
Neuromuscular Therapy American Version™
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston
Neuromuscular Therapy--American Version™ (NMT) has been developed and taught by Judith Delany, LMT since 1984. It is a thorough program of recovery from acute and chronic pain that uses specific protocols of massage therapy, stretching, and home care for treating areas of muscle pain, spasms, and tension. This scientific aproach to muscular pain relief will help to bring balance between the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. NMT enhances the function of joints, muscles and biomechanics (movement) and it releases endorphins--the body's own natural pain killers. It can be part of a comprehensive program, complementing all other health care modalities. *NMT examines six physiological factors that may create or intensify pain patterns.


Michelle received certification (2011) and Laura (2016) in NeuroMuscular Therapy--American Version™ (NMT) through The Body Therapy Center and School of Massage in Swansea, IL (in collaboration with Southwestern Illinois College) and was trained by certified instructor Holly Pinto, LMT, NCTMB. Other staff members have obtained training in at least 1 neuromuscular therapy course. See individual bios for more information.

"NMT is one of my favorite and most useful techniques I have learned! I integrate NMT protocols in nearly all massages to help clients with specific complaints of muscle pain and tension." Michelle

*NMT examines:
  • Ischemia (inadequate blood supply to an area)
  • Trigger Points (a sensitive area of the body, that when stimulated causes pain in the area or has an effect in another area)
  • Nerve Entrapment/Compression
  • Postural Distortions
  • Nutrition
  • Emotional Wellbeing
 
On-Site Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King
We can bring our tables or chairs and supplies to your office, home, or event within a reasonable driving distance.*


*Sorry, no hotel rooms. All appointments are by request and not guaranteed. Some requests may not be honored until you are an established client in our office. Please call one of our offices to set up an on-site massage.

Rates for on-site services: $75 per hour, per therapist + $25 outcall fee per therapist for chair or table massages. Please note our prices will increase effective 1/1/2022

On-site massage is a great idea for:
Our independent contractor massage therapists may be available to help with your events. Please contact Michelle directly at 618-975-6840 for scheduling on-site massage.
  • people that are home bound or under Hospice care
  • workplace incentive programs
  • couples massage
  • wedding parties
  • spa parties
  • sporting events
  • pool parties
 
Prenatal (Pregnancy) Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Julie Swogger
Prenatal or pregnancy massage is specifically tailored for a pregnant woman's needs. Extra pillows and cushions are used for comfort and proper positioning. Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the extremities, and relieve muscle and joint aches and pains. The massage can be comforting for mom and baby. One option for prenatal massage that may be offered is with the bodyCushion™ which is a cushioning system that can allow a pregnant woman (or anyone with a large midsection or breasts) to lay with her head in a face cradle and belly and breasts positioned in the cut-out portion of the bodyCushion™. The other option for prental massage is in the traditional side-lying position in which body and wedge pillows can be used for support. Your therapist may decide what is best depending on how many weeks along and the therapists' training. We prefer to see you after 13 weeks. If you have any special concerns, a doctor's note may be required. Please check with your therapist when booking if you are unsure.
 
Reflexology
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston
One of Michelle's favorite healing modalities, reflexology, is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all of the glands, organs, and parts of the body. Reflexology is a unique method of using the thumb and fingers on these reflex areas. It is used to relax tension, improve blood supply, promote the unblocking of nerve impulses, and to help nature achieve homeostasis. Reflexology is also refered to as "zone therapy" and its origin dates back to ancient Egypt as evidenced by inscriptions found in a physician's tomb (mastaba). It may also be related to Oriental Pressure Therapy or simply "Chinese reflexology" which also includes pressing on reflexes in the ears.


Michelle first learned reflexology at Ivy Tech State College of Indiana in 2004 as an elective. She has also completed phases l and ll of training in The Ingham Method® of reflexology through the International Institute of Reflexology® (IIR) with certified instructors David Covalt and Ted Stansbury and the president of IIR, Dwight Byers. Michelle combines this method of thumb and finger "walking" pressure along with aromatherapy massage of the feet and/or hands for all reflexology treatments and also integrates these treatments with most massage therapy sessions.

 
Sports Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Alex Hunsche
Sports massage is suited for individuals involved in regular physical activity or those beginning a work out regimen. The massage can be modified for pre or post events. I can integrate various techniques into a sports massage such as compressions, deep tissue, stretching, shaking/vibrations, NeuroMuscular Therapy™, Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® and Swedish style massage and focus attention on the areas of the body that are aggravated by specific sports or weight lifting/training.
 
Swedish Massage
Provider(s): Michelle Kingston, Tess Otero, Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire, Travis King, Paula Tubbs, Alex Hunsche, Julie Swogger
Swedish massage (or classic massage) is a massage in which the therapist uses effleurage (sliding or gliding), petrissage (squeezing or kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), shaking/vibration, and cross-fiber friction to relieve tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation of the body and mind.
 
Trigger Point Therapy
Provider(s): Dawn Ervin, Dennis Frymire
Trigger points refer to patterns of sensation such as sharp pain, dull ache, tingling, pins and needles, or hot or cold. They can create symptoms such as nausea, ear ache, equilibrium disturbance, or blurred vision. These small, hyperirritable sites in the muscle tissue sometimes refer pain to other locations attributing to headaches or sciatica. Trigger points usually occur up and down your body along the length of the muscle. They are most common in the axial muscles (muscles that control the movement of the body from side to side), especially those used to maintain posture, but can be found throughout the body.


Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. In this type of massage for trigger point therapy, the recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort.

Elizabeth Adams provides trigger point massage therapy. She studied trigger point therapy with Amber Davies in Lexington, KY.

Benefits of Trigger Point Therapy
  • increased circulation and nutrition to muscles
  • assists in moving lymphatic fluid and lactic acid
  • realign deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue
  • relieve chronically tense and contracted areas of the body
  • relieve muscle tension or injury
  • breakdown adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments
  • reduced soft tissue inflammation
  • increase range of motion
  • improved posture
Contraindications for Trigger Point Therapy
  • severe high blood pressure (not medically controlled)
  • extreme dialated vericose veins
  • skin conditions; shingles/herpes, extreme dermatitis such as eczema, acne, psoriasis
  • open wounds, sores, bruises or rashes
  • peripheral vascular disease
  • pregnancy
 
 
 
Cosmetics



 
Permanent Eyebrows
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
There are several ways to have your eyebrows applied. Powdery: Solid, filled in eyebrows in either a soft or darker color. Hair strokes: With a darker color over a very soft base color. Bold hair strokes: Either light or dark without a base color. Medium hair strokes: Either light or dark, with or without a base color.



Eyebrow Hair Simulation




Process








Full Process

 
Lash Enhancement
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
Applied on either a man or a woman. It is a series of single implants between the lashes. A lash enhancement is subtle, using a complimentary color to the eyelashes. It is applied to every second or third lash, and is implanted directly into the lash line to create a thicker lash line.


If your technician uses a color that is too dark, your final result will appear as small “connect-the-dots’ in the lash line. Using complimentary colors enhances the lash line and is a great procedure for men or for women. Men and women have this procedure performed to achieve the look of fullness and thickness of sparse lashes. Having eyeliner or lash enhancement will save you time and money while looking good 24/7.


Lash Enhancement

 
Permanent Lip Pigmentation
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
For any of the eight conditions listed below, we can make the appropriate corrections using Permanent Cosmetic Techniques.



Lip Pigmentation

8 Conditions for Lip Treatment
  • If your lips have uneven tones, hyper-pigmentation or hypo-pigmentation--a blend of color may be used to balance your natural lip color
  • If your lips are too small--the lip line can be exaggerated slightly
  • If your lips are too large--pigment can be implanted inside the natural lip line
  • If your lips are flat-- a lighter shade of pigment may be used in the Cupid’s bow
  • To restore your natural lipline--an outline is given to your lips to create a symmetrical lip line
  • If your lips are droopy--the bottom lip line is drawn up slightly and out at the corners to give your lips a lift
  • Definition to the Cupid's Bow may be given--your colors can range from the softest pink- to coral- to a soft red
 
Permanent Eyeliner
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
Eyeliner application is accomplished by inserting a series of colored implants into the lash line. Humans have more than 200 eyelashes in each of their eye lids and they are shed every 3-5 months. We have at least 2-4 rows of eyelashes on our eyelids and eyeliner is usually applied in-between these rows of lashes.



Eyeliner Treatment


Eyeliner Treatment (before & after)


Thick Eyeliner

 
Areola Pigmentation
Provider(s): Paula Tubbs
If by surgery, disease, accident or congenital defect, your areola is non-existent or flawed, this procedure can blend art and science to mimic the natural appearance of areola and nipple.



Areola Pigmentation

 
 
 
Areas served:O'Fallon, IL; Shiloh, IL; Swansea, IL; Belleville,IL; Scott Air Force Base, IL; Mascoutah,IL; Fairview Heights,IL; St. Louis,MO; Collinsville, IL; Caseyville,IL; Lebanon, IL; Highland,IL; New Baden, IL; Nashville, IL; E. St. Louis, IL, Edwardsville, IL, Columbia, IL; Maryville, IL; Granite City, IL; Dupo, IL; Waterloo, IL, local massage therapist, massage near me