Body + Massage Archives - Cole's Salon

Try These 3 Add-Ons to Enhance Your Massage Service

Jessica Edwards — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:47:36 +0000

We all know massage therapy is a fabulous way to keep your muscles feeling loose and relaxed, but did you know there are a variety of add-ons that provide additional benefits to enhance your service? Here are a few options we currently have going on at our Burnsville salon (and why you should give them a try):

Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is an ancient healing method that uses suction to pull on your skin and increase blood flow to affected areas. It has a variety of potential benefits, including:

Pain Relief: Arguably its most well-known and popular benefit, cupping can help reduce pain by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. It can also improve blood flow to the affected area, which can reduce pain-causing inflammation.
Improved Circulation: The vacuum effect created by cupping draws blood to the surface of the skin, which can help oxygenate tissues and reduce muscle tension.
Detoxification: Cupping is also believed to help remove toxins from the body by increasing lymphatic drainage.
Muscle Relaxation: Coupling can help release tight muscles and improve flexibility (probably why so many professional athletes do it).
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Cupping can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress by stimulating the release of serotonin and dopamine, hormones that have mood-boosting effects.
Improved Skin Health: Cupping helps to increase blood flow to the skin, which can improve skin tone and texture.

Stimulating Scalp Massage

Stimulating scalp massage involves using fingertips, hands, or tools to apply gentle to moderate pressure to the scalp in circular motions. Benefits include:
Improves Scalp Health: This kind of massage helps remove dead skin cells, excess oil, and product buildup. It can also help balance sebum production for both oily and dry scalps.
Promotes Hair Growth: By stimulating hair follicles and increasing blood flow, scalp massages can deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the hair roots, which may strengthen them and reduce hair loss.
Strengthens Hair Follicles: The massaging action can invigorate and strengthen hair follicles, reducing the risk of hair breakage.
Reduces Stress: Scalp massages can induce a relaxation response, which can help to lower levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone. Relieving tension in the scalp can also help with headache and migraine symptoms.
Promotes Relaxation: This service can help to release endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters and painkillers, contributing to an overall increased sense of well-being.
Relieve Tension Headaches: According to the American Massage Therapy Association, scalp massage may help reduce the perceived pain, tension, intensity, and duration of these types of headaches.

Reflexology Massage

Reflexology massage is an alternative therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. It is based on the belief that these points correspond to different organs, systems, and muscles in the body. Here are some of the potential benefits:

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Stimulating reflex points can promote relaxation and reduce stress hormones.
Improved Sleep: Reflexology can help calm the body and mind, leading to better sleep quality.
Pain Relief: Applying pressure to reflex points may help relieve pain associated with conditions such as headaches, migraines, and back pain.
Enhanced Detoxification: By stimulating the lymphatic system, reflexology may help remove toxins from the body.
Improved Circulation: Massaging reflex points can help to promote blood flow and improve circulation throughout the body.
Improved Mood: Reflexology can release endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.
Reduced Fatigue: By promoting relaxation and improving circulation, reflexology can also help combat fatigue symptoms.
Improved Foot Health: Reflexology massage can help relieve foot pain and improve foot flexibility.

Jessica Edwards, LMT is a massage therapist at our Burnsville location. She joined the Cole’s Salon team in 2023.

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Afraid to Try Deep Tissue Massage? You Don’t Need to Be!

Alli Gerber — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 21:04:28 +0000

Continuing our team’s education and advancing our skills is always a priority for us here at Cole’s, whether it’s learning about new hair color trends or championing new products or techniques. We had the opportunity recently to take a deep tissue massage training from an Aveda educator, and the class was packed with valuable insights.

“Our instructor had a wonderful way of blending practical expertise with a clear and accessible approach to teaching,” says Ali Gerber, one of our massage therapists at our Burnsville salon. “She reinforced important principles I’ve held while also introducing new concepts that I’m eager to explore further.”

If you’ve ever wanted to try deep tissue massage but found it a bit too intimidating — what if it hurts? will I still feel relaxed afterward? — we hear you. Here are two lessons Ali and the rest of the Cole’s team took away from the training, as well as two tips for taking better care of your muscles at home between appointments.

Deep Tissue Massage Doesn’t Have to Be Painful … In Fact, Maybe It Shouldn’t Be at All

Many of our clients associate deep tissue treatment with pain and discomfort — the kind of massage you have to grit your teeth through. Not exactly relaxing! And there’s no need for it to be that way. Effective deep tissue work can also look like techniques that respect the body’s natural response. Instead of forcing through the tension, it’s instead about working with the muscles in an intentional way that’s slow enough to get to a therapeutic depth while keeping the guest comfortable (and not jumping off the table). Going too deep too fast in some cases can cause more inflammation and actually be counterproductive, our team learned.

“This perspective was refreshing and validated my approach to creating positive and healing experiences for my guests,” Ali says. “As a practitioner, I’ve always struggled with the idea that digging in to the point of actual pain was the gold standard of ‘fixing’ the problem. The class aligned with what I believe and feel comfortable with as a service provider and helped broaden my knowledge and approach to providing deep tissue work in a way I can feel good about.”

Fascia Is Fascinating (And There’s Still A Lot We Don’t Know About It)

Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and supports everything in the body, from our muscles to our bones to our organs. It’s a very dense, very fibrous, very complex tissue that scientists and massage therapists alike still don’t fully understand. That said, we do know that fascia plays a role in muscle tightness, and that practitioners can help release it during deep tissue massage to provide physical relief for the client.

“The educator’s insights left me eager to continue exploring how fascia-focused techniques can enhance my practice,” Ali says. “While much is being learned about fascia’s role in the body’s movement and overall health, I’m on the side of science that believes we’ve only scratched the surface.”

Support Your Body at Home

Professional massages can be deeply beneficial to your muscular health, but there are also ways you can take care of your fascia and other tissues between appointments. Here, Allison offers a few ways you can support the health and movement of your body’s many tissues from the comfort of your own home:

Stay Hydrated: Hydration is essential for optimal tissue health and movement. If you feel like you’re drinking plenty of water but still don’t feel fully hydrated, try adding a small amount of high-quality sea salt to your water. The sodium in salt helps your body absorb water more effectively, ensuring it reaches your cells and tissues instead of passing through too quickly. “But be mindful of balance, as overhydration without replenishing minerals can dilute essential nutrients and contribute to dehydration,” Ali says.
Try Foam Rolling: Foam rolling is a fantastic way to alleviate tight muscles and release tension in your fascia.

“My personal favorite is a small peanut-shaped roller, which fits perfectly between the shoulder blades and along the spine without putting pressure directly on it,” Ali says. It’s a versatile type of roller that works well both on the floor and against a wall for more targeted relief. “I’m also a big believer in foot reflexology — using a small massage ball or lacrosse ball under the feet can help loosen tight tissue, improve circulation, and prevent cold feet caused by poor blood flow.”

Ready to try deep tissue massage? Book an appointment with one of our therapists and enjoy the many benefits! You can also check out our tips for preparation and post-massage care.

Ali Gerber is an esthetician and massage therapist at our Burnsville salon and has been part of the Cole’s team since 2024.

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Nurturing Your Body After a Massage

Jessica Edwards — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 10:24:52 +0000

Proper post-massage care plays a significant role in enhancing the service’s benefits after your session ends. Taking care of yourself in the hours and days following your massage is crucial in ensuring a complete, lasting sense of wellness.

Aftercare Is as Crucial as Preparation

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water aids in toxin removal, particularly after a massage. Aim for half of your body weight in ounces in the hours after your treatment.
Nourish Your Body: Consume healthy, antioxidant-rich foods to aid recovery and reduce inflammation.
Soothe With Ice: Applying ice to sore areas can alleviate muscle pain and reduce inflammation after a massage.
Prioritize Rest: Allow your body ample rest, aiming for at least eight hours of sleep post-massage to facilitate recovery.
Stretch: Engage in gentle stretching after a massage to improve muscle flexibility and prevent soreness.

Activities to Avoid After a Massage:

Avoid an Immediate Bath or Shower: Wait 1-2 hours before taking a bath or shower post-massage to avoid muscle tension.
Skip Alcohol and Heavy Meals: These can both counteract a massage’s relaxation benefits.
Postpone Exercising: Give your body a day’s rest before engaging in strenuous physical activity to avoid muscle strain.
Limit Caffeine and Smoking: Refrain from caffeine or smoking immediately after a massage, as these can hinder relaxation.

By attending to your body’s needs after a massage, you contribute to the overall efficacy of the treatment. Remember to hydrate, eat nutritious foods, and give yourself time to rest. Avoiding certain activities and habits that might counteract the benefits of the massage ensures that you allow your body to reap the full rewards of this therapeutic experience. A holistic approach to aftercare will complement your service, leaving you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world.

Book your next massage and enjoy lasting relaxation and wellness by following our tips for preparation and post-massage care!

Jessica Edwards, LMT is a massage therapist at our Burnsville location. She joined the Cole’s Salon team in 2023.

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Ready Yourself for a Relaxing Massage

Jessica Edwards — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:52:18 +0000

Massage therapy offers physical and mental benefits ranging from stress reduction to pain relief. Preparing for a massage session involves more than just showing up. It’s about setting the stage for optimal relaxation and fully benefiting from the experience. Hydration, attire, punctuality, and communication are important elements to make the most out of your massage.

Here are essential tips to prep yourself before your service:

Prepare For Your Massage:

Hydration Is Key: Start hydrating before your session to help flush out toxins and support muscle relaxation. Herbal teas or water are ideal choices.
Wear Comfortable Attire: Opt for loose, comfortable clothing for post-massage relaxation.
Arrive Early: Arriving 10-15 minutes in advance aids relaxation and gives time to settle in comfortably.
Empty Your Bladder: It’s best to use the restroom before your massage to ensure comfort during the session.
Communication Is Vital: Inform your therapist about specific concerns or areas needing special attention for a personalized experience.

What to Avoid Before a Massage:

Avoid Sunburn: Massages are best avoided when your skin is sunburned due to skin inflammation and sensitivity.
Limit Caffeine: Skip caffeinated drinks before your massage to enhance relaxation and prevent tension.
Moderate Meals: Avoid large meals before your session to prevent discomfort during massage pressure.
Rest Your Body: Refrain from intense physical activities a day or two before your massage for better relaxation.
Postpone Lotions or Medications: Refrain from applying lotions or medications that may affect the massage experience.

Remember, what you do before your massage impacts your experience. Following these tips enhances the effectiveness of your massage, ensuring a more relaxed and beneficial session. Conversely, steering clear of certain activities and preparations ensures you receive the utmost benefit and comfort during your massage. Book your next massage and follow these tips to set the stage for a truly rejuvenating experience!

Jessica Edwards, LMT is a massage therapist at our Burnsville location. She joined the Cole’s Salon team in 2023.

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Heading Back to School: Treat Your Teen and Yourself

Heather Ehresman — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 17:14:42 +0000

The launch of pumpkin spiced everything can only mean one thing—it’s back to school season! There’s nothing like entering the new year with a refreshed look that inspires confidence, and Cole’s Salon is here to help each person in your family look and feel their best. Check out a few must-have services and make a little time for self-care before soccer practices, all-nighters and classes kick off.

Inspire confidence with a fresh style

It’s time for a fresh cut for fall! Let one of our designers help you find the latest trending cut and style or come in for a simple trim to help your hair’s health and look great for those school photos and selfies.

Get healthy, glowing skin for a new year

Bike rides to DQ and late-night bonfires may have taken a toll on your teen’s skin. Book them a teen facial to get their skin in shape. Your teen will not only be pampered by one of our estheticians, but they will leave with a customized at-home routine that can keep their skin healthy throughout the school year.

Plan for a glam look

Homecoming and pep days are just around the corner! Whether it’s cheering at the big game or finding the perfect dress for a dance, now is the time to book their nail and hair appointments!

Finally, moms and dads—give yourself a little spa day to congratulate yourself, you did it! You made it through the dog days of summer so sit back and relax to enjoy our signature pedicure on those tired feet, or book one of our spa treatment services to revive your tired, sunkissed skin. Book appointments for the whole family at Cole’s Salon to ensure each of you is refreshed and ready to start the new year looking and feeling your absolute best.

Heather E. is Director of Team Development on our Corporate team. She joined the Cole’s Salon team in 2007.

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