My name is Wes Haferkamp. I am a bodyworker trained in the “Middleway Method” and I have been working for 4 years as a professional bodyworker.

 The nature of my work changes vastly from client to client. Some regularly come to me to receive light-touch fingertip-only work for face, neck and hands (for example). Others demand I use every ounce of strength I have to achieve adequate pressure for their needs, which is always an enjoyable challenge.

 Every injury is treated differently, even to the point of avoiding contact if the area is inflamed enough. These are techniques I use frequently for healthy bodies:

 -Gentle Swedish strokes to warm and test the sensitivity of each area.

 -Slow, static compressions through client’s breath can help focus on specifics and gain more information about the body’s willingness to release its own tensions.

 From here both client and I assess where the treatment should go. If we decide there is structural tension (fascia restriction) we try to “untie the knots.” If the tension seems to be coming from a neuromuscular source, (a feeling of “I can’t turn it off!”) we have other techniques, though they frequently cross over.

 -Tapotement for circulation and manual tension breaking can be a good start for an area. This can also start the process of releasing a long term, stubborn holding from compensation patterns, emotional tensions etc…

 -Trigger point release can be like magic when it works. Releasing a very small amount of tangled fascia can cause a large area to awaken (increased proprioception) and begin to function in a healthier manner.

 -Very specific muscle activations can help to strengthen/activate inactive muscles and can create balance in joint function. It can also release holding patterns as it forces clients to feel the difference in how they are trying to use their muscles versus the actual resulting motion their muscles produce.

 -Thai Yoga inspired stretches can be combined with these other techniques to test and improve range of motion (in healthy but stubborn joints). Sometimes the body needs to be given a new position before it can begin the process of releasing.

 -Gentle fingertip pressure and calming holding a joint as a client breathes is great when people just need a moment to assess their own internal function. This is the safest technique as it allows clients to do all of their own work and not feel overwrought by external demands.

 -Cross fiber frictions, muscle stripping, or very deep tissue Swedish are things I try to avoid until the client makes it clear they need that level of treatment as I don’t particularly enjoy causing pain. Some clients love these techniques, and I am happy to deliver

 About Me:

I have given massage since I was 12 years old, helping my family with muscle pain, and it is the only work I ever want to do. I have lived in Arcata since and have no plans of leaving, I love the natural beauty and the incredible variety of personalities you meet here.