About Massage Therapy


Think massage therapy is only for special occasions?
Something to do when you are at a resort, on vacation? Think again…

Recent research from around the world has found that therapeutic massage and bodywork has measurable and profound effects on the physical, mental and emotional states of the body. Experts estimate that more than ninety percent of disease is stress related. Massage is an effective tool for managing this stress. More and more people, from all walks of life, have made massage therapy a routine part of their health maintenance program. Therapeutic massage performed by the skilled hands of a certified practitioner improves your overall state of being


Therapeutic massage is a physical process. Its direct mechanical effects have been shown to dramatically increase the circulation of blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body and aid in the clearing of waste products from the body’s tissues. In doing so, massage promotes and helps maintain health. It facilitates the healing of injuries, such as muscle strains and joint sprains, and helps reduce inflammation. Massage therapy improves overall muscle tone, helping to prevent sprains and strains, adding length and life to tight, sore muscles. Athletes, of any level, can train harder and recover faster from workouts or injuries. Massage has also been shown to increase the production of endorphins, amino acids that work as the body’s own natural pain killers.

If you have back or neck pain, tight, sore shoulders, headaches or aching feet, massage therapy can help.

When the body is relaxed, the mind follows. As muscle tension is relieved, concentration sharpens and the nervous system quiets. Massage therapy animates the tactile sense and brings the mind into the present. Numerous studies on workplace stress have shown the benefits of therapeutic massage. Productivity increases. Stress related absences decrease. Fewer mistakes are made by workers.

If you are having problems sleeping, if you feel less alert at work, if you are finding it difficult to concentrate, massage therapy can help you regain your mental sharpness.

Therapeutic massage promotes an overall state of well-being, helping you tune into your body’s own processes. As you feel better, both physically and mentally, stress and anxiety lessen. Your body and mind start to work together as one. Deep relaxation becomes possible. The effects of massage therapy have been likened to meditation - the body and mind find balance and peace.


Bodywork and Massage Therapy can address a number of health issues
  • Increase overall circulation
  • Enhance quality of sleep
  • Increase energy, reduce fatigue
  • Lessen anxiety
  • Relieve headaches
  • Improve concentration
  • Increase joint flexibility
  • Improve range of motion
  • Reduce swelling
  • Soften and lengthen overused muscles
  • Help overused muscles relax and rejuvenate
  • Help heal a myriad of body pains including neck, shoulder, low back
  • Help athletes of any level train harder and recover faster from strenuous workouts

Biography


Kenny’s first exposure to therapeutic bodywork came from his father, a 2nd degree black belt in judo, who applied old world style shiatsu and deep tissue techniques to aching muscles and minor injuries, techniques taught to him by his own father. Though often painful (it was old world style after all) these treatments were very effective and instilled in Kenny a great respect for the healing arts.

Years later, Kenny pursued his own study of the healing arts, attending the Shiatsu Massage School of California / Tao Healing Arts Center and continued with certificates from the National Holistic Institute, the American Academy of Reflexology, Tao Healing Arts Center, and the San Francisco School of Massage where he studied myofascial release and deep tissue massage techniques with Art Riggs. Numerous weekend workshops and classes were mixed in over the years.

Kenny is a California State Certified and Licensed Therapist with over 1500 hours of education and 17+ years of experience and is also a member of ABMP, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals. Whether you are in need of deep relaxation or aid in healing of a chronic pain or injury, Kenny can customize a bodywork session to suit your specific needs. Kenny brings to his practice a love of the healing arts and respect for all beings.



I specialize in therapeutic bodywork and massage, a fusion of myofascial release, deep tissue and sports massage techniques, shiatsu and swedish massage. I believe in the power of energetic touch and the healing potential therein and I approach each session with respect and compassion as well as knowledge and experience.

Sessions can involve discussions on posture, structural alignment, and range of motion as well as lifestyle habits such as diet and exercise. I believe in helping individuals find lasting balance and helping them toward taking an active role in their healing process whether it be from chronic pain from bad posture or an injury, or simply needing to relax and de-stress.

Testimonials

There is a saying that one should not merely practice a healing art, but become the art. Kenny Nakaji embodies the art of massage therapy. His energy and touch are profoundly awakening to the chi.

James Bailey, 1998 - L.Ac., Dipl. Acu.

Kenny gives great thumb! His massage sessions are on the short list of L.A. treasures that I pass along to my friends. Finding Kenny was even more valuable than finding a trustworthy mechanic.”

Terry O.

Kenny’s intuitive, healing approach to massage therapy is brilliant. His compassionate and genuine interest invites trust which then creates a special bond that transforms the process into a true healing experience.

Diane and Bob A.

Kenny came highly recommended to me for massage over 10 years ago. Kenny’s peacefulness, warmth and spiritual qualities are reflected in his presence and the environment he establishes. He is a natural healer, his warm hands move intuitively to the places in the body that require the most attention and encouragement to adjust or heal. As a professional, Kenny has never stopped learning, he is always seeking to better himself in his field. Through the years, Kenny has helped my body return to a place of balance.”

J. Kathryn de Planque,Ph.D

I’ve known Kenny for over 17 years as a practicing, professional massage and bodywork therapist. In that time, I’ve referred clients as well as friends to him. He has a reputation on the westside as a bodywork therapist of integrity and skill. Kenny is unquestionably one of the most talented bodyworkers I have had the pleasure of knowing. He is extremely knowledgable and sensitive to the needs of his clients. He exhibits a deep level of comprehension and assessment abilities that draw upon a complex palette of formal training, intuition, personal warmth, an amazing sense of humor and a genuine sense of care for his clients.

James Bailey,2010 - L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Dipl. Ayu., MATCM, founder Sevanti Oriental Medicine and Ayurveda

I’ve been Kenny’s client for years now and he does an amazing job of customizing my massage based on what needs attention each time. I spend many hours sitting at a desk, and Kenny usually works on my neck, shoulders, and back. He has also helped relieve headaches, and works on my feet and legs after a long week in high heels. I find his massages the perfect combination of pressure and relaxation and highly recommend him.

Charlotte K.



My visits to Kenny for massage therapy have become the highlight of my week. He has the unique ability to locate the ache or pain and make me feel whole again.

Tessa I.

My new favorite massage therapist is Kenny! For two reasons, NECK and SHOULDERS! (and back and arms, etc.) I work at a desk and computer all day and my shoulders get to feeling like cement some days. When Kenny has worked on me, I REALLY feel like I’ve been worked on, not just a rub down. He’ll suggest a few stretches you can do too, if you’re into that.

Lauren G.

Kenny is the best, he’s awesome. Strong but sensitive - the man! You can tell he’s been doing this for a long time, because whatever I come in with - neck, low back, even wrist pain - he knows what to do. Some massage therapists out there are real chatty and self-centered, but Kenny is there for YOU. He has this je no sais quois…a presence, an aura if you will, that is calming, reassuring and therapeutic. I’m kind of ambivalent about writing this because I don’t want it to be hard to get in to see him, but, I feel that people should know about him…