Big Vanilla Massage


Massage Therapy Massage Therapy is one of the oldest healing arts. Enjoying a resurgence in popularity, today millions of people will attest to how massage helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to illness and disease. In addition, massage therapy is frequently used as an integral component of physical rehabilitation programs.

Massage is a drug-free, non-invasive and humanistic approach to health and healing that is based on the body's natural ability to heal itself. Massage has many physiological effects, such as:

  • Relaxing and softening injured and overused muscles.
  • Reducing spasms and cramping
  • Increasing joint flexibility
  • Reducing recovery time for strenuous workouts and eliminating subsequent pain.
  • Releasing endorphins, the body's natural painkiller. For this reason massage is being incorporated into treatment for chronic illness, injury and recovery from surgery to control,and relieve pain.
  • Improving range of motion and decreasing discomfort for patients with low back pain.
  • Increasing circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.
  • Reducing post-surgery adhesions and edema and reducing and realigning scar tissue after healing has occurred.
  • Stimulating the lymph system, the body's natural defense against toxic invaders.
There are numerous modalities of therapeutic massage and bodywork. We offer the following:

Swedish...the most commom and well-known form of massage. Soothing and relaxing, the long, slow techniques of Swedish massage carry the intent to relax the body.
Deep Tissue work affects sub-layers of muscle and connective tissue. This is helpful with chronic pain and injury rehabilitation. It is generally integrated with other techniques, as the the superficial layers of muscle must first be relaxed to effectively perform deeper work.
Myofascial Release Technique involves manipulation of fascia, or connective tissue to unbind tissues and increase range of motion.
Orthopedic Massage integrates numerous elements of sports massage, medical massage, and physical therapy to treat soft tissue pain and injury. The emphasis here is on understanding the nature of the injury through thorough assessment, matching treatment to the injury, and adapting treatment as healing progresses.
Pregnancy Massage is designed for the comfort and safety of the mother. Specific positions, strokes, and gentle pressure are used to alleviate the stresses, aches and discomforts associated with all stages of pregnancy and post-partum.
Sports Massage sessions are designed for pre- or post-event athletes of all types and take a functional approach to preparation or recovery.

Massage sessions are designed to meet your specific needs and typically incorporate more than one method. Whether it is pure relaxation, relief from muscle stiffness and soreness, or management of a chronic health issue; massage works!

Have Questions?

If you have never had massage before and your questions are basic, or you have a specific condition you wish to discuss before scheduling an appointment, please don't hesitate to contact our therapist. Your comfort, your health, and your well-being are our concern. Non-members are welcome as clients.

Please call Louise Orders at 443-995-7246 or email at louiseo@bigvanilla.com.

Massage Therapy Fees

All forms of massage 1/2 hour $45 1 hour $75 1.5 hours $120


Photo of Louise Orders, Big Vanilla Massage Therapist Louise Orders

Background -

  • B.A., Geography, University of Maryland
  • Graduate, Baltimore School of Massage
  • Diploma in Orthopedic Massage from Orthopedic Massage Education and Research Institute
  • On-going study in natural health, the Healing Arts, and the mind/body connection
Philosophy -
My lifelong interest in natural approaches to health and healing and the extraordinary power of touch led me to study Therapeutic Massage. My intent with every session is to relax, soothe, and deepen your connection with your body. Naturally seeking balance, the body will restore, rejuvenate, and heal itself when disruptive influences are minimized or eliminated.
"Whether you are recovering from injury or trauma, pursuing your health and fitness goals, or just wish to soothe your body and mind, massage works!"

Photo of Ellen Kulp, Big Vanilla Massage Therapist Ellen Kulp

Background -

  • 2002 Graduate of Baltimore School of Massage
  • Member, American Massage Therapy Association
  • Certified in Swedish, Deep Tissue and Myofascial Release Techniques
  • Pre-Natal Massage
Philosophy -
"Massage Therapy is rapidly achieving widespread recognition as a valuable means to enhance a healthy lifestyle. A significant number of people are integrating massage into their health and fitness routine. As a mother of seven, I've learned that taking care of oneself is a gift to all who depend on us. The benefits of massage may include stress reduction, pain relief, and improvement to your overall health and welll-being. It is not self-indulgent; It's self-care!"


Last updated on February 25, 2008.

Big Vanilla Arnold | 1209 Ritchie Highway, Arnold, MD 21012 | 410-544-2525

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