Every scar tells a story—whether it’s from surgery, a hiking adventure gone wrong, or a lingering acne breakout. But scars can leave more than memories. They may feel tight or tender, or simply stand out more than you’d like. If that resonates with you, BioFlex laser therapy may be worth exploring. This gentle, science-backed treatment shows real promise in helping skin heal and scars soften.

In this post, we’ll look at what scars are, how this therapy works, and what to expect from treatment.

How Scars Form

When your skin is injured, the body moves quickly into repair mode. Collagen—the protein that gives skin its strength—rushes in to close the wound. Sometimes, however, this response goes too far, creating tissue that’s thicker and raised (hypertrophic) or even extending beyond the original injury (keloids). Scars can also stay red, itchy, or tight when blood vessels and nerves are involved. Therefore, treatments that reduce inflammation and support balanced tissue remodeling can help.

In short, understanding these underlying processes is key to choosing therapies that help scars soften and blend more naturally.

How Laser Therapy Works

Lasers improve scars by targeting the very processes that create them: excess collagen, irregular pigmentation, and abnormal blood vessels. Depending on the technology, lasers can:

• Resurface the skin by creating tiny, controlled micro-injuries that trigger new collagen growth (fractional CO₂ or erbium lasers).
• Calm redness by shrinking the tiny blood vessels that make fresh scars appear bright or inflamed (pulsed-dye or KTP lasers).
• Stimulate healing beneath the surface without removing any skin (non-ablative fractional lasers).
• Activate natural repair at the cellular level using gentle red and near-infrared light (photobiomodulation, such as BioFlex Laser Therapy).

Instead of cutting tissue away, these treatments encourage collagen remodeling and improved circulation. As a result, the scar gradually blends in with the surrounding skin.

BioFlex Laser Therapy as a Treatment for Scars

BioFlex uses photobiomodulation (sometimes known as low-level laser or light therapy) to deliver red and near-infrared light into the skin. These wavelengths are gentle. They do not burn or ablate tissue, but they penetrate deeply enough to:

• Reduce inflammation around the scar, helping swelling, redness, and discomfort calm down.

• Improve circulation and oxygen supply to scar tissue, giving cells what they need to heal properly.

• Stimulate healthy collagen remodeling, encouraging scar tissue to become smoother, flatter, and more flexible.

These effects make BioFlex a good match for people looking to improve scar color, height, and texture, especially for hypertrophic scars (raised scars), surgical scars, and scars that are painful or itchy.

Which Scars Respond Best to Bioflex Treatments?

Based on both research and clinical experience, BioFlex or similar photobiomodulation treatments tend to work well in:

• Hypertrophic scars — raised, red, and often itchy or uncomfortable.

• Post-surgical scars — especially those that are newer or still remodeling.

• Scars with pigment or vascular issues — redness or dark discoloration often improves with light therapy.

• Older scars may respond, but often improvements are slower or more modest.
  

Safety and Aftercare

BioFlex is a painless treatment with an excellent safety record. Some clients notice slight redness or warmth right after a session, but this typically fades within a few hours. To support healing, keep the area moisturized, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, and follow the treatment schedule recommended by your practitioner.

What to Expect During a BioFlex Session at Revelstoke Wellness

At Revelstoke Wellness, our goal is to make every BioFlex appointment comfortable, informative, and tailored to you.

Your visit begins with a consultation where your practitioner takes a close look at your scar, reviews your health history, and listens to your goals. Then, instead of waiting, your consultation includes your first light session.

Because BioFlex uses low-level red and near-infrared light, there’s no need for numbing cream or complicated preparation. During the treatment you simply relax while a small light panel rests over the scar, delivering wavelengths that penetrate deep into the tissue and encourage natural collagen remodeling.

Most clients feel only a mild warmth and often find the sessions surprisingly soothing. Session lengths can vary from 30 – 90 minutes, depending on your goals. You can also add a massage to your session. This boosts circulation, improves tissue mobility, and helps you relax.

There’s no downtime, so you can head back to work, errands, or the trails right after your appointment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About BioFlex Laser Therapy

How many sessions will I need?
Every scar responds a little differently, but most clients see the best results with multiple sessions per week for the first few weeks, followed by a gradual taper as the tissue improves. Your practitioner will design a plan based on the size, age, and type of your scar.

Is the treatment painful?
No. BioFlex uses low-level red and near-infrared light that does not burn or cut the skin. Most people feel only a mild warmth or gentle tingling and often describe the session as relaxing.

How soon will I see results?
Some clients notice subtle changes—such as less redness or softer texture—within a few treatments, while more visible changes typically develop over several weeks to a few months as collagen remodels.

Is there any downtime or recovery?
There is no downtime. You can return to work, exercise, or daily activities immediately after your appointment.

Can BioFlex completely remove a scar?
No treatment can erase a scar entirely, but BioFlex can flatten raised tissue, reduce redness, and improve overall texture, making the scar far less noticeable.

Is BioFlex safe for all skin types?
Yes. Because it is non-ablative and uses gentle light, BioFlex is safe for most skin tones and types. Your practitioner will review your health history to ensure it is appropriate for you.

Can I combine BioFlex with other treatments?
Absolutely. Many clients pair BioFlex with massage therapy to improve circulation and tissue mobility, or with topical silicone products for added support. At Revelstoke Wellness, you can even add a BioFlex session to a massage appointment for a convenient, all-in-one visit.

With its gentle light, proven science, and customizable care, BioFlex Laser Therapy offers a safe and effective way to help your scars soften and blend. Schedule your consultation with Revelstoke Wellness today and take the first step toward healthier, more confident skin.

Do you experience jaw tension, aching muscles near your ears, or a clicking sound when you chew or yawn? These symptoms are common signs of a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. When this joint isn’t working properly, the discomfort can affect your eating, sleeping, and overall well-being.

For many people, TMJ issues are chronic and can be made worse by stress, poor posture, or teeth grinding. Treatment options vary, and massage treatment is one approach often explored by people looking for relief. At Revelstoke Wellness, we offer intra-oral massage as a supportive way to help ease tension in the jaw, face, and neck. While not a cure-all, this type of massage may provide meaningful comfort and relaxation.

In this blog, we’ll explore what TMJ disorder is, how massage treatment works as part of a care plan, and what you can expect if you’re considering booking a session at Revelstoke Wellness. 

What Is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ stands for the temporomandibular joint, which acts like a sliding hinge connecting your jawbone to your skull. You use it constantly—when you talk, chew, yawn, and even when you clench your jaw without realizing it. So when something goes wrong with this joint or the surrounding muscles, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

Temporomandibular disorders (often shortened to TMD or just TMJ) can cause jaw pain, headaches, stiffness, popping or clicking noises, and even pain that radiates to your neck or ears. Some people also experience limited jaw movement or a feeling like the jaw is “locked.”

The causes of TMJ disorder aren’t always clear. It can be the result of an injury, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw misalignment, or chronic tension and stress. While some cases resolve on their own, others may persist or worsen over time. That’s why it’s important to listen to your body and explore treatment options that support both physical and emotional wellness.

Can Massage Help with TMJ Pain?

Massage isn’t a cure for TMJ disorders, but many people find that massage can be a supportive tool for managing discomfort. In clinical settings, registered massage therapists may provide therapeutic treatment as part of a broader care plan that could also include dental work, physiotherapy, stress management, or at-home self-care.

At Revelstoke Wellness, our approach is focused on wellness-based massage. While not a medical treatment, this style of care can still help ease tight or overworked muscles in the jaw, face, neck, and shoulders. By releasing tension in these areas, wellness massage may reduce discomfort and support overall relaxation and comfort.

A Canadian study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that manual therapy paired with targeted exercise has been associated with reductions in TMJ-related pain and improved jaw mobility. While our services are non-therapeutic and focused on relaxation, similar hands-on techniques — such as working with the masseter, temporalis, and other jaw muscles through gentle external (and sometimes intra-oral) approaches — may help clients feel relief from tension, clicking or popping, and related headaches.

Intra-oral Massage for TMJ Discomfort

A TMJ-focused massage isn’t your typical full-body session. Sessions often begin with external techniques, gently working through the cheeks, temples, and neck to soften surrounding tension and encourage relaxation. Some wellness practitioners may offer intra-oral massage, a technique performed with a gloved finger inside the cheek. This allows direct access to deeper muscles that are difficult to reach externally.

While the idea of intra-oral massage might sound strange, many people find it to be a highly effective method for relieving jaw pain, reducing clicking or popping, and easing tension-related headaches. At Revelstoke Wellness, we have practitioners who are certified in TMJ treatments. These treatments can be added-on to any massage modality – simply consult with your practitioner at the time of booking

Tips for Managing TMJ Discomfort at Home

Massage may help ease some of the tension linked to TMJ discomfort, but at-home practices can also make a big difference in maintaining comfort over time.

There are small, supportive habits you can try at home to manage tension and reduce flare-ups between sessions:

• Practice mindful movement: Try gentle jaw stretches or exercises recommended by a qualified practitioner. These can help maintain mobility and reduce tightness over time. 
• Apply heat or cold: A warm compress can relax tense jaw muscles, while a cold pack may help if you’re experiencing inflammation or swelling.
• Be mindful of stress: Emotional stress often shows up in the body—especially in the jaw. Regular practices like deep breathing, yoga, or mindful journaling can reduce tension before it settles into your muscles.
• Limit chewy or crunchy foods: During flare-ups, soft foods may reduce strain on your jaw and allow inflamed tissues to rest and heal.
• Notice your posture: If you spend a lot of time at a desk or on a phone, try adjusting your workstation or taking breaks to stretch. Poor posture, especially forward head position, can worsen jaw tension.
• Practice self-massage: our wellness practitioners can demonstrate gentle stretches and relaxation techniques to support your care between sessions.

Of course, none of these are replacements for professional care, but they can help you feel more in control and more in tune with what your body needs.

Find TMJ Relief Through Massage Treatment in Revelstoke

If you’ve been living with jaw discomfort, tension headaches, or clicking in your jaw, know that relief is possible. Massage can play a supportive role in helping ease muscle tension and encourage relaxation.

At Revelstoke Wellness, Beth offers restorative, wellness-focused sessions designed to help clients feel more relaxed and at ease. If you’re curious about whether massage might support your TMJ wellness, we’d love to welcome you. Book a massage today and experience gentle, restorative care that prioritizes your comfort and overall well-being.

Disclaimer: Our practitioners are not registered massage therapists. The information provided here is for general wellness and educational purposes only, and should not replace medical advice or treatment from a licensed health professional.

Yoga retreats offer a different kind of escape. One where the goal isn’t productivity or performance—but presence. It’s intentional movement, restorative stillness, nourishing food, meaningful connection, and being surrounded by nature in a way that allows you to just be.

At Revelstoke Wellness, we believe that when you step into nature, move your body with intention, and share space with others who are doing the same, something shifts. You soften. You open. You remember what it feels like to be truly well. Revelstoke Retreats is part of that vision. It’s the adventure-based retreat arm of Revelstoke Wellness, blending yoga, hiking, rest, and reflection in wild places. 

Whether you’re brand new to yoga or simply craving a break from the everyday, this blog will walk you through what to expect from a yoga retreat and why one might be the most life-giving decision you make this year.

What Is a Yoga Retreat, Really?

A yoga retreat isn’t just a vacation with some downward dogs thrown in. It’s an immersive experience designed to help you tune in physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Most yoga retreats unfold over several days and invite you into a gentle rhythm of movement, rest, and reflection. Mornings often begin with a quiet, breath-focused practice to ground your energy and ease you into the day. Afternoons might include hiking, journaling, lakeside strolls, or simply curling up with a book and a view. Evenings tend to wind down with slow, stretchy flows or guided meditation.

You can expect to experience different styles of yoga throughout the retreat, including:

• Gentle Yin Yoga
• Flow/Vinyasa Yoga
• Guided meditation

At Revelstoke Retreats, our days are shaped by the landscape around us. One day might involve an invigorating backcountry hike followed by restorative yoga under an open sky. Another might be about stillness, journaling beside a glacier-fed lake, or sinking into a delicious savasana while the mountains glow golden outside your window.

You don’t need to be an advanced yogi (or even particularly flexible). You just need a willingness to be present. Most of our guests are beginners or somewhere in-between, and every practice is guided with options to support you where you’re at.

It’s less about perfecting the pose and more about learning how to come home to your body.

Why Do People Go on Yoga Retreats?

Life moves fast. Between work, responsibilities, and constant distractions, it can feel like there’s never a moment to fully exhale. A yoga retreat offers something many people don’t even realize they need: a chance to step out of the rush and into a different rhythm..

For many, a retreat is a way to deepen their yoga practice (or to start one) in a more immersive setting. Unlike a drop-in class, a retreat gives you time to explore movement, breath, and rest without needing to rush off to the next thing. You get to settle in and really feel the effects of a regular practice.

Some people simply want a vacation, but they don’t want to plan it all themselves. A yoga retreat offers just enough structure—daily movement, nourishing meals, beautiful surroundings—without being rigid or overwhelming. You can show up, be taken care of, and use the time however you need.

You don’t have to be flexible or experienced in yoga to benefit. What matters most is the willingness to slow down and take care of yourself in a different way.

The Revelstoke Retreat Experience

Revelstoke Retreats offers signature hiking and yoga retreats in Revelstoke and beyond. From the rugged trails of Glacier and Revelstoke National Parks to the quiet shores of Kootenay Lake—and even tropical escapes in Mexico—each retreat is a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and breathe more deeply.

Led by ACMG-certified guides Beth and Kristin, our retreats weave together guided hikes, restorative yoga, reflective journaling, nourishing meals, and meaningful time outdoors. Some of our 2025/2026 offerings include:

• The Sentinel on Kootenay Lake
  This lakeside retreat is centered on yoga, meditation, creative expression, and quiet time near the water. It’s designed for people who are ready to soften and step out of daily demands, with less doing and more being.
• Sentry Lodge
  Located near Revelstoke, this remote, helicopter-accessed backcountry lodge offers a more adventurous escape. Expect alpine hiking, hearty meals, and daily yoga practices that support your time on the trail. One or two classes a day help you stretch, unwind, and reconnect with your breath—surrounded by sweeping views of the Columbia Mountains.
• The Grand Traverse
  A four-night, hut-to-hut hiking adventure through the Esplanade Range. You’ll travel on foot between backcountry lodges, with your gear flown ahead by helicopter. Yoga and meditation are woven into the journey, offering quiet moments of reflection in the alpine.
• Prana del Mar, Baja Mexico
  If you’re craving sun and salt air, this oceanfront retreat is designed to help you fully unplug. It includes twice-daily yoga, reflective workshops, organic meals, and free time to walk the beach, lounge by the pool, or explore at your own pace.

“I have participated in many yoga retreats in my time, both domestic and international, and I can honestly say this retreat is first class! The theme of the retreat was cultivating awareness. Beth and Kristin excelled at moving us from the gross to the subtle over the course of the weekend. We practiced amazing yoga (morning and evening practices – meditation, pranayama, beautiful flowing vinyasa [accessible to all], yin yoga and Yoga Nidra); field journaling, both sketching and writing; truly fabulous massage; outrageously good cuisine; an outdoor fresh water hot tub and sauna; and all in an awe-inspiring venue in the West Kootenays just outside Kaslo. The accommodations are almost new, well appointed and very clean. The views of Kootenay Lake and the Selkirk Mountains are unparalleled. I highly recommend this retreat! I will without a doubt attend this retreat in the future.” –Jenn Stedman, Revelstoke Retreats Participant

You don’t need to be an expert in yoga or an experienced hiker to join. These retreats are open to anyone looking for something deeper than a typical vacation.You don’t need to be an expert hiker to join our retreats. With two certified guides, we accommodate different paces so everyone can enjoy the journey. That said, it’s important to be comfortable spending the day outdoors and have a fitness level that allows you to navigate uneven terrain with some elevation changes. For more details on the physical demands of each retreat, feel free to reach out to Revelstoke Retreats—we’re happy to help you find the perfect fit! They’re for people who want to move, rest, explore, and remember what it feels like to feel fully present in their body.

What to Bring to a Revelstoke Retreats Yoga Retreat

What you pack for a yoga retreat will depend on where you’re going and how long you’ll be away. A weekend retreat at a lakeside lodge will look a little different from a multi-day backcountry hiking trip. That said, there are a few basics that are useful no matter the setting.

Pack comfortable clothes you can move in, a reusable water bottle, a journal, and a yoga mat. Revelstoke Retreats provides yoga props, so you will have more space to bring your essentials in your pack. If you’re spending time outside, add walking shoes, a warm layer, and a rain jacket to your bag. Many retreats are hosted in beautiful natural settings, so it helps to be prepared for changing weather.

For trips that include hiking, swimming, or backcountry travel, check with Beth or Kristin for a full packing list. You may need items like a bathing suit, daypack, or headlamp.

You don’t need fancy equipment or designer yoga wear. Just bring what helps you feel at ease and be open to a slower, more intentional pace.

Ready to Retreat?

If something in you is craving quiet, movement, or a shift in perspective, a yoga retreat might be the reset you didn’t know you needed. It isn’t about escaping your life, but about reconnecting to it with a little more softness, presence, and ease.Whenever you’re ready, we’ll be here to welcome you.

Join us on a retreat 

Massage isn’t just about treating pain or tension; it’s a chance to check in with your body, slow down, and feel a little more like yourself again. Whether you live in Revelstoke or you’re in town for a mountain getaway, regular bodywork can help you move with ease, rest more deeply, and stay connected to what your body needs. 

So how often should you book a massage? The truth is, it depends. Some people come in to ease stress or anxiety. Others are working through pain, injury, or chronic tension. And for many, massage is simply part of staying well and feeling good in their body. Most people find that once a month is the sweet spot. It’s often enough to keep tension from building up, but still easy to fit into a full schedule. Of course, your ideal rhythm might look a little different depending on what’s going on in your body and in your life.

How Often Should You Get a Massage Based on Your Needs

How often you book a massage depends on what your body is asking for. Some people come in to release stress and feel more grounded. Others are dealing with soreness from full days on the mountain or working through chronic pain. Your ideal rhythm might look different depending on what kind of support you need most.

Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out what might work best for you:

Stress, Anxiety, or Mental Fatigue

Recommended: Every 2 to 4 weeks
If you’re feeling mentally drained or carrying tension through your shoulders, jaw, or upper back, regular massage can help calm your nervous system. Gentle techniques like relaxation massage or myofascial release support deeper sleep, mental clarity, and emotional ease.

Muscle Soreness and Recovery

Recommended: Weekly to bi-weekly
For those staying active in the mountains—biking, hiking, paddling, or skiing—massage can help ease tight muscles and support faster recovery. Deep tissue work along with BioFlex laser therapy is a great option for reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and keeping you moving comfortably.

Injury, Chronic Pain, or Postural Imbalance

Recommended: Weekly (or more) at first, then taper to monthly
If you’re dealing with long-term tension, past injuries, or areas that just don’t seem to let go, regular sessions can help unwind stuck patterns. We often combine myofascial release and targeted deep tissue techniques to help restore balance and mobility over time.

Pregnancy Support

Recommended: Every 2 to 4 weeks, or more often in the third trimester
Prenatal massage can ease discomfort like low back pain, hip tension, and swelling while giving you space to relax and connect with your body. At Revelstoke Wellness, we tailor every session to your stage of pregnancy and your individual needs.

General Wellness and Maintenance

Recommended: Once a month
Many Revelstoke Wellness clients book monthly massages to stay ahead of tension and stay in tune with their bodies. These sessions are fully customized based on how you’re feeling that day—whether you’re looking to relax, release soreness, or simply reset.

Keep in mind that these are simply recommendations and how often you should get a massage can vary depending on your body, your lifestyle, and what feels realistic for you. Some factors that may affect your massage frequency include: 

• Your activity level. The more you’re doing physically (whether it’s work, sport, or play), the more your body might benefit from regular care.
• Seasonal shifts. Many people book more often in the spring and fall, when routines and energy levels change.
• Injury or recovery. If you’re working through something specific, weekly sessions for a short time can be helpful, followed by less frequent maintenance.
• Stress or mental load. High-output seasons, emotionally or mentally, can show up in the body just like physical strain.
• Your schedule and budget. Consistency matters more than intensity. Find a rhythm that feels doable and nourishing not stressful or rushed.

Signs You Might Need a Massage 

Sometimes your body will let you know it needs a little extra support – you just have to know what to look for. Whether you’re training hard, feeling run down, or just not quite moving like yourself, these are a few common signs that it might be time to book a massage:

• You feel stiff or sore after even light activity
• Your sleep is restless, or you’re waking up tense
• You keep stretching but still feel tight or restricted
• You’re getting more headaches, or your jaw and shoulders are always clenched
• You’ve recently increased your training, work hours, or stress levels

If any of these sound familiar, your body might just be asking for a bit of extra care. A massage can give you the space to rest, release tension, and reconnect with yourself, whether it’s been a while or you’re brand new to the practice.

Benefits of Getting Regular Massage

Massage isn’t just something you turn to when you’re in pain. When it becomes part of your regular routine, it can support your body and mind in so many ongoing ways.

Here are just a few benefits clients often notice with consistent care:

• Faster recovery after physical activity or long workdays
• Better circulation and reduced inflammation
• Fewer tension headaches or recurring flare-ups
• Improved mobility and posture over time
• Deeper sleep and better stress management
• More body awareness and a stronger sense of connection

 “Massage [with Beth Purser] really helped with my on going recovery from a knee replacement. Her techniques are very skilled with the bodywork and her calming treatments really helped my nervous system. Highly recommend.” – Nicola McGarry, Revelstoke Wellness Client

You might also notice more subtle shifts like feeling less reactive in stressful moments, or being more present during your daily routines. For many people, that’s where the real magic happens.

Massage Offerings at Revelstoke Wellness

Our sessions are always tailored to what your body needs at the moment. From relaxation to more specialized care, we offer a range of massage modalities including deep tissue massage, prenatal massage, oncology massage, and relaxation-focused treatments. You can also enhance your session with optional add-ons like hot stones, dry brushing, or BioFlex laser therapy—a low-light treatment that supports cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and speeds healing.

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, easing tension after a long hike, or simply looking for a quiet moment to reset, we’ll help you choose the treatment that fits best. You don’t need to know exactly what to book—we’ll guide you based on what your body is telling you that day. 

Book your next session today and let’s find a rhythm that works for you.