MASSAGE THERAPY
GENERAL BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Professional Massage is the manipulation of the muscles and soft tissues of the body and affects the body in many ways making it a versatile treatment for numerous ailments, both physical and emotional. It is suitable for people of all ages and from all walks of life. It can be used as a preventative treatment, keeping the body in tip top shape or as a treament to correct many muscular problems.
In general Massage may help in the following ways:
- Help break down fibrous adhesions in the muscles
- Relieve muscle spams and stiffness
- Improve blood and lymph flow
- Disperse water retention
- Eliminate toxins
- Alleviate physical and emotional tension
- Promotes a sense of wellbeing and calm
- It is thought to boost the body's immune system; relieve mild depression and anxiety and may lower high blood pressure
- It may also assist in natural pain relief by encouraging the production of endporphins (natural painkillers in the body)
THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE
This is a firm massage, general in nature and is often performed as a full body massage, but can also be performed on the back, shoulders and neck alone. Extra attention is given to areas in need of deeper work and some Deep Tissue Techniques may be used.
Many clients benefit from 30 to 45 minutes on the back, shoulders and neck alone, allowing the remainder of the session on the rest of the body, It is advised to book an hour and a half for a thorough full body massage including, hands, feet, face and abdomen (optional).
DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE/REMEDIAL MASSAGE
Deep Tissue Massage is not just a hard massage, it is deep yes, but can still be highly relaxing as the strokes are performed slowly, allowing the muscles to relax and receive the work. The therapist works "with" the tissue not just "on" it. Knuckles, fists, forearms and elbows are all used to achieve the desired result. It can also include Remedial Massage techniques such as: Soft Tissue Release; Muscle Energy Technique; Myofascial Release as well as static stretches and some rocking movements.
The aim of Deep Tissue Massage is to release muscle holding patterns and to stretch and lengthen tissue thereby correcting poor postural patterns. It may help to increase flexibility and may help to heal old injuries. New or acute injuries are not treated with Deep Tissue massage, these are referred to the professional like Physiotherapists; Osteopaths; Chiropractors and Doctors.
The emphasis with Deep Tissue massage is to alter structures and release muscle restrictions. It can be highly enjoyable as it may feel "pleasurably painful"! Most of my clients prefer the nature of Deep Tissue Massage due to it's lasting benefits. Often the client will feel the benefit a day or so after the massage, lasting for a few weeks or longer, far outweighing the fleeting pleasure a less intense massage creates! These relaxation massages have their place too, and if this is the effect you desire and need, then I can certainly put the elbows, knuckles and fists away and give you some much needed R & R!
My specialities:
- Piriformis syndrome (or sciatica as it is also referred to)
- Frozen Shoulder
- Upper back, shoulder and neck stiffness and lack of mobility
- Achilles and calf tightness
INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE
Indian Head Massage is performed seated and can also be performed fully clothed. If the upper garments are removed then some oils are used on the shoulders and neck. As with all Massage the clients' modesty is preserved with appropriate draping.
A typical Indian Head Massage session lasts between 30 and 45 minutes and includes massage on the upper back and shoulders, neck, scalp, face and ears. It combines well with Reflexology and many clients fins working on feet and head a total treat!
SOME BENEFITS FROM INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE
- Eases aching shoulder and neck muscles
- Releives upper body tension
- Increases blood flow and therefore nutrients and oxygen to cells
- Releives eye strain
- Eases tension headaches
It is also thought to help with the following: - Tinnitus
- Sinusitis
- Chronic Migraines
- Insomnia
- Stress related hair loss
REFLEXOLOGY
Reflexology is the manipulation and massage of the reflex points on the feet which correspond to the various parts and systems of the body. By manipulating these points on the feet the body is brought back into a state of homeostasis (internal balance)allowing it to heal.
As with all holisitc therapies, the person is treated not just the illness/ailment. The session may include Nutritional advice; advice on lifestyle choices and examination of the possible emotional link to a particular ailment.
Often with holistic therapies, HEALING CRISES may occur. This is nothing to be alarmed about as it is a natural part of the healing process and is the body's way of releasing toxins and negative emotions that may have led to or exacerbated the condition being treated. Healing occurs from the inside out, so some new "symptoms" may seem to appear, but this is not the case.It is the natural healing process and these too will pass, they have just been buried for too long!For this reason it is wise that a course of treatments be booked if there is a particular ailment/condition being treated. These healing crises do not always occur but it is good to be aware that it might.
Reflexology does not hurt or tickle! I use a gentle but firm pressure which is also highly relaxing.
SOME BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY
- Asthma
- Anxiety
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Digestive Disorders
- Headaches/Migraines
- Hay Fever
- Insomnia
- PMS
- Mild depression
- Stress related ailments
