What is Massage ?
Dictionary Definition :
A (system of) treatment using stroking, pressing, tapping, kneading, friction, etc. to relieve both physical and mental pain by easing tension, remove blockages, etc.
Massage therapy is understood to be one of the oldest methods of healing with references in medical texts from over 3000 years ago. It refers to the application of techniques to the soft tissue and muscle of the body for the benefit of the client. These benefits are experienced in the musculoskeletal, nervous, circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body and can lead to your general well-being.
Therapeutic massage
Therapeutic massage is used to promote relaxation and allows you the chance to take time out from your busy life. It has the effect of improving circulation, reducing stress and can help release tension in muscle.
Usually, therapeutic massage is a full body massage which takes around an hour to complete but this does not have to be the case and the massage can be tailored to suit your requirements. It's your time to relax and you can choose to talk, ask questions or fall asleep.
Sports massage
If you have specific issues with any areas of the body then sports massage will help to address these. It is a goal-oriented massage using pressure and depth to address areas of pain and tension which may be causing restriction in movement or general stiffness. It may also involve assisted stretching. There is a degree of involvement from you during the session as there will be times when you will be required to initiate stretches or muscle movements. Sports massage does not have to be specifically for sports people and many of the techniques used are also useful for those who find that they are beginning to experience pain or discomfort due to working at a desk all day or driving for long periods of time. There is also a misconception that a sports massage has to be painful. It does not have to be painful although there may be times when treatment causes discomfort. However, the treatment will always be carried out within your pain limits and you are always in control.
Indian head massage
Indian head massage is based on the Ayurvedic system which has been practiced for thousands of years in India. It is a very relaxing massage which works over the scalp, neck, shoulders and face. No oil is used for this treatment unless specifically requested for applying through the hair. Also, the massage can be carried out whilst you are fully clothed. It helps to promote circulation, can relieve tension headaches and can improve the condition of the hair.
Hyperton-X
Hyperton-X is a branch of Kinesiology which was developed by the late Frank Mahony. It is a system of body and mind integration which works on releasing certain muscles which are hypertonic (too tight) and which may be causing a restriction or impairment in the flow of the Cerebral Spinal Fluid which flows around the brain and nervous system. This is carried out via assisted stretches (known as Muscle Energy Techniques). It can improve co-ordination and increases muscle flexibility.
Consultation
When arriving for your first appointment I will carry out a consultation with you. This will include basic information such as name and address details and will involve some questions regarding your medical history. For those receiving a sports massage there will be postural and range of movement assessments and for those receiving Hyperton-X there will be additional assessments for vision, writing and co-ordination. These are all designed so that the treatment you receive is the massage best suited to your requirements. Following the treatment follow up advice may be given which could include stretching or other techniques which will help you to help your body.
