Massage

Massage therapy is recognized as one of the oldest methods of healing, with references in medical texts nearly 4,000 years old. In fact, Hippocrates, known as the “father of medicine,” referenced massage when he wrote, in the 4th century B.C.: “The physician must be acquainted with many things, and assuredly with rubbing.“

Nowadays, in addition to “rubbing,” massage therapy, often referred to as bodywork or somatic therapy, refers to the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the body that include applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, vibration, rocking, friction, kneading and compression using primarily the hands, although massage therapists do use other areas of the body, such as the forearms, elbows or feet. All of the techniques are used for the benefit of the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic, nervous, and other systems of the body. In fact, massage therapy positively influences the overall health and well-being of the client:

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronic aches and pains and contracted areas such as stiff neck and upper back, low back pain, leg muscle tightness, and sore shoulders.

Some of the same strokes are used as classic massage therapy, but the movement is slower and the pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain in order to reach the sub-layer of muscles and the fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles).

How does it work?

When there is chronic muscle tension or injury, there are usually adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Adhesions can block circulation and cause pain, limited movement, and inflammation.

Deep tissue massage works by physically breaking down these adhesions to relieve pain and restore normal movement. To do this, the massage therapist uses massage oil and often uses direct deep pressure. Muscles must be relaxed in order for the therapist to reach the deeper musculature. The therapist may use breathing techniques with the client to aid relaxation.

Does deep tissue massage hurt?

At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain.

It is important to tell the massage therapist when things hurt and if any soreness or pain you experience is outside your comfort range.

There is usually some stiffness or pain after a deep tissue massage, but it should subside within a day or so. The massage therapist may recommend applying ice to the area after the massage.

AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE

A deeply holistic massage to relieve mind, emotional stress and tension – encouraging the natural healing ability of the body to create balance.

The term holistic is derived from the Greek word meaning ‘whole’ and treats the whole person, your body, mind and soul. This massage can be seen as means of inducing relaxation and healing whilst invigorating the body systems to heal and improve their functioning. The techniques and pressure are adapted to the individual needs, depending on your personal choice. This massage is combined with essential oils to uplift or relax your being.

INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE

A treatment based on old Ayurvedic techniques involving work on the upper back, shoulders, neck, head and face. It helps reduce stress, fatigue and eyestrain – increasing mental clarity leaving you feeling relaxed yet also rejuvenated.

Jacquie Whitaker

Bowen - massage Therapist

I am a holistic therapist, specializing in Bowen therapy and deep tissue massage. I also do Aromatherapy, Indian head massage, and waxing, and am a qualified Hypnotherapist.
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ADAM BUTTERY

Reiki Specialist

I was interested from a young age in connections between people. A neck and shoulder massage for friends seemed to help enormously and they invariably commented on my ‘hot hands’. It wasn’t until I did my Reiki training in the mid-90s that I realised what that was about. For years I had a recurring back pain which needed treatment every year or two, but three Bowen sessions cleared it completely. In 2007 the opportunity arrived to tie it all together and work as a full-time therapist.
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