Massage
This page runs through the different massages I offer and some basic info
Holistic massage
What type of massage is holistic massage?
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So the massages I offer are for relaxation and rejuvenation, more then for physical problems such as sports massage. It is great for anyone who deals with stress and needs some self care. (I can treat health issues with Aromatherapy sessions). HM sessions are done as 30 minute sessions and 1 hour. I can use base oil, cream or talc.
The methods I use are:
-I use effleurage. This is a gentle, relaxing sweeping motion that varies in pressure-this is used as the start and end of a session. This relaxes the muscles & improves circulation. It also helps spread the oil or cream. It can be done more vigorously if needed to dispel toxins.
-I use Petrissage. This is muscle kneading, so it manipulates the muscles and breaks down tension and stress in the body. This usually happens after the effleurage stage. This is a good motion to remove muscle stiffness which is caused by toxins and lactic acid.
-I use Gliding. Now this is the same process as Effleurage but it is massaging both areas at the same time. It is usually done at the start and end.
-I use friction. This is a compression of the body tissue against the bone, it is mainly used in overly tight or stressed areas such a calves or biceps. It can help release tension around the joints. It also stimulates the nerves and encourages drainage from the lymphatic system. Now this is only used on problem areas because the compression can be uncomfortable. This is a good one for aromatherapy though as both produce heat.
-I use Pulling. This a firm stroke used on the sides of the torso and limbs.
-I use percussion. It involves quick, stimulating movements on the muscles (where you strike areas at a fast pace) so this portion can be left out If undesired! A better way of describing it is a ‘chopping motion’. It does however improve muscle tone and helps to break down fat deposits which stimulate the nerves. It is used more towards the end of a massage.
-I use hacking. Where I use the side of the palm in a sequence up and down the muscle (not much different to percussion).
-I use tapotement which is the gentlest as it is using percussion to gently tap with the fingertips, like raindrops. This is used on sensitive areas like the face. This is soothing and calming.
-I use vibration. This is a great pain reliever and clears the neural path ways and loosens the muscles. It causes the muscles to tremble which releases tension. This can be used with the hands or fingertips. It is usually used when friction or petrissage isn’t enough.
-Passive joint movements. This is where I gently work your joint through its natural process, this is used to help mobility and releases stiffness of the joint itself. So I will extend your leg etc.
-I use pounding. Which is similar to hacking and percusssion, but you use the fist not the hand. This is only used on fleshy areas and can be left out if undesired.
-I use cupping. Similar to hacking but the palms are cupped, it should make a ‘pop’ sound, this is when the air is pushed away from the skin (it causes a vacuum). This is optional and can cause redness.
-I use beating. This is the same as pounding but with the knuckles instead of the side of the fist.
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30 mins £40 (half body)
1 hour £60 (full body)
Do I need to be naked for massages?
Do you massage men?
Q1-Of course not…but it is personal preference. The majority of people do prefer to be naked, because it saves clothing from getting covered in oil/cream/talc and it does make for easier access (you are obviously covered with a towel/sheet so you are not on full display. The studio also has a bathroom for changing in private).
Some people just keep underwear on, some people prefer to be half and half, others prefer to remain fully clothed and I massage over the clothing with no base product at all.
It all depends on what YOU are comfortable with. The choice is YOURS.
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Q2-I massage all gender identities. Whether it is male, female, neutral and so forth. I don’t discriminate. Everyone should have the chance to enjoy the perks of massage no matter how you identify.
That being said, Ultimately it is up to my discretion upon booking who I accept as a client. With biologically male clients I always prefer to speak on the phone before hand, for safety reasons and to discuss boundaries. If I then feel comfortable, I offer an appointment. But this is strictly for safety reasons not discriminative.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy follows the same massage process as "holistic massage" the only difference is that aromatherapy is massage with essential oil blends. Where as normal massage is base oils and creams.
I have 2 qualifications in Aromatherapy, so I am fully qualified (and insured) to create my own oil blends.
Aromatherapy is best for periods of stress or even, symptoms of health problems. For example mixing a stress blend could consist of lavender & chamomile. For painful joints I'd use black pepper.
So if you book in for an aroma treatment, we would go through the paperwork and discuss oil blend options, depending on your needs.
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Now, not all oils are suitable for everyone. Here is a basic list of oils I avoid:
Which essentials oils should NOT be used in Aromatherapy?
-Bitter almond & Broom
-Camphor (brown & yellow) & Elecampane
-Jaborandi & Mustard
-Pine (dwarf) & Santolina
-Savory & Red Thyme
-Wormseed wormwood & Arnica (but can be used as a base)
-Bucha & Cassia
-Costus & bitter fennel
-Melilotus & Oregano
-Rue & Sassafras
-Tansy & Tonka
-Boldo & Calamus
-Chervil & Deertongue
-Horseradish (not the condiment!) & Mugwort
-Pennyroyal & Common Sage
-Savine, Thuja & Wintergreen
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30 mins (half body) £45
60 mins (full body) £65
What are the benefits of massage?
-Improvements to circulation
-relieves migraine and stress
-It reduces oedema in the joints
-induces a feeling of relaxation
-improves sleep
-improves elasticity of the skin
-warm the muscles and helps rid toxins in the muscles
-Improves immune function
-helps joint mobility and can help heal soft tissue injuries
-stimulates the lymphatic system for drainage
-alleviates anxiety & tension
-good for the skin
-enhances self image
-calms the nervous system
-reduces the heart rate
-reduces chronic pain
-speeds recovery after illness
-improves blood pressure
-breaks up scar tissue
-aids the digestive system
-eases asthma attacks
-eases pain
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If you’ve read this far, ask yourself something:
‘If it helps so much, Why aren’t I getting a massage?’
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When can massage NOT take place?
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-if you have an infectious disease
-if you have had an operation within 3 months (I can massage around the area)
-if you have a fever
-if you suffer from thrombosis or phlebitis
-if you have a skin infection or lesions
-heart disorders (I need written GP consent)
-diabetes (I need written GP consent)
-if you suffer from varicose veins (I can work around the area)
-over newly healing bones
-cancer (I need written consent from a consultant or GP)
-in the first trimester of pregnancy
-after eating a big meal
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Special needs massage & the autism process
In 2021 I decided to add to my massage CV. I wanted to expand my knowledge & help as many people as possible. So I qualified in Special needs massage with the ABC (NCFE).
This means I have the knowledge and experience to massage those who have special needs, such as Cancer, MND, MS, Brain damage, Strokes etc.
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Massage & autism:
Now, a common trait in autism is touch and social situations aversions. So with this training, we were taught how to ease any social discomfort someone may feel (I believe everyone should be able to enjoy massage).
We work on rapport (building trust) before the actual massage begins. This can be done as part of a ‘consultation process’ or the very first session (or it may take more then one session).
Here is how the process will go, the process will depend on severity:
Stage 0~Introduction
This is the very beginning, where we sit down and get to know each other. I will make mental notes or physically write them down on paperwork. This is about starting to ease social discomfort. Asking questions from both parties is encouraged. This will help me tailor make the sessions easier.
Stage 1~resistance
It is natural that resistance may occur on first contact, I am very patient. This stage is about hand contact. There is a more detailed process to this, but stage 1 is about small, physical contact.
Once this has been established, I then explain the types of oils/creams that can be used. A lot of Autistic people have certain textures that they like/dislike. So it is important to chose one they are comfortable with. I then start with hand massages once the client is ready
Stage 2~tolerance
At this point the hand massage is tolerated, after a steady 5 minutes or so without hand withdrawal, I move on to stage 3
Stage 3~Passive cooperation
A subtle change would have occurred by now, the client will become less resistant and will allow longer touch periods. Once we get here, I will change the massage stokes.
Stage 4~Enjoyment
Now the activity will be familiar to the client, they may still be passive but enjoyment will be visible (such as a smile or relaxed body posture)
Stage 5~cooperative response
Little encouragement will be needed and the oil or cream can now be introduced. I will be looking for signs of enjoyment. If discomfort is found then I will switch to an alternative base.
Stage 6~leading
The client will now know the massage sequence and the next hand will be offered with no resistance.
Stage 7~Imitation
The client will start to massage their own hands in the same way or they will try to massage someone else’s hand the same way because it becomes a calming method.
Stage 8~Imitates independently
No prompting will be needed, the client may then try to massage the therapists hands.
Now, everyone’s needs differ. This is more based on an Autistic child or even someone with Downs Syndrome, there may be set backs or you may find that the client adjusts a lot easier then expected. This is why I tailor make every session. There are no time limits on building rapport.
Once stage 8 has been completed then we would move on to other body areas.
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Price and duration to be discussed at consultation
Indian head massage
As the name gives away-Indian head massage first came about in India. Legends go back to the God Vishnu (God of preservation) & his consort Goddess Lakshmi (Goddess of prosperity).
This massage focuses on the upper back, shoulders, scalp and face. This actually really helps those who suffer from migraines and sleep disorders.
Massage is essential for all people in all stages of life-infants, housewives, the elderly, those who are not able bodied, body builders-anyone. Massage is actually a great alternative when people are unable to exercise.
IHM works on both physical and mental levels, it will help the immune system, nervous system, respitory system, endocrine system, circulation, skeletal, lymphatic and muscular systems. It will help you to relax which helps your body restore and renew. It is actually ideal for anyone who suffers from sleep disorders, migraines and more.
Things that IHM does:
-increases oxygen and glucose to the brain
-it balances the electro chemical which helps promote a healthy and long life
-relaxes the nervous system and eliminates fatigue which is caused by mental stress
—improves circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid which is life giving
-increases secretion of hormones that help us to grow and develop brain cells
-increases circulation of pranic energy-this is done by kneading and pressing the muscles which encourage toxins to leave the body. When that happens, the cells fill in its nutrients which strengthens the immune system and you will find your virility and vitality increases.
-reduces premature balding and hair loss as it encourages hair follicles to grow
-helps induce sleep
-using oils can help to calm and strengthen the brain and nervous system. The oil is absorbed by the hair roots which are connected to the nerve fibers that lead to the brain
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30 mins £35