Types of Massages


R
ELAXATION (SWEDISH) MASSAGE


A gentle therapeutic massage consisting of continuous effleurage strokes with kneading and stretching of tight muscles that aims at reducing stress levels, stretches and tones muscles, relaxing the body and assisting the body to maintain homeostasis. Involves the use of aromatherapy oils and takes about one hour for a full body massage but can be longer if requested.

SPORTS (THERAPEUTIC) MASSAGE

This is generally a massage technique that assists to condition athletes before and after physical activity, and to help loosen and stretch muscles. It involves the use of deep effleurage and petrissage to the muscles which can result in the improved performance by the athlete. Regular sports massage can help speed up recovery, lower stress levels, promote greater endurance and flexibility, assists in injury prevention and enhances body awareness.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Is generally slower than Swedish massage but goes deeper into the muscles and connective tissue to release chronic tension which might have developed from injuries or overuse. Deep tissue techniques can vary depending on the part of the body being massaged and can sometimes be painful.

LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE


This is a light, rhythmical massage that assists the natural flow of lymph through the superficial lymph system. This system has two main functions. One is it transports excess intercellular fluid back to the cardiovascular system. The other is to remove toxins and to prevent disease by treatment of pathogens in the lymph nodes. This system can become sluggish due to immobility, illness or excess muscle tension. This can produce feelings of lethargy and a decreased immune system response.

The aim of this massage is to promote the flow of lymph, and bring about an increased level of alertness and an improved feeling of wellness.

This type of massage can be a bit confronting the first time but the results are amazing, giving the receiver a renewed lease on life. It is well worth the experience and improvement in your wellness

PREGNANCY MASSAGE - Mums to Be - As Happy as Can Be

The increased physiological and emotional stresses of pregnancy can contribute to a woman feeling uncomfortable, fatigued and unable to cope with usual day to day activities. Regular massage promotes well-being, soothes and relaxes the mother so she may sleep more easily and more deeply. A relaxed mother will enjoy her pregnancy more and possibly have an easier birthing experience too!

This type of massage service can be continued into the birthing suite and then throughout the postpartum period to assist in returning back to a normal life with a baby and help to avoid issues with the baby blues

Pregnancy massage involves the use of Swedish massage to relax the pregnant lady and to gain control of her current state. It is aimed at reducing the aches and pains that she experiences as her pregnancy advances, and gives her back control of how she wishes to feel, and the ability to enjoy her pregnancy. It may be considered as a return to the natural way of child birth free largely of the need for drugs. It ensures that the mother is relaxed and stress free, flexible but still has toned muscles, and healthy. Massage can also help to reduce the effects of stretch marks after you child is born, and enabling you a quicker return to normal life.

To enhance this, other massage modalities (see above) can also be used along with essential oils

The mother to be is also instructed on how she can better care for her body through self massage and exercise, and how to prepare herself for the birth of her child. She will be provided with self massage sheet for her shoulders, breasts, legs and feet.

This is all done in conjunction with the approval by your own medical practitioner to ensure the absolute best for both herself and her baby.

BABY MASSAGE

It has been shown through medical research that baby massage makes them grow faster, and helps them to sleep better. If it is done on a regular daily basis, they will be healthier and happier babies.

Baby massage involves a moderate level of pressure to caress their skin in a stroking pattern over their body. This process also enhances the bonds that are developed between baby and parent, as massage stimulates the release of endorphins which produce a feeling of well being and act as a natural opiates reducing pain.

It also reduces muscle tension, accelerates the natural development of the skeletal system and improves the functioning of the immune and autonomic nervous systems.

Massage improves the function of a baby’s brain, heart and liver through enhanced circulation and flow of blood. It strengthens gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts enhancing the assimilation of nutrients and lessens symptoms of gas and colic.

If your baby is relaxed and sleeping, then so will you.