Massage Therapies
Massage
Massage can be defined as the systematic and manual manipulation of the body’s soft tissue for therapeutic purposes promoting health and well-being.
Massage has evolved from a combination of Eastern and Western traditions. By far the greatest advancement of therapeutic massage recorded in history was by a Swedish physiologist named Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839), who created a scientific system of massage movements and techniques known as Swedish Massage. This consists of five basic strokes: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, tapotement (percussion), and vibration, though all of these strokes are not used on every part of the body.
Most massage therapists use Swedish Massage as the foundation for a treatment and add in various other techniques, depending upon their training and experience, to address the specific needs of the client. In general, the manipulation of the body’s soft tissue (i.e. the skin, muscles, tendons, and ligaments) using the hands and fingers is a gentle process using varying degrees of pressure and stretching movements. It is most commonly used for relaxation and improving well-being.
A typical session lasts for about one hour, therapists may offer shorter sessions for treating specific areas such as backs, shoulders and necks or any areas giving discomfort, aches or pains. During the initial consultation clients are asked about their general well-being, injuries and medical conditions, in order to determine if there are any contra-indications ( conditions and or problems that would prohibit or limit a massage treatment, or may need GP approval).
The client is asked to undress, usually to their underwear( although some techniques can be applied when the client is fully clothed), and to lie on the treatment couch under a large towel (draping). During the session, the therapist will utilise the draping to expose only those parts of the body to which treatment is being applied. No body part or area will be massaged without the client’s permission. If in discomfort or hurting, the client should feel free to ask the therapist to modify their treatment, but equally if a firmer touch is preferred the therapist can be advised accordingly.
Sports Massage
The main purpose of sports massage is to help alleviate the stress, muscular aches and pains which builds up in the body’s soft tissues as a result of training, competition, or general physical activity. It can help prevent those on going injuries that frequently adversely affect get performance and achievement, irrespective of whether one is an athlete, or just enjoys general exercise and leisure activities.
Sports massage tends to be deeper and more intense. The basis of the technique is a combination of Swedish massage with other techniques involving stretching, compression, and trigger point therapy. The therapist may also offer advice on training , posture and rehabilitative exercises.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) helps to rid the body of toxins and excess lymph by stimulating the body’s lymphatic system using specific massage techniques.
The lymphatic system is a vital part of our immune system whose function is to drain, transport, filter and remove broken down foreign substances and waste from our tissue.
This gentle massage-like technique gently moves lymph towards the lymph nodes, where the body can dispose of the waste more easily. The technique is also effective in releasing blockages in the lymphatic system, which can cause oedema (swelling of the tissues) and therefore boost the immune system
Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage has been practised in India for over 1000 years. Traditionally the techniques were restricted to the head and hair, nowadays however, the therapy incorporate the upper back, shoulders, neck, upper arms and face.
Treatment can provide relief from tension and stress symptoms and induce a state of calm, peace and relaxation, it also provides relief from aches and pains, promotes blood flow to the head neck and shoulders, and helps induce a feeling of well-being.
General benefits of massage include:
- General and specific relaxation of muscles.
- Trigger points and adhesions can be relaxed or broken down.
- Relaxation of the mind and body.
- Dispersal of toxins and lactic acid from tired, tense, or spasmed muscles
- Improved circulation of blood to the head, neck and shoulder area
- Stimulation of the lymphatic system.
- Relief from eyestrain and tension headaches.
- Alleviates mental tiredness and tension, and improves concentration
What will happen on my first visit?
The session will begin with the practitioner taking a full lifestyle, and medical history, followed by a detailed description of any presenting conditions that may need treating, as well as any specific treatment goals and requests. Providing that there are no medical reasons that would prevent treatment the practitioner will then discuss with you, and formulate a specific treatment plan tailored to your needs. If during the consultation, it is deemed inappropriate for you to receive treatment, you will be advised of this and may be referred to an alternative practitioner of a more suitable technique, or in some cases back to your GP.
For massage and sports massage the patient usually undresses to their underwear, lies on the couch, and is then covered by towels. Only the specific area that is being worked on is then exposed, with treatment complete on that area it is then re covered by the towel. A treatment can last up to 90 minutes for a full body session or if only a small area needs to be worked on such as neck and shoulders this could be reduced to 30 minutes.
For Indian Head massage the therapy is performed with the client in a seated position, usually through light clothing and usually lasts for 30 minutes. The therapist uses a range of different massage techniques and pressure to stimulate the head, neck, and upper back and shoulder area.
Neil Beaufoy – Natural Balance
MSc – MRNT – MAST – ASTT – MBIAET – ITEC – MREP – MBCMA – MBTPA – LC.Lic – MBSD – BSYA – CNHC Registered
Neil has more than 15 years experience in the practice of alternative and complementary therapy. He founded Natural Balance, which has become an extremely successful and busy clinic over the years. Having treated more than 20,000 patients, Neil’s reputation and expertise is fast growing. Neil studied human biology at Oxford, gained a master’s degree in Nutrition, and has added systematically to his expertise through continued education and expansion in many therapies each and every year.
Neil is committed to helping patients to return to optimum health as quickly as possible, and provides an environment that puts the patients’ needs first. Neil has built up a formidable support network with links to local medical centres and other alternative practitioners, providing a comprehensive approach to healthcare, and placing the patients’ requirements as the primary concern.
Melinda Beaufoy – Natural Balance
BSc(Hon) – MBCMA – MALTT – MBTPA – LC Lic – BSYA (CI)- BSYA (Ad Col) – NHS Registered – CNHC Registered
Melinda is a well-established and experienced complementary therapist, Alexander Technique teacher, Yoga Therapist, and Yoga instructor. Her extensive studies at various institutions gained her numerous high standard qualifications, and she is still continually adding to her portfolio.
She is a member of the British Complementary Medicine Association, the Association of Light Touch Therapists, the Bowen Therapists’ European Register, and is registered with the NHS Directory of Complementary and Alternative Practitioners.
Melinda provides a safe, relaxed, positive and trusting environment for clients who seek the many benefits complementary therapies and Yoga have to offer, and hopes that her commitment will bring them relief and joy, and help them move forward in a way that is most appropriate for them.