Therapeutic massage
Therapeutic massage combines a wide range of techniques and is done directly on the skin using oil, wax or cream. The treatments can cover the whole body for general relaxation and to settle the nervous system or may focus on specific areas that are causing problems.
Relaxation massage works to calm the nervous system using repetitive strokes in combination with the breath allowing the client to settle into a deeper and deeper state of relaxation. Many clients drift in and out of a comfortable and restful state during the treatment. Relaxation treatments are effective because they lower the level of stress within the body, easing tighter muscles and joints, supporting better flow of blood to the muscles, and as a consequence, the balance in the body is better restored.
Therapeutic massage may feel stronger to receive at times. The sensations can feel achey or bruised or sharp for short periods of time as the stuck muscle fibres are opened and released. Deeper work into the muscles and the fascia is done in conjunction with the client so it is an active process, taking time to work in slowly and at a manageable level for the client, to ensure they feel safe and listened to. After specific areas are worked we move to lighter and more broader strokes to allow the body to integrate the work done and relax the body.
As we work into the problematic areas causing discomfort or affecting the range of movement we will find trigger points within the muscles and fascia which cause pain to a localised area or refer to other predictable areas in the body. Time is spent releasing these trigger points, guided by the client.
Click on Myofascial Release and Trigger points for detailed information.
