Massage, a manual technique, aids healing and eases muscle tension, commonly complemented by trigger point therapy. It involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body to alleviate discomfort, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being.
Swedish massage, a widely practised therapy, aims to induce relaxation, alleviate stress, and relieve pain. The Swedish technique incorporates five fundamental strokes: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, tapotement (percussion), and vibration. Not all strokes are applied to every part of the body.
Deep tissue massage focuses on chronic muscle tension deep within the body. Techniques involve slow strokes, direct pressure, or friction movements that work across the muscle grain. Here our therapists utilise slower, firmer strokes with hands, knuckles, elbows, and sometimes forearms applying pressure against muscle grain, targeting tight knots and tension points for relief.
Stretch massage enhances overall circulation by applying gentle elongating force to muscles and connective tissues. It also improves lymphatic drainage through manual techniques, ensuring comfort throughout the treatment session. Stretching is prescribed to increase muscle length and ROM, or to align collagen fibres during healing muscle.
Aromatherapy involves incorporating scented essential oils into a massage, alternating between gentle and firm pressure. Essential oils are diluted and applied with lotion during the massage session for enhanced relaxation and therapeutic benefits. Essential oils are carefully selected and applied during the massage session to address particular health concerns.
Massage therapy offers relief from chronic illness-related pain and anxiety, like cancer, and alleviates stress burden. It is is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for various conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, and stress-related disorders.