Holistic Massage
About massage
Touch is a primary human need and massage is rooted in human culture with evidence that it was being practiced as far back as 3,000 BC in China. Sacred ancient Hindu texts include massage in hygiene and wellbeing guidelines, and Egyptian tombs also contain evidence of massage being part of their culture. Massage was also very important to Roman citizens.
There are many different forms of massage with their own techniques. Here at Yorkshire Body Clinic we offer a holistic massage using primarily Swedish massage techniques.
What are the benefits of massage?
Benefits may include:*
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Relief from stress, anxiety and tension
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Feelings of deep relaxation
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Improved mood
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Improved sleep
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A general sense of wellbeing
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Your body responds to massage both physically and psychologically
What happens during a treatment?
To ensure your continued well-being, all treatments begin with a full confidential consultation. This enables me to ensure massage is right for you and to prepare a suitable treatment plan. It also gives you a chance to ask any questions. If you choose a holistic massage we will first discuss the areas to be treated. Your comfort is always fully considered, and during treatment you will be covered with towels or a blanket for comfort and warmth, with only the area being treated exposed. Although I do not blend and use essential oils for this massage (see Aromatherapy) I will take care to select the most appropriate carrier oil (or blend of carrier oils) for you. I also base and adapt your treatment on the information you provide to me in consultation.
How long is a session?
At Yorkshire Body Clinic we offer a range of massage appointments so you can choose the best one for your needs and time availability. The current choice is 75 minutes, 60 minutes (full body), 45 minutes or 30 minutes. Please note that the appointment time includes consultation, changing and aftercare advice.
How many treatments will I need?
No two people or treatments will be the same and it depends on whether the treatment is for remedial purposes to address specific concerns, or as part of a health maintenance and/or stress relief programme. For remedial purposes an initial course would generally be recommended, whilst a session every 4 to 6 weeks should be sufficient for non remedial purposes.
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Your therapist will have based and adapted your treatment on information provided in consultation and it is recommended that you drink plenty of water the day of treatment and the previous and following day to minimise the chance of more uncomfortable responses. Aftercare advice will be given after each session, including some reflex points for you to work on your face or hands between sessions if appropriate.
How will I feel after a treatment?
As massage and other complementary therapies promote the body’s own healing mechanisms some type of response is generally expected. For many people this will be a sensation of well-being and feeling extremely relaxed, energised or rejuvenated after the session. Again however, everybody is different and some people may experience other responses such as feeling cold or emotional or nauseous. These are also signs that the healing process has begun and will usually dissipate within 24 – 48 hours.
I will go through full aftercare requirements at the end of the session but to gain maximum benefit from your massage, and minimise the chance of more uncomfortable responses, it is advisable to drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol for around 24 hours.
Can everyone enjoy massage?
This therapy is suitable for most adults but there are certain conditions where massage should be avoided or your doctor’s consent may be required before treatment can commence, for example if you have high blood pressure. If you are unsure whether this will apply to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.