Treatments
Before a treatment commences a full consultation is carried out. This is to establish information about yourself, your lifestyle, why you are coming and suitability for a treatment. After this I can suggest one or several treatments which would be most beneficial for your needs. A treatment typically takes an hour, however longer or shorter treatments can be arranged (please contact me to discuss this further).
A one off treatment is great but to get the most from a therapy it is recommended to try a course. I offer these at a reduction rate if payment is made at the time of the first treatment.
Treatments shortcuts:
- Aromatherapy Massage
- Reflexology
- Sports Massage
- Natural Lift Facial Massage
- Indian Head Massage
- Hot & Cold Stone Massage
- Hopi Ear Candles
- Holistic Massage
- Maternity Therapies
- Neal’s Yard Holistic Facial
- Usui Reiki
- General home care suggestions
Aromatherapy Massage
Using a synergistic blend of nature’s essential oils (no two blends are the same) combined with massage strokes to instil calm and relax your mind senses and spirit.
Aromatherapy Massage focuses on stimulating both the lymphatic and nervous systems to aid in a deep relaxation.
Aromatherapy in itself is a fine art as selecting suitable oils to blend together takes both time and experience. It is a fascinating subject which is constantly evolving.
Besides using in massage, aromatherapy can be used around the home bring the wonderful powers of nature into your living space. How relaxing is a hot bath with Lavender or a romantic bedroom filled with Neroli, Jasmine or Vetiver.
All oils used are natural, not ‘man-made’, and where possible organically sourced.
Conditions which benefit from Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can have a positive effect on many conditions, below is a small list of some.
- Anxiety and Stress
- Muscle soreness
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Oedema
- Asthma
- Digestive problems
- Hormonal in-balances
- Menstrual and Menopausal problems
- ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Infertility
*Please remember that essential oils are concentrated and should always be blended by a qualified Aromatherapist.
Reflexology
This therapy has a history which dates back to Ancient Egypt and China. It is based on the meridian theory, whereby the entire body is reflected on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hand.
By stimulating points of the feet we are able to support and maintain the fine balance between the organs of the body (homeostasis) with this simple but effective non evasive therapy.
As Reflexology invokes our own natural healing energy.
Reflexology can be carried out on all walks of life from newborn to the elderly and all can reap the many benefits.
Conditions which benefit from Reflexology
As Reflexology is an energy therapy the uses are endless, below are just a few.
- Stress, Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Hormonal in balances
- ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Constipation
- Flatulence
- Oedema
- Back pain
- Frozen Shoulder
- Headaches
- Hay Fever
- Nausea
- Sinusitis
- Ear & Eye disorders
- Blood pressure
- Morning sickness (Pregnancy)
- Infertility
Reflexology and Infertility
With today’s contraception’s and choices of waiting longer before trying for a baby, Reflexology can help in promoting fertility.
- Balancing the endocrine (hormone) system.
- Reducing stress. Women trying unsuccessfully to become pregnant may have levels of stress, in terms of anxiety and depression, equivalent to women with serious diseases. When we are under stress we experience several neuro-chemical changes which can alter the ordered release of hormones that regulate the maturation and release of an egg.
- Treating the spine and corresponding spinal nerves which affect the whole reproductive area.
- Testing and working on the psoas muscle, tightness of which can be a neglected cause of many pelvic problems.
- Using a lymphatic technique to stimulate the immune system, important particularly when considering the importance of healthy mucous membranes.
- Cleansing, particularly the large intestine and the liver.
- It is often helpful to treat both partners to make sure that we are achieving the optimum environment for conception to take place.
Please note that:
- Reflexology cannot guarantee a pregnancy.
- Reflexology cannot guarantee to unblock fallopian tubes.
- Reflexology cannot cure endometriosis.
- Reflexology cannot treat Chlamydia.
- Reflexology can create a healthy environment in which pregnancy can occur!
Sports Massage
Sports massage is based on Swedish massage, a technique that uses the application of pressure to manipulate soft tissue. Swedish massage was developed in the 1700s by Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish physiologist and fencing master, and involves the use of gliding strokes, kneading movements, circular pressure of the hand and fingers, vibratory movements, brisk tapping and bending and stretching.
Sports massage incorporates all of these Swedish massage movements, together with additional intensive techniques that are specifically designed to prevent and treat sports injuries.
Its aims are to improve the suppleness and flexibility of muscles and joints, improve blood circulation, speed up the healing of damaged or stressed muscles, tissues and joints, and prevent future muscle and tendon injuries.
Sports massage is good for releasing muscle tension and restoring balance to the musculoskeletal system. It reduces strain and discomfort caused by training or participating in sport, and it encourages the body to heal and repair any injuries sustained.
The main benefit of sports massage is that it improves muscle flexibility, blood circulation and reduces swelling, aids the prevention of sports injuries and assists the body with recovery and repair after sports and postural injuries have been sustained.
Natural Lift Facial Massage (Facial Rejuvenation)
This facial massage involves a sequence of massage techniques which act as a natural facelift with no need for surgery, helping you look (and often feel!) younger. We all have tension which builds up in our facial muscles and many of us would love to reduce wrinkles, so it’s not surprising that this is a very popular and sought-after treatment. The Japanese influence involves the facial meridians and can affect the balance of health in the whole body, as well as the specific flow of energy, or Ki, in the face.
Natural Lift Facial Massage is a special combination of massage techniques (Anma), the traditional system of massage in Japan, and Ayurveda. This system of facial massage is part of the ancient teachings of both India and Japan, and has been refined for the West over time. Natural Lift Facial Massage uses a combination of techniques to improve the complexion, remove toxins from the face, prevent and remove facial wrinkles and age spots and balance the emotions and ki, or life force, which helps to improve overall health. Natural Lift Facial Massage produces the equivalent of an acupuncture face-lift without the insertion of needles! Unlike facial surgery, Natural Lift Facial Massage has no ill side effects and is a very effective method of facial care.
The routine releases stresses and traumas locked deeply into the muscles and energy of the face, head and neck. Our face is often our mask, hiding who we really are, and it takes much energy to maintain this “front”. To experience dropping the mask can be the door to profound relaxation and inner ease.
The Benefits of Natural Lift Facial Massage
- Improve skin suppleness
- Reduce and release any muscle tension in the face and jaw
- Reduce expression lines and wrinkles
- Relieve stress symptoms such as insomnia, headaches and eye strain
- Tones and helps to tighten the skin and underlying muscle
- Stimulate rejuvenation and cellular activity
- Aid lymphatic circulation, increasing the elimination of toxins and the supply of nutrients to the cells
- Aid the removal of dead skin cells
- Maintain a fresh, youthful appearance
- Promote blood circulation
- Enhance mental and physical relaxation
- Make you feel fantastic!
Indian Head Massage
A unique massage which is seated and clothed, as the name suggests it originates from India and can be done either dry (most common) or with oils to help promote relaxation.
In India this treatment is most common and people receive it daily for any number of reasons. Here are some benefits from the treatment:
- General relaxation.
- Improved blood circulation.
- Improving lymphatic flow.
- Reducing muscular tension.
- Regenerating skin.
- Softens skin.
- Reduced stiffness in the neck and shoulder region.
- Stimulates nerve endings.
- Revitalises your natural energy.
- A quick fix in a busy day.
The treatment focuses on head, neck, shoulders and ending with face where tension is commonly stored.
Hot & Cold Stone Massage
The ancient healing art of stone therapy incorporated with massage strokes and pre-heated stones to allow deep relaxation and promote a meditative state of mind.
As the stones are heated this allows the treatment to work on a deeper level of the body and penetrate many of the soft tissues of the body which has a balancing effect on our energy flow (chi) bringing balance to the body and mind.
By using cold stones after the hot allows the body to regain balance before a treatment is concluded.
Stone have been a part of ceremonies all over the world for thousands of years but was introduced to spa treatments by Mary Nelson in 1993 and now practiced as a therapy to date.
Benefits from Hot & Cold Stone Massage
- Promotes release of tension in connective tissue.
- Increases circulation and elimination of waste products.
- Promotes relaxation.
- Reduces muscle spasms.
Hopi Ear Candles
Ear candles are an ancient and natural therapy handed down by many civilisations. They were used all over Asia, Siberian prairies and native America.
The candles are made of hollow tubes traditionally made from organically grown flax, extracts of honey, beeswax and herbs. Hopi ear candles provide a non-invasive treatment of the ears which are used to treat a variety of conditions in a practice often known as thermal auricular therapy.
- When lit, the ear candles have a slight sucking action often referred to as the chimney principle, drawing any impurities to the surface where they can be gently removed. The rising air inside the ear sets up a vibration which gently massages the eardrum. This is soothing, calming and protects the irritated areas. Most impurities or deposits are carried away through the candle "chimney", although some of them can be found in the lower section of the candle after removal from the ear, or some wax could even work its way up to the surface 24-48 hours after.
- Below are some benefits from using this therapy.
- Cleaning out excessive or compacted wax in the ears.
- Cleaning out yeast build up and dispelling fluid build up.
- Eliminating backed up mucus.
- Diminishing chronic sinusitis.
- Enhancing hearing, or even taste and smell.
- Relieving ear pain.
- Restoring equilibrium or pressure in the ear (for frequent flying, sports such as diving, etc.
- Noises in the ears, ringing, tinnitus.
Holistic Massage
The body is one and all the parts connect and related to each other, holistic massage focuses on the individual as a ‘whole’ and treats what is presented. Perfect for combating stress and fatigue.
Swedish massage was developed in the nineteenth century by the Swede Per Henrik Ling. It is a system of treatment using passive and active movements, manipulating the body's soft tissue to affect the muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments. This in turn aids the body's circulation and lymph flow, digestion, waste removal and neural communication.
Maternity Therapies
Pregnancy in general is a wonderful period of a woman’s life, the use of complementary therapies can help with some of the minor symptoms which may occur.
During pregnancy, your body will go through significant changes; these changes will affect the emotional, hormonal and physiological balance of your body. By having regular treatments we can help with many of the minor symptoms of pregnancy including;
- Stress and anxiety
- Energy levels
- Physiological discomforts
- Heartburn
- Relieve backache
- Nausea and vomiting
- High blood pressure
- Oedema (swelling, mainly of feet and ankles)
- Ligament and groin pain
- Symphysis pubis dysfunction
- Sciatica
- Constipation
- Cystitis
- Insomnia and sleep problems
- Post-natal, bringing the body back into balance once more after birth.
I currently offer the following treatments;
Maternity Massage
As there are many changes happening in the body and with additional weight being carried massage is an excellent way to help free up muscle tension, creating space in the body and de-stresses.
The art of touch is the simplest form of relaxation for anyone and during pregnancy is essential for both the mother and baby.
During the later stages of the pregnancy massage is excellent to help ease muscle tension in particular the shoulders and sacral areas (using a combination of physical and energetic work), giving both the mother and baby space in the body while aiding in preparation for birth.
Treatments incorporate side lying positions (depending on how you feel) along with slow deep strokes followed with energy work to focus on both you and your babies wellbeing.
Maternity Aromatherapy Massage
The incorporation of a safe and synergistic blend of aromatic oils to help with relaxation and any symptoms which the mother may be experiencing. Again a full consultation is carried out with a less diluted blend than usual applied.
Maternity Reflexology
Maternity Reflexology is aimed specifically at women during pre-conception, pregnancy, labour and the post-natal period.
Reflexology can help to alleviate or prevent discomfort arising from imbalances caused during pregnancy and restore the body’s equilibrium.
Research has shown that regular reflexology treatments during pregnancy can shorten the duration of labour, with many women requiring less pain-relief.
** Please note that Complementary therapies in general are safe to use in the first trimester however if there is a history of vaginal bleeding, miscarriages or so other factors it would be considered wise to wait until the 2nd trimester (12 weeks onwards) before commencing a course of treatments.
Neal’s Yard Holistic Facial
At Neal’s Yard we believe that beauty comes from within and reflects what is going on inside the body.
After a consultation and skin analysis is followed by a personalised cleanse, tone, exfoliate, and moisturise using organic products. Leaving the skin replenished and refreshed.
This is a holistic therapy and no extraction is carried out.
Usui Reiki
The practice of Reiki is an original method of healing, developed by Mikao Usui in Japan early in the 20th century, which is activated by intention. Reiki’s natural healing energy works on every level, not just the physical, and promotes the body’s regenerative self healing ability.
The Japanese word Reiki means ‘Universal Energy’. Eastern medicine has always recognised and worked with this energy, which flows through all living things and is vital to well-being. Known as ‘ki’ in Japan, ‘chi’ in China and ‘prana’ in India. Acupuncture, T’ai chi and Yoga are also based on the free-flow of this energy in a person.
Reiki is a non-invasive therapy whose purpose is to treat holistically and to restore homeostasis.
The energy of Reiki can be used to great effect in many ways. Whether one is suffering from stress or tension, and the many symptoms associated with this, or wishing to improve the quality of relationships at home or work, the beneficial effects of Reiki occur on many levels. Reiki can accelerate the healing of physical problems, balance the emotions, and free us from restrictive mental attitudes. It may also provide a closer connection with inner wisdom.
Reiki encourages and supports positive personal change such as improving the diet, having more rest, exercise or leisure time, and may reduce the need for alcohol and tobacco. Reiki can allow us to respond more calmly to all events, and build on a more resourceful state of being. Reiki is a gentle energy and may be used safely by all ages, including the newborn, pregnant mothers, surgical patients, the frail and the elderly, regardless of their state of health. Reiki can enhance everyday life, and regular sessions help to ward-off illness and fatigue.
Reiki is a non-invasive therapy that can be used without fear of any side-effects or overdose. It may be used with confidence alongside conventional medication or natural remedies because it acts in a complementary way.
General home care suggestions
To make sure you get the most from your treatment it would be wise to consider some of the following
Drink more water. As water is important to our bodies, increasing your consumption of fluids can prevent dehydration, headaches, nausea and promote the elimination of toxins.
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours after a treatment, as your body is eliminating toxins already in the body it would be wise to avoid adding more (this can also apply to smoking, if possible try and refrain from smoking as many cigarettes).
Avoid driving immediately afterwards.
Look at your diet, eating less red meat can have a positive affects and help maintain the positive effects of a treatment. Current government recommends five portions a day of fruit and vegetables for a healthy body.
If possible incorporate some exercise routines into your day; this could have a positive affect on your psychological and physical being. In some cases please consult your GP first.
If working in an office take breaks during the day to get away from the computer and stretch your legs and mind.
Look at your workspace, are the ergonomics appropriate to your needs?
Look at your lifestyle, maybe you can develop a more holistic and balanced life (there are many books available for you to read).