Holistic massage

20 September, 2011

This involves a variety of techniques designed to relax muscles, increase oxygen in the blood and release toxins from muscles.

Stroking in the direction of the heart stimulates circulation and flushes the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes, all of which help shorten recovery time after muscle strain. As well as providing specific medical benefits, holistic massage improves general health and wellbeing, massage induces relaxation and a sense of well-being by stimulating nerve endings in the skin.

They in turn trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural opiates or ‘feel good’ chemicals and inhibiting stress hormones. It also acts on the circulation to supply more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and improve skin tone, and stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away waste products that can cause pain and stiffness in muscles and joints.

What conditions is it used for?

The aim of therapeutic massage is to induce physical and mental relaxation and promote well-being by stroking, kneading or pressing the soft tissues of the body. It can help relieve acute, painful conditions such as frozen shoulder, repetitive strain injury and sciatica.

There is now a considerable body of evidence that shows the benefits of regular massage in the relief of stress and associated symptoms such as anxiety, depression, headaches and insomnia. Massage also works well alongside other therapies and can provide support throughout pregnancy and after giving birth.

What to expect

Session usually last 45 minutes to an hour. For this type of full body massage you will be expected to strip down to your underwear. Your therapist will cover those parts of the body not being worked on with a towel or other covering. A variety of techniques may be used to relax muscles, increase oxygen in the blood and release toxins from muscles. It can stimulate the circulation and flushes the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes, all of which help shorten recovery time after muscle strain.