Massage
A very brief history.Massage is possibly the oldest way of healing known to man, and has been practised for at least five thousand years, in many cultures. Five hundred years before Christ, Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine", wrote that the way to health was to have "a scented bath and an oiled massage each day".
Modern massage is based upon the work and techniques developed by Per Henrik Ling in the early nineteenth century. Per Henrik was from Sweden, and massage continues to be known as "Swedish massage" because of his influence. Different cultures have produced their own systems of massage, and many are available thanks to a general increased awareness of complementary therapies, but Swedish massage remains the basis for most practice in the UK.
So why "Holistic" ?Essentially in recognition that massage can be beneficial to all body systems, and can effectively help both physical conditions and psychological problems, treating individuals in the context of their own life.
How might it help ?The most common, and most effective, use of massage is to relax the body and mind, and thus ease the strains and
stress of daily life.
Massage has many physiological benefits across all body systems, a few examples being improvements to:
skin tone, circulation, breathing, tired muscles, stiff joints, sleep quality, lymphatic drainage, digestion and waste removal.
Mentally, on a psychological and emotional level, the calm and soothing effects of massage can help people deal with
Anxiety or
Depression.
Body-image, awareness, and general Self-esteem can all benefit.
Anything Else ?Yes, and very important. Massage should not be seen as a treatment for any specific disease, or as a
substitute for conventional medical treatment. I, or your regular Masseur/Masseuse will talk to you about any conditions which may be contra-indications to massage, but if you are in any doubt, I would suggest you consult your GP.
About me... I had been interested in massage for many years, and successfully "practising" in an informal way on family and friends. I eventually decided to take an appropriate course and (hopefully) become a qualified Masseur. I succeeded in this, and ever since have been making my way as a qualified practitioner of Holistic Massage.
My treatmentI offer a full body massage. Your first appointment will be approximately 90 minutes, which will include a few minutes preliminary consultation, and 75 to 80 minutes for the massage itself. Subsequent appointments will be 75 - 80 minutes.
The cost
£40 per session.
