Frequently asked questions

 

What should I wear / what do I need to take off?

 

This depends on the treatment you have booked.

 

Classic (Swedish) massage involves using oils on bare skin, so the area being worked on needs to be revealed.

 

• For a Back, neck and shoulder massage, you would need to remove your top.  It would be helpful to wear loose fitting clothing on your lower half, that can be pushed down to your hips.  This then enables the therapist to access your lower back.

 

• For a Lower leg and foot massage, it is helpful to wear clothing that can be rolled or pulled up to expose the knees.  You would need to remove footwear and tights/socks.

 

• For a 60 minute body massage you would need to remove everything except underwear.  During the massage you would be fully covered with large towels and only the area currently being worked on would be exposed.  This helps to preserve your modesty and keep you warm during the treatment. 

 

Lymphatic Drainage massage - see '60 minute body massage' above.

 

Indian Head massage - as this massage includes the upper back you would need to expose that area, either by wearing a tube type top, or removing your top and being wrapped in a towel.

 

Sound massage - this massage is performed with the client fully clothed.  I would recommend wearing comfortable clothes.

What is Swedish (or Classic) Massage?

 

The term Swedish (or Classic) massage covers a range of techniques designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and moving in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.  

 

The development of massage in the West is often credited to Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) as his system of medical gymnastics included passive movements and manipulations performed by a therapist.   The massage techniques  of effleurage (long, gliding strokes), petrissage (lifting and kneading the muscles), friction (firm, deep, circular rubbing movements), tapotement (brisk tapping or percussive movements), and vibration (rapidly shaking or vibrating specific muscles) are largely credited to Dutch doctor Johann Georg Mezger (1838–1909).

 

The benefits of massage include: improved skin tone, circulation and elasticity, encourages deeper more relaxed breathing, encourages better lymph drainage, reduces swelling, boosts immunity, relieves muscle fatigue, soreness, tension and stiffness, relieves tired and stretched joints, promotes general relaxation there by reducing stress, relaxes the mind, encourages better sleep, improved muscle suppleness, relax the nervous system.

 

The client is covered with towels or blankets at all times which are turned back to reveal the area to be massaged. Oils are used throughout the treatment.

What is Indian Head Massage?

 

This treatment has evolved from traditional Ayurvedic healing.  It involves massage to the neck, shoulders, upper back, upper arms, scalp and face.  

It helps to relieve muscular tension and stiffness, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

 

The use of oils is optional in this treatment.

What is MLD Massage? 

 

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a series of techniques which gently support the optimal functioning of the lymphatic vessels.  The resulting massage is very different to the classic Swedish massage, as the techniques used are different and the pressure is incredibly light.  

 

This treatment is recommended for people who lead sedentary lifestyles, or those who want to reduce puffiness in their legs and ankles.

 

The client is covered with towels or blankets at all times which are turned back to reveal the area to be massaged. No oils are used in this treatment.

What is Sound Massage? 

 

Sound massage involves the playing of singing bowls on and around the client.  The vibrations produced permeate the tissues of the body and encourage muscle relaxation.  The soothing sound of the bowls helps the client achieve a relaxed or meditative state of mind with minimal effort.

 

The benefits include: deep relaxation, perceived reduction in anxiety and depressed mood, stress reduction, reduction in reported physical pain and fatigue, lowering of blood pressure.

 

The client is fully clothed for this treatment.