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HOLISTIC MASSAGE THERAPY
The therapy offered is one of a complimentary nature, provided in conjuncion with the traditional methods of health-care professions.
In accordance with the holistic philosophy, which views health as a balance of the mind, the body and spirit, holistic massage integrates these aspects of life with established techniques of massage into a dynamic health process. The body is viewed as a dynamic energy system affected directly by environmental and social factors.
Massage is basically the manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic purposes. Holistic massage closely follows the principles of Swedish massage but oil is used instead of talc.
Holistic massage has both a physiological and a psychological effect. It incorporates therapeutic touch also known as the "laying on of hands". Human beings are energy fields and health is a manifestation of the free flow of this vital energy through the body. When there are problems with this energy flow ill-health results. The holistic practitioner attempts to restore symmetry to the field allowing the body to work to wholeness again. Whilst this can sound very fanciful the idea is based on quantum mechanics that assumes that all living things are part of a greater whole joined by a flow of vital energy. Physically, the benefits of massage include relaxing and toning your muscles; assisting venous flow of blood; increasing the haemoglobin level; encouraging the lymphatic flow; and stretching the connective tissue of joints. High blood pressure, asthma, constipation, anxiety, stress and depression can respond to massage. The pain of arthritic conditions, muscular strain and sciatica have been relieved by gentle massage. It induces relaxation and is very suited to stress and anxiety related problems. On a psychological level a caring massage creates feelings of well-being, trust and elation. Spiritually the client can attain a sense of heightened awareness akin to the experience of meditation.
Massage is not suitable for everyone. Prior to treatment you will be asked a number of questions in relation to your medical history. If any contra-indications are evident treatment may be declined. If you are already receiving medical treatment your doctor should be consulted before massage therapy is provided. Any areas of unexplained inflammation, pain or undulations should first be diagnosed by a suitably qualified medical person.
You will be asked what you hope to benefit from the treatment. Specific aches, pains and problem areas will be identified. The treatment room will be warm and comfortable. Gentle music may be heard in the background. The therapist will leave the room while you get undressed and lie face down on the treatment couch having covered yourself with a large towel. The therapist will return and use other towels to ensure that you are kept warm and are properly covered. Only the part of your body that is being worked on will be uncovered at any one time. The towel technique is such that the client's dignity is preserved at all times.
Generally the back is worked upon first, moving then to the shoulders and neck. The legs are then treated by which time the client is normally in a state of deep relaxation. The client will then be asked to turn over and will be fully covered by the large towel as you do so. Your arms and hands will be treated followed by shoulders and upper chest, the abdomen and then the front of your legs. The treatment will be finalised at the neck and head. You will feel relaxed yet up-lifted. The therapist will leave the room allowing you to enjoy the immediate benefit of the massage in private.
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