Massage in Bevendean, Brighton

If you live in Bevendean, Brighton, come visit us at Natural Balance Therapies for a great massage experience. Brighton, a relatively small city on the south coast, is fast becoming the UK’s number one centre for therapeutic massage. Well known for its progressive open-minded population, the city now has a high density of massage centres and massage schools offering a wide range of services from clinical massage to pampering spas. Whilst not completely scientific if you compare the number of listings on Yelp for say Manchester vs Brighton, Manchester lists 1 massage business per 5000 population compared to Brighton’s 1 per 2000 population – a significant difference. Several of the UK’s top massage schools are based here including the Jing Institute and The College of Classical Massage. The University of Brighton also runs a Foundation Degree in Complementary Healthcare, a 2-year full time course which includes advanced clinical massage in its syllabus. So, what makes massage so popular in Brighton? Well in part it is the open-minded population (remember this was the first city to elect a Green MP to Westminster) who are pro ‘natural’ solutions that focus on preventative wellbeing rather than reactive ‘traditional’ medicine.

What is massage therapy?

The main focus of massage therapy is to heal the mind and body through the healing power of touch, manipulation and relaxation. Historically, it has been believed that the physical changes that are made to soft tissues and muscles were the driving force for the healing effects of massage therapy.

Recent research suggests that the interaction with the nervous system during massage is the primary cause of physical changes, including muscle relaxation. During massage, feel-good hormones including endorphins are released and can improve health and well-being. There are different approaches to massage therapy, offering different benefits, including shiatsu, Swedish and deep tissue massage.

Why is massage therapy important for your well-being?

Massage therapy can help the whole body by reducing stress and anxiety. This can have the effect of improving your sleep, enhancing your immune system, and make you more resistant to illness and disease. It can also work more precisely, improving mobility, posture and muscle-related aches and pains, making movement easier and reducing the risk of injury.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

Massage therapy can positively influence your physical and emotional state and psychological well-being. On the physical side, massage can change our body systems including the cardiovascular, fascial, lymphatic, muscular, endocrine, digestive and nervous systems. Therefore, the benefits are diverse and range from reducing our perceptions of stress and anxiety, to reducing physical pain, to making us more flexible and less likely to get injured. This can mean that you sleep better, feel happier, get sick less often, and feel more in control of your life. Massage offers the most benefits when you have regular sessions to prevent issues and maintain a good level of physical and emotional health.

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis

Acute inflammation does not normally benefit from direct massage, but may improve with gentle stroking, through reduced pain and swelling.

Stress Relief and Associated Conditions

Stress can damage our bodies, causing muscles to contract, and releasing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Such reactions can be helpful in the short term but they can cause poor health over time. Massage has been shown to alleviate some of these problems.

Headaches and Migraines

Massage therapy has effectively treated both tension headaches and migraines as these are often caused by referred pain from the muscles of the neck and shoulders.

Muscle and Related Conditions such as Spasms, Strains and Sprains

Muscle contraction and spasm can happen for many reasons including mineral deficiency, dehydration, fatigue, and injury. Gentle massage to promote the flow of blood can help to reverse this. Fibre injury due to overuse and overloading can cause muscle strain or ligament sprain. Massage is not suitable when the injury is swollen or painful. But once it is no longer painful, massage can help decrease sensitivity and encourage movement.

Back Pain

Back pain is a very common reason people visit their doctor. While there are many causes for back pain, in most cases, the pain is not severe and is typically caused by overworking the muscles. Massage can be extremely beneficial in helping the muscle to relax and become desensitised.

Repetitive Strain Injury

Pain caused by repetitive movement or overuse of the muscles, tendons, and nerves is known as repetitive strain injury or RSI. It is prevalent in work, sports or activities that involve a repetitive action. This disorder may affect the forearms, elbows, wrists, and other upper body areas. Like any overuse injury, massage may help manage the pain, although any relief may be temporary without eliminating the cause.

Circulatory and Respiratory Problems

Massage can boost circulation in the body and can help with symptoms such as cold hands, cold feet, and swelling at the extremities. When used for a circulatory and respiratory condition, it is important to get approval from a doctor as there are occasions when massage is not ideal for these conditions.

Pregnancy and Labour Discomfort

Pregnancy massage is available from 16 weeks up to the full term and can really help with a variety of issues including lower back pain, headaches, swelling and stress.

Post-injury and Post-surgical Rehabilitation

When the body is injured, it goes into a protective state. This typically means that muscles close to the injury are sensitive and movement becomes restricted. Massage therapy aims to reverse these two states and help the body return to normal. If you are still under the care of a doctor, get approval before trying any complementary therapies.

How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?

Massage therapy is helpful in managing back pain. A variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, can help to lower hypersensitivity and increase range of motion. Improved movement and blood flow can both minimise recovery time after an injury and promote healing by delivering nutrients to the muscles and connective tissue. Relaxing the muscle increases strength, decreases muscle spasm-related pain and even improves sleep. In a study on non-drug treatment by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2016, 20 massage cases and regular treatments were compared and it was discovered that massage therapy can be very effective in the treatment of chronic low back pain. However, the data was inadequate and emphasised the need for further research. That said, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to support using Massage Therapy to treat back pain.

Massage Therapies we Offer near Bevendean

We offer more than 20 different types of massage care. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one would benefit you the most. However, your choice will depend a lot on your treatment and personal preference but don’t hesitate to get in touch if you want help in choosing.

Full Body Massage

Apart from the back, neck and shoulder massage, the full body is another of our popular choice. Full body massage typically includes the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen and chest (for men). While full body massage does not cover the female breasts, it can include the neckline, from the collarbone down to where the breasts begin.

However, not all of these areas need to be considered, and some clients may have areas such as feet or abdomen that are too sensitive to massage. It is an individual process and it is extremely important to feel completely relaxed, that is why the treatments are always personalised accordingly. Each of our massages can be performed as a full body massage with a few exceptions

Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage

The back, neck and shoulders are, without a doubt, the most popular areas to be chosen for massage as we all hold physical and emotional tension here.

Muscles in these areas tend to shorten after spending hours from hours on the computer or phone, due to tiredness and stress, or after physical exercises, such as tennis or swimming. This shortening can lead to neck stiffness or tension headaches if left untreated. An integral part of our massage services is the back, neck, and shoulder massage.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep pressure is applied using the therapist’s thumbs, forearms and elbows, helping to stretch out muscles that are shortened and tense. It may feel uncomfortable and deeper is not always better, but a professional therapist will be able to exert a therapeutic but relaxing pressure. Whether you’ve overdone it at the gym or work long hours at a computer, this treatment will help free up your body and improve flexibility. If you suffer from stiff shoulders, tight hamstrings or pain in the lower back, deep tissue massage can help ease your body.

Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!

Contact us Book Online

Californian Massage

Californian massage unites many of the recipient’s senses. The massage involves systematic and gradual motions of gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed in the 1970s during a personal growth workshop at the Esalen Institute® in Big Sur, California. It is more than a way to relax; it is also intended to help the recipient reconnect with his/her body.

Chavutti Thirumal Massage

Chavutti Thirumal is a type of full body massage that requires using warm oils and the feet to apply pressure. This form of massage dates back over 2,000 years and comes from the era of the Kalari martial arts, which is from Kerala on India’s southern coast. In the local Malayalam dialect, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “massage by foot pressure”. It was meant to help maintain flexibility in the body and to relieve pain and swelling. However, it is also suitable for the treatment of people who do not exercise regularly or strenuously and want to maintain their physical fitness and well-being.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage is a therapeutic or clinical massage that aims to resolve a particular issue, usually muscular pain. However, this massage can also help with poor posture, limited mobility, and sports performance. Remedial massage is sometimes called medical massage, but this term is incorrect because it suggests that the therapist has medical qualification; therefore, it is not generally used in the UK. It is more commonly called sports massage in the UK. However, this term is unhelpful because it suggests the treatment is only for sports injuries or sports people, which it isn’t.

Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage

Abhyanga, which means oil massage, is a type of Ayurvedic medicine that involves body massage with warm Dosha herbal oil. Sesame, which is the base oil, is often pre-mixed in herbs. During abhyanga, the body is anointed with oil through a series of long, fluid strokes from head to toe.

Acupressure Chair Massage

Acupressure seated massage, also known as on-site-massage (OSM), originated in California in the early 1980s by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur. Inspired by Amma, a traditional Chinese healing technique, this ancient procedure was adapted to a specially designed, ergonomic chair. It was developed to balance the growing use of computers and a sedentary lifestyle.

Myofascial Release

Myofascial release refers to a set of methods aimed at releasing areas of facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue covering and incorporating every part of our body. This process works by removing restrictions across the whole body, which relieves several pains and aches in one procedure. Myofascial release brings about permanent change in the tissues so that the results will last longer than conventional massage treatments. Postural changes may also occur so that symptoms do not keep reoccurring. The main difference between this treatment and other forms of massage is that it is performed on dry skin without oils and lotions.

Aromatherapy Massage

An aromatherapy massage uses a mix of essential oils in a carrier oil that is blended for the desired outcome. The chemical makeup of an essential oil may be complex, and this is why a single oil may have a range of different effects when absorbed or inhaled by the body. Some essential oils are relaxing, while others are stimulating. Grapefruit will improve your mood; eucalyptus can clear the head, and sandalwood is very soothing. Aromatherapy massage can help with many conditions, including insomnia, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain, stress, anxiety, skin conditions, lymphatic drainage, and hormonal imbalance.

Sports Massage

It is commonly assumed that sports massage is meant only for sportspeople. In fact, it is suitable for all ages and activity levels. Deep tissue massage is a big part of sports massage. The main difference is the more scientific approach of sports massage, where the therapist uses a variety of techniques to achieve the desired effect, with less emphasis on relaxation. That desired outcome is often reducing aches and pains. However, it can also include getting a client ready for a sporting event, speeding up post-event recovery or even helping to reduce muscle tension after long work hours.

Couples / Duo Massage

In this massage, two individuals are in the same room and receive a massage at the same time, but each person has a therapist. It can be a husband and wife, same-sex partners, girlfriend and boyfriend, or just good friends. You can choose this option to celebrate a special day or just maximise your time together. Couples/duo massage is also a great way to introduce a partner or friend to massage therapy, especially if he/she has never had a massage and is anxious about it. As for couples’ massage etiquette, it’s fine to talk to each other or be quiet during the massage. It really is all up to you.

Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage

Hawaiian massage, otherwise known as Lomi Lomi, is one of the most intense styles of healing massage therapy as it can cause a person to fall into a state of meditation and bliss. It was developed from an ancient healing technique and treatment that aims to heal the entire body at once. This unique oil-rich massage involves applying long and fluid strokes rhythmically all over the body. The therapist makes use of the hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows to apply soft or deep pressure so that the muscles stretch and lengthen. The rhythm is very relaxing and blissful.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is a relaxing therapy for tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. The volcanic basalt stones are meant to be heated up to 60 degrees Celsius. You will understand the benefits of a heated stone massage once the smooth flat stones are placed on your body. You will feel a level of enjoyment that can be addictive once the smooth flat stones start moving over your body, taking away all the pain and stress.

Indian Head Massage

Indian head massage is a calming holistic therapy that includes head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help rebalance your body’s energy. This strong, soothing massage relieves tension in the neck and scalp. The massage takes place as you sit in a chair, after being wrapped in a towel. During this massage, in accordance with Indian tradition, coconut oil is generously applied and nourishes the skin and hair.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is an essential part of treating lymphoedema, a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It is a form of gentle massage which helps to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system. It is preferably used before and after surgery in both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can help repair fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains; it can even decrease pain. It helps with fluid congestion and can accelerate the healing of wounds and burns because it improves the immune system and helps remove waste products.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage, sometimes referred to as prenatal massage, is a non-invasive treatment that works deeply to relieve specific pregnancy pains. This massage therapy is carried out on a recipient who is lying sideways. Pregnancy massage helps reduce tension on the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a non-invasive, safe treatment that is suitable for pregnant women from 16 weeks to full term. Pregnancy massage helps relax expecting mothers and reduces the impact of stress on their bodies.

Reflexology Foot Massage

Through deep relaxation, reflexology is a beneficial therapy that promotes well-being. It works on the theory that different points on the feet and lower legs are connected to specific areas of the body. Reflexologists focus on these points and regions using different amounts of pressure to unblock and bring balance back to the body. It is a powerful aid for relaxation and stress reduction; as such, it may support the healthy function of the immune and digestive systems.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is an effective massage that involves a number of techniques, such as stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and vibrating. It is a gentler massage than deep tissue, with a focus on general stress relief and relaxation. This is the most common type of massage and the basis of many other styles of massage.

Thai Massage

Thai massage is an ancient form of massage thought to have been developed by Buddhist monks. The therapist stretches out the client and uses steady pressure along the energy lines of the body to increase flexibility, ease muscular tension, and balance the energy systems of the body. Thai Massage can benefit anyone, whatever their age or level of flexibility. It’s done on a large floor mat, with the customer fully dressed.

Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!

Contact us Book Online

Thai Oil Massage

Thai oil massage is a variation of the traditional Thai massage that uses strong pressure and deep rhythmic movements along the meridian/body energy lines. This treatment aims to unblock, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.

It is believed that maintaining equilibrium in all bodily organs and systems can prevent ill health and disease so that the body can regenerate and work effectively. Thai oil massage utilises the properties of specific oils to allow the therapist to glide over the body.

Warm Bamboo Massage

Warm bamboo massage is a type of massage that employs solid bamboo sticks of different sizes to apply deep, long massage strokes to the body. It was created in Asia and becoming more popular in the UK. If you like deep work, you’ll like this therapy. You will feel relaxed and full of energy; your muscles will feel stretched, warmed, and lengthened.

Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near Bevendean?

With so much choice in Brighton & Hove, choosing the right Massage Centre can be difficult. Natural Balance Therapies was started in 2007, making it one of the most established practices. All our therapists are experienced and trained in advanced bodywork techniques, plus they are caring, friendly and passionate about their work.

What we offer at Natural Balance Therapies:

  • Professional, relaxed and caring service
  • Central Location just 1.5 miles from Brighton Station
  • 10-minute walk from Hove Station
  • Online Booking system available 24 hours a day
  • Experienced Team of 12 Massage Therapists, 3 Osteopaths and an Acupuncturist
  • All therapists are trained in advanced techniques
  • Open 7 days a week and late most evenings, up to 8pm
  • Corporate events/health promotion at your workplace

Information about Bevendean

Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!

Contact us Book Online