Massage in Black-Rock, Brighton
If you live in Black-Rock, 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?
Through the power of relaxation, manipulation and touch massage therapy, it is possible to heal the mind and body. 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. The different massage styles, including shiatsu, Swedish and deep tissue massage, each have their own unique benefits.
Why is massage therapy important for your well-being?
The feelings of stress and anxiety can be reduced through massage therapy. As a result, the immune system can improve, you can have better sleep, and you can even find that you get well more easily. Massage can reduce the likelihood of future injuries, as well as improving posture, mobility and reducing muscle-related aches and pains.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy can have a positive effect on a person’s physical state, emotional welfare 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. The benefits are therefore diverse, from reducing anxiety and pain to making us less prone to injury and more physically flexible. The knock-on benefits can include sleeping better, getting sick less often, feeling more in control of life and feeling happier in general. When you maintain your physical, psychological and emotional health with regular monthly massage sessions you gain the most benefit.
Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
Inflammatory conditions don’t receive direct massage, but gentle strokes like those associated with lymphatic drainage may offer benefits such as reduced pain and swelling.
Stress Relief and Associated Conditions
Stress harms the body. It causes the muscles to contract and results in the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Even though these responses can be positive in the short term, with time they can cause poor health. Massage has been shown to alleviate some of these problems.
Headaches and Migraines
Massage therapy effectively treats both tension headaches and migraines, as these are frequently caused by neck and shoulder muscle pain.
Muscle and Related Conditions such as Spasms, Strains and Sprains
Dehydration, mineral deficiency, exhaustion, and injury may cause a muscle to contract and go into spasm. Gentle massage to encourage blood flow may help to reverse this. Muscle sprain or ligament tear can occur as a result of overuse and overloading of muscles. Massage is not ideal for the injured site while it is swollen or painful. But once the pain reduces, massage can help with sensitivity and movement.
Back Pain
One of the many reasons people visit their doctor is back pain. Even though back pain can be caused by many factors, it is mostly mild and caused by muscle overuse. Massage can be very beneficial in desensitising and relaxing the muscles.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive strain injury or RSI is used to describe pain that is caused by muscle, nerve, and tendon overuse, as well as repeated movement. This problem is common in all activities where actions are usually repetitive. The condition may affect many areas of the upper body, such as forearms, elbows or wrists. 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 increases circulation in the body and can be helpful with symptoms such as cold hands or feet and swelling at the extremities. Before massage is used to treat circulatory and respiratory conditions, approval should be obtained from a doctor as there are cases where massage is not suitable.
Pregnancy and Labour Discomfort
Pregnancy massage can be done from 16 weeks up to full term and can really help with an assortment of problems such as lower back pain, headaches, swelling and tension.
Post-injury and Post-surgical Rehabilitation
The body goes into a protective state when it is traumatised. This typically means muscles shorten to restrict movement and areas close to the injury become hypersensitive to touch. Massage therapy can be used to reverse these two states and help the body to heal. However, if you are still under medical care, get the doctor’s permission before starting the therapy.
How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?
Massage therapy can be used to both prevent and treat back pain. Deep Massage and Stretching are examples of massage that not only lessen sensitivity but also improve 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 muscles will increase strength and minimise pain associated with muscle spasm while also improving sleep. A non-drug treatment study in 2016 by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality compared 20 cases of massage and regular treatment and found out that massage can be very effective for treating chronic lower 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 Black-Rock
We deliver over 20 different types of massage therapy. With such a wide range of choices, making the right decision can be tough. 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. Typically, a full body massage involves the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, back, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen, and chest (for men). Women’s breasts are not included but the massage may include the region from the collarbone to the point where the breasts start.
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 totally up to the individual and being completely relaxed is vital, that is why each therapy is adapted accordingly. Except on few occasions, each of our massages can be performed as a full body massage
Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage
Without a doubt, the back, neck and shoulders are the most popular areas for massages, as they are all physical and emotional tension hotspots.
These muscles have a tendency to shorten from hours on the computer or phone, feeling tired or stressed, or physical activities, such as tennis or swimming. This shortening can lead to a stiff neck or tension headache if not treated. The back, neck and shoulder massage is an essential part of most of the massage types we offer.
Deep Tissue Massage
The therapist’s thumb, forearms and elbows exert a deep pressure to stretch out shortened and tensed muscles. It may feel uncomfortable but is not always bad, and a professional therapist will work with a therapeutic but still 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 knotted shoulders, tight hamstrings or pain in the lower back, a deep tissue massage will help free you up.
Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!
Californian Massage
Californian massage affects many of the senses of the recipient. The massage involves slow and systematic motions using mild touches, stretching, and kneading. This technique was developed in the 1970s in Esalen Institute, in Big Sur, California, during a personal growth workshop. It is more than a soothing system; this massage technique was intended to provide an opportunity for the patient to reconnect with the body.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a type of full body massage that requires using warm oils and the feet to apply pressure. The history dates back over 2,000 years and comes from the time of Kalari martial arts in Kerala, on India’s southern coast. In Malayalam, a local dialect, it literally translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was designed to maintain body flexibility, to treat pain, and manage swelling. However, it is also appropriate for treating people who do not exercise regularly and want to improve their physical fitness and wellness.
Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a therapeutic or clinical massage that is targeted at solving a specific problem, such as muscle pain. The effect of remedial massage can also be felt in poor posture, restricted movement, and sports performance. Remedial massage is sometimes referred to as medical massage, but because this term implies that the therapist has medical training, it is NOT generally used in the UK. In the UK, it is more often referred to as sports massage. Though this term is not helpful, it suggests that the procedure only applies to athletes and sports injuries which is not true.
Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage
Abhyanga, which means oil massage, is a type of Ayurvedic medicine that involves body massage with warm Dosha herbal oil. The base oil, sesame, is usually combined with a number of herbs. During the full body massage, the body is smeared with oil using long, smooth movements from head to toe.
Acupressure Chair Massage
David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur, originally developed acupressure seated massage or on-site massage (OSM) in California in the early 1980s. Influenced by the Chinese traditional healing method referred to as Amma, this ancient technique was adapted to a special ergonomic chair. On-site massage is intended to counterbalance the increasing use of computers and sedentary work.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release refers to a set of methods aimed at releasing areas of facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue that covers and fills every part of our body. This process works by removing restrictions throughout the entire body, providing relief for many aches and pains with one treatment. Myofascial release brings about permanent change in the tissues so that the results will last longer than conventional massage treatments. Postural changes can also occur to prevent recurrence of symptoms. One important difference between this procedure and other types of massage is that it is performed without oils or lotions on dry skin.
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage uses a mixture of essential oils in a carrier oil that is mixed specifically for the desired result. 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. Many essential oils are soothing, and others are energising. Grapefruit can improve your mood; eucalyptus can stimulate the brain while sandalwood can soothe the nerves. 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 a common misconception that sports massage is intended only for athletes. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. Deep tissue massage is a significant part of sports massage. The clinical approach to sports massage where the therapist uses a number of techniques to obtain the desired result, but with reduced emphasis on relaxation is a major difference. Typically, the desired result is a reduction in aches and pains. Still, it could also be getting a client ready for a sporting event, speeding up recovery after an endurance event or helping reduce muscular tension from long hours at work.
Couples / Duo Massage
This massage involves massaging two people simultaneously in the same room, and each person has his/her own therapist. It is ideal for married couples, same-sex partners, lovers, or just good friends. This option allows you to celebrate a special day or just maximise your time together. Couples/duo massage is also a good way for a partner or friend to try massage therapy if he/she has never been massaged before and is concerned about it. When it comes to massage for couples, you can talk to each other during the massage, if you want, or you can be quiet the entire time. It really depends on you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Hawaiian massage, also called Lomi Lomi, is one of the deepest forms of healing massage, as it can cause meditation and a blissful feeling of floating. It is based on the old method of healing, working with the body, and treating the person as a whole. In this unique flowing oil-based massage, long and fluid rhythmic strokes are used over the whole body. The therapist uses his/her palms, feet, forearms, and elbows while applying gentle pressure to stretch and lengthen the muscles. The rhythm can be both relaxing and pleasurable.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that helps to heal tense muscles and soft tissue damage. The stones from volcanic basalt are heated to 60 degrees Celsius. As soon as the smooth flat stones are placed on your body, you will understand why a heated massage is so sublime. While the stones slide over the body and relieve stress and pain, the level of relaxation you will achieve cannot be measured.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a calming holistic therapy that includes head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help restore your body’s energy back to balance. 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. According to Indian tradition, coconut oil is generously applied during this massage, which nourishes the skin and hair.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is an important technique in the treatment of lymphoedema, a chronic condition which causes tissue swelling in the body. It is a form of gentle massage which helps to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system. It is useful for cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries, both in preoperative and postoperative procedures. It can relieve pain and promote healing of fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains. It helps with fluid accumulation and can heal wounds and burns because it strengthens the immune system and helps with the removal of waste products.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage, also known as prenatal massage, is a gentle technique that has a deep yet delicate effect on relieving special pregnancy pains. This therapy is performed with the recipient lying on her side. Pregnancy massage helps reduce tension on the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a safe, supportive procedure that is appropriate for pregnant women from 16 weeks up to full term. Pregnancy massage helps soothe pregnant women and lessens the effects of stress on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a gentle therapy that encourages well-being through deep relaxation. The theory emphasises that various points on the feet and lower legs are connected to different parts of the body. Reflexologists use varying amounts of pressure on these points and regions to unblock and align the body. It is an effective technique that helps relaxation and reduces stress; therefore, it can promote a healthy functioning immune system and digestive system.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is an intense massage involving a variety of techniques, including stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and shaking. It is a milder massage than deep tissue massage, with an emphasis on relaxation and general stress relief. This is the most common type of massage, and it is the foundation for many other types of massage.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is an early form of massage developed by Buddhist monks. The therapist stretches the client, then applies gentle pressure along the energy lines of the body to increase flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and stabilise the energy system of the body. Whatever your age and flexibility, Thai massage can be useful for everyone. It is done on a large mat on the floor, with the client fully clothed.
Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!
Thai Oil Massage
Thai oil massage is a modification of the traditional Thai massage, incorporating firm pressure and deep rhythmic movements along the body’s energy/meridian lines. This treatment is intended to activate, stabilise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/ energy in the body.
It is believed that maintaining balance in all organs and systems of the body prevents ill health and diseases so that the body can heal and work efficiently. Thai oil massage uses the properties of several oils so that the therapist can glide over the body effortlessly.
Warm Bamboo Massage
In warm bamboo massage, solid bamboo sticks of various lengths and diameters are used to massage the body with deep, long massage strokes. Invented in Asia, it is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. This treatment is perfect if you like deep work. It will leave you feeling relaxed and energised, with a sense that your muscles have been stretched, warmed, and elongated.
Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near Black-Rock?
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
Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!