Massage in Hangleton, Brighton
If you live in Hangleton, 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?
Massage therapy is about using the power of touch, relaxation and manipulation 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.
New research, suggests that it is the effects on the nervous system that caused the 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. This can have the effect of improving your sleep, enhancing your immune system, and make you more resistant to illness and disease. 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. At the physical level, massage therapy can change our body, including influencing our fascial, muscular, lymphatic, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous and endocrine systems. The benefits are therefore diverse, from reducing anxiety and pain to making us less prone to injury and more physically flexible. This can mean that you sleep better, feel happier, get sick less often, and feel more in control of your life. Massage provides lots of benefits but is most beneficial when you have monthly sessions to maintain your optimum levels of physical, emotional and psychological health.
Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
Direct massage is not generally used for acute inflammatory conditions, but gentle stroking can reduce 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 are valuable in the short term, they can lead to poor health in the future. Massage has been demonstrated to combat some of these impacts.
Headaches and Migraines
Massage therapy has been known to effectively treat tension headaches and migraines, both conditions typically caused by pain from the muscles of the neck and shoulders.
Muscle and Related Conditions such as Spasms, Strains and Sprains
Mineral deficiency, dehydration, fatigue, and injury, are some of the causes of muscle spasms and contraction. Gentle massage to encourage blood flow may help to reverse this. A muscle strain or ligament sprain occurs where a tear to the fibres is caused by overloading the muscle or ligament or through repetitive overuse. When the injury is acute, there is often swelling, and direct massage is not appropriate. Once the pain and swelling subside, massage can be helpful in decreasing sensitivity and improving normal movement.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons for people to see their GPs. 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 help relax the muscles and reduce the pain.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive strain injury is pain caused by overusing the muscles, tendons, and nerves due to repetitive activities. This problem is common in all activities where actions are usually repetitive. RSI can affect different parts of the upper body including the forearms, elbows, and wrists. As with other similar injuries, massage can help bring pain relief, but this relief is usually temporary unless the cause of the problem is identified and solved.
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 using massage for circulatory and respiratory conditions, get approval from a doctor as there are circumstances when massage is not suitable for these conditions.
Pregnancy and Labour Discomfort
Massage can be done on pregnant women from 16 weeks up to the full term and can help improve a wide range of health issues, from lower back pain to headaches, swelling, and stress.
Post-injury and Post-surgical Rehabilitation
The body goes into protective mode 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. If under medical supervision, get permission from the doctor before trying any complementary therapy.
How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?
Massage therapy can be used to both prevent and treat back pain. A range of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, may help to reduce hypersensitivity and increase range of motion. When movement and blood flow is increased, it can help minimise post-injury and post-surgery recovery time and accelerate healing by delivering vital nutrients to the muscles and connecting tissues. Muscle relaxation increases strength and minimises the pain associated with muscle spasms 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 insufficient, which clearly indicates 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 Hangleton
We offer over twenty different types of massage therapy. With such a wide range of choices, making the right decision can be tough. Your selection will depend on your personal preference and treatment, but if you need help making a decision, do not hesitate to contact us.
Full Body Massage
After a back, neck and shoulder massage, a full body massage is our next most popular choice. Full body massage typically includes the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen and chest (for men). Women’s breasts are not included, but the area from the collarbone to the point where the breasts begin can be included.
Not all of these areas need to be considered, however, because some clients may have areas such as feet or abdomen that are too sensitive to massage. It is very much up to the individual and feeling totally relaxed is of paramount importance, so treatments are always adapted accordingly. Except on few occasions, each of our massages can be performed as a full body massage
Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage
The back, neck and shoulders are undoubtedly some of the most popular places for massage, as physical and emotional tensions manifest there.
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 a stiff neck or tension headache if not treated. Back, neck and shoulder massage is an integral part of most of the different massage types we offer.
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. It doesn’t matter if you spend too much time at the gym or have worked long hours at the computer, this is a treatment that will ease your body and help improve flexibility. If you suffer from knotted shoulders, tight hamstrings or lower back pain, deep tissue massage can 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 is known for having an effect on multiple senses. Massage movements are gradual and systematic, with delicate touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed during a personal development workshop at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California in the seventies. 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 full body massage which involves applying pressure with the feet and using warm oils on the body. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, originating from the time of the martial arts of Kalari in Kerala, which is on the south coast of India. It literally translates as “foot pressure massage” in Malayalam, a local dialect. It was designed to maintain body flexibility, to treat pain, and manage swelling. However, it is also suitable as a treatment for people who do not exercise regularly but want to remain fit and well.
Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a form of therapeutic or surgical massage aimed at addressing a specific issue, such as muscular pain. However, it may also be associated with poor posture, limited mobility, or sports performance. Sometimes, it is called medical massage, although the term suggests that the therapist has medical qualifications and is generally NOT used in the UK. It is also commonly referred to as sports massage in the UK. This term is also not helpful, as it suggests that the treatment applies only to athletes and sports injuries, which is untrue.
Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage
Abhyanga, which means oil massage, is a form of Ayurvedic medicine that uses Dosha-specific, warm herbal oil to massage the body. Base oil, sesame, is usually pre-mixed with herbs. The body is smeared with oil during the full body massage, 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. This ancient technique, influenced by the traditional Chinese practice of healing called Amma, was adapted to a specially designed, 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 procedures designed to remove facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and permeates every part of our body. It works by releasing restrictions throughout the whole body, giving relief to many aches and pains in a single treatment. Myofascial release results in a permanent change in tissue, with results lasting longer than conventional massage treatments. Changes in posture may also occur so that symptoms do not come back. 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
Aromatherapy massage works with a blend of essential oils specially mixed to deliver the desired result. The essential oil’s chemical composition can be complex, which is why, when absorbed by the body, a single oil can have many different effects. Many essential oils are soothing, whereas others are stimulating. Grapefruit will lift your spirits; eucalyptus may clear a fuzzy head; sandalwood is very calming. Aromatherapy massage can be beneficial for many conditions, including insomnia, nausea, muscular pain, joint pain, anxiety, stress, skin disorders, lymphatic drainage, and hormonal imbalance.
Sports Massage
It’s a common misconception that sports massage is for sportspeople only. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. Deep tissue massage is an important 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. That desired outcome is often reducing aches and pains. However, it can also involve having a client ready for a sporting event, enhancing post-event recovery or even helping to relieve muscle tension after long hours of work.
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 is ideal for married couples, same-sex partners, lovers, or just good friends. This type of massage therapy allows you to celebrate a special moment or just spend time together. Couples/duo massage is also a great way to introduce a partner or friend who has never experienced a massage and is apprehensive about it. As for couples’ massage etiquette, it’s fine to talk to each other or be quiet during the massage. It’s up to you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Lomi Lomi is a form of Hawaiian massage; it is one of the most profound techniques in healing massage because it can induce a state of meditation and sensation of blissful floating. It is based on the old method of healing, working with the body, and treating the person as a whole. This unique oil-rich massage involves applying long and fluid strokes rhythmically all over the body. The therapist uses his/her hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows to apply soft, deep pressure to lengthen and gently stretch muscles. The rhythm is very relaxing and blissful.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a form of massage therapy used to help treat tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. The volcanic basalt stones are heated to around 60 degrees Celsius. You will understand why a heated massage is perfect once the smooth stones are placed on your body. As the stones glide on your body, easing away the stress and pain, a level of relaxation is achieved that becomes highly addictive.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a holistic massage technique that is applied to the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help rebalance your body’s energy. This powerful, relaxing massage relieves tension around 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 a key part of lymphoedema treatment, a serious condition that causes tissue swelling in the body. It is a form of gentle massage which helps to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system. It is beneficial when used as preoperative or postoperative treatment for both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can help repair fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains; it can even decrease pain. It relieves fluid congestion and can help heal wounds and burns; it improves the immune system and encourages 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 done in a lateral position. Pregnancy massage helps reduce tension on the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a safe and supportive treatment for women, suitable from 16 weeks to full term. Pregnancy massage helps calm down expecting mothers while reducing the effects of tension on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a gentle therapy that encourages well-being through deep relaxation. This theory is based on the idea that different points on the feet and lower legs can influence certain areas of the body. Reflexologists use varying amounts of pressure on these points and regions to unblock and align the body. It is a powerful technique for calming and reducing stress while promoting healthy immune and digestive systems.
Swedish Massage
The Swedish massage is a classic method of massage involving a series of techniques, such as stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, scratching, tapping, punching, 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 originated from 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. Thai Massage can benefit anyone, regardless of age or flexibility. It is done on a large mat, on the floor, and with the client fully dressed.
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 type of conventional Thai Massage that involves applying strong pressure and rhythmic movements along the body’s energy lines/meridian lines. This treatment aims to unblock, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.
By maintaining equilibrium in all organs and systems within the body, it aims to prevent poor health and disease while enabling the body to heal itself and work efficiently. The Thai oil massage uses the properties of many oils, enabling the therapist to glide across the body easily.
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 developed in Asia, and it is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. If you like deep work, you’ll like this therapy. It will make you feel relaxed and energised, as your muscles will feel stretched out, warmed, and extended.
Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near Hangleton?
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!
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