Massage in Hollingbury, Brighton
If you live in Hollingbury, 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. Up until quite recently, it was thought that the effects of massage therapy which result in physical changes to soft tissues and muscles are a cause of healing.
New research, suggests that it is the effects on the nervous system that caused the physical changes, including muscle relaxation. Feel-good hormones are released during massage and these can improve your health, well-being and sense of happiness. There are many different types of massage therapy, such as deep tissue, Swedish and shiatsu, each with a slightly different approach and benefits.
Why is massage therapy important for your well-being?
Anxiety and stress can be alleviated through massage therapy and can result in the whole body feeling better. 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 also have very specific effects on posture, mobility, aches and pains, improve your ability to get around, and reduce risks of injury
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy has the power to improve your physical state, emotional state and your mental health. 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 extremely diverse, from making us less stressed and anxious to reducing physical pain and the risk of future injury. The knock-on benefits can include sleeping better, getting sick less often, feeling more in control of life and feeling happier in general. The most benefit is gained from massage therapy when you have regular, monthly sessions, to prevent future deterioration physically and emotionally, and maintain a good level of overall 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. Such reactions can be helpful in the short term but they can cause poor health over time. Massage has been known to help improve stress.
Headaches and Migraines
Massage therapy treats both tension headaches and migraines, as these conditions are known to be caused by referred pain from the neck and shoulder muscles.
Muscle and Related Conditions such as Spasms, Strains and Sprains
Muscle contraction and spasms occur for a variety of reasons, such as dehydration, mineral deficiency, exhaustion, and injury. Gentle massage to encourage blood flow may help to reverse this. Muscle sprain or ligament tear happens when there is a tear in the fibre of the muscle caused by too much use or overloading either one. While the injury is fresh, there can be swelling, and direct massage is not suitable. But once it is no longer painful, massage can help decrease sensitivity and encourage movement.
Back Pain
One of the many reasons people visit their doctor is back pain. 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
Repetitive strain injury is pain caused by overusing the muscles, tendons, and nerves due to repetitive activities. It is common in any activity that involves repetitive action such as sports and exercises. The disorder can affect multiple upper-body regions, 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 can be beneficial for circulation and respiration in the body, as well as improve symptoms of cold hands, feet, and swelling. 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
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 protective mode when it is traumatised. Muscles close to the injured site typically become sensitive and movement is restricted. Massage therapy can be beneficial in reversing the situation and helping the body to heal. If still under medical supervision, check with your doctor before having any complementary therapies.
How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?
Massage therapy is helpful in treating back pain. A variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, can help to lower hypersensitivity and increase range of motion. Increased movement and blood flow can help minimise recovery time after injuries and surgery, and accelerate healing by providing essential nutrients to muscles and connective tissue. Muscle relaxation increases strength and minimises the pain associated with muscle spasms while also improving 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. Nevertheless, the data’s strength was inadequate, stressing the need for more analysis. That said, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to support using Massage Therapy to treat back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Hollingbury
We offer more than 20 types of massage therapy. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one would benefit you the most. Much will rely on what you want from your care and personal preference but do not hesitate to contact us if you need help choosing.
Full Body Massage
After the back, neck and shoulder massage, another of our popular choice is the full body massage. Full body massage can include 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.
That said, not all of these areas have to be included, and some clients may have areas, such as their feet or stomach, that are too sensitive to be massaged. It is the individual’s choice and it is extremely important to feel completely relaxed, that is why the treatments are always adapted to the person. With few exceptions, every one of our massages can be given as a full body massage.
Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage
The back, neck and shoulders are certainly some of the most popular places for massage as these are physical and emotional pressure points.
Muscles here tend to shorten from hours of computer or telephone activity, stress and fatigue, or after sporting 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
Deep pressure is applied with the therapist’s fingers, forearms and elbows to help stretch compressed, tense muscles. This can be rather uncomfortable and deeper is not always the best, however, an experienced therapist will use pressure that is equally therapeutic and relaxing. Whether you’re overdoing it in the gym or working long hours on the computer, this treatment helps to relieve your body and improve flexibility. The deep tissue massage will help you find relief if you suffer from knotted arms, sore thighs or lower back pain.
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. The massage motions are gradual and systematic, with gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed in the seventies at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California during a personal development workshop. It is more than a relaxing system; this massage technique was designed to give the recipient the opportunity to reconnect with the body.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a form of full body massage that involves applying pressure with the feet and using warm oils on the body. 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 dialect of Malayalam, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was developed to maintain suppleness in the body and treat pain or 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 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. It is more commonly called sports massage in the UK. However, this term is not helpful because it suggests that the treatment only applies to sports injuries or athletes, which is not true.
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. Sesame, the base oil, is commonly pre-mixed with herbs. During this full body massage, the body is anointed with the oil, and long flowing strokes are used from head to toe.
Acupressure Chair Massage
Acupressure seated massage, also known as on-site massage (OSM), was developed in the early eighties by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur in California. Inspired by Amma, a traditional Chinese healing technique, this ancient procedure 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 methods aimed at releasing areas of facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds and permeates 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. Posture changes may also occur so that the symptoms do not return. 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 uses a mix of essential oils in a carrying oil that is mixed particularly for the desired result. The chemical content of essential oils is complex, which is why the application of one single oil can have different effects on the body once absorbed. Some essential oils are relaxing, while others are stimulating. Grapefruit will lift your spirits; eucalyptus may clear a fuzzy head; sandalwood is very calming. 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. In fact, it is actually ideal for everyone and at all level of activity. Deep tissue massage is a big 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. However, it may also be having a client ready for a sporting event, speeding up recovery or helping to reduce muscle tension from long working hours.
Couples / Duo Massage
This massage means massaging two people in the same room together, but they have different therapists. It can be a married couple, partners of the same sex, lovers, or simply good friends. You can choose this option 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. You can talk to your partner during the couples’ massage or remain silent all the way through. It’s up to you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Hawaiian massage, also known as Lomi Lomi, is one of the most profound forms of healing massage because it can induce states of meditation and blissful feelings of floating. It is based on the old method of healing, working with the body, and treating the person as a whole. In the special oil-rich massage, lengthy and fluid rhythmic strokes are applied all over the body. The therapist uses his/her palms, feet, forearms, and elbows while applying gentle pressure to stretch and lengthen the muscles. The rhythm is calming and pleasurable.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a relaxing therapy for tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. The volcanic basalt stones are heated to around 60 degrees Celsius. As soon as you put the smooth flat stones on your body, you can understand why this heated massage is so transformative. 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 holistic massage technique that is applied to the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure are used to help rebalance the energies of your body. This vigorous, relaxing massage provides relief for 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 a vital part of lymphoedema treatment, which is a severe 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 useful in preoperative and postoperative situations for both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can reduce pain while helping to repair fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains. 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, sometimes called prenatal massage, is a peaceful treatment that works deeply but gently to relieve the special pains of pregnancy. This therapy is carried out on the recipient when she is laying 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 mums-to-be relax and reduces the impact of stress 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 concentrate on these points and regions while applying different pressure levels in order to unblock and balance the body. It is a powerful technique for calming and reducing stress while promoting healthy immune and digestive systems.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a classic massage that incorporates a range of techniques, including stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and vibration. It is a milder technique than a massage focused on deep tissue, and it focuses on relaxation and general stress relief as well. It is the most common type of massage and what many other massages types are based on.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is an early form of massage that Buddhist monks are thought to have developed. 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, regardless of age or flexibility. It is done on the floor, on a large mat, and with the client fully clothed.
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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 therapy aims to activate, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.
It is believed that maintaining stability in all organs and systems of the body can discourage ill health and disease so that the body can recover and function effectively. Thai oil massage utilises the properties of specific oils to allow the therapist to glide over the body.
Warm Bamboo Massage
Strong bamboo sticks of varying lengths and diameters are used in a warm bamboo massage to stimulate the body with strong, 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 Hollingbury?
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!