Massage in Hollingdean, Brighton
If you live in Hollingdean, 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.
Recent research suggests that the positive benefits, such as muscle relaxation, are due to effects that massage has on the nervous system. Health and well-being are enhanced during massage through the release of hormones such as endorphins, that make you feel good. 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?
Massage therapy can help the whole body by reducing stress and anxiety. As a result, the immune system can improve, you can have better sleep, and you can even find that you get well more easily. There can also be direct benefits in reducing pain from aches and muscle injuries, improving mobility, improving posture, and reducing the likelihood of future injuries.
What are the benefits of massage therapy?
Massage therapy has the power to improve your physical state, emotional state and your mental health. On a physical level, it can cause changes to our bodies’ systems including the muscular, fascial, cardiovascular, lymphatic, nervous, endocrine and digestive systems. The benefits are therefore extremely diverse, from making us less stressed and anxious to reducing physical pain and the risk of future injury. This, in turn, can lead to better quality sleep patterns, the general feeling of more happiness and control in life, and even getting sick less often. 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
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 harm our bodies, causing muscles to contract and stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to be released. In the short term, these responses can be beneficial, but over time, they can cause poor health. Massage has been known to reduce 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
Mineral deficiency, dehydration, fatigue, and injury, are some of the causes of muscle spasms and contraction. A gentle massage can encourage blood flow and correct this condition. 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. Direct massage is not appropriate while the injury is swollen and painful. But once the pain reduces, massage can help with sensitivity and movement.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons for people to see their GPs. Even though back pain can be caused by many factors, it is mostly mild and caused by muscle overuse. Massage can help relax the muscles and reduce the pain.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a term used to describe pain caused by repeated movement and overuse of muscles, nerves and tendons. This condition is common in sports, work and other activities that involve repeated actions. 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 can help with circulation in the body and can also improve symptoms like cold hands and feet, as well as swelling of 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 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 injured. Muscles close to the affected site tend to become hypersensitive and movement is affected. Massage therapy can be used to reverse these two states and help the body to heal. 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 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. 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. Relaxing the muscle increases strength, decreases muscle spasm-related pain and even improves 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. It has nevertheless been shown that there is a lot of subjective evidence that Massage Therapy works for back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Hollingdean
We offer more than 20 types of massage therapy. With such a wide range, it can be difficult knowing which would benefit you most. Your choice will be determined by your personal preference and treatment you need, but do not hesitate to get in contact if you need help making a decision.
Full Body Massage
Full body massage is our second most popular choice after back, neck and shoulder massage. Full body massage typically includes the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen and chest (for men). While it does not include the breasts for women, it may incorporate the décolletage, the area from the collar bone down to where the breasts start.
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 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 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. The back, neck and shoulder massage is an essential part of most of the massage types we offer.
Deep Tissue Massage
The therapist will apply deep pressure using the thumbs, forearms, and elbows to help stretch out tense and shortened muscles. 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. 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. This massage therapy involves slow and intentional movements of gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. During a personal growth workshop at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, this technique was developed in the seventies. 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 full body massage that involves using the feet and warm oils to apply pressure. It dates back over 2,000 years and originates from the Kalari martial artists of Kerala, on the southern coast of India. In Malayalam, a local dialect, it literally translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was developed to maintain suppleness in the body and treat pain or swelling. It is, however, also suitable as a treatment for people who do not exercise regularly but want to stay fit and healthy.
Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a form of therapeutic or surgical massage aimed at addressing a specific issue, such as muscular pain. However, this massage can also help with poor posture, limited mobility, 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 also commonly referred to as sports massage in the UK. While this is also not helpful, it implies that the massage is only beneficial to athletes and sports injury, which is incorrect.
Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage
Abhyanga, also known as oil massage, is a form of Ayurvedic treatment that involves the use of Dosha warm herbal oil to massage the body. Sesame, the base oil, is commonly pre-mixed with herbs. During abhyanga, the body is anointed with oil through a series of long, fluid strokes 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 number of techniques developed to release areas with facial restrictions. Fascia is the connective tissue that covers and permeates all parts of our bodies. It works by removing restrictions throughout the body and relieving pain in one treatment. Myofascial release results in a permanent change in tissue, with results lasting longer than conventional massage treatments. Posture changes may also occur so that the symptoms do not return. One way this treatment differs from other massage options is that it is done on dry skin, with no oils or lotions.
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage works with a blend of essential oils specially mixed to deliver 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 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. In fact, it is suitable for all ages and activity levels. Deep tissue massage is an important component of sports massage. The main difference is the scientific approach taken in sports massage where the therapist uses a number of techniques to get the desired result, but with less focus on relaxation. The desired result is typically 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
In this massage, two people are massaged in the same room, at the same time, but each one has his/her own therapist. It can be a husband and wife, same-sex partners, girlfriend and boyfriend, or just good friends. You may choose this option to celebrate a special day or just because you want to maximise your time spent 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. When it comes to a couple’s massage, you can talk to each other if you want or be silent during the massage. It’s up to you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Hawaiian massage, also known as Lomi Lomi, is one of the most intricate ways of healing massage; it can trigger meditation and a sensation of floating. It is based upon an ancient type of healing and bodywork that aims to treat the person as a whole. 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 can be both relaxing and pleasurable.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a relaxing treatment for sore muscles and soft tissue damage. The volcanic basalt stones are used for heating at a temperature of 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. Once the smooth flat stones start moving over your body, taking away all the pain and stress, you will experience a level of enjoyment that can be 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 restore energy back to the balance in your body. This vigorous, relaxing massage provides relief for tension in the neck and scalp. The massage takes place with you sitting in a chair and wrapped in a towel. Coconut oil is generously applied during this treatment, nourishing the skin and hair, in keeping with Indian practice.
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. This is a form of mild massage that stimulates the lymphatic system so that the swelling reduces. It is preferably used before and after surgery in both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can ease pain and promote the healing of 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 referred to as prenatal massage, is a non-invasive treatment that works deeply to relieve specific pregnancy pains. 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 beneficial therapy that promotes well-being through relaxation. It operates on the premise that different points on the feet and lower legs are related to particular areas of the body. Reflexologists focus on these points and regions, applying different pressures to unblock and bring balance to 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 milder technique than a massage focused on deep tissue, and it focuses on relaxation and general stress relief as well. 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 massage type that is thought to have been created by Buddhist monks. The therapist pulls the client and gently presses along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, release muscle tension, and balance the body’s energy system. 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!
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 therapy is designed to unlock, balance, and restore the natural flow of the body’s 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. 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. It was developed in Asia, and it is becoming increasingly 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 Hollingdean?
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!
Other Areas We Cover
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