Massage in Hove, Brighton
If you live in Hove, 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. Until fairly recently, most people thought that healing was a result of forcing physical changes to soft tissues and muscles in the body.
Recent understanding through research suggests that it is the effects of massage therapy on the nervous system that are the likely cause of the positive benefits of massage therapy. Health and well-being are enhanced during massage through the release of hormones such as endorphins, that make you feel good. 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?
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 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. Massage can influence our body, including our nervous system, fascial system, digestive, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic and muscular systems. As such, the benefits are board, from reducing pain and anxiety to making us more flexible and less susceptible to injury. These, in turn, have benefits such as improved sleep, reduced levels of sickness, a feeling os being in control and general happiness. While massage may help with a range of issues, most benefit comes from having regular monthly preventative treatments as maintenance.
Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
Gentle stroking, such as for lymphatic drainage, can reduce swelling and pain, although direct massage is not normally used when there is acute inflammation.
Stress Relief and Associated Conditions
Stress can affect our bodies, triggering muscle activity that releases 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 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
Muscle contraction and spasms occur for a variety of reasons, such as dehydration, mineral deficiency, exhaustion, and injury. Gentle massage to promote the flow of blood can help to reverse this. Muscle sprain or ligament tear can occur as a result of overuse and overloading of muscles. While the injury is fresh, there can be swelling, and direct massage is not suitable. 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 can be numerous causes for back pain in the majority of cases, it is not serious and is caused by overworking the muscles. 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. It is prevalent in work, sports or activities that involve a repetitive action. RSI can affect different parts of the upper body including the forearms, elbows, and wrists. As in all other injuries caused by overuse, massage can be used to bring relief, although if the underlying cause is not treated, the relief will be temporary.
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. 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 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 traumatised, it goes into a protective state. The injured muscles typically become hypersensitive and movement is restricted. 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 is helpful in managing back pain. Deep Massage and Stretching are examples of massage that not only lessen sensitivity but also improve range of motion. Increased motion and blood flow can reduce recovery time after injury and accelerate healing by nourishing muscles and connective tissues. Muscle relaxation increases strength, relieves pain associated with muscle spasms, and even improves sleep. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality analysed 20 studies comparing massage with regular care or other therapies in a 2016 study of non-drug treatments for low back pain, and found evidence that massage was successful for 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 Hove
We deliver over 20 different types of massage therapy. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one would benefit you the 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
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). 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.
However, not all these areas are usually covered as some clients may have areas that are too sensitive to be massaged, such as the feet and abdomen. 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, without a doubt, the most popular areas to be chosen for massage as we all hold physical and emotional tension here.
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 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. 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 overdo it in the gym or work on the computer for a long time, this treatment helps to relieve 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 unites many of the recipient’s 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. More than just a means of relaxation, this massage technique was intended to give the recipient a chance to reconnect with his/her body.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a full body massage using warm oils and the feet to apply pressure. This method of massage dates back more than 2,000 years. originating from the Kalari martial arts’ period in the southern coast of India’s Kerala. In Malayalam, the local dialect, it is literally translated as “massage by foot pressure”. 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 form of therapeutic or surgical massage aimed at addressing a specific issue, such as muscular pain. However, the outcome could relate to poor posture, reduced mobility, or 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 sometimes called 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. 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
Acupressure seated massage, also known as on-site massage or OSM, was designed in the early 1980s by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur. Influenced by the Chinese traditional healing method referred to as Amma, this ancient technique was adapted to a special ergonomic chair. It was developed to balance the growing use of computers and a sedentary lifestyle.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release refers to a series of techniques designed to release areas of facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds every part of our body. 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. 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 relax, and others can energise. Grapefruit can lift your mood; eucalyptus can clear the head; sandalwood is very soothing. Aromatherapy massage can aid in various conditions including sleeplessness, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain, stress, anxiety, skin conditions, drainage of the lymphatic system, and hormone imbalance.
Sports Massage
It is a common misunderstanding that sports massage is only for sportspeople. It is actually appropriate for all ages and activity levels. 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. This desired result often includes reducing aches and pains. However, it could also mean get getting the client prepared for a sporting event, accelerating recovery after an endurance event or helping to reduce tension in the muscles after long hours of work.
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 husband and wife, 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 good way for a partner or friend to try massage therapy if he/she has never been massaged before and is concerned 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, 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 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. Therapists make use of their fingers, hands, forearms, and elbows to apply mild or intense pressure to stretch and lengthen the muscles. The rhythm is very soothing and enjoyable.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a relaxing treatment for sore muscles and soft tissue damage. The volcanic basalt stones are heated to around 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. As the stones are used on your body, relieving stress and pain, you achieve a level of relaxation that cannot be quantified.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a relaxing therapy that involves treating 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 as you sit in a chair, after being wrapped in a towel. In keeping with Indian tradition, coconut oil is liberally applied and nourishes the skin and hair during this massage.
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’s a form of gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling. It is useful for cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries, both in preoperative and postoperative procedures. It can accelerate healing for fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains; it provides pain relief as well. It relieves fluid congestion and can help heal wounds and burns due to the fact that it fortifies the immune system and helps with the removal of waste products.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy massage, or prenatal massage, is a gentle and highly-effective technique that helps relieve the special pains associated with pregnancy. This therapy is performed with the recipient lying on her side. Pregnancy massage will help release tension in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a harmless and supportive technique for women, appropriate from 16 weeks to full term. Pregnancy massage helps relax expecting mothers and reduces the impact of stress on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a gentle therapy that encourages well-being through deep relaxation. 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, applying different pressures to unblock and bring balance to 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. It is the most common type of massage and what many other massages types are based on.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is an ancient form of massage thought to have originated from Buddhist monks. The therapist stretches the client and uses gentle pressure along the body’s energy lines to increase flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and balance the body’s energy systems. 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 type of conventional Thai Massage that involves applying strong pressure and rhythmic movements along the body’s energy lines/meridian lines. This treatment is intended to activate, stabilise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/ energy in the body.
It is aimed at prevention of ill health and disease by maintaining balance in all organs and systems within the body, allowing the body to heal 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 involves using strong bamboo sticks of varying lengths and diameters to massage the body with deep massage strokes. It was created in Asia and becoming more popular in the UK. If you like deep work, you’ll like this therapy. 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 Hove?
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!