Massage in Mile-Oak, Brighton
If you live in Mile-Oak, 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. Feel-good hormones are released during massage and these can improve your health, well-being and sense of happiness. There are lots of different types of massage including Swedish, shiatsu and deep tissue massage, and each comes with its own style and benefits.
Why is massage therapy important for your well-being?
Stress and anxiety can be reduced through massage therapy, thus helping the whole body. This, in time, can improve your immune system, and many see immediate improvements in their ability to sleep and relax. It can also work more precisely, improving mobility, posture and muscle-related aches and pains, making movement easier and reducing the risk 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. On the physical side, massage can change our body systems including the cardiovascular, fascial, lymphatic, muscular, endocrine, digestive and nervous systems. The benefits of massage are therefore extremely broad, including making us less prone to injuries, making us more physically flexible, and reducing anxiety and physical pain. This can mean that you sleep better, feel happier, get sick less often, and feel more in control of your life. 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
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. Such reactions can be helpful in the short term but they can cause poor health over time. Massage has been demonstrated to combat some of these impacts.
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 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. Once it is no longer painful to touch, massage can be beneficial in decreasing sensitivity and encouraging normal movement.
Back Pain
A lot of people visit their doctor because of back pain. Back pain can be associated with numerous causes, but in most cases, it is not severe, and mostly caused by overworking the muscles. Massage can be very beneficial in desensitising and relaxing the muscles.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is the term used to define pain caused by repetitive muscle, nerve, and tendon movement and overuse. It is common in any activity that involves repetitive action such as sports and exercises. The condition may affect many areas of the upper body, such as forearms, elbows or wrists. Just like any other overuse injury, massage can be helpful in managing the pain, however, any relief will be temporary if the main cause is not treated.
Circulatory and Respiratory Problems
Massage improves circulation in the body and can help with symptoms such as cold hands and feet, and swelling. Approval must be obtained from a doctor before massage is used to handle circulatory and respiratory issues as there are some cases where massage is not appropriate.
Pregnancy and Labour Discomfort
Massage is available for expecting mothers from the 16th week up to full term and can really help manage a lot of health conditions ranging from lower back pain to headaches, swelling, and stress.
Post-injury and Post-surgical Rehabilitation
The body goes into a protective state when it is traumatised. Muscles close to the affected site tend to become hypersensitive and movement is affected. Massage therapy can be beneficial in reversing the situation and helping 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?
Back pain can be both treated and prevented with massage therapy. Techniques such as deep tissue massage and stretching not only reduce hypersensitivity 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. In 2016, in a review of non-drug methods of treating lower back pain, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality studied 20 cases comparing massage with regular care or other treatments and found that massage therapy was effective for chronic lower back pain Still, the strength of the data was insufficient, highlighting the need for more research. That said, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to support using Massage Therapy to treat back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Mile-Oak
We offer more than 20 different types of massage care. With so many choices to choose from, it can be hard to figure out which one would most help you. 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
Apart from the back, neck and shoulder massage, the full body is another of our popular choice. Full body massage typically includes the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen and chest (for men). Although it does not cover female breasts, it can cover the neckline, the area from the collarbone to where the breasts begin.
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 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, 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. Back, neck and shoulder massage is an essential part of most of the types of massage therapies we offer.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep pressure is applied with the therapist’s fingers, forearms and elbows to help stretch compressed, tense muscles. It can feel uncomfortable, but deeper isn’t always better, and a skilled therapist will work with a pressure that is therapeutic but still 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. 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 multiple senses of the recipient. This massage therapy involves slow and intentional movements of gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed in the 1970s during a personal growth workshop at the Esalen Institute® in Big Sur, California. 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 type of full body massage that requires 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 the local Malayalam dialect, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “massage by foot pressure”. It was meant to help maintain flexibility in the body and to relieve pain and swelling. It is, however, equally suitable as a treatment for those who are not involved in regular or strenuous physical exercise and wish to maintain their own fitness and well-being.
Remedial Massage
The therapeutic or clinical massage targeted at resolving a specific issue, such as muscular pain, is known as remedial massage. However, this massage can also help with poor posture, limited mobility, and sports performance. Remedial massage is sometimes referred to as medical massage, but since this term implies medical training for the therapist, it is NOT generally used in the UK. In the UK, it is more often referred to as sports massage. 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, which means oil massage, is a type of Ayurvedic medicine that involves body massage with warm Dosha herbal oil. Sesame, which is the base oil, is often pre-mixed in 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. 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 procedures designed to remove facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue covering and incorporating 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 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 main difference between this treatment and other forms of massage 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 composition of the essential oil can be complex, which is why a single oil can have many different effects when it is absorbed by the body. Many essential oils are soothing, and others are energising. Grapefruit can improve your mood; eucalyptus will clear your head, and sandalwood is very calming. Aromatherapy massage may help a range of conditions, including insomnia, nausea, muscular pain, aching joints, stress, anxiety, skin disorders, lymphatic drainage, and hormone imbalances.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is commonly assumed to be intended only for sportspeople. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. A significant component of sports massage is deep tissue massage. The main difference is the more clinical approach taken with sports massage, where the therapist uses a range of techniques to achieve the desired outcome, with less focus on relaxation. This desired result often includes reducing 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 means massaging two people in the same room together, but they have different therapists. It can be a husband and wife, same-sex partners, girlfriend and boyfriend, or just good friends. This type of massage is a good option for celebrating a special occasion or finding an activity that allows you to spend time together. Couples/duo massage is the perfect way for a friend or partner who has never had a massage before to get introduced to massage therapy. 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 is all up to you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Hawaiian massage, otherwise known as Lomi Lomi, is one of the most intense styles of healing massage therapy as it can cause a person to fall into a state of meditation and bliss. It is derived from an ancient technique of healing and working with the body while focusing on treating the person as a whole. This unique, oil-based massage involves performing long and smooth rhythmic movements 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 very relaxing and blissful.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a relaxing treatment for sore muscles and soft tissue damage. The volcanic basalt stones are meant to be heated up to 60 degrees Celsius. After placing smooth flat stones on your body, you’ll understand why a heated massage is so wonderful. You will feel a level of enjoyment that can be addictive once the smooth flat stones start moving over your body, taking away all the pain and stress.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a calming holistic therapy that includes head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help rebalance energy in the body. 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. Following the Indian tradition, coconut oil is applied liberally during this massage, nourishing 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’s a form of gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling. It is preferably used in cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries, both before and after. It can ease pain and promote the 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, sometimes called prenatal massage, is a peaceful treatment that works deeply but gently to relieve the special pains of pregnancy. This therapy is performed with the recipient lying on her side. Pregnancy massage soothes the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a non-invasive, safe treatment that is suitable for pregnant women from 16 weeks to full term. Pregnancy massage helps soothe pregnant women and lessens the effects of stress on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a complementary therapy that aims to promote 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 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
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. This is the most common type of massage on which many other types of massage are based.
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, regardless of age or 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 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 trigger, normalise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy in the body.
It is believed that maintaining equilibrium in all bodily organs and systems can prevent ill health and disease so that the body can regenerate and work effectively. 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. Invented in Asia, it is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. This therapy is lovely if you like deep work. 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 Mile-Oak?
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!