Massage in Moulsecoomb, Brighton

If you live in Moulsecoomb, 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?

Relaxation, manipulation and the power of touch are used during massage therapy to heal the body and mind. 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 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. 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, in turn, can improve sleep and bolster the immune system, the body’s natural defense against disease. Massage also has a very direct effect of improving posture, reducing muscle aches and pains and improving mobility.

What are the benefits of massage therapy?

One’s physical well-being, emotional welfare and physical state can all be improved through massage therapy. Massage can influence our body, including our nervous system, fascial system, digestive, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic and muscular 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. Massage offers the most benefits when you have regular sessions to prevent issues and maintain a good level of physical and emotional 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 proven to counter some of these effects.

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

A muscle can contract and go into spasm for many reasons, including dehydration, mineral deficiency, fatigue, and injury. Gently massaging the affected area can result in improved blood flow to reverse the condition. Fibre injury due to overuse and overloading can cause muscle strain or ligament sprain. Massage is not ideal for the injured site while it is swollen or painful. Once it is no longer painful to touch, massage can be beneficial in decreasing sensitivity and encouraging normal movement.

Back Pain

Back pain is one of the main reasons many people pay a visit to their doctor. While back pain has many causes, in many cases, it is not serious and caused by over utilising 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. This condition is prevalent in activities such as work and sports that involve repetitive actions. 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 increases circulation in the body and can be helpful with symptoms such as cold hands or feet and swelling at the extremities. If under medical supervision for a circulatory and respiratory condition, it is essential to get approval from a doctor before having a massage as there are scenarios 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

When the body is injured, it goes into a protective state. This typically means muscles shorten to restrict movement and areas close to the injury become hypersensitive to touch. Massage therapy aims to reverse these two states and help the body return to normal. 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 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 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. Relaxing the muscles will increase strength and minimise pain associated with muscle spasm 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. Still, the strength of the data was insufficient, highlighting the need for more research. It nevertheless showed that there is ample subjective proof that Massage Therapy works for back pain.

Massage Therapies we Offer near Moulsecoomb

We offer more than 20 types of massage therapy. With so many choices to choose from, it can be hard to figure out which one would most help you. A lot will depend on what you want to get from your treatment and your personal preference, but if you need help choosing don’t hesitate to get in touch.

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). Although it does not cover female breasts, it can cover the neckline, the area from the collarbone to where the breasts begin.

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 totally up to the individual and being completely relaxed is vital, that is why each therapy is adapted accordingly. Each of our massages can be performed as a full body massage with a few exceptions

Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage

Without a doubt, the back, neck and shoulders are the most popular areas for massages, as they are all physical and emotional tension hotspots.

These muscles tend to shorten after hours of work at the computer or phone, or when we feel tired or stressed, or after physical activities such as tennis or swimming. This shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache 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. It may feel uncomfortable but is not always bad, and a professional therapist will work with a therapeutic but still relaxing pressure. Whether you’ve overdone it at the gym or work long hours at a computer, this treatment will help free up your body and improve flexibility. If you suffer from stiff shoulders, tight hamstrings or pain in the lower back, deep tissue massage can help ease your body.

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Californian Massage

Californian massage unites many of the recipient’s 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 the local Malayalam dialect, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “massage by foot pressure”. It was designed to maintain body flexibility, to treat pain, and manage 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

The therapeutic or clinical massage targeted at resolving a specific issue, such as muscular pain, is known as remedial massage. Nevertheless, this massage can also help with poor posture, limited mobility, and performance in sports. 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. It is also commonly referred to as sports massage in the UK. However, this term is unhelpful because it suggests the treatment is only for sports injuries or sports people, which it isn’t.

Ayurvedic Abhyanga Massage

Abhyanga, meaning oil massage, is a type of Ayurvedic medicine involving body massage with Dosha-specific, warm herbal oil. Sesame, the base oil, is commonly pre-mixed with herbs. The body is bathed with oil, and the deep, fluid strokes are used from head to toe during this full body massage.

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 traditional Chinese medicine known as Amma, this ancient technique has been adapted to a specially designed, ergonomic chair. It was designed to counter the increase in computer use 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 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. Postural changes can also occur to prevent recurrence of symptoms. 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 uses a mixture of essential oils in a carrier oil that is specially formulated for the desired outcome. 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. Some essential oils relax, and others can energise. Grapefruit can improve your mood; eucalyptus will clear your head, and sandalwood is very calming. Aromatherapy massage can help treat a wide range of conditions, such as insomnia, nausea, muscle pain, joint problems, stress, and anxiety, skin disorders, lymphatic drainage, and hormone imbalance.

Sports Massage

It is a common misunderstanding that sports massage is only for sportspeople. In fact, it is actually ideal for everyone and at all level of activity. A significant component of sports massage is deep tissue massage. The main difference is the more clinical approach to sports massage where the therapist uses a number of techniques to achieve the desired result, with less emphasis on relaxation. 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

This massage means massaging two people in the same room together, but they have different therapists. It’s perfect for married couples, same-sex partners, boyfriend and girlfriend, 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 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’s 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 was developed from an ancient healing technique and treatment that aims to heal the entire body at once. 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 very soothing and enjoyable.

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. You will understand the benefits of a heated stone massage once the smooth flat stones are placed on your body. 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 help restore energy back to the balance in your body. This powerful, relaxing massage relieves tension around the neck and scalp. The massage takes place with you sitting in a chair and 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. This is a gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling. It is preferably used before and after surgery in both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can accelerate healing for fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains; it provides pain relief as well. It relieves pressure in the body and can help heal wounds and burns, as it fortifies the immune system and helps with waste products removal.

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 done in a lateral position. Pregnancy massage removes tension from 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 future mothers relax while lessening the impact of stress on their bodies.

Reflexology Foot Massage

Reflexology is a gentle therapy that encourages 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 relaxing and reducing stress; as such, it may promote the healthy function of the 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 ancient form of massage thought to have been developed by Buddhist monks. The therapist stretches the recipient, then gently applies pressure throughout the energy lines of the body to increase strength, lessen muscle tension, and balance the body’s energy system. Thai massage can be useful for everyone, regardless of age and flexibility. It takes place on a big mat on the floor, and the customer is fully clothed.

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Thai Oil Massage

Thai oil massage is a variant of traditional Thai massage, using firm pressure and deep rhythmic movements along meridian/energy lines of the body. This treatment aims to unblock, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.

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. Thai oil massage utilises the properties of specific oils to allow the therapist to glide over the body.

Warm Bamboo Massage

Warm bamboo massage uses solid bamboo sticks of different lengths and diameters to massage the body with deep, long massage strokes. It was created in Asia and becoming more popular in the UK. If you like deep work, you’ll like this therapy. You should feel relaxed and full of energy, knowing your muscles have been stretched, warmed, and lengthened.

Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near Moulsecoomb?

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

Information about Moulsecoomb

Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!

Contact us Book Online