Massage in North-Laine, Brighton
If you live in North-Laine, 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. It used to be thought that the physical manipulation of muscles and tissues was the cause of the healing.
Recent research suggests that the positive benefits, such as muscle relaxation, are due to effects that massage has on the nervous system. Endorphins and other feelgood hormones are released during massage and can result in improved health and well-being. 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?
Massage therapy has the power to reduce anxiety and stress and so help the entire body. This, in time, can improve your immune system, and many see immediate improvements in their ability to sleep and relax. 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?
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. The knock-on benefits can include sleeping better, getting sick less often, feeling more in control of life and feeling happier in general. 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 harms the body. It causes the muscles to contract and results in the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. In the short term, these responses can be beneficial, but over time, they can cause poor health. Massage has been proven to counter some of these effects.
Headaches and Migraines
Tension headaches and migraine, often caused by pain from the neck and shoulder muscles have been known to be effectively treated through massage therapy.
Muscle and Related Conditions such as Spasms, Strains and Sprains
Dehydration, mineral deficiency, exhaustion, and injury may cause a muscle to contract and go into spasm. Gentle massage can be used to handle this type of situation. Muscle sprain or ligament tear can occur as a result of overuse and overloading of muscles. Massage is not ideal for the injured site while it is swollen or painful. But once the pain reduces, massage can help with sensitivity and 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 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. 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 be beneficial for circulation and respiration in the body, as well as improve symptoms of cold hands, feet, and swelling. 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. The injured muscles typically become hypersensitive and movement is restricted. 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. A range of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, may help to reduce hypersensitivity and increase 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 will increase strength, reduce pain associated with muscle spasm, and even improve 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 Nevertheless, the data’s strength was inadequate, stressing the need for more analysis. It nevertheless showed that there is ample subjective proof that Massage Therapy works for back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near North-Laine
We offer more than 20 different types of massage care. 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 the back, neck and shoulder massage, full body is our second most popular choice. Full body massage typically covers the back, neck, shoulder, head, face, buttocks, arms, legs, feet, stomach, and chest (for men). While full body massage does not cover the female breasts, it can include the neckline, from the collarbone down to where the breasts begin.
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.
These muscles tend to shorten from hours of work on the computer or phone, stress, and tiredness, or after sports activities such as tennis or swimming. If left untreated, this shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache. 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 can feel uncomfortable, but deeper isn’t always better, and a skilled therapist will work with a pressure that is therapeutic but still relaxing. 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. If you suffer from knotted shoulders, tight hamstrings or lower back pain, deep tissue massage can 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 is known for having an effect on multiple senses. The massage involves systematic and gradual motions 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. California massage is more than just a means of relaxation; this massage style also helps recipients reconnect with their bodies.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a type of full body massage that requires using warm oils and the feet to apply pressure. 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. It literally translates as “foot pressure massage” in Malayalam, a local dialect. It was designed primarily to provide flexibility in the body and aid with 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
Remedial massage is a therapeutic or clinical massage that aims to resolve a particular issue, usually 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 more commonly called sports massage in the UK. 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, also known as oil massage, is a form of Ayurvedic treatment that involves the use of Dosha warm herbal oil to massage the body. Base oil, sesame, is usually 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
David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur, originally developed acupressure seated massage or on-site massage (OSM) in California in the early 1980s. 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 counterbalance the rise in use of computers and sedentary type work.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial release is a set of procedures for removing facial restrictions. Fascia is the connective tissue that surrounds every part of our body. This process works by removing restrictions throughout the entire body, providing relief for many aches and pains with 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 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 energise, and others can relax. 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
Sports massage is commonly assumed to be intended only for sportspeople. In fact, it is actually ideal for everyone and at all level of activity. Deep tissue massage is an important component of sports 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. The desired result is often relief from 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. You can choose this option to celebrate a special day or just maximise your 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 depends on you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Lomi Lomi is a form of Hawaiian massage; it is one of the most profound techniques in healing massage because it can induce a state of meditation and sensation of blissful 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 very relaxing and blissful.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that helps to heal tense muscles and soft tissue damage. The stones from volcanic basalt are heated to 60 degrees Celsius. You will understand why a heated massage is perfect once the smooth stones are placed on your body. As the stones glide on your body, easing away the stress and pain, a level of relaxation is achieved that becomes highly addictive.
Indian Head Massage
Indian head massage is a soothing holistic therapy meant to treat the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help restore energy back to the balance in your body. This strong, soothing massage relieves tension in the neck and scalp. . The massage happens once you are seated in a chair and 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 important technique in the treatment of lymphoedema, a chronic condition which 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 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 helps with fluid congestion and can accelerate the healing of wounds and burns because it improves the immune system and helps remove 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 carried out with the recipient lying on the side. Pregnancy massage soothes the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a harmless and supportive technique for women, suitable from week 16 to full-term pregnancy. Pregnancy massage helps mums-to-be relax and reduces the impact of stress on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
As a gentle therapy, reflexology promotes 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 use varying amounts of pressure on these points and regions to unblock and align the body. It is a powerful aid for relaxation and stress reduction; as such, it may support the healthy function of the 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 gentler massage than deep tissue, with a focus on general stress relief and relaxation. This is the most common type of massage and the basis of many other styles of massage.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is an early form of massage developed by 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, regardless of age or flexibility. It takes place on a big mat on the floor, and the customer is fully clothed.
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 variant of traditional Thai massage, using firm pressure and deep rhythmic movements along meridian/energy lines of the body. This therapy aims to activate, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.
It is believed that maintaining balance in all organs and systems of the body prevents ill health and diseases so that the body can heal and work efficiently. Thai oil massage uses the properties of a number of oils, making it easy for the therapist to glide over the body.
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. It was created in Asia and becoming more popular in the UK. You will like this therapy if you enjoy deep work. It will make you feel relaxed and energised, as your muscles will feel stretched out, warmed, and extended.
Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near North-Laine?
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!