Massage in Ovingdean, Brighton
If you live in Ovingdean, 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?
The main focus of massage therapy is to heal the mind and body through the healing power of touch, manipulation and relaxation. 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. Endorphins and other feelgood hormones are released during massage and can result in improved health and well-being. 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?
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. 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. On the physical side, massage can change our body systems including the cardiovascular, fascial, lymphatic, muscular, endocrine, digestive and nervous systems. Therefore, the benefits are diverse and range from reducing our perceptions of stress and anxiety, to reducing physical pain, to making us more flexible and less likely to get injured. The knock-on benefits can include sleeping better, getting sick less often, feeling more in control of life and feeling happier in general. 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 can harm our bodies, causing muscles to contract and stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol to be released. While it is true that these responses can be a good thing for the body, it is only short-lived, and with time can result in poor health. Massage has been known to reduce some of these problems.
Headaches and Migraines
Massage therapy has effectively treated both tension headaches and migraines as these are often caused by referred pain from the muscles of the neck and shoulders.
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. Gentle massage can be used to handle this type of situation. A muscle strain or ligament sprain occurs where a tear to the fibres is caused by overloading the muscle or ligament or through repetitive overuse. Massage is not ideal for the injured site while it is swollen or painful. Once the pain and swelling subside, massage can be helpful in decreasing sensitivity and improving normal movement.
Back Pain
Back pain is a very common reason people visit their doctor. 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 used to desensitise and help relax the muscles.
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 prevalent in activities such as work and sports that involve repetitive actions. This condition can be found in the upper body areas, such as the forearm, 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 massage is used to treat circulatory and respiratory conditions, approval should be obtained from a doctor as there are cases where massage is not suitable.
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 traumatised, it goes into a protective state. The injured muscles typically become hypersensitive and movement is restricted. Massage therapy can be used to manage these conditions and help the body to return back to normal. If under medical care, check with your GP before commencing complementary therapy.
How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?
Massage therapy can be used to reduce back pain, and to relieve it. 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 will increase strength, reduce pain associated with muscle spasm, and even improve 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. Nevertheless, the data’s strength was inadequate, stressing the need for more analysis. Still, there are many indications that confirm the use of massage therapy for the treatment of back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Ovingdean
We deliver over 20 different types of massage therapy. With such a wide range, knowing which would help you the most can be hard. However, your choice will depend a lot on your treatment and personal preference but don’t hesitate to get in touch if you want help in choosing.
Full Body Massage
Full body massage is our second most popular choice after back, neck and shoulder massage. Full body massage typically covers the back, neck, shoulder, head, face, buttocks, arms, legs, feet, stomach, and chest (for men). Women’s breasts are not included, but the area from the collarbone to the point where the breasts begin can be included.
However, not all of these areas need to be considered, and some clients may have areas such as feet or abdomen that are too sensitive to massage. It is very much up to the individual and feeling totally relaxed is of paramount importance, so treatments are always adapted accordingly. With a few exclusions, each of our massages can be given as a full body.
Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage
Undoubtedly, the back, neck and shoulders are the most popular places for massage, because they are physical and emotional tension spots.
These muscles have a tendency to shorten from hours on the computer or phone, feeling tired or stressed, or physical 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 integral part of most of the different 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. This may seem uncomfortable, and deeper is not always better, but an experienced therapist will work with therapeutic but still 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. 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 unites multiple senses of the recipient. The massage motions are gradual and systematic, with gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. This technique was developed in the 1970s in Esalen Institute, in Big Sur, California, during a personal growth workshop. 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 full body massage which involves applying pressure with the feet and using warm oils on the body. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, originating from the time of the martial arts of Kalari in Kerala, which is on the south coast of India. In Malayalam, the local dialect, it is literally translated as “massage by foot pressure”. It was designed primarily to provide flexibility in the body and aid with pain and swelling. However, it is also suitable as a treatment for people who do not exercise regularly but want to remain fit and well.
Remedial Massage
Remedial massage is a therapeutic or clinical massage that aims to resolve a particular issue, usually muscular pain. However, it may also be associated with poor posture, limited 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. 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, which means oil massage, is a form of Ayurvedic medicine that uses Dosha-specific, warm herbal oil to massage the body. Base oil, sesame, is usually 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
Acupressure seated massage, also known as on-site massage (OSM), was developed in the early eighties by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur in California. 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 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 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 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 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 will improve your mood; eucalyptus can clear the head, and sandalwood is very soothing. 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 is a common misunderstanding that sports massage is only for sportspeople. In fact, it is suitable for all ages and levels of activity. 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 often relief from aches and pains. However, it can also involve having a client ready for a sporting event, enhancing post-event recovery or even helping to relieve muscle tension after long hours of work.
Couples / Duo Massage
This massage involves massaging two people simultaneously in the same room, and each person has his/her own therapist. It can be a husband and wife, same-sex partners, girlfriend and boyfriend, or just good friends. You can choose this option to celebrate a special day or just maximise your time together. Couples/duo massage is a good way to introduce massage therapy to a friend or partner who has never had a massage and is anxious about the process. During couples’ massages, you can talk to your partner or stay silent the entire time. It’s up to you.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage
Hawaiian massage, also called Lomi Lomi, is one of the deepest forms of healing massage, as it can cause meditation and a blissful feeling of floating. It was developed from an ancient healing technique and treatment that aims to heal the entire body at once. This unusual, oil-based massage includes carrying out long, smooth rhythmic motions on 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 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 used for heating at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius. After placing smooth flat stones on your body, you’ll understand why a heated massage is so wonderful. 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 holistic massage technique that is applied to the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help restore your body’s energy back to balance. This strong, soothing massage relieves tension in the neck and scalp. The massage takes place with you sitting in a chair and wrapped in a towel. During this massage, in accordance with Indian tradition, coconut oil is generously applied and nourishes the skin and hair.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is an important part of treating lymphoedema, a serious disease that causes swelling of the body’s tissues. It is a form of gentle massage which helps to reduce swelling in the lymphatic system. It is preferably used before and after surgery in both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. It can reduce pain while helping to repair 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 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, appropriate 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 complementary therapy that aims to promote well-being through deep relaxation. It operates on the premise that different points on the feet and lower legs are related to particular 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 technique for calming and reducing stress while promoting healthy immune and digestive systems.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is an effective massage that involves a number of techniques, such as stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and vibrating. It is a milder massage than deep tissue massage, with an emphasis on relaxation and general stress relief. 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 that Buddhist monks are thought to have developed. The therapist stretches out the client and uses steady pressure along the energy lines of the body to increase flexibility, ease muscular tension, and balance the energy systems of the body. Thai massage can be useful for everyone regardless of your age and flexibility. It is done on a large mat on the floor, with the client 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 form of traditional Thai massage that applies strong pressure and intense rhythmic motions along the energy lines/meridian of the body. This treatment is intended to trigger, normalise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy in the body.
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 uses the properties of certain oils so that the therapist can smoothly 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 developed in Asia, and it is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This therapy is ideal if you enjoy deep work. It will leave you soothed, energised, and feeling that your muscles have been pleasantly stretched, warmed, and elongated.
Why Chose Natural Balance Therapies for your Massage near Ovingdean?
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!