Massage in Roedean, Brighton
If you live in Roedean, 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 focuses on healing the mind and body through the power of touch, manipulation and relaxation. 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. During massage, feel-good hormones including endorphins are released and can improve 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. This can mean an improved immune system, better sleep patterns, and greater resistance to illness and disease. 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 has the power to improve your physical state, emotional state and your mental health. At the physical level, massage therapy can change our body, including influencing our fascial, muscular, lymphatic, cardiovascular, digestive, nervous and endocrine 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. These, in turn, have benefits such as improved sleep, reduced levels of sickness, a feeling os being in control and general happiness. Massage provides lots of benefits but is most beneficial when you have monthly sessions to maintain your optimum levels of physical, emotional and psychological health.
Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis
Direct massage isn’t used for inflammatory conditions when acute, but gentle strokes such as those in lymphatic drainage may help reduce swelling and associated pain.
Stress Relief and Associated Conditions
Stress is dangerous to the body. It can cause the muscles to contract, resulting in the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Even though these responses can be positive in the short term, with time they can cause poor health. Massage has been shown to alleviate some of these problems.
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 to encourage blood flow may help to reverse this. Muscle sprain or ligament tear can occur as a result of overuse and overloading of muscles. When the injury is acute, there is often swelling, and direct massage is not appropriate. Once the area is no longer swollen, massage can help to ease pain and improving normal 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 is pain caused by overusing the muscles, tendons, and nerves due to repetitive activities. This condition is common in sports, work and other activities that involve repeated actions. This disorder may affect the forearms, elbows, wrists, and other upper body areas. 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 increases circulation in the body and can be helpful with symptoms such as cold hands or feet and swelling at the extremities. 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 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 can be used to reduce back pain, and to relieve it. A variety of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, can help to lower hypersensitivity and increase range of motion. Increased motion and blood flow can reduce recovery time after injury and accelerate healing by nourishing muscles and connective tissues. Relaxing the muscle increases strength, decreases muscle spasm-related pain and even improves 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 However, the data was inadequate and emphasised the need for further research. Still, there are many indications that confirm the use of massage therapy for the treatment of back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Roedean
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. 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
After a back, neck and shoulder massage, a full body massage is our next most popular choice. Full body massage typically covers the back, neck, shoulder, head, face, buttocks, arms, legs, feet, stomach, 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 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 a personal process and feeling absolutely comfortable is extremely important, therefore, the treatments are always tailored accordingly. 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.
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. If left untreated, this shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache. The back, neck and shoulder massage is an essential part of most of the massage types we offer.
Deep Tissue Massage
The therapist’s thumb, forearms and elbows exert a deep pressure to stretch out shortened and tensed 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 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. This massage therapy involves slow and intentional movements of 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 way to relax; it is also intended to help the recipient reconnect with his/her body.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a full body massage using warm oils and the feet to apply pressure. The history dates back over 2,000 years and comes from the time of Kalari martial arts in Kerala, on India’s southern coast. In the local dialect of Malayalam, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was meant to help maintain flexibility in the body and to relieve 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, this massage can also help with poor posture, limited mobility, and sports performance. Sometimes, it is called medical massage, although the term suggests that the therapist has medical qualifications and is generally NOT 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. Sesame, the base oil, is commonly 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), originated in California in the early 1980s by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur. This ancient technique, influenced by the traditional Chinese practice of healing called Amma, was adapted to a specially designed, 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 that surrounds and permeates 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 contributes to lasting tissue improvement, and the effects last longer than conventional massage therapies. 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 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. Many essential oils are soothing, whereas others are stimulating. 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 misconception that sports massage is intended only for athletes. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. 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. That desired outcome is often reducing aches and pains. However, it may also be having a client ready for a sporting event, speeding up recovery or helping to reduce muscle tension from long working hours.
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 a husband and wife, same-sex partners, girlfriend and boyfriend, or just good friends. This option allows you 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. You can talk to your partner during the couples’ massage or remain silent all the way through. 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 is derived from an ancient technique of healing and working with the body while focusing on treating the person as a whole. This unusual, oil-based massage includes carrying out long, smooth rhythmic motions on the body. The therapist uses his/her hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows to apply soft, deep pressure to lengthen and gently stretch muscles. The rhythm is very relaxing and blissful.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a form of massage therapy used to help treat tense muscles and damaged soft tissues. 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 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 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. 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 an essential part of treating lymphoedema, a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It is a type of gentle massage that 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 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, also known as prenatal massage, is a gentle technique that has a deep yet delicate effect on relieving special pregnancy pains. This therapy is carried out on the recipient when she is laying on her 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 calm down expecting mothers while reducing the effects of tension on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a beneficial therapy that promotes well-being through relaxation. The theory emphasises that various points on the feet and lower legs are connected to different parts 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
The Swedish massage is an intensive massage technique that involves stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, punching, and shaking. 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 on which many other types of massage are based.
Thai Massage
Thai massage is an early form of massage developed by Buddhist monks. The therapist stretches the client, then applies gentle pressure along the energy lines of the body to increase flexibility, relieve muscle tension, and stabilise the energy system of the body. Thai Massage can benefit anyone, regardless of age or 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 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 trigger, normalise, 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. Thai oil massage uses the properties of several oils so that the therapist can glide over the body effortlessly.
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. This therapy is ideal 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 Roedean?
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!