Massage in Saltdean, Brighton
If you live in Saltdean, 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. Up until quite recently, it was thought that the effects of massage therapy which result in physical changes to soft tissues and muscles are a cause of healing.
Recent research suggests that the interaction with the nervous system during massage is the primary cause of physical changes, including muscle relaxation. Endorphins and other feelgood hormones are released during massage and can result in improved health and well-being. 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?
Massage therapy has the power to reduce anxiety and stress and so help the entire body. This can mean an improved immune system, better sleep patterns, and greater resistance to illness and 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?
Massage therapy can have a positive effect on a person’s physical state, emotional welfare and psychological well-being. Massage can change our fascial, muscular, lymphatic, cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive and nervous systems. The benefits are therefore diverse, from reducing anxiety and pain to making us less prone to injury and more physically flexible. These, in turn, have benefits such as improved sleep, reduced levels of sickness, a feeling os being in control and general happiness. When you maintain your physical, psychological and emotional health with regular monthly massage sessions you gain the most benefit.
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 can affect our bodies, triggering muscle activity that releases 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 known to help improve stress.
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. Gently massaging the affected area can result in improved blood flow to reverse the condition. Too much use and overloading of the muscle or ligament can tear the fibres of the muscle causing muscle strain and or ligament sprain. When the injury is acute, there is often swelling, and direct massage is not appropriate. But once it is no longer painful, massage can help decrease sensitivity and encourage movement.
Back Pain
Back pain is one of the main reasons many people pay a visit to their doctor. Even though back pain can be caused by many factors, it is mostly mild and caused by muscle overuse. 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. Like any overuse injury, massage may help manage the pain, although any relief may be temporary without eliminating the cause.
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. Before using massage for circulatory and respiratory conditions, get approval from a doctor as there are circumstances when massage is not suitable for these conditions.
Pregnancy and Labour Discomfort
Pregnancy massage is available from 16 weeks up to the full term and can really help with a variety of issues including lower back pain, headaches, swelling and stress.
Post-injury and Post-surgical Rehabilitation
The body goes into a protective state when it is injured. 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?
Massage therapy is helpful in treating back pain. Many methods, including deep tissue massage and stretching, can help reduce 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. Muscle relaxation increases strength and minimises the pain associated with muscle spasms while also improving sleep. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality analysed 20 studies comparing massage with regular care or other therapies in a 2016 study of non-drug treatments for low back pain, and found evidence that massage was successful for chronic low back pain. The strength of the data was insufficient however, emphasising the need for more study. That said, there is lots of anecdotal evidence to support the use of Massage Therapy for back pain.
Massage Therapies we Offer near Saltdean
We offer over twenty different types of massage therapy. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one would benefit you the most. 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
Apart from the back, neck and shoulder massage, the full body is another of our popular choice. A full body massage may include the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, glutes, arms, hands, 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.
Not all of these areas need to be treated and some clients may have areas that are too sensitive to be massaged, such as feet or abdomen. It is a personal process and feeling absolutely comfortable is extremely important, therefore, the treatments are always tailored 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.
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 result in a stiff neck 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
The therapist will apply deep pressure using the thumbs, forearms, and elbows to help stretch out tense and shortened muscles. It may feel uncomfortable and deeper is not always better, but a professional therapist will be able to exert a therapeutic but 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 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 affects many of the 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 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 which involves applying pressure with the feet and using warm oils on the body. 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. In the local dialect of Malayalam, Chavutti Thirumal translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was developed to maintain suppleness in the body and treat pain or 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
Remedial massage is a therapeutic or clinical massage that is targeted at solving a specific problem, such as muscle pain. The effect of remedial massage can also be felt in poor posture, restricted movement, and sports performance. Remedial massage is sometimes called medical massage, but this term is incorrect because it suggests that the therapist has medical qualification; therefore, it is not generally used in the UK. It is usually referred to in the UK as a 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, the base oil, is commonly 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
Acupressure seated massage, also known as on-site-massage (OSM), originated in California in the early 1980s by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur. 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 is a set of procedures for removing facial restrictions. Fascia is the connective tissue that covers and fills every part of our body. It works by removing restrictions throughout the body and relieving pain in one treatment. Myofascial release results in long-lasting tissue improvement so that the effects last longer than traditional massage treatments. Changes in posture may also occur so that symptoms do not come back. 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 mix of essential oils in a carrying oil that is mixed particularly for the desired result. The chemical content of the essential oil can be complex, which is why one type of oil may have different effects when absorbed by the body. Some essential oils energise, and others can relax. Grapefruit will improve your mood; eucalyptus can clear the head, and sandalwood is very soothing. Aromatherapy massage can help with many conditions, including insomnia, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain, stress, anxiety, skin conditions, lymphatic drainage, and hormonal imbalance.
Sports Massage
It is a common misunderstanding that sports massage is only for sportspeople. It is actually appropriate for all ages and activity levels. Deep tissue massage is a big part of sports massage. The main difference is the more scientific approach of sports massage, where the therapist uses a variety of techniques to achieve the desired effect, with less emphasis on relaxation. The desired result is often relief from 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
This massage involves massaging two people simultaneously in the same room, and each person has his/her own therapist. It is ideal for married couples, same-sex partners, lovers, 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. During couples’ massages, you can talk to your partner or stay silent the entire time. It really depends on 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. In this unique flowing oil-based massage, long and fluid rhythmic strokes are used over the whole body. The therapist uses the hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows, exerting gentle and deep pressure to lengthen and stretch the muscles. The rhythm can be both relaxing and pleasurable.
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. After placing smooth flat stones on your body, you’ll understand why a heated massage is so wonderful. 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 relaxing therapy that involves treating the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure are used to help rebalance the energies of your body. This strong, soothing massage relieves tension in the neck and scalp. The massage takes place as you sit in a chair, after being 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. This is a gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling. It is useful in preoperative and postoperative situations for both cosmetic and orthopaedic surgeries. 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, also called prenatal massage, is a procedure that has a deep and delicate effect on alleviating special pregnancy pains. This therapy is done in a lateral position. Pregnancy massage helps reduce tension on the neck, shoulders, lower back, and legs. It is a safe and supportive treatment for women, suitable from 16 weeks to full term. Pregnancy massage helps mums-to-be relax and reduces 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 works on the theory that different points on the feet and lower legs are connected to specific areas of the body. Reflexologists concentrate on these points and regions while applying different pressure levels in order to unblock and balance 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 intense massage involving a variety of techniques, including stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and shaking. It is a milder massage than deep tissue massage and focuses on relaxation and general relief from stress. 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 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 your age and 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 form of traditional Thai massage that applies strong pressure and intense rhythmic motions along the energy lines/meridian of the body. This therapy aims to activate, 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 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 Saltdean?
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!