Massage in Seven-Dials, Brighton

If you live in Seven-Dials, 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. It used to be thought that the physical manipulation of muscles and tissues was the cause of the healing.

Recent research suggests that the interaction with the nervous system during massage is the primary cause of physical changes, including muscle relaxation. 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?

Anxiety and stress can be alleviated through massage therapy and can result in the whole body feeling better. This can have the effect of improving your sleep, enhancing your immune system, and make you more resistant 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?

One’s physical well-being, emotional welfare and physical state can all be improved through massage therapy. Massage can change our fascial, muscular, lymphatic, cardiovascular, endocrine, digestive and nervous systems. The benefits are therefore extremely diverse, from making us less stressed and anxious to reducing physical pain and the risk of future injury. The spin-off benefits include feeling a greater sense of control and happiness in life, getting better quality sleep, and being unwell less frequently. The most benefit is gained from massage therapy when you have regular, monthly sessions, to prevent future deterioration physically and emotionally, and maintain a good level of overall health.

Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendinitis

Acute inflammation does not normally benefit from direct massage, but may improve with gentle stroking, through reduced 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. Even though these responses are valuable in the short term, they can lead to poor health in the future. 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

A muscle can contract and go into spasm for many reasons, including dehydration, mineral deficiency, fatigue, and injury. Gentle massage to encourage blood flow may help to reverse this. Fibre injury due to overuse and overloading can cause muscle strain 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. Back pain can be associated with numerous causes, but in most cases, it is not severe, and mostly 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 prevalent in activities such as work and sports that involve repetitive 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 can boost circulation in the body and can help with symptoms such as cold hands, cold feet, and swelling at 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 can be done on pregnant women from 16 weeks up to the full term and can help improve a wide range of health issues, 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. 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 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. Improved movement and blood flow can both minimise recovery time after an injury and promote healing by delivering nutrients to the muscles and connective tissue. Relaxing the muscles will increase strength and minimise pain associated with muscle spasm while also improving 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 The strength of the data was insufficient however, emphasising the need for more study. It nevertheless showed that there is ample subjective proof that Massage Therapy works for back pain.

Massage Therapies we Offer near Seven-Dials

We have more than 20 different massage therapies for you to choose from. With so many choices to choose from, it can be hard to figure out which one would most help you. 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. 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 treated and some clients may have areas that are too sensitive to be massaged, such as feet or abdomen. It is an individual process and it is extremely important to feel completely relaxed, that is why the treatments are always personalised accordingly. Except on few occasions, each of our massages can be performed 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.

Muscles in these areas tend to shorten after spending hours from hours on the computer or phone, due to tiredness and stress, or after physical exercises, such as tennis or swimming. This shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache if left untreated. The Back, Neck, and Shoulder Massage form an integral part of our massage services.

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. Whether you’re overdoing it in the gym or working long hours on the computer, this treatment helps to relieve your body and improve flexibility. The deep tissue massage will help you find relief if you suffer from knotted arms, sore thighs or lower back pain.

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Californian Massage

Californian massage unites multiple senses of the recipient. Massage movements are gradual and systematic, with delicate touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed during a personal development workshop at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California in the seventies. 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 that involves using the feet and warm oils to apply pressure. This method of massage dates back more than 2,000 years. originating from the Kalari martial arts’ period in the southern coast of India’s Kerala. In Malayalam, a local dialect, it literally translates as “foot pressure massage”. It was developed to maintain suppleness in the body and treat pain or swelling. However, it is also appropriate for treating people who do not exercise regularly and want to improve their physical fitness and wellness.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage is a form of therapeutic or surgical massage aimed at addressing a specific issue, such as muscular pain. However, the outcome could relate to poor posture, reduced 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 usually referred to in the UK as a sports massage. This term is also not helpful, as it suggests that the treatment applies only to athletes and sports injuries, which is untrue.

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. Sesame, which is the base oil, is often pre-mixed in 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 or on-site massage (OSM) was originally founded by David Palmer, a traditional Chinese masseur, in California in the early 1980s. Inspired by the traditional Chinese art of healing called Amma, this ancient technique 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 refers to a series of techniques designed to release areas of facial restriction. Fascia is the connective tissue covering and incorporating every part of our body. It works by releasing restrictions throughout the whole body, giving relief to many aches and pains in a single treatment. Myofascial release brings about permanent change in the tissues so that the results will last 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 uses a mix of essential oils in a carrying oil that is mixed particularly for the desired result. 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. Some essential oils energise, and others can relax. Grapefruit can lift your mood; eucalyptus can clear the head; sandalwood is very soothing. Aromatherapy massage can aid in various conditions including sleeplessness, nausea, muscle pain, joint pain, stress, anxiety, skin conditions, drainage of the lymphatic system, and hormone imbalance.

Sports Massage

It is a common misconception that sports massage is intended only for athletes. In fact, it is suitable for all ages and 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. Typically, the desired result is a reduction in aches and pains. Still, it could also be getting a client ready for a sporting event, speeding up recovery after an endurance event or helping reduce muscular tension from long hours at work.

Couples / Duo Massage

In this massage, two people receive a massage in the same room, but each one is assigned a therapist. It can be a married couple, partners of the same sex, lovers, or simply 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. 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 known as Lomi Lomi, is one of the most profound forms of healing massage because it can induce states of meditation and blissful feelings 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. In this unique flowing oil-based massage, long and fluid rhythmic strokes are used over the whole 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 relaxing and blissful.

Hot Stone Massage

Hot stone massage is a relaxing treatment for sore muscles and soft tissue damage. The volcanic basalt stones are heated to around 60 degrees Celsius. As soon as the smooth flat stones are placed on your body, you will understand why a heated massage is so sublime. 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 are used to help rebalance the energies of your body. This powerful, relaxing massage relieves tension around the neck and scalp. The massage takes place as you sit in a chair, after being wrapped in a towel. Coconut oil is generously applied during this treatment, nourishing the skin and hair, in keeping with Indian practice.

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’s a form of 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 relieve pain and promote 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 massage therapy is carried out on a recipient who is lying sideways. 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 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 focus on these points and regions, applying different pressures to unblock and bring balance to the body. It is a strong aid for relaxation and stress reduction, promoting the proper function of the 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 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 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 be useful for everyone regardless of your 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 variation of the traditional Thai massage that uses strong pressure and deep rhythmic movements along the meridian/body energy lines. This treatment aims to unblock, balance, and restore the body’s natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy.

It is believed that maintaining stability in all organs and systems of the body can discourage ill health and disease so that the body can recover and function effectively. Thai oil massage uses the properties of several oils so that the therapist can glide over the body effortlessly.

Warm Bamboo Massage

Strong bamboo sticks of varying lengths and diameters are used in a warm bamboo massage to stimulate the body with strong, long massage strokes. Invented in Asia, it is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. 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 Seven-Dials?

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 Seven Dials, Brighton

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

Contact us Book Online