Massage in West-Hill, Brighton

If you live in West-Hill, 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. 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.

New research, suggests that it is the effects on the nervous system that caused the physical changes, including muscle relaxation. During massage, feel-good hormones including endorphins are released and can improve 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?

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. There can also be direct benefits in reducing pain from aches and muscle injuries, improving mobility, improving posture, and reducing the likelihood of future injuries.

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. As such, the benefits are board, from reducing pain and anxiety to making us more flexible and less susceptible to 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. 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 is not generally used for acute inflammatory conditions, but gentle stroking can reduce pain and swelling.

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 known to reduce 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

Mineral deficiency, dehydration, fatigue, and injury, are some of the causes of muscle spasms and contraction. Gently massaging the affected area can result in improved blood flow to reverse the condition. Muscle sprain or ligament tear happens when there is a tear in the fibre of the muscle caused by too much use or overloading either one. 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 help relax the muscles and reduce the pain.

Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive strain injury is pain caused by overusing the muscles, tendons, and nerves due to repetitive activities. It is prevalent in work, sports or activities that involve a repetitive action. This condition can be found in the upper body areas, such as the forearm, 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 improves circulation in the body and can help with symptoms such as cold hands and feet, and swelling. Approval must be obtained from a doctor before massage is used to handle circulatory and respiratory issues as there are some cases where massage is not appropriate.

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

The body goes into protective mode when it is traumatised. The injured muscles typically become hypersensitive and movement is restricted. Massage therapy can be used to reverse these two states and help the body to heal. If still under medical supervision, check with your doctor before having any complementary therapies.

How can Massage Therapy help you with your Back Pain?

Massage therapy can be used to reduce back pain, and to relieve it. 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. 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. Still, the strength of the data was insufficient, highlighting the need for more research. It has nevertheless been shown that there is a lot of subjective evidence that Massage Therapy works for back pain.

Massage Therapies we Offer near West-Hill

We deliver over 20 different types of massage therapy. With such a wide range, knowing which would help you the most can be hard. Much will rely on what you want from your care and personal preference but do not hesitate to contact us if you need help choosing.

Full Body Massage

Full body massage is our second most popular choice after back, neck and shoulder massage. Full body massage can include the back, neck, shoulders, face, head, buttocks, arms, hands, legs, feet, abdomen 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.

That said, not all of these areas have to be included, and some clients may have areas, such as their feet or stomach, that are too sensitive to be massaged. It is very much up to the individual and feeling totally relaxed is of paramount importance, so treatments are always adapted accordingly. With few exceptions, every one of our massages can be given as a full body massage.

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.

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. If left untreated, this shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache. Back, neck and shoulder massage is an integral part of most of the different massage types we offer.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep pressure is applied with the therapist’s fingers, forearms and elbows to help stretch compressed, tense 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. Regardless of whether you are overdoing things at the gym or working for a long time at the computer, this treatment helps to relieve the body and improve flexibility. If you suffer from knotted shoulders, tight thighs or lower back pain, the deep tissue massage will help to free you from the discomfort.

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Californian Massage

Californian massage unites many of the recipient’s senses. The massage involves slow and systematic motions using mild touches, stretching, and kneading. It was developed during a personal development workshop at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California in the seventies. More than just a means of relaxation, this massage technique was intended to give the recipient a chance to reconnect with his/her body.

Chavutti Thirumal Massage

Chavutti Thirumal is a full body massage that involves using the feet and warm oils to apply pressure. It dates back over 2,000 years and originates from the Kalari martial artists of Kerala, on the southern coast of India. In the local Malayalam dialect, Chavutti Thirumal translates 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 for the treatment of people who do not exercise regularly or strenuously and want to maintain their physical fitness and well-being.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage is a type of clinical or therapeutic massage that is carried out to solve specific problems, such as muscle 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 since this term implies medical training for the therapist, it is NOT generally used in the UK. In the UK, it is more often referred to as sports massage. 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. The 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. Inspired by Amma, a traditional Chinese healing technique, this ancient procedure 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 covers and fills every part of our body. This process works by removing restrictions across the whole body, which relieves several pains and aches in one procedure. Myofascial release results in a permanent change to the tissues so that the end result lasts longer than regular 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 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 will lift your spirits; eucalyptus may clear a fuzzy head; sandalwood is very calming. 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 commonly assumed that sports massage is meant only for sportspeople. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. Deep tissue massage is a big part of sports massage. The clinical approach to sports massage where the therapist uses a number of techniques to obtain the desired result, but with reduced emphasis on relaxation is a major difference. This desired result often includes 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

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. This option allows you to celebrate a special day or just maximise your 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 intricate ways of healing massage; it can trigger meditation and a sensation of floating. It was developed from an ancient healing technique and treatment that aims to heal the entire body at once. This unique, oil-based massage involves performing long and smooth rhythmic movements all over 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 soothing and blissful.

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. You will understand the benefits of a heated stone massage once the smooth flat stones are placed on your body. Once the smooth flat stones start moving over your body, taking away all the pain and stress, you will experience a level of enjoyment that can be addictive.

Indian Head Massage

Indian head massage is a relaxing therapy that involves treating the head, ears, neck, and shoulders. Massage and acupressure help restore your body’s energy back to balance. This powerful, relaxing massage relieves neck and scalp tension. The massage takes place when you are sitting in a chair and wrapped in a towel. Following the Indian tradition, coconut oil is applied liberally during this massage, nourishing 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 ease pain and promote the healing of fractures, torn ligaments, and sprains. It relieves fluid congestion and can help heal wounds and burns due to the fact that it fortifies the immune system and helps with the removal of waste products.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy massage, sometimes called prenatal massage, is a peaceful treatment that works deeply but gently to relieve the special pains of pregnancy. This therapy is carried out on the recipient when she is laying on her side. Pregnancy massage can help relieve tension in 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. The theory emphasises that various points on the feet and lower legs are connected to different parts 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 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 an effective massage that involves a number of techniques, such as stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and vibrating. 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 the basis for many other massage styles.

Thai Massage

Thai massage is an ancient form of massage thought to have originated from 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 benefit anyone, regardless of age or flexibility. It is done on a large mat on the floor, with the client fully clothed.

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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 treatment is intended to trigger, normalise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/energy in the body.

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 utilises the properties of specific oils to allow the therapist to glide over the body.

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. 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 West-Hill?

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 West Hill, Brighton

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

Contact us Book Online