Massage in Whitehawk, Brighton
If you live in Whitehawk, 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?
Through the power of relaxation, manipulation and touch massage therapy, it is possible to heal the mind and body. It used to be thought that the physical manipulation of muscles and tissues was the cause of the healing.
New research, suggests that it is the effects on the nervous system that caused the physical changes, including muscle relaxation. Endorphins and other feelgood hormones are released during massage and can result in improved health and well-being. There are different approaches to massage therapy, offering different benefits, including shiatsu, Swedish and deep tissue massage.
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, in time, can improve your immune system, and many see immediate improvements in their ability to sleep and relax. 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. 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. 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
Inflammatory conditions don’t receive direct massage, but gentle strokes like those associated with lymphatic drainage may offer benefits such as reduced pain and swelling.
Stress Relief and Associated Conditions
Stress can affect our bodies, triggering muscle activity that releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Even though these responses are valuable in the short term, they can lead to poor health in the future. 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
Muscle contraction and spasm can happen for many reasons including mineral deficiency, dehydration, fatigue, and injury. 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. Direct massage is not appropriate while the injury is swollen and painful. But once it is no longer painful, massage can help decrease sensitivity and encourage movement.
Back Pain
A lot of people visit their doctor because of back pain. 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 used to desensitise and help relax the muscles.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Pain caused by repetitive movement or overuse of the muscles, tendons, and nerves is known as repetitive strain injury or RSI. 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 with any overuse injury, massage can help manage the pain, although without removing the cause, any relief may be temporary.
Circulatory and Respiratory Problems
Massage improves circulation in the body and can help with symptoms such as cold hands and 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
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 a protective state when it is injured. Muscles close to the injured site typically become sensitive 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 both prevent and treat back pain. A range of techniques, including deep tissue massage and stretching, may help to reduce hypersensitivity and increase range of motion. Increased movement and blood flow can both help reduce post-injury recovery time and promote healing by bringing nutrients to the muscles and connective tissue. Muscle relaxation increases strength, relieves pain associated with muscle spasms, 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 insufficient, which clearly indicates 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 Whitehawk
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. 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). 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. 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 tend to shorten from hours of work on the computer or phone, stress, and tiredness, or after sports activities such as tennis or swimming. If left untreated, this shortening may cause neck stiffness or tension headache. The Back, Neck, and Shoulder Massage form an integral part of our massage services.
Deep Tissue Massage
The therapist’s thumb, forearms and elbows exert a deep pressure to stretch out shortened and tensed muscles. It may feel uncomfortable but is not always bad, and a professional therapist will work with a therapeutic but still 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. The deep tissue massage will help you find relief if you suffer from knotted arms, sore thighs or lower back pain.
Our Professional, Experienced and Caring Therapists offer Massage Therapy, Osteopathy, Acupuncture, and Beauty Treatments. Book your appointment Today!
Californian Massage
Californian massage is known for having an effect on multiple senses. The massage motions are gradual and systematic, with gentle touches, kneading, and stretching. It was developed in the 1970s during a personal growth workshop at the Esalen Institute® in Big Sur, California. California massage is more than just a means of relaxation; this massage style also helps recipients reconnect with their bodies.
Chavutti Thirumal Massage
Chavutti Thirumal is a type of full body massage that requires using warm oils and the feet 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 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 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 because this term implies that the therapist has medical training, it is NOT generally used in the UK. In the UK, it is more often referred to as sports massage. However, this term is unhelpful because it suggests the treatment is only for sports injuries or sports people, which it isn’t.
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. Base oil, sesame, is usually pre-mixed with herbs. During the full body massage, the body is smeared with oil using long, smooth movements 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. Inspired by the traditional Chinese art of healing called Amma, this ancient technique was adapted to a specially designed, ergonomic chair. It was designed to counter the increase in computer use 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. Postural changes may also occur so that symptoms are not able to come back. A major difference between this technique and other massage types is that it is performed on dry skin, without oils or lotions.
Aromatherapy Massage
An aromatherapy massage uses a mix of essential oils in a carrier oil that is blended for the desired outcome. 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. Many essential oils are soothing, and others are energising. Grapefruit will lift your spirits; eucalyptus may clear a fuzzy head; sandalwood is very calming. 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. It is in fact suitable for everybody and at all activity levels. A significant component of sports massage is deep tissue 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. This desired result often includes reducing 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
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 therapy allows you to celebrate a special moment or just spend time together. Couples/duo massage is also a great way to introduce a partner or friend who has never experienced a massage and is apprehensive about it. During couples’ massages, you can talk to your partner or stay silent the entire time. It’s really 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 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 enjoyable.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy that helps to heal tense muscles and soft tissue damage. The volcanic basalt stones are meant to be heated up to 60 degrees Celsius. As soon as you put the smooth flat stones on your body, you can understand why this heated massage is so transformative. You will feel a level of enjoyment that can be addictive once the smooth flat stones start moving over your body, taking away all the pain and stress.
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 rebalance your body’s energy. This powerful, relaxing massage relieves tension around the neck and scalp. 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 essential part of treating lymphoedema, a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues. It’s a form of gentle massage that stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling. 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 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 carried out with the recipient lying on the side. Pregnancy massage soothes 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 soothe pregnant women and lessens the effects of stress on their bodies.
Reflexology Foot Massage
Reflexology is a complementary therapy that aims to promote 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 strong aid for relaxation and stress reduction, promoting the proper function of the immune and digestive systems.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a classic massage that incorporates a range of techniques, including stroking, gliding, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, and vibration. 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 early form of massage that Buddhist monks are thought to have developed. 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. Whatever your age and flexibility, Thai massage can be useful for everyone. 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 treatment is intended to activate, stabilise, and restore the natural flow of Prana/Qi/Chi/ energy in the body.
It is believed that maintaining equilibrium in all bodily organs and systems can prevent ill health and disease so that the body can regenerate and work effectively. The Thai oil massage uses the properties of many oils, enabling the therapist to glide across the body easily.
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. Invented in Asia, it is growing in popularity in the United Kingdom. If you like deep work, you’ll like this therapy. 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 Whitehawk?
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!