Why Should I Have A Massage?

A massage can be described as a relaxing, carefree experience to help one unwind and de-stress. However, having a massage can have many more benefits than just being relaxed (although that's always a good thing)! Studies have shown that massages can now treat a variety of disorders with the assistance of a medical practitioner. These can include; anxiety, arthritis, headaches, insomnia, muscle aches and pains and soft tissue injuries to name a few. I, first hand have felt the benefits of receiving regular massages (I was lucky enough to have one a week) in decreasing my stress levels through exams & clearing my mind, relieving shoulder & necks pains from sitting on a chair all day & just generally improving my wellbeing.

There are a few different types of massages, and all have there own benefits, some similar and some very different. In my business I offer 6 different massages, all designed to have specific benefits. I'm going to talk you through all the massage treatments I offer and the benefits of each.

Swedish Massage

The Swedish massage was of course designed in Sweden and is the most popular type of massage in the Western hemisphere. The full body Swedish message typically goes for 50-60 minutes, and massages the entire body including the back, neck, back of legs & front of legs, arms, décolletage, shoulders, face & head. It includes a series of movements all specifically tailored to the individual and their main focus. The Swedish massage is especially good for relaxation for the entire body, increases blood circulations and can help relieve any pain or tension help in the body. The full body massage is the ultimate treatment to indulge yourself in, and can help your overall well-being if you receive them on a regular basis. I had a Swedish massage once a week for 6 weeks & I could feel myself carrying less tension, having a clearer mind & my energy levels increased dramatically.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Our lymphatic system is the first line of defence against infections and illnesses. It has a detox effect in the body to remove the bacteria and waste stored in the body which makes us sick. The lymphs don't have anything to get them going other than physical activity (hence why you feel better after exercising, not only are the endorphins working but you're also working to remove all the unnecessary waste). Another way to help the lymphatic system is manually through massage, this works by relaxing the nervous system and increasing the blood flow in your body in a 40 minute long full body massage. Lymphatic drainage is especially helpful for people who suffer from sore throats, colds, weak immune & excess tiredness. The lymphatic drainage is also very beneficial when essential oils are added!

Indian Head Massage

This is a traditional Indian massage that has been practised and taught for many years. It can be a spiritual (I say that lightly as well, not trying to be disrespectful) experience as sometimes your dosha is discovered and the entire massage is tailored around that, down to the type of massage medium used. The way I was taught to perform this treatment was with the client sitting on a chair, leaning over onto the massage table, then your upper back, shoulders and neck. were massaged, the scalp is then massaged, and in my opinion, is probably the most rewarding and satisfying part. The movements that are performed are so intensely relaxing (yes I know I've said that too many times now but it's the best way to describe massages) yet invigorating at the same time, that you honestly feel like a new person afterwards. You also have a face massage after which is excellent for releasing tension held in the face around the cheek bones and temples.

Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage

This massage is essentially the initial part of the Swedish massage but only half the length, with some extra movements included. I like to suggest this massage to people if they are only recently receiving massages because it will give you an idea of what a full body massage would be like, without having to pay for a full body massage. This massage mainly focuses on the back where a series of soft and deep movements are performed to release any tense muscle around the shoulders, but also make you feel like you're in a 5-star resort. I would describe this massage as the perfect massage to get you hooked on the Swedish but without the cost and time.

Shoulder, Neck & Scalp Massage

Just like I describe the back, neck and shoulder as the one to get you hooked on the Swedish, this is the massage to just get you hooked to begin with. This is the least intimate, easy-going massage I offer for anyone who has never experienced a proper massage before, and is a bit unsure of what to expect. You're fully clothed at all stages (only your shoulders are exposed) and sit comfortably on a chair. I would then stand behind you and start with massaging your shoulder to release any tension or knots, do the same with the neck, and then move onto the eagerly anticipated scalp massage. A scalp massage is a wonderful way to deeply relax you and make the treatment feel as if you have been sitting there for hours.

Leg & Foot Massage

The reason I decided to offer a massage specifically for the feet and legs is because I understand and know myself how much I enjoy a good foot and leg rub when I have a pedicure. So I thought why not extend the massage to make it longer and offer it as it's own special treatment for people who don't have a lot of time, but have been on their feet all day. This massage focuses on the legs up to the knees, ankles and soles of feet to ensure you feel like you can carry on for the rest of the day.

So there you go, all the different types of massage treatments I offer, and the many benefits to each of them. I know we all get busy, and sometimes can't find the time for ourselves, but I can almost guarantee you that as little as 20 inure massage can make a world of difference for you and your life.

Till next time,

Ali x

P.S. Massage is a luxury you can't afford to miss.