Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It is especially helpful for chronically tense and contracted areas such as stiff necks, low back tightness and sore shoulders.

Some of the same strokes are used as classic massage therapy (Swedish/Holistic or Aromatherapy) but the movement is slower and pressure is deeper and concentrated on areas of tension and pain.

At certain points during the massage, most people find there is usually some discomfort and pain. Therefore it is important to let your therapist know when it hurts and if you experience any soreness or pain outside your comfort range.

The Treatment

Deep Tissue Massage was designed to loosen muscle tension and relieve stress. An added benefit of such massage is that it can smooth out scar tissue. The focus is on connective tissues and the deepest layers of muscle mass in the body. Most of the treatment is done lying on a massage table, but sometimes your therapist may work with you seated, depending on the problem or area being massaged.

A treatment does not usually involve working on the whole body, but focuses on particular areas of the body which are presenting patterns of strain. So the whole treatment might focus on the legs and pelvis or shoulder girdle or neck, depending on where the strain patterns are evident. Releasing these areas of strain will have effects throughout the body.

Treatment Benefits

Increased blood supply, therefore increased oxygen intake and toxin release
Muscle tone can be improved
Can help to increase flexibility and mobility of muscles and joints
Cramps and other muscular spasms can be alleviated
Can be a form of exercise for those who are unable to participate in any physical activity
Working muscle against the bone can help to clear toxic adhesions which may have built up and also will feed and nourish the bone itself and neighbouring joints
Will help to encourage growth and development of bones
Can alleviate mild postural deformities
Stimulates and improves circulatory system thereby boosting the immune system also stimulating lymphatic flow
Can improve the condition of the lungs due to deeper breathing
Skin condition may improve due to increase blood flow and sebum production
Digestion and elimination can be greatly improved
Chronic neck, back and shoulder pain as well as headaches can be relieved and treated
Oedema or swelling can be significantly reduced
Alleviates stress and can be useful in combating depression, insomnia and lethargy

Before and After your Treatment

Here is some guidance on what to do to prepare for your treatment along with what you can expect after the treatment too

Try to avoid eating a large meal at least 1 hour before your treatment. Please also refrain from consuming alcohol or using other substances before any treatment or therapy.
Arrive on time. This insures that you don’t arrive flustered and stressed. It also means that you will get the most out of your treatment. We ask all clients to arrive 10-15 minutes before their treatment is due to begin.
Talk to your therapist. If you are concerned or anxious about anything to do with your treatment let us know. We want to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed.
We ask our clients to ensure they arrive clean and ready for their treatment. If you are coming straight from work or the gym, please let us know and we can arrange for the use of our shower facilities before the treatment. (A surcharge will apply).
All new clients will need to complete a full medical and lifestyle questionnaire before their treatment. All existing clients will need to complete a treatment record card before any subsequent treatments. This is to ensure we can provide you with the best possible care and to comply with our insurance policies.
Please wear loose comfortable clothing and appropriate underwear. For any spa treatments, a robe will be provided for your comfort.

Everyone client has to complete a medical and lifestyle questionaire on their first visit - we ask you to arrive early (approximately 20 minutes) to allow you time to complete this in our relaxation area. On every subsequent visit you will be asked to confirm that none of the details have changed. This is primarily for your protection and to ensure we are aware of any contra-indications before providing tretment. It is also a requirment of our insurers.

Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins; massage aids the removal of toxins from the body
Coffee, tea and cola should be avoided as they contain caffeine. Aim to drink two glasses of water after each drink of tea or coffee if not. Or try to drink herbal infusions in place of tea or coffee
Avoid any headache tablets as these too contain caffeine
Avoid eating a heavy meal. Eat a light and natural diet, as refined and processed foods add to the toxicity levels within the body and hinder the natural healing process
Do not smoke or drink alcohol for the next 24 hours. Alcohol and smoking are counter-productive as they increase the levels of toxins in the body.

Healing Crisis

Some people may experience the following after treatment: