Remedial massage aims to alleviate discomfort, tightness or limited range of motion in specific regions of the body. A number of techniques are used to achieve this such as deep tissue oil massage, acupressure and targeted stretches. Foot and hand reflexology can also be included in this treatment to stimulate the healing process within the body. During the treatment, hot stone therapy and/or cupping therapy may be used to ease tension in the muscles and to improve the flow of energy or Chi.
As the name suggests, Relaxation Massage is a gentle, whole body oil massage designed to transport the client into a very relaxed state. This therapy includes a number of swedish massage techniques such as gentle frictions, kneading and rythmic tapping or tapotement. To add to the sense of wellbeing and relaxation, a number of energetic balancing techniques such as Polarity and Reiki are often included. During the treatment, hot stone therapy and/or cupping therapy may be used to ease tension in the muscles and to improve the flow of energy or Chi.
Shiatsu therapy involves applying pressure with fingers, palms, elbows and feet along the energy lines or meridians, stimulating the body's innate ability to heal itself. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular sessions help to prevent the build-up of stress in our daily lives. Shiatsu is done through the clothing, so there is no need for the client to undress.
Polarity Therapy uses the body's own flow of energies to rebalance areas that may have become blocked. Good health is experienced when energy flows smoothly without significant blockage. When energy is unbalanced, pain and disease arise. Polarity Therapy, developed by Dr Randolph Stone, is a system of gentle hand contacts to find the blockages and release energy to normal flow patterns, and to maintain the energy field in an open, flexible condition.
Reiki is a natural form of healing therapy. It is applied through non-invasive gentle touch. This form of therapy aims to increase energy levels and promote relaxation and wellbeing. The literal translation of Reiki, from Japanese is 'spiritual energy'. This form of hands-on healing has been around for many centuries and is common in many different cultures. Reiki is believed to have been developed in Japan by Mikao Usui, a Tendai Buddhist monk, at the beginning of the 20th century.
Hot Stone therapy can be used as part of a remedial or relaxation massage. It promotes the body’s blood circulation and metabolism, assisting clients to let go of tension and experience deeper relaxation. In a remedial massage, the easing of tense muscles achieved by the hot stones can greatly assist with deep tissue work.
Cupping therapy can be used as part of a remedial or relaxation massage. The suction or vacuum created by the cups can provide muscular relaxation, reduce pain, loosen tight muscles, encourage blood flow and calm the nervous system. The vacuum effect achieved through cupping creates space around the muscles and connective tissue which in turn improves the movement of lymph, blood and energy or Qi. Cups can be left on the skin for about 10-15 minutes. Also, sliding the cups over the skin (Sliding Cupping) can help to release pain, reduce muscle spasming and disperse excessive heat.