holistic massage

What is a holistic massage?

Holistic comes from the greek 'holos' meaning whole. This approach is to look at all the factors of the individual including emotions, mental attitudes, lifestyle, diet, exercise, past experiences, relationships and beliefs.

The massage is based on the most commonly known type of massage, the swedish massage. It uses techniques designed to relax the muscles and ease tension.

What are the benefits of a massage?

In order to understand the benefits and effects of massage, it is
important to consider how the body responds physiologically.

the skeletal system	It helps improve muscle tone and balance, this reduces the physical stress placed on bones and joints.
the muscular system	relieves muscular tightness, stiffness, spasms and any restrictions in muscle tissue. It also increases blood circulation bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the muscle. This reduces muscle fatigue and soreness.
the cardiovascular system	Enhances blood flow; delivering fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and removing waste products, toxins and carbon dioxide. Also massage helps dilate the blood vessels, inproving the volume and flow of blood around the body, this helps temporarily to decrease blood pressure. When in a relaxed state the heart rate also decreases.
the lymphatic system	massage helps reduce oedema (excess fluid in the tissue) by increasing lymphatic drainage and the removal of waste from the system. Regular massage may help to strengthen the immune system, due to increase in production of white blood cells.
the nervous system	massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping promote relaxation and the reduction of stress. Also helps to reduce pain by the release of endorphins (known to elevate the mood).
the skin	massage improves circulation to the skin, thereby increasing nutrition to the cells and encouraging cell regeneration. Increased production of sweat from the sweat glands, helps to excrete urea and waste products through the skin. Also increased sebum production keeps the skin supple and improves resistance to infection.
the respiratory stystem	massage deepens respiration, improving lung capacity by relaxing the respiratory muscles.
the digestive system	massage increases peristalsis in the large intestine, helping to relieve constipation, colic and gas

Psychological effects of massage.

It is estimated that in today's society 75% of disease can be linked to stress. The skin is the largest sense organ we have and therefore massage and the power of touch, gives us a feeling of being cared for, being nurtured and the powerful emotional benefits that this brings.

Can anyone have a massage?

Almost everyone can benefit from massage, although there are a few factors which would prevent a massage treatment:

if you have a fever
if you have a contagious, infectious disease
if you are under the influence of alcohol or non-prescription drugs
if you are currently receiving medical treatment for a condition it may be necessary for you to seek advice from your GP before treatment. If you are in any doubt please call me to discuss.

What happens after the massage?

We will have a short discussion about the treatment and discuss ideas for maintaining your feeling of wellbeing. Because of the vast benefits that massage has on the body, you may feel some mild ill effects after a massage, for example:

increased thirst
increased urination
headache
disturbed sleep (although for most clients the opposite is true)
aching muscles (this is a reaction to the release of lactic acid in the muscles - by day 3-4 you will feel far more relaxed)

This is a sign that the massage has stimulated the body as a whole, and therefore encouraged toxins which may have been present for a long time to leave the body. Each individual will vary and some people will experience no ill effects at all. If you do experience some side effects do not worry this is a positive reaction to the body cleansing and re-balancing itself. Once any mild ill effects have passed you should feel in much better health.

If you continue to have a regular course of treatments these symptoms will lessen, as the toxic build up in the body is cleared.

"I really have felt the benefits of frequent massage - Kelly is very positive, supportive and caring in her approach, as well as in the physical massage which for me has been a new experience and a most enjoyable one" Fiona - April 2007

To book an appointment or discuss a treatment telephone me on 07976 550909 or 01451 870937

or alternatively e mail: kellyjones1006@hotmail.co.uk

holistic massage

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