Massage therapy helps us to relax and can help ease aches and pains. It helps trigger the release of the body’s natural painkillers and gives a general sense of contentment. Massage is a general term and you may also come across the terms Swedish massage, sports massage and remedial massage.

Origins of massage

Because touch is such a primary human need, massage has been rooted in human culture for some time. The Chinese were practising massage as long ago as 3000 BC. In India sacred ancient Hindu texts include massage in their guidelines for hygiene and well-being. Egyptian tombs contain evidence that shows that massage was also important in their culture.

In the sporting arena the athletes of ancient Greece used massage before and after competing while the Romans recognised the benefits for injured gladiators. Massage was also important to cultured Roman citizens after their bathing rituals in hot springs. Many Romans liked to round off their visits to the baths with a relaxing massage.

Mary Queen of Scots played a part in the massage story. The resulting benefits to her health helped to get massage established as a recognised form of therapy.

The basis for modern massage therapies hinges on the work of Per Henrik Ling (1776 – 1839). As a result of extensive research and practical experience at his Institute, he developed a scientific system known as Swedish massage. It was Ling who introduced the French terms still in use by massage therapists today, such as Effleurage and Frictions.

What happens during a massage treatment?

A massage treatment lasts for approximately an hour. During the treatment warm towels will be used to ensure your modesty. Oils are used during the massage which can help to nourish the skin.

What conditions can be helped?

Many people have massage for help with specific symptoms or conditions or for some people massage is used as a relaxing therapy for relief of anxiety and stress related disorders. Massage is a safe treatment for all. Some people may have massage as a preventative measure to strengthen their constitution or because they feel unwell in themselves without being ill in the Western sense. It can also be used alongside conventional medicine as there are no side effects.

What does it feel like?

During treatment patients commonly experience a pleasant feeling of relaxation.

Benefits of massage

• Potential benefits of massage can include enhanced feelings of relaxation
• Relief from pain e.g. headaches and back pain and from stress and tension
• Many people find that it can also lead to increased energy levels and feelings of vitality
• Better appetite and sleep
• A calm and soothed mind which promotes emotional well being
• The release of endorphins, the body’s feel good hormones which can also provide pain relief
• Improved blood and lymph circulation
• More efficient removal of impurities and toxins
• A stronger immune system
• Injury recovery
• A sense that the whole body is better balanced, or in harmony

After your treatment

To gain maximum benefit from your massage treatment, try to rest afterwards as this helps your body’s natural healing process. Drink plenty of water over the next few days as this helps flush away toxins.

Is it safe?

As a member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists (MICHT) we offer high standards of treatment and follow codes of Code of Practice and Ethics which lay down stringent standards of hygiene including the use of clean couch linen which is changed after each patient.

Training in massage

Wendy completed a one year course in massage in 1993 from North East Worcestershire College in Bromsgrove where she gained a Certificate in massage and also joined the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) the same year.

How much does it cost?

£50 for the first treatment to include a full consultation – about one and a half hours.
£30 for follow up treatments – about one hour.