Our massage therapist Diana is skilled in many different types of massage, and is able to help guide you on what would be best for you. She may choose different types to address different areas of concern, or advise you on a specific method that is best suited for you. It is best to discuss with Diana what your particular pains, areas of concern and preferences are and she will form a personalised approach using the best techniques to help you feel better.
Different types of massage she may use include:
Remedial
Objective assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of the signs, symptoms and causes of bio-mechanical dysfunction or injury, using specific mobilisation techniques, in order to restore normal health and function.
Therapeutic
Also known as ‘Western’ or ‘Swedish’ massage. One of the most popular forms of massage in Australia, this technique is designed to promote relaxation and improve blood circulation.
Lymphatic drainage
A gentle whole-body treatment which relaxes the nervous system and aids the body’s immune system. May be used to address lymphedema which is a specific type of swelling often in the arms or legs.
Hot stone massage
For this kind of massage, the therapist places warmed stones on certain areas of the body, such as acupressure points. The stones may be used as massage tools or temporarily left in place. Used along with other massage techniques, hot stones can be quite soothing and relaxing as they transmit heat deep into the body.
Sports
This is an application of massage, not a particular massage technique. The type of technique or treatment applied is dependent on the nature of the stage of training or competition, sports injury or condition and the assessment of the remedial massage therapist. Sport massage is a blend of techniques that aim to enhance performance and help overworked muscles to recover quickly.
Deep tissue massage
This technique concentrates on the deeper layers of muscle tissue with the aim to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body, through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on contracted areas, by either following or crossing over the muscle fibres, fascia and tendons. The techniques can include Trigger Point Therapy, deep tissue massage and stretching, thereby creating an improved range of motion through the joints.
Myofascial release
Your fascia is a connected web of tissues that supports your muscles, bones, organs, and other structures within the body. Gentle pressure on specific areas of the body can release tightness within the fascial system. The therapist may use their hands, fingers, elbows, or specialized tools to apply pressure and stretch the fascia in a way that encourages it to return to a more relaxed state.
Pregnancy massage
During pregnancy, your body goes through major changes. Pregnancy massage can help with these changes by reducing stress, decreasing arm and leg swelling, and relieving muscle and joint pain. Massage may be particularly helpful during a time when medication and other medical options may be more limited. Using specially designed massage pillows, the massage therapist will help you get into a comfortable position for this type of massage.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils made from selected flowers and plants are added to the massage oil for their particular therapeutic properties. For example, the scent of sandalwood is thought to reduce nervous tension.
Reflexology
Based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole. Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands, face and ears. These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body’s own natural healing process.
Shiatsu
An oriental massage technique that aims to improve energy flow by working certain points on the body. The underlying principles of shiatsu massage are similar to those of acupuncture.
What should I do after a massage?
Preferably as little as possible!
Take time to rest relax and recuperate, drink lots of water to continue to help the lymphathic system process any toxins, maybe have a warm shower or bath to continue to improve circulation. Sleep well and hopefully feel more refreshed resilient when you wake up.
