Julie Brockbank MFHT. MDMTA. MICHT

History
It is generally believed that the word massage derives from the Arabic ‘mass’ or ‘Mas’h’ meaning to press softly. As an art it must be about as old as man himself because to hold or rub an injured part is an instinctive reaction to pain or discomfort.
Massage has evolved from a combination of Eastern and Western traditions. By far the greatest advancement of therapeutic massage recorded in history was by a Swedish physiologist named Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839), who created a scientific system of massage movements and techniques known as Swedish massage. This consisted of five basic strokes: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, tapotement (percussion), and vibration, all used accordingly where required.

Today, massage is a multidimensional skill encompassing a wide variety of ever evolving techniques; however the majority of massage therapists utilise Swedish massage as the foundation for a treatment, blending in a range of techniques, depending upon training and experience, thus addressing the specific needs of the client.
The manipulation of the body’s soft tissue (i.e. the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments and facia) using the hands is a gentle, flowing procedure that uses various degrees of pressure, techniques, (as listed above) and stretching movements

Benefits
The value of massage in combating the stresses and tensions of modern living is now widely publicised. Massage has now become universally used for its renowned relaxation benefits and improving general well-being.
Most athletes and sports people including massage in their training routines to prevent, or treat injuries, and speed up recovery time.
It is an established fact the massage boosts the body’s circulatory and immune systems to benefit blood pressure, circulation, lymphatic flow, and digestion, as well as stimulating muscle and skin tone, and relieving aches and pains. Holistic Massage can include the use of beneficial essential oils or infused herbal oils to bring about a desired therapeutic effect, depending upon the particular needs of the client.
The effects of massage can be sedating, calming, balancing, uplifting, or sedating depending on what is required, massage is wonderful for inducing psychological wellbeing as well as physiological wellbeing.

Treatment
A typical full-body massage session lasts for about one hour, although shorter sessions for treating specific areas such as backs, shoulders and necks or any areas giving discomfort, aches or pains. On the first visit clients are required to undergo a short consultation concerning general well-being, injuries and medical conditions in order to determine if there are any contra-indications (physical conditions that would prohibit or limit a massage treatment).
The client is asked to undress, to the client’s level of comfort/modesty, and to lie on the treatment couch under large towels. During the session, the therapist will utilise the towels to expose only those parts of the body to which treatment is being applied. No body part or area will be massaged without the client's permission.
Massage mediums can include oils, lotions, creams and talc; oil being the most common.
Oils serve to nourish the skin, and allow a free-flowing movement over the skin. The therapist will sense responses but will also ask the client about the strength of their touch. If there is any discomfort, or pain the client should ask that the therapist modify their treatment accordingly.

The Effects of Massage
The effects of massage are well documented, during a massage all the body’s systems can benefit greatly.

Effects on the Skeletal System
Massage can help increase joint mobility by reducing any thickening of the connective tissue and helping to release restrictions in the facia.
It helps to free adhesions, break down scar tissue and decrease inflammation; as a result it can help to restore range of motion to stiff joints.
Massage improves muscle tone and balance, reducing the physical stress placed on bones and joints.
Effects on the Muscular System
Massage relieves muscular tightness, stiffness, spasms and restrictions in the muscle tissue.
It increases flexibility in the muscles due to muscular relaxation.
It increases blood circulation bringing more oxygen and nutrients into the muscle. This reduces muscle fatigue and soreness.
It promotes rapid removal of impurities and waste products from the muscle.
Effects on the Cardiovascular System
Massage can improve circulation by mechanically assisting the venous flow of blood back to the heart
It can dilate blood vessels helping them to work more efficiently
Massage can produce an enhanced blood flow; delivering fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tissues.
It can help temporarily to decrease blood pressure, due to dilation of capillaries
Massage can aid in decreasing the heart rate due to relaxation
Effects on the Lymphatic System
Massage helps to 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 white blood cells.
Effects on the Nervous System
Massage stimulates sensory receptors; this can either stimulate, or soothe nerves depending on the techniques used.
It also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping promote relaxation and the reduction of stress.
Massage helps to reduce pain by the release of endorphins.
Effects on the Skin
Massage can bring about improved circulation to the skin, increase nutrition to the cells and encourage cell regeneration
Massage aids vaso-dilation of the surface capillaries helping to improve the skin’s colour
It improves the general elasticity of the skin
It can increase sebum production, helping to improve the skin’s suppleness and resistance to infection.
Effects on the Respiratory System
Massage deepens respiration and improves lung capacity by relaxing any tightness in the respiratory muscles.
It also slows down the rate of respiration due to the reduced stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system
Effects on the Digestive System
Massage can increase peristalsis in the large intestine, helping to relieve constipation, colic and gas.
Effects on the Urinary System
Massage increases urinary output due to the increased circulation, and lymph drainage from the tissues.
The Physiological Effects
Massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety by relaxing both mind and body, creating a feeling of well-being and enhanced self-esteem
Massage can promote positive body awareness and an improved body image through relaxation, and ease emotional trauma through relaxation.

I am very pleased to work in association with Bushy Tail Herbal Products (Please see links), and can offer a selection of oils from their range of Organic Herbal Oils within a Holistic Massage treatment

Comfrey Oil
Ingredients: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil°, Comfrey leaf° ,Comfrey root°
A popular, traditional remedy. It is made from the leaves and roots of this powerful healing plant.

St. John’s Wort Oil
Ingredients: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil°, St. John’s Wort flowering tops°
St. John’s Wort Oil has been used for centuries, for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help ease skin
disorders, such as wounds, bruises, and mild burns, and is capable of numbing nerve pain, whilst healing takes place.

Arnica & Ginger Oil
Ingredients: Extra-Virgin Olive Oil°, Essential Oil of Wintergreen†, Comfrey leaf°, Arnica flowers°, Calendula flowers°,
St. John’s Wort flowering tops°, Ginger root°, Cayenne pod°, Botanical Menthol crystals
A very warming and deeply penetrating oil, which can achieve powerful results.
Relieves painful, or overworked muscle groups, joints, tendons and ligaments.



* Please Note - I am NOT able to offer Holistic Massage to male clients unless you are already an existing client, or you come to me as a recommendation through another health professional, in which case I would require substantiation from that person before considering treatment.