Massage at The Bodydoctor

by Bobbie Swanson

Deep-Tissue/Remedial/Sports Massage

Feeling knotty? This remedial treatment uses a variety of techniques, including sports massage, to relax, lengthen and release holding patterns within the tissue. There is less emphasis on pleasure as the primary goal is to work deeply, thus alleviating muscle restrictions and structural issues. It is an excellent therapy for:
relaxing/stimulating/toning muscles; pain relief and reducing spasm; increasing circulation, thus improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles as well as the removal of metabolic waste from the muscles; breaking down scar tissue; removing oedema; preventing/reducing adhesions and fibrosis.

We have blended a fantastic oil for our more intensive treatments entitled ‘No Pain No Gain’. It combines juniper-berry, rosemary and black pepper in a sweet almond oil base.

Therapeutic Massage

For those of you who prefer a more gentle approach, look no further than our blissful, therapeutic massage. The aim here is to destress and alleviate tensions, both emotional and physical. Psychologically, clients can expect to feel reduced anxiety and a ‘lift’ to the emotions, leading to a positive state of mind. Physiological benefits can include: improved circulation (and therefore more efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen); deeper, relaxed and more efficient breathing; relief from muscle fatigue and joint stiffness; calming of the nervous system; improved digestion and waste removal.

To aid your relaxation, we have blended lavender, frankincense, sandalwood, neroli and palmarosa in a sweet almond oil base to make ‘Do Not Resuscitate’.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage (MLD)

MLD is a light, hypnotic and extremely relaxing therapy. It is also effective, preventative and specific. MLD can assist in: relieving fluid retention/oedema (ankles, legs, eyes etc) – this also applies to the congestion associated with pregnancy; healing fractures, torn ligaments, sprains and any associated inflammation; reducing recovery time following cosmetic surgery; improving conditions such as sinusitis, rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, hayfever; proactively strengthening the immune system as part of a ‘detox’ treatment and ameliorating the body’s ability to cleanse itself from the inside-out; remedially treating wounds, burns, old scars and stretch marks; managing lymphodema (occurring after cancer treatment) and conditions linked to venous insufficiency

Please note that oils are not used in this therapy, nor is this a full-body massage: specific areas of client concern are treated as appropriate. Sessions are either 60-minute or 90-minute durations.

Reflexology

This wonderful therapy involves applying pressure to the reflexes of the feet with the aim of creating a state of deep relaxation and stimulating the body’s ability to self-heal. It is a natural and non-invasive method of restoring one’s equilibrium and sense of wellbeing. Treatments work on the principle that specific areas of the feet correlate to the internal structure and organs of the body. For each client, the application and effect of this therapy is unique. A reflexologist can detect imbalances through the feet and by gently easing individual points, release blockages and restore the free-flow of energy around the body. Anecdotally, reflexology has shown to be particularly beneficial for: stress-related conditions; migraines; allergies; asthma; fertility issues; digestive disorders; hormonal imbalances and insomnia.

Maternity Massage (using The bodyCushion™) & Maternity Reflexology

Your body will go through many changes during your pregnancy and some can be immensely uncomfortable and stressful. Taking time out for massage and/or reflexology from the second trimester will considerably reduce the stress on you and your body. A relaxed mother should have a happier, healthier pregnancy. This should also increase the chances of an easier childbirth experience. Massage and reflexology can assist in: reducing muscular tension, tightness and cramping, and improving flexibility; providing relief from classic pregnancy issues such as recurrent headaches, stiff necks, backaches, sciatica and oedema; stabilising circulation, thus reducing stress on the heart and maintaining even blood pressure; eliminating waste products through the lymphatic & circulatory systems – this combats fatigue and increases energy; increasing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the cells of mother and foetus – you will have more energy and your baby will receive effective nourishment; balancing hormone levels and helping you cope with any anxieties; ensuring relaxation and enhanced sleep patterns – this means a happier, healthier you!

Products used during the course of these maternity treatments adhere to current guidelines on essential oils. our blend of the moment, ‘Mind The Bump’, contains rose absolute, ylang ylang and sandalwood.