What is Holistic Massage?
Holistic massage is a person-centred therapy that seeks to restore equilibrium to ‘the whole’ person. It places emphasis on the interconnectivity of the body and its systems, seeking to help with physical, as well as mental and spiritual wellbeing. Its primary purpose is to encourage harmony between the body and mind, using a wide range of therapeutic, hands-on massage techniques.
Similar to Swedish massage, the following techniques are applied:- Effleurage (light, gliding strokes) - Petrissage (lifting, kneading and rolling the muscles)- Friction (pressure massage delivered in small circular or cross-fibre movements)- Tapotement (rhythmic percussive movements)- Vibration (shaking or vibrating specific muscles).
The benefits of holistic massage can potentially include:
- Reduced tension and stiffness
- Improved flexibility and mobility
- Better circulation and lymphatic flow (helping to boost the immune system)
- Improved skin elasticity and muscle tone
- A reduction in anxiety and stress levels (by encouraging the switch between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems)
- Promotion of better relaxation and sleep
- Increased energy levels due to an invigoration of all of the body’s systems
- Improved digestion.
What is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep Tissue Massage involves the application of sustained pressure and slow, firm strokes that target the deep layers of muscle and connective tissue. The pressure is deeper than that applied in a relaxing or holistic massage.
Strokes used include stripping (where a therapist glides along the muscle using a thumb, elbow, forearm or fingertips) and friction (localised manipulations of soft tissue using thumbs, fingers, and the heels of the hands).
The potential benefits of deep tissue massage include:
- Relief from chronic muscle pain
- Alleviation of problems with posture
- Relief from Sciatica
- Injury rehabilitation - by helping to break up scar tissue, promote faster healing by increasing blood flow to the affected area and reduce inflammation.
Each treatment (Holistic or Deep Tissue) is tailored to meet the individual client’s needs (a thorough consultation is conducted ahead of treatment).
