A Guide To Massage

The basis of massage is touch, one of our most basic of needs. Throughout history all over the world we use our hands to promote feelings of wellbeing. There is evidence of massage in most ancient and modern cultures. The Egyptians used massage for health and beauty as can be seen on tombs and paintings over 3000 years old. There are records dating from the 3rd century BC that the Chinese used massage. In India, massage plays an important part in Ayurvedic medicine. The Greeks and Romans used massage. Today there are increasing numbers of athletes who use massage as part of their fitness regimes. Massage is suitable for everyone and should be an integral part of our lives, to help us attain and maintain good health.

Benefits of massage to maintain physical health and wellbeing

During massage the body’s muscles relax and increased blood circulation helps the blood vessels deliver nutrients and oxygen. Massage stimulates the body’s lymphatic system, thereby removing more efficiently toxins from the body. Massage nourishes and moisturizes the skin, improving its colour, texture and elasticity.

Holistic massage in Cornwall

One of the main benefits of massage is to help slow the mind and induce a better quality of sleep, thereby bringing a calmness and serenity into life, relaxing and easing the tensions of modern day living.

Holistic massage is about treating the whole person, helping them to maintain feelings of well being. Before a massage starts as a masseur I discuss in confidence with the client any physical, mental or emotional problems that they may be experiencing. In certain circumstances there may be medical contra-indications to massage. Should this happen the client will be advised to seek a medical referral before having a massage treatment. The term Holistic Massage is often used to mean a soothing or relaxing massage, but it can be also be used to give a firmer more invigorating massage as it is based upon Swedish massage techniques. Swedish massage manipulates the muscles to relax them; reducing tension aches and pains. The type of massage whether relaxing or firm can be adapted during the treatment to the client’s preferences. (Please note an invigorating massage is not to be confused with remedial massage or sports massage. I do not offer remedial or sports massage)

The massage treatment involves a variety of techniques to warm, stretch, knead, soothe and decongest muscles. As a masseur I usually use natural non-perfumed massage oil. Otherwise a massage cream or talc may be use. (The original Swedish massage used talc). The whole body or just parts of the body like the neck, shoulders and back can be included for massage. Towels are used to cover the client during the massage, exposing only the areas that are being massaged at that time.

How long is a massage session?

A full body massage can be for either approximately 60 or 90 minutes.

The first appointment requires an additional 15 minutes consultation. Please contact Graham for massage price information.