About me and my approach to massage
I was drawn to study massage as I’m fascinated by the healing power of touch that we are all capable of. In my practice I try and combine the physiological elements of soft tissue manipulation with the holistic aspects of providing a healing, nurturing space where the body’s natural systems can be engaged to promote well-being.
My training is based in Swedish massage, deep tissue and acupressure. Whichever massage treatment I provide, there are always some elements of these three disciplines present. For example, a deep tissue massage will contain elements of Swedish to help warm up the muscles and fascia and also to provide some relaxation between the deep work. Acupressure is used to work on the body’s nervous system and can be beneficial when combined with Swedish or deep tissue techniques.
I don’t believe massage should be abot performing a routine. Every person’s body is different and each has its own unique collection of niggles, aches, stiffness and areas that need attention, or conversely, may not need much at all. A good massage therefore, should be unique according to the individual at that particular time. During the course of a treatment, the body speaks to the therapist, it expresses itself through the texture of the tissue, guiding the hands to areas in need of work. The therapist can then use the tools they have at their disposal (fingers, thumbs, palms, forearms etc.) to provide meaningful work and bring about change in the body. Standard techniques such as compression, friction, vibration and stretching may be used but again, each person is different so will respond to the treatment in their own unique way. Having empathy with the touch and holding this two-way conversation with the body are crucial aspects of providing beneficial treatment.