BIRMINGHAM CENTRE FOR CHINESE MEDICINE
245 Alcester Road South, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 6DT
Tel: 0121-441 2757
HOLISTIC MASSAGE
WHAT IS HOLISTIC MASSAGE ?
Holistic massage is a deeply relaxing oil-based massage, which involves the whole person, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It is person-centred and adapted to the clients’ particular needs at the time rather than following a standard routine. It is guided by principles of personal awareness, sensitivity and quality of touch.
Holistic massage draws upon a long tradition of massage techniques and practices from western and eastern cultures. These include:-
[ Swedish massage techniques of thumb rolling and use of long strokes
[
Shiatsu and use of acupressure points and meridian stretches, deep tissue pressure practices and percussion techniques such as cupping and plucking[
passive joint and limb movements and manipulations[
healing and meditative approaches from the Esalen Institute, California and which may include hand-holding and working with energy fields[
the importance of self-awareness and the influence of the personal growth movement.An Holistic Massage Therapist is trained to assess which techniques are most appropriate for each client and uses the above practices in conjunction with a thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the human body. The speed and depth of the massage and choice of technique evokes different responses in the body, affecting the skin, the sensory nerve endings, the muscles, connective tissues, circulation of the blood and lymph and movement of the limbs and joints.
The human body is like a ‘landscape’ reflecting a person’s beliefs about themselves and their experiences through life as well as their relationship to the world. Massage experienced at a deep level can help to release the personal history stored in the muscles and thus lead to deep changes in energy and self-perception. For this reason the massage therapist aims to be ‘in-touch’ with the client and to be professionally aware and sensitive to whatever the person is experiencing at that time.
WHY CHOOSE HOLISTIC MASSAGE ?
People come for massage for many different reasons and it helps in the treatment of the majority of ailments. The importance of a soothing massage and of nurturing touch cannot be underestimated as a health benefit and as a way of improving the effectiveness of the immune system. Touch also plays a role in our ability to cope and can help in raising people’s self-esteem. Massage can literally put you back inside your ‘skin’ and provide valuable time ‘out’ from outside pressures. It can quieten and calm the mind and is ideal for those who feel their body is taught and tense and have a mind which is anxious and restless. The benefits of regular massage include:-
[
reduction in stress[
general relaxation and relaxation of particular taught muscles;[
improved circulation;[
an opportunity to receive caring and non-intrusive touch;[
an easing of pain.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Holistic Massage is a deeply relaxing and enjoyable experience. Firstly, the practitioner will discuss with the client their needs and health details in strict confidence, and answer any queries. The massage takes place in a warm room with a massage couch and relaxing music. Your dignity is respected at all times; pants are kept on; only the area being massaged is exposed, whilst you are fully covered.
The massage, using oils, is gentle, flowing and firm, but if at any time you feel tenderness or discomfort please say. If you feel uncomfortable having particular areas massaged, such as your feet or abdomen, please discuss this with the practitioner.
You will be recommended a quiet, relaxing evening if possible, and to drink plenty of water to aid flushing out of toxins.
THE PRACTITIONER
Amy Walker (LCMDip) trained at the London College of Massage. She teaches and has a special interest in baby massage, as she is also a fully qualified nanny, and in massage during pregnancy and labour.
COST OF TREATMENT
£30 per session
Gift vouchers are also available
BACK TO BIRMINGHAM CENTRE FOR CHINESE MEDICINE INDEX
Birmingham Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine Ltd. Directors: M.R. Ehrenberg BA, PhD, LSSMDip, DipAc, MBAcC, CertAc(Kunming); N. Lampert BA, PhD, DipAc, MBAcC, CertAc(Nanjing) MRCHM; C. Wylde BA, DipAc, MBAcC, CertAc(Nanjing).