About Massage

Most people have some idea of what massage is. The images which appear elsewhere on this web site are typical. The client is lying down, covered by a towel or sheet, while a therapist applies smooth, rhythmic strokes over their skin, usually with the use of lubricating oils or creams.

This picture is reasonably accurate, at least as far as Western (also known as Swedish) massage goes. But there are many other massage styles - some which are done through clothing, some where static pressure is used instead of rhythmic stroking, others where no oils are used, some which are very deep and probing, others which are light and soothing and so on.

Most massage therapists are trained to use a variety of different techniques, and experienced therapists tend to develop their own individual approach to their work over time. In truth, there are as many different massage styles as there are therapists.

In my practice, a variety of techniques is used depending on the individual client's preferences and the nature of the problem being treated. But because I am a remedial therapist, my work tends to be rather more focused (and deep) than, say, someone providing massage at a beauty salon or spa. My initial training and much of my early work was in sports massage, and increasingly I've found this approach to bodywork can be used to treat a wide variety of everyday aches and pains successfully.

If your preference is for a relaxing and soothing experience to ease away everyday stress and tension, then I can adapt your session to suit. If, on the other hand, you want to tackle an area of chronic pain or restriction, then your treatment may be more challenging, but within your tolerances. I am always guided by what clients want, and your comfort is my main concern.