Aromatherapy and remedial massage treatments

Massage is one of the simplest forms of complementary medicine, yet also one of the most effective. Any number of stress related conditions may respond positively to massage ~ PMS, headaches, recurrent minor infections, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety and insomnia are just some of them. Both chronic and acute back pain will often improve with regular massage, even without the help of stronger interventions such as osteopathy or chiropractic, as much everyday discomfort arises from tension in the muscles, and remedial massage is one of the best ways of relieving this.

Aromatherapy involves the therapeutic use of essential oils, obtained by steam distillation from the seeds, fruits, petals, leaves, bark, or roots of aromatic plants. Each oil has a range of therapeutic properties relating to both body and mind. Traces of these oils can be found in the bloodstream soon after external application or inhalation. As well as the therapeutic properties of each individual oil, a study by Associates for Research into the Science of Enjoyment found that any pleasant smell actually improves your immunity to minor infections

One of the great, often overlooked, benefits of massage is that you, as the recipient, have to be totally passive. In a world where most of us feel under pressure to be active, productive, and ever ready to respond to calls on our attention, this is of great value, both mentally ~ giving you 'breathing space', and physically ~ allowing your parasympathetic nervous system to take over and counteract some of the effects of the stress response.

During the first visit a detailed case history will be taken, covering every aspect of your physical and emotional state, as well as your lifestyle, so that the best course of treatment for you may be decided upon. On subsequent visits, time will be allowed at the beginning of every session to assess your progress, select different oils, and make other recommendations or referrals where appropriate.

Liz offers full body treatments which take an hour and a quarter, one hour sessions for the back and legs, shorter back, neck and shoulder massages, Indian head massage, reflexology, and hot stone treatments.