Holistic Massage Therapy

What is holistic massage therapy?

For me, holistic massage is about treating the whole person, rather than simply working on a particular muscle or area of the body.

Your treatment can be deeply relaxing and nurturing, practical and remedial, or somewhere in between. I work with what you need on the day, creating a treatment that supports both your physical wellbeing and your general sense of feeling good.

What can I expect from a massage?

Before we begin, we’ll have a chat about how you’re feeling, what’s going on in your body and what you’d like from your treatment.

From there, I’ll tailor the massage to you. Sometimes you might need to properly switch off and relax. Sometimes you might have a niggly shoulder that needs some attention. Sometimes it’s a bit of both. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. You don’t have to talk or be silent during your treatment. Some people find it therapeutic to talk during their treatments, some prefer silence. I’ll be guided by you. Once your treatment is concluded, you will be offered water and I will discuss with you anything that may be helpful, provide after care advice (if applicable), take payment, rebook (if applicable), and answer any questions you may have. This all sounds quite procedural, but again, there’s no formula here! 

Will my massage be relaxing or remedial?

It can be either — or both! I don't believe you have to choose between a lovely, relaxing massage and one that actually addresses areas of tension or discomfort. We can find the balance that works for you.

How long are the massage sessions?

Massage sessions are available in 45, 60, 90 and 120-minute appointments.

Longer sessions give us more time to work with the whole body, spend longer on particular areas or simply allow more time for you to properly slow down and relax.

Do you offer massage to men?

Yes. However, due to my lone working policy, I am only able to work with men I already know and trust, or who have been recommended by somebody I know and trust (ie, current client, wife, friend, daughter, yoga class attendee etc). If you are a man wishing to book a holistic massage for yourself and we’ve never worked together before, I am happy to point you in the direction of trusted colleagues you can book an appointment with.

 

Do you offer Lymphatic Drainage Massage?

Yes, I do offer basic Lymphatic Drainage Massage that helps clients with water retention, swelling, systemic pain management, detoxification and general wellbeing. I am unfortunately not able to offer Medical Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) for Oncology patients or those with complex Lymphoedema. It is important to note there are many ‘systems’ of Lymphatic Drainage Massage offered and its cosmetic and health benefits are often overinflated on Social Media platforms. It's worth doing plenty of research and asking a few questions before deciding whether this is the correct treatment approach for you, and I am very happy to help answer any questions you may have.

 

What should I wear for my massage?

You will be appropriately covered with towels and sheets throughout your treatment, with only the area being worked on uncovered. You can undress to whatever level you feel comfortable with. Your comfort, privacy and dignity are always important to me.

Do I need to know what kind of massage I want?

Not at all. You don't need to arrive knowing exactly what you need or 'type’ of massage you want. That's part of my job! We'll talk beforehand and work out together what would be most beneficial for you on the day.

Is massage supposed to hurt?

Not particularly. Massage can sometimes involve deeper pressure or working into areas of tension, but it shouldn't feel unnecessarily painful. Some people quite enjoy the ‘good pain’ from very deep massage techniques and pressure, but many don’t. It ultimately comes down to what feels good and beneficial. I'll always encourage you to tell me what feels good, what doesn't, and if you'd like more or less pressure. Your body is yours, and you get a say in what happens to it!

How often should I have a massage?

There isn't a magic answer to this. Some people enjoy an occasional massage when they feel they need a bit of TLC, while others find that having regular treatments helps them manage ongoing tension, stress or the general wear and tear of everyday life. We can work out what makes sense for you.

Can massage help with stress?

Massage can be a lovely way of stepping out of the constant doing of everyday life and giving your nervous system some time to settle. As well as the physical benefits of massage, many people find that having an hour or so where they don't have to think about work, chores, phones or anyone else's needs can be incredibly restorative.

What if I have a health condition or injury?

Ahead of your first treatment, you will be sent a consultation form to complete via email which will ask about your health and any medical conditions you may have. This will allow me to see how massage might help, or if massage might not be suitable for your particular health conditions, injuries, medications or other circumstances. If you are unsure whether you should book a massage due to a health or medical condition, please feel free to get in touch to ask. In most cases, I am able to adapt your treatment accordingly. In some situations, massage may not be appropriate, or I may recommend that you speak with your GP, midwife or another healthcare professional before treatment.

 

Do you offer Gift Vouchers for Massage?

I sure do. Digital PDF Gift Vouchers and Hard copies are available to purchase on the ‘Gift Vouchers’ section of my website and in a local Gift shop. 

Do you offer online booking for Massage?
Yes, for existing and trusted clients. Due to my lone working policy I only give access to my online booking diary for Massage Therapy once I have met and worked with a client, and the link is sent out in an email following their first appointment. From there they are able to make, cancel and reschedule appointments as they wish.

 

 

Pregnancy & Postnatal Massage

Is pregnancy massage different from a regular massage?

Yes. Pregnancy massage is adapted to take account of the changes happening in your body throughout pregnancy.

Your comfort and positioning are particularly important, and the treatment is tailored to your stage of pregnancy and individual needs.

When can I have a pregnancy massage?

I offer Pregnancy massage at any time during pregnancy, including the first trimester, as I am suitably qualified to do so. In every stage, the treatment is adapted appropriately as your pregnancy progresses. When you book, I'll ask about your stage of pregnancy and anything else that's relevant so that we can make sure your treatment is comfortable and appropriate for you.

What are the benefits of pregnancy massage?

Pregnancy can be wonderful, but it can also be physically demanding! A pregnancy massage can provide some much-needed time to rest and be looked after, while helping to ease muscular tension and some of the aches and discomfort that can come with a changing body. Sometimes the biggest benefit is simply having an hour where you are the one being cared for. And some women do enjoy a bit of time where they can still be acknowledged as somebody other than just ‘a pregnant lady!’, where the massage still focuses on tight shoulders from desk work etc, because none of that day to day ‘stuff’ stops just because you’re pregnant!

How will I be positioned during pregnancy massage?

I'll make sure you're comfortably supported using appropriate positioning, cushions and bolsters where needed. You should never feel as though you have to endure an uncomfortable position just because it's "how it's done". We'll find what works for your body.

Can I have a massage after giving birth?

Yes. Postnatal massage can be a lovely way to reconnect with and look after your body after birth. Your treatment will be adapted depending on your recovery, how your birth went and how you're feeling physically and emotionally.

How soon after birth can I have a postnatal massage?
Everyone's recovery is different, so there isn't one universal timeframe. Your type of birth, recovery and individual circumstances all need to be taken into account. If you have any concerns, complications or medical considerations, please speak with your midwife, GP or healthcare professional before booking.

Can I have a postnatal massage if I'm breastfeeding?

Yes, in many circumstances. Your treatment can be adapted to make sure you're comfortable and supported. Please let me know when booking so that I can take this into account.

Do I have to be feeling "back to normal" before having a postnatal massage?

Absolutely not. There is no requirement to have your life, body or baby figured out before coming for a massage!

Postnatal care is about supporting you where you are now — whether that's a few weeks, months or longer after having your baby.

 

Do you offer Gift Vouchers for Pregnancy & Postnatal Massage?

I sure do. Digital PDF Gift Vouchers and Hard copies are available to purchase on the ‘Gift Vouchers’ section of my website and in a local Gift shop. 

 

If my Gift Voucher is for Pregnancy Massage, and I don’t get to use it before my baby is born, can I use it postnatally?

Absolutely. As long as the voucher is redeemed before the expiry date, it can be used for Postnatal Massage.
 

 

Yoga

Do I need to be flexible to do yoga?

Nope! You absolutely do not need to be flexible, bendy, strong or experienced to come to yoga. Yoga isn't about making your body fit a particular shape. It's about exploring movement, breath and awareness in a way that feels appropriate for you.

Do I need any previous yoga experience?

Not at all. Beginners are very welcome. I'll guide you through the class and offer options where appropriate, so you can work at a level that feels right for your body.

Where and when are the yoga classes?

Yoga classes take place at Alveston Methodist Church Hall on Monday evenings during term time. 6:35pm – 7:25pm

What can I expect from a yoga class?

My yoga classes are intended to be both nourishing and useful. You'll have the opportunity to move, breathe, stretch, develop awareness of your body and take some time away from the busyness of everyday life. There's no expectation to take yourself — or your downward dog — too seriously!

What should I wear?

Anything comfortable that allows you to move freely. You don't need expensive or specialist yoga clothing. Come as you are.

Do I need to bring a yoga mat?

Yes please! I do have a few spare yoga mats and props available, but for cleanliness purposes, I ask people to bring as much of their own ‘Yoga Kit’ as possible. People have different preferences for the type of Yoga mats they use too, so it's best to find one you really like that can follow you into your practice, wherever it takes you!

What if I have an injury or physical limitation?

Please let me know before class about any injuries, health conditions or physical limitations. After booking your first class, you will be sent a health questionnaire via email, where you can include all relevant details. I'll offer modifications where appropriate, but yoga isn't a replacement for medical treatment or physiotherapy. The aim is to work with your body rather than battling against it. If you specifically struggle with sitting or lying on the floor, or have any other health or physical concerns you are particularly unsure about, please do get in touch before you book so we can discuss what could be suitable for you.

I'm nervous about coming to my first class. What if I can't keep up?

You won't be expected to! Yoga isn't a competition, and nobody is keeping score. Everyone's body is different, and the practice is about paying attention to your own experience rather than worrying about what the person next to you is doing.

Can children come to your class?
Yes, sensible children aged 12-18 can come to class if accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Yoga can be a really wonderful way to help children and teens learn body awareness and stress management tools for dealing with life's challenges!

 

Deep Rest & Yoga Nidra

What exactly is 'Yoga Nidra?'

Yoga Nidra is a guided practice of deep relaxation and mindful awareness. You generally lie down comfortably while I guide you through the practice, bringing your attention through different aspects of your body, breath and awareness. It's sometimes described as "yogic sleep", although you don't have to actually fall asleep for it to be beneficial.

Do I need to be able to do yoga to practise Deep Rest & Yoga Nidra?

Not at all. Yoga Nidra is not physically demanding and doesn't require flexibility, strength or previous yoga experience. You can come along even if you've never stepped onto a yoga mat before.

What happens during your Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra class?

You make yourself comfortable, lie down and listen. That's it — no complicated poses, no sweating and no achievement required! I'll guide you through the practice, giving you the opportunity to consciously relax and step away from the usual noise and demands of daily life.

Can I fall asleep during Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra?

Absolutely. It's very common to drift in and out of sleep during NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest) practices, and there's no need to worry if that happens. Your job isn't to "do it right". Your job is simply to get comfortable and allow yourself to be guided.

Is Yoga Nidra the same as hypnosis?
No. While Yoga Nidra can feel similar to hypnosis, and they share some cross-over, they are not the same practice. Yoga Nidra is a guided practice that encourages deep physical, mental and emotional relaxation while you remain gently aware. You may experience a feeling of being between wakefulness and sleep, with a sense of time slowing down or the mind becoming quieter. Hypnosis, on the other hand, generally involves more use of suggestion, often with a particular therapeutic or behavioural goal. There can be some overlap in how the two states feel- both may involve deep relaxation, reduced awareness of the outside world and an altered sense of time. However Yoga Nidra does not require you to be hypnotised or to surrender control. You remain free to follow the guidance in whatever way feels comfortable for you. The intention of Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra classes are simply to give your body and mind an opportunity to pause, soften and restore.

I struggle to relax or meditate, will this work for me?
Many people who struggle with more traditional meditation and relaxation 'techniques' often find NSDR (Non Sleep Deep Rest) practices, like this class, to be an effective and refreshing alternative. As with everything, the best way to find out is to just come and have a go to see if it works for you!

What should I bring to Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra class?

Wear comfortable, warm clothing and bring anything that will help you feel cosy and supported. Imagine lying for 45 mins for a snooze on a carpeted living room floor. Whatever you’d need to make that comfortable, bring with you, while remembering there will be others sharing the space (so no inflatable mattresses!) A spongy yoga mat, blanket, socks, cushion and eye pillow/ mask can all be useful- anything that you would like to build your own little ‘rest nest'. I do provide some spare mats, cushions and blankets if you need them.

When is Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra class?

Alveston Methodist Church Hall on Monday evenings during term time.7:35pm – 8:25pm

Can I come to Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra without attending the yoga class beforehand?

Yes. The two classes work beautifully together, and you can buy a ‘Weekly Retreat’ block of both classes to enjoy those benefits, but you don't need to attend the yoga class to come to Deep Rest.

I'm not able to lie on the floor, can I still come to this class?
I'd like to make this class accessible to everyone, so if you're unable to sit or lie comfortably on the floor, please do get in touch and we can figure something out!

Can children come to Deep Rest/ Yoga Nidra class?
Yes, children aged 12- 18 can attend if they can comfortably (and quietly) lie still for 45 mins! All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Deep Rest is particularly good for older children and teens during times of stress- such as exams!
 

 

A Few Things You Might Be Wondering

Is this all a bit "woo woo"?

It can be as woo woo — or as firmly grounded in reality — as you need it to be! I'm quite comfortable having one foot in the spiritual/soulful world and the other firmly on planet Earth. You won't be expected to believe anything, subscribe to a particular philosophy or take yourself too seriously. My aim is simply to create experiences that feel good, are genuinely useful and leave you feeling better equipped to get on with everyday life.

Do I have to be into spirituality to come to your sessions?

Absolutely not. You don't need to be spiritual, bendy, meditative, particularly relaxed or even remotely "wellness-y". Come exactly as you are.

What if I'm not sure which treatment or class is right for me?

That's completely fine. You don't need to have it all worked out before you get in touch. Tell me a little about what you're looking for, how you're feeling and what you'd like more (or less!) of in your life, and we can work out what might suit you best.
 

 

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How do I book?

If you're unsure about anything before booking, you're very welcome to get in touch and ask.