TECHNIQUES
A selection of some of the techniques I use
Effleurage
Effleurage stimulates the lymphatic system in the body and allows lymphatic drainage to occur. Upward strokes towards the lymphatic nodes move the fluid that is carried by the lymphatic system, flushing out waste toxins. Effleurage helps the healing process by stimulating feel-good hormones in the body, such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. Feel-good hormones relax the body and improve mood.
Kneading
When a muscle is injured, the body will lay collagen fibres to repair it, producing scar tissue that can lack elasticity. This causes pain and limits your range of motion. Kneading breaks down and realigns inelastic collagen fibres. The method alleviates pain by increasing muscle movement and flexibility. Kneading also flushes out toxins and improves circulation.
Sound healing with Tibetan Bowls
Sound therapy with Tibetan singing bowls is an ancient healing modality, which works on both the physical body and the emotions. The vibration of the bowls and the length of the resonances relax the muscles and harmonise the two sides of the brain, activating the parasympathetic nervous system. That brings you into a state of deep relaxation. After sound therapy, emotions are calm and the mind is clearer.
Trigger Pointing
Trigger Point Therapy is a powerful sports massage technique that echoes techniques seen in Eastern bodywork (Meridian and Marma point systems follow a similar map). Trigger Point Therapy is suitable for almost everyone as trigger points are a source of most muscle pain and discomfort. Applying direct pressure to these points can restore strength and flexibility, relieving pain that other treatments are unable to alleviate.
Muscle Energy Techniques
MET is an active assisted stretch technique when you contract the muscle in a precise controlled direction against the therapist's resistance. Its therapeutic effects are to reduce pain, stretch tightened muscles, strengthen weak muscles, improve local circulation and mobilise joint restrictions.
Skin Rolling
Skin Rolling is a massage technique that works between the skin and the fascia - a thin layer of connective tissue that surrounds and holds the muscles. Discomfort and pain can result from muscles being stuck to deep tissues. Skin Rolling opens and frees the skin from any restrictions, decreasing pain and increasing movement.