Some of you may never have experienced massage before and are keen to
do so ..... others will have had treatments from both independent therapists and therapists working in health spas.
When you visit Health in Harmony,
the length of the massage will depend on the type of treatment you have chosen. Before any massage commences, you will
be asked questions relating to your medical history to ensure there are no contraindications to you receiving massage (a reason,
symptom or situation that prevents a treatment being carried out). Additionally questions will be asked regarding your
general lifestyle covering topics such as dietary habits, exercise regime, working environment, stress levels, home and family,
etc. Don't be worried about this - it is not invasive, it is just to ensure that an holistic approach is taken,
considering you as a whole person, not just your symptoms or condition.
In most of the treatments offered, oil is used, so do bear this
in mind when dressing prior to arriving for a treatment. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended. Prior to the massage commencing, you will undress in private down to your underwear and a
large towel will be provided to wrap yourself in. Once on the massage couch, you will be properly draped in towels for
the entire massage session. The only part of your body that will be uncovered at any one time is the area that is being
treated - at no time will your modesty be compromised.
The massage will begin with gentle stroking movements 'effleurage'
to warm the skin. As the massage continues, deeper massage techniques will be used such as petrissage, kneading, hacking
and cupping. For a full description of these massage strokes, visit the What is Massage? page on this site.
In terms of a full body massage, the treatment will usually end
at the feet, but as with any part of the body, you can request that particular areas are not massaged if you are particularly
sensitive.
During the massage, you will probably just want to relax into it and let all
your stress and tension go - however, do feel free to ask questions, request deeper/lighter pressure or voice any concerns
you may have. It is our aim at Health in Harmony to ensure you enjoy your massage and leave feeling
relaxed and revitalised.
At the end of the massage treatment you will often feel deeply relaxed
and therefore it is important that you rest for a few minutes before rising from the massage couch. You will be offered
a glass of water to assist your body with the process of detoxification and will be given recommendations regarding any specific
after-care advice that might be appropriate to you.
Bathroom and showering facilities are available for you to freshen and
tidy up after your massage treatment, so do bring a comb or hairbrush and any personal make-up with you if you so wish.
