Kinesiology Taping: Support, recovery, and movement
If you’ve ever spotted brightly coloured strips of tape across an athlete’s shoulder, knee, or calf, you’ve already seen kinesiology taping in action. While it’s often associated with professional sport, kinesiology taping isn’t just for elite athletes. It’s a versatile tool that can support anyone dealing with pain, injury, or muscular tension, whether you’re training for a marathon, recovering from a sprain, or simply wanting to move with more comfort in daily life.
What Is Kinesiology Taping?
Kinesiology taping involves applying a flexible, elastic tape to the skin in specific patterns. Unlike rigid sports strapping, which restricts movement, kinesiology tape is designed to move with your body. It stretches and recoils like skin and muscle, providing gentle support while still allowing natural mobility.
The tape itself is breathable and water-resistant, meaning it can stay in place for several days, through exercise, showering, and normal activity. This makes it a practical way to extend the benefits of treatment beyond the therapy room.
How Does It Work?
When applied correctly, kinesiology tape works on several levels:
Mechanical support: The tape stabilises joints and muscles, offering light support without immobilising the area.
Improved circulation and lymphatic flow: By gently lifting the skin, the tape reduces pressure and encourages better drainage, helping to reduce swelling and bruising.
Pain reduction: The tape stimulates sensory receptors in the skin, which can reduce pain signals to the brain.
Enhanced proprioception: The subtle feedback from the tape helps you become more aware of posture and movement, encouraging healthier alignment.
This combination of physical and neurological effects makes kinesiology taping an effective complement to hands-on therapies such as massage and stretching.
What Does the Research Say?
Kinesiology taping has been widely studied in both sports and rehabilitation settings. While it’s not a cure-all, evidence suggests it can provide meaningful benefits when used appropriately. Research shows it may help with:
Pain reduction in conditions such as shoulder impingement, knee osteoarthritis, and lower back pain.
Improved function and mobility, especially during recovery from injury.
Swelling and bruising management, by supporting lymphatic drainage.
Exercise recovery by reducing fatigue and supporting better movement patterns.
Studies also highlight that taping is most effective when used as part of a combined approach; for example, alongside massage, stretching, or targeted exercise.
Who Can Benefit?
Kinesiology taping is highly adaptable and suitable for many people, including:
Active individuals and athletes: runners, cyclists, gym-goers, or team players seeking extra support during training or recovery.
People with persistent pain: including knee discomfort, shoulder pain, or lower back tension.
Those recovering from injury: where gentle stability helps restore confidence and mobility.
Anyone managing swelling or bruising: for example, after a sprain or strain.
Individuals living with chronic conditions: such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, where taping may provide extra comfort and support in daily life.
When Is Taping Not Suitable?
Although safe for most, kinesiology taping isn’t appropriate in every case. It may not be suitable if you have:
Broken or irritated skin in the area.
Active infections or skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
Allergies or sensitivities to adhesives.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Severe circulatory problems.
Cancer, unless approved by your healthcare provider.
As always, I’ll discuss your health history before applying tape to ensure it’s safe and beneficial for you.
What to Expect in a Session
Kinesiology taping is usually applied as part of a clinical or sports massage treatment. After working on your tissues with hands-on techniques, the tape can help “hold” the benefits for longer. For example, it might support better posture after releasing tight shoulders or reduce pain and swelling in an area recovering from strain.
The application itself is comfortable and quick. You may feel a light pulling sensation as the tape lifts the skin, but it should never feel restrictive. Once in place, the tape usually lasts three to five days, continuing to work as you move through your daily activities.
Many people report feeling more stable, supported, and confident, whether during a gym session, a run, or simply while going about their everyday routine.
The Benefits of Combining Kinesiology Taping with Massage
When integrated with massage, kinesiology taping can provide:
Extended pain relief beyond the treatment session.
Ongoing support for joints and muscles between appointments.
Faster recovery from exercise or minor injuries.
Reduced swelling and inflammation.
Improved movement awareness and posture.
Because the tape continues to work after you leave the treatment room, it’s an excellent way to prolong and support the effects of your massage.
Is Kinesiology Taping Right for You?
Kinesiology taping is a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to support your body. Whether you’re training hard, recovering from injury, or simply looking for extra comfort in everyday movement, taping can be a valuable addition to your care plan.
It’s not about replacing other treatments, but about enhancing them — helping you feel supported, stable, and confident in how your body moves.
Book a treatment with Cheryl and ask about kinesiology taping at your next session. I’ll be happy to explain how it works and whether it could be a good fit for your body and goals.
Clinical Cupping with silicone cups: what you need to know
Cupping therapy has been practised for centuries in different cultures, but in recent years it has found a place in modern clinical and sports massage. You may have seen athletes with round marks on their backs and wondered what it was all about. Is it safe? Does it work? And could it help you?
In my practice, cupping is never used as a stand-alone treatment. Instead, I may include it as part of a clinical or sports massage session when I feel it could support your recovery, reduce tension, or improve mobility. Used in this way, cupping can be a valuable complement to hands-on massage techniques.
What Is Clinical Cupping?
Clinical cupping involves placing flexible cups on the skin to create gentle suction. This creates a decompressive effect, the opposite of the compressive pressure we’re used to in massage. The cups can either stay in one place for a few minutes or be moved slowly over tight or sore areas.
In my treatments, I use silicone cups rather than traditional glass “fire cups.” Silicone cups are safe, hygienic, and easy to adapt, allowing me to control the level of suction throughout. That means the treatment can be as gentle or as deep as needed, depending on your comfort, sensitivity, and goals.
While cupping has ancient roots, modern practice is informed by research showing benefits for circulation, pain relief, mobility, and recovery.
How Does It Work?
When suction is applied to the skin, several therapeutic effects occur:
Improved circulation: Blood flow increases to the area, bringing oxygen and nutrients while helping to clear waste products.
Reduced muscle tension: The nervous system responds to the gentle lift, encouraging overactive muscles to release.
Better tissue mobility: Lifting the fascia (the connective tissue around muscles) helps reduce adhesions and restores freer movement.
Support for lymphatic drainage: Cupping can encourage the body’s natural detox processes and reduce local inflammation.
The cups may be kept still over a specific tight spot or moved slowly to mobilise a larger area. Because the intensity is adjustable, the treatment is suitable for a wide variety of needs, from gentle decompression for sensitive areas to deeper mobilisation for robust muscle groups.
What Does the Research Say?
Although cupping was once viewed as a purely traditional practice, there is now a growing body of evidence supporting its use in clinical settings. Studies suggest that cupping may:
Reduce musculoskeletal pain, especially in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Improve range of motion and flexibility.
Support recovery from exercise-related muscle soreness.
Assist in managing chronic conditions such as lower back pain or knee osteoarthritis.
Research also shows that cupping tends to work best as part of a multimodal approach; in other words, when it’s combined with other therapies like massage, stretching, or exercise. That’s exactly why I use it selectively within massage treatments.
Who Can Benefit?
Because it’s so adaptable, clinical cupping can support a wide range of people. You may find it helpful if you are:
An active individual; runner, cyclist, gym-goer, or someone who trains regularly.
Living with persistent tension, particularly in the back, shoulders, or neck.
Recovering from an injury and needing support for soft tissue healing.
Managing chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or long-term back pain.
Experiencing stress-related tightness or habitual holding patterns.
Many people describe feeling lighter, looser, and more mobile after treatment, often with a noticeable reduction in pain.
When Is Cupping Not Suitable?
Although safe for most people, there are circumstances where cupping is not recommended. It’s generally unsuitable if you have:
Broken skin, wounds, or active skin conditions in the area.
Severe varicose veins or fragile capillaries.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure or serious heart conditions.
A tendency to bleed or bruise easily (including those on blood-thinning medication).
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Cancer, unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider.
Pregnancy, especially on the abdomen or lower back.
This is why I always discuss your health history before including cupping, to make sure it’s safe and right for you.
What to Expect in a Session
If I feel cupping could be useful during your treatment, I’ll explain how it works and ask for your consent before starting. The cups may be applied for just a few minutes or combined with hands-on techniques to maximise effectiveness.
You’ll likely feel a gentle pulling sensation as the cups take hold, but it should never be painful. Because the suction level is adjustable, I can always adapt it to your comfort. In some cases, you may notice temporary round marks on the skin where cups were placed. These are not bruises; they’re simply a sign of increased circulation, and they usually fade within a few days.
Afterwards, many clients describe feeling relaxed, lighter, and freer in their movement.
The Benefits of Clinical Cupping with Massage
When integrated into a massage session, cupping can provide:
Relief from muscular pain and stiffness.
Faster recovery after training or activity.
Improved joint flexibility and mobility.
Reduced inflammation in soft tissues.
Support with persistent or long-term pain conditions.
A deeper sense of relaxation and overall wellbeing.
It’s this combination of physical and systemic effects that makes cupping such a valuable tool as part of a broader treatment plan.
Is Clinical Cupping Right for You?
Clinical cupping with silicone cups is not a one-size-fits-all solution. But when included thoughtfully as part of a massage treatment, it can be a safe and effective way to ease pain, improve movement, and support recovery.
Whether you’re an active person looking to boost recovery or someone living with chronic tension, cupping could be a supportive addition to your treatment.
Book a massage with Cheryl and let’s explore whether cupping is right for your body. I’ll be happy to explain the process and adapt it to your needs.
Clinical and Sports Massage: What it is and who it’s for
A targeted, therapeutic approach to easing pain, supporting recovery, and helping you move with more ease
Clinical and sports massage offers a practical, hands-on way to support your body, whether you’re training regularly, recovering from injury, or living with persistent pain. Unlike general relaxation massage, this focused approach works directly with muscles, fascia, and soft tissues to improve movement, reduce discomfort, and promote long-term wellbeing.
The good news is that you don’t need to be an athlete to benefit. This treatment is just as valuable for office workers with postural strain, parents carrying stress and fatigue, or older adults looking to stay mobile. It’s about supporting your body to feel and function better, whatever that looks like for you.
What Is Clinical and Sports Massage?
Clinical and sports massage is a therapeutic style of bodywork designed to address specific problems such as tightness, pain, or reduced mobility. It’s highly adaptable and may include techniques such as:
Deep tissue massage to release chronic tension.
Myofascial release to restore flexibility in connective tissues.
Trigger point therapy to ease stubborn knots or pain referrals.
Soft tissue release for targeted problem areas.
Assisted stretching and mobility work to improve range of motion.
Each session is tailored to you. Whether you’re dealing with a recent strain, managing a chronic condition, or simply aiming to keep your body moving more freely, the approach will be adapted to your goals and comfort level.
Support for Active Lifestyles
If you exercise regularly, running, gym training, cycling, yoga, or team sports, you’ll know how important recovery is. Tight muscles, repetitive strain, and small injuries can all add up, affecting performance and making you more vulnerable to setbacks.
Clinical and sports massage can help by:
Supporting muscle recovery between training sessions.
Reducing post-exercise soreness and fatigue.
Improving flexibility and range of motion.
Releasing tight areas that limit performance.
Supporting joint mobility and reducing injury risk.
Addressing movement habits that may cause recurring problems.
It’s particularly useful during training cycles when you’re increasing intensity, or in the build-up to events. But equally, it’s an excellent addition to your regular wellbeing routine to keep your body functioning well.
Support for Persistent Pain and Chronic Conditions
This treatment isn’t just for sporty bodies, it can also be life-changing for those living with chronic pain or long-standing issues. You may find it helpful if you’re managing:
Fibromyalgia or widespread muscular pain.
Osteoarthritis or joint-related discomfort.
Sciatica, herniated discs, or spinal pain.
Frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel, or repetitive strain injuries.
Postural pain from desk work or prolonged sitting.
Hypermobility, chronic fatigue, or postural instability.
While massage cannot “cure” long-term conditions, it can play a vital role in managing them. By easing muscular holding patterns, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation, regular treatments often help reduce pain and make everyday movement easier.
Conditions It Can Help With
Clinical and sports massage is often effective for a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, including:
Neck and shoulder tension.
Headaches or migraines.
Lower back pain.
Sciatica.
Whiplash.
Frozen shoulder.
Carpal tunnel syndrome.
Knee pain.
Plantar fasciitis.
Muscle strains or tightness.
General stiffness or reduced range of motion.
If something feels sore, stiff, or “stuck,” this treatment can often help release the restriction and restore more ease.
Who Is It For?
This type of massage is suitable for a wide spectrum of people:
Active individuals, gym-goers, runners, cyclists, or anyone training regularly.
Office workers dealing with desk-related posture strain.
Older adults wanting to stay mobile and reduce discomfort.
People recovering from injury who need targeted support.
Those with chronic conditions affecting movement or muscle tone.
Anyone experiencing physical or emotional stress carried in the body.
In short, it’s for anyone who wants their body to move better and feel less burdened by pain or tightness.
What to Expect in a Session
Every treatment begins with a conversation. We’ll discuss what’s bothering you, how your body is feeling, and what you’d like to achieve. This allows me to create a treatment plan tailored to you, whether that’s focused on deep tissue work, gentle recovery support, or a combination of techniques.
Communication is encouraged throughout. You can let me know if you’d like more or less pressure, or if something doesn’t feel quite right. After your session, I may suggest simple stretches or posture tips to help you maintain the benefits between appointments, nothing complicated, just small, practical steps.
Most people leave feeling lighter, looser, and more at ease in their bodies. Improvements may be immediate, or they may build gradually with regular sessions.
Is Clinical and Sports Massage Right for You?
Whether you’re training hard, recovering from an injury, or living with daily aches and pains, clinical and sports massage offers a safe and effective way to care for your body. It’s not just about fixing problems in the short term, it’s about supporting your long-term mobility, resilience, and quality of life.
If you’re curious, I’d be delighted to talk you through how it could help.
Book a Clinical & Sports Massage with Cheryl or get in touch with any questions. Together, we can find the best approach to help you feel and move more freely.
Take the weight off your shoulders: The benefits of Indian Head Massage
In a world where many of us spend hours behind screens, rushing through tasks, and carrying invisible pressures, it’s no surprise that tension builds in the places we often forget to take care of; the neck, shoulders, scalp, and face. Indian Head Massage offers a simple yet powerful way to release that tension and restore a sense of calm.
This soothing, seated treatment is rooted in Ayurvedic traditions and focuses on the upper body, the areas most affected by modern-day stress. It’s a gentle but effective way to reconnect with yourself, ease both physical and mental strain, and create space for clearer thinking and deeper relaxation.
A Brief Introduction to Indian Head Massage
Indian Head Massage has its roots in Ayurveda, the traditional healing system of India that dates back over 3,000 years. Historically, it was practised within families and communities as a daily ritual, used to promote healthy hair growth, soothe the nervous system, and restore energetic balance.
Today, the treatment has evolved into a globally recognised practice known for its calming and restorative effects. One of its strengths is its accessibility: you remain fully clothed and comfortably seated, and no oils are required unless you’d like them. That makes it a particularly approachable option for people new to massage, or for those who prefer not to undress.
What Happens in a Session?
During an Indian Head Massage, the focus is on key areas where tension naturally accumulates: the upper back, shoulders, neck, scalp, and face. Using a combination of pressure points, kneading, and gentle rhythmic movements, the treatment gradually eases tight muscles and encourages better circulation.
Many clients describe entering a meditative state during the session, somewhere between wakefulness and deep rest. It’s not unusual to feel lighter, calmer, and clearer-headed afterwards, with both body and mind more at ease.
If oils are included (usually coconut or sesame), they are applied sparingly to the scalp or neck for extra nourishment, but most sessions are completely oil-free, so you can return to your day immediately afterwards without disruption.
Why Indian Head Massage Works So Well
Modern life places a huge load on our upper bodies. Desk work, phone use, commuting, and even clenching the jaw under stress all of these create strain that builds up silently until discomfort or pain sets in.
Indian Head Massage offers a reset. Working gently yet specifically in these high-tension areas, it helps to:
Improve blood flow to the head, scalp, and neck.
Release muscular knots and stiffness in the shoulders and jaw.
Calm the nervous system, shifting the body into its natural rest-and-digest state.
Trigger endorphin release, creating a natural lift in mood.
This combination makes it especially effective for people experiencing stress, anxiety, tension headaches, migraines, or sleep disturbances.
Who Can Benefit?
One of the reasons Indian Head Massage has become so popular is its versatility. It’s suitable for a wide range of people, including:
Office workers who spend long hours at desks.
Parents and carers carrying physical and emotional load.
Older adults or those with limited mobility, since the treatment is seated and non-invasive.
People with headaches, migraines, or jaw tension caused by stress.
Anyone experiencing fatigue, low mood, or mental overload.
It’s also a great introduction to massage for those who may feel nervous about full-body treatments or undressing.
What Clients Often Experience
After a treatment, clients commonly report:
A sense of mental clarity and lightness.
Deep relaxation without the grogginess of a nap.
Reduced tension in the scalp, jaw, neck, and shoulders.
Improved sleep quality and the ability to unwind more easily.
A subtle tingling or “energised” feeling in the head and upper body.
Some people also notice long-term improvements in scalp and hair health due to better circulation. While the benefits can be felt straight away, regular treatments often deepen the effects, helping you manage stress before it builds into bigger issues.
A Small Step With Big Impact
In just 45 to 60 minutes, Indian Head Massage can transform how you feel for the rest of the day, or even the rest of the week. Its strength lies in its simplicity: no complicated equipment, no need to undress, just a focused, mindful approach to releasing everyday tension.
Think of it less as an indulgence and more as a form of practical self-care for your nervous system. By easing the load carried in your head, neck, and shoulders, you may find that the rest of your body and mind feel lighter too.
Is Indian Head Massage Right for You?
If you’ve never tried it before, Indian Head Massage can be an ideal first step into massage therapy. It’s gentle, effective, and deeply grounding — the perfect antidote to the demands of modern life.
If you’re curious, I’d love to talk you through it.
Book an Indian Head Massage with Cheryl or get in touch with any questions. This treatment is a small but powerful way to pause, reset, and take the weight off your shoulders.
Discover the Healing Power of Balinese Massage
A restorative full-body treatment for physical, emotional, and energetic balance
If you’re feeling physically tense, emotionally drained, or simply in need of a deep reset, Balinese massage offers a uniquely restorative experience. Rooted in centuries-old Indonesian healing traditions, this full-body treatment is more than just a relaxing massage; it’s a comprehensive rebalancing therapy that works on multiple levels of your well-being.
Balinese massage combines therapeutic touch with a mindful rhythm, soothing aromas, and profound intention. It helps to relieve muscular tension, calm the nervous system, and restore a sense of harmony throughout your body and mind. Whether you’re experiencing stress, fatigue, or a general sense of being out of balance, this gentle yet powerful treatment could be just what your system needs.
What Makes Balinese Massage Special?
Balinese massage is a traditional Indonesian therapy that combines influences from Ayurvedic, Chinese, and native Indonesian healing practices. Passed down through generations, it brings together a thoughtful mix of flowing strokes, firm pressure, assisted stretching, acupressure, and aromatherapy to restore both body and mind.
What sets Balinese massage apart is its holistic approach. Each movement is connected and fluid rather than mechanical, creating a rhythm that feels grounding and intentional. Instead of focusing only on the physical body, the treatment aims to restore balance on multiple levels: easing muscular tightness, supporting energy flow, and calming the mind.
In this way, Balinese massage feels both therapeutic and deeply nourishing; it offers the benefits of physical therapy while also leaving you with a profound sense of inner peace.
What to Expect in a Session
A typical session unfolds at a gentle, deliberate pace designed to help your body relax gradually. It often begins with light compressions and stretches to warm the muscles and settle your nervous system, preparing you for deeper work.
From there, I’ll use a blend of techniques including kneading, acupressure, deep strokes, and assisted stretching. The pressure is firm yet smooth, always adjusted to your comfort level, and follows a steady rhythm that feels almost meditative.
A warm blend of coconut and ginger oil is used throughout the treatment. These oils are chosen not just for their skin-nourishing and anti-inflammatory qualities, but also for the way they enhance relaxation and sensory experience. The scent itself can quieten a busy mind and encourage deeper breathing.
Sessions usually finish with a calming scalp massage, leaving you grounded, centred, and more present in your body.
Who Is Balinese Massage For?
Balinese massage is highly versatile and can be adapted to many needs. It may be especially beneficial if you:
Experience chronic stress, anxiety, or emotional fatigue.
Feel physically run down or mentally foggy.
Carry general muscular tension or aches that won’t ease on their own.
Want a massage that addresses both body and mind together.
Need time out from a busy lifestyle to reconnect with yourself.
Although it shares some benefits with deep tissue or Swedish massage, Balinese massage’s emphasis on flow, rhythm, and energy makes it unique. It’s particularly good if you enjoy firm pressure but also want to leave feeling relaxed, restored, and emotionally lighter.
The Benefits of Balinese Massage
Balinese massage offers wide-ranging benefits that go beyond relaxation. These include:
Relief from muscular tightness and joint pain through targeted pressure and stretching.
Improved circulation and lymphatic flow, helping oxygen and nutrients reach the tissues more efficiently.
Reduced stress and anxiety, as the treatment calms your nervous system and quietens the mind.
A calmer digestive system, often beneficial for people with stress-related digestive discomfort, such as IBS or bloating.
Greater emotional clarity and resilience, helping you feel lighter and more centred.
A sense of renewal, where you leave feeling not just rested, but recharged and reconnected to yourself.
Clients often describe Balinese massage as being “more than just a massage.” They leave not only with less tension, but with a deeper sense of balance and harmony that lasts well beyond the session.
A Massage That Moves With Intention
One of the most powerful aspects of Balinese massage is its pace. Unlike treatments that can feel rushed or routine, Balinese massage honours the wisdom of your body. Each session is adapted to how you feel on the day, responding to your needs rather than following a rigid formula.
This isn’t a quick fix. It’s a mindful, intentional practice that works gently but deeply to encourage healing from the inside out. Whether you are new to massage or a regular client, the experience is uniquely grounding and often transformative.
Is Balinese Massage Right for You?
If you’re craving deep rest, stress relief, or simply a more grounded connection with your body, Balinese massage may be a perfect choice. It’s a beautiful way to pause, reset, and nourish yourself on every level — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
I’d be delighted to guide you through this restorative treatment.
Book a Balinese Massage with Cheryl or get in touch with any questions. I’ll be happy to chat through your needs and help you find the right approach for your wellbeing.
What is Deep Tissue Massage, and is it right for you?
Have you ever been told you need a “deep tissue massage” and felt unsure, or maybe even slightly nervous, about what that actually means? You’re not alone. The name itself can sound a bit intense. Many people imagine a painful experience or picture their muscles being aggressively pummelled into submission. But in reality, deep tissue massage is far more thoughtful, responsive, and supportive than most people expect.
When performed correctly, deep tissue massage is a powerful therapeutic tool that works with your body, not against it. It’s designed to create real, lasting change, especially for those dealing with chronic tension, pain, or movement restrictions. So, what exactly is deep tissue massage, how does it work, and how do you know if it’s the right treatment for you?
What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a focused, therapeutic style of bodywork that uses firm, deliberate pressure and slow strokes to access the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. Unlike lighter relaxation massage techniques, which work more superficially, deep tissue massage targets areas of chronic tension or dysfunction that may have built up over time, from poor posture, repetitive movements, emotional stress, or injury.
A common misconception is that deep tissue massage means applying maximum pressure or “digging in” as hard as possible. In fact, that can be counterproductive. If the body feels attacked, it naturally resists, creating even more tension. A skilled therapist works gradually, listening to your body and only going deeper as your tissues allow. The aim is to create release without pain, using just the right level of pressure to restore mobility and encourage healing.
How Does Deep Tissue Massage Work?
The techniques used in deep tissue massage are designed to support both the muscles and the nervous system. Here’s how it can help:
Improves circulation by encouraging blood flow to tight or restricted areas, helping oxygen and nutrients reach the tissues and aiding repair.
Calms the nervous system by activating the body’s relaxation response, shifting you away from “fight or flight” and into a state where real release can happen.
Releases long-held tension in areas where muscles have adapted to stress or overuse.
Supports the fascia, the connective tissue around muscles and organs, making it more pliable and hydrated.
Reduces pain and improves movement, particularly in areas that feel stiff, sore, or restricted.
Some of the common techniques include slow, gliding strokes, cross-fibre friction, myofascial release, and focused trigger point work. Each technique is applied with care, always responding to how your body feels in the moment.
Who Can Benefit From Deep Tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage can help a wide variety of people, not just athletes or gym-goers. You may find it especially useful if you:
Experience chronic muscular pain or tightness that doesn’t respond to lighter massage.
Spend long hours sitting or standing, leading to postural strain.
Deal with overuse injuries or repetitive strain from typing, lifting, or driving.
Feel stiff or restricted in your movement.
Hold a lot of stress in your body and want to feel more grounded.
It’s also supportive for older adults managing mobility challenges, parents dealing with physical fatigue, or individuals with chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or postural imbalances.
Ultimately, deep tissue massage is for anyone who feels “stuck” in their body and wants to move with more ease and comfort.
What to Expect From a Session
Every treatment begins with a conversation. Before I begin, I’ll ask about your symptoms, concerns, and goals for the session. This helps me tailor the massage to what your body actually needs; adjusting pressure, focus areas, and techniques accordingly.
During the massage, communication is welcome. You should always feel comfortable letting me know if the pressure feels too much (or not enough). The aim is to work effectively, not forcefully. You might feel strong pressure or a deep stretch, but you should never feel like you’re gritting your teeth.
After the treatment, most people describe feeling “looser” and more at ease in their body. You may notice better posture, freer movement, or simply a calmer connection to yourself. Some temporary soreness is possible, similar to the after-effect of exercise, but this usually fades quickly and is followed by a lasting sense of relief.
Is Deep Tissue Massage Right for You?
If you’re curious about deep tissue massage but unsure whether it’s the right fit, I’m always happy to help you decide. No two bodies are the same, and the best results come when treatments are tailored to your unique needs, preferences, and comfort levels.
Whether you’re working through a long-standing issue, recovering from strain, or simply want to release tension and feel more spacious in your body, deep tissue massage can be a valuable part of your wellbeing routine.
Final Thoughts
At London Massage Practice, my focus is on providing skilled, compassionate care that helps you feel more comfortable and supported in your daily life. Deep tissue massage isn’t about enduring pain; it’s about creating meaningful change in your body, step by step, in a way that feels safe and effective.
If you’d like to explore how deep tissue massage could help you, I’d love to hear from you.
Book a treatment with Cheryl or get in touch with any questions, together we can find the right approach for your body.
Managing Osteoarthritis.
Embrace the Season with Movement, Nutrition, and Massage
As the seasons shift and warmer days stretch longer, many of us feel a welcome lift in our spirits and energy. But if joint discomfort is slowing you down, especially if you’re living with osteoarthritis (OA), now is an ideal time to focus on gentle movement and self-care to help your body feel its best.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Arthritis isn’t just one condition; it’s a family of over 100 types. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning your joints gradually wears away. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Other common forms include:
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the joints.
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): Linked to the skin condition psoriasis, causing joint pain and swelling.
Gout: Caused by excess uric acid, leading to sudden and intense joint inflammation.
Understanding your specific condition is the first step to managing symptoms effectively. If you are unsure which type you have, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored advice.
Practical Ways to Manage OA Pain
Living with OA doesn’t mean giving up the activities you enjoy. The right strategies can help you stay active and comfortable:
Exercise: Low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and stretching keep joints flexible and muscles strong without adding strain. Consider working with a physiotherapist to create a personalised exercise plan.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on joints, especially hips and knees. Even small weight loss can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.
Hot and Cold Therapy: Use warmth to ease stiffness, and cold packs to reduce swelling and pain. Try alternating between the two for the best results.
Manual and Physical Therapy: Clinical massage and targeted exercises can relieve discomfort, enhance mobility, and improve overall joint function. Regular sessions can also provide valuable education on managing symptoms at home.
The Role of Diet in Arthritis
What you eat can significantly impact inflammation and joint health. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods helps:
Beneficial Foods: Fatty fish rich in omega-3s (like salmon and mackerel), leafy greens (such as spinach and kale), nuts, and berries support joint health and reduce inflammation.
Foods to Limit: Processed sugars, excess salt, and fried foods may worsen symptoms and increase inflammation.
A balanced diet combined with weight control is key to managing OA symptoms effectively. Consider consulting a nutritionist for personalised guidance that fits your lifestyle.
Why Massage Helps
Massage therapy offers more than just relaxation. Regular sessions can:
Reduce joint pain and stiffness
Improve circulation and flexibility
Lower stress and anxiety, which can aggravate arthritis symptoms
Massage can be a valuable complementary treatment, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. When combined with other therapies, it can support a holistic approach to arthritis care.
Additional Tips for Living Well with Osteoarthritis
Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps maintain joint lubrication.
Use Supportive Footwear: Proper shoes reduce joint stress and improve posture.
Listen to Your Body: Rest when needed and avoid overexertion.
Stay Connected: Joining support groups or connecting with others who have OA can provide motivation and shared tips.
Take Control of Your Joint Health Today
Osteoarthritis may be a chronic condition, but with informed choices and proactive care, you can maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle. Stay informed, keep moving gently, nourish your body well, and seek professional support when needed.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards managing your arthritis symptoms, consider booking a consultation with Cheryl. Her tailored treatment plans focus on relieving joint pain, improving mobility, and enhancing your overall well-being.
Book a treatment with Cheryl or get in touch with any questions, together we can find the right approach for your body.