At Bodies in Motions we offer five different types of massage each of which has specific benefits for your body.

Remedial Massage

A 45 min or 60 min remedial massage is a therapeutic deep tissue massage that can treat specific health issues, musculoskeletal problems and injuries. Remedial Massage is a treatment-based therapy and utilises systematic manipulation of the soft tissues of the body (muscles, ligaments, tendons) to return the tissues to their natural, hydrated and flexible state.

It uses several specialised techniques to locate and repair damage and to support and speed up the body's own repair mechanisms. The massage is applied directly to the skin using a lubricating medium, usually oil, which ensures that the muscles associated with the disorder and the mobilisation of joints are deeply penetrated. Passive stretching moves are also used.

Key benefits of Remedial Massage include: the stimulation to the blood supply allowing toxins in the muscles to be removed; the calming of the peripheral nervous system to ease pain and discomfort; and the toning and relaxing of muscles to improve joint mobility. An improvement to the health of the cells, the repairing of tissues, and the easing of stiffness and tension can also be experienced through therapeutic relaxation.

Each massage is tailored to treat the individual client’s main concerns which may include:
•    Tension and discomfort (including headaches) produced from overuse of computers and occupational stress
•    Addressing pain and restricted movement caused by various musculoskeletal conditions

•    Seeking a relaxing massage to de-stress by taking some time out

Relaxation Massage:

A 60 minute full body treatment with a smooth, flowing style that promotes general relaxation, improves circulation, range of movement and relieves muscular tension. A relaxation massage relieves the stress and tension in your muscles and leaves you with a general sense of wellbeing.

Sports Massage:  30, 45 or 60 min treatments.

Sports massage combines different massage techniques to enhance sports performance and recuperation and is an effective component of any training program.

Anyone who routinely stretches their physical limits through movement such as running, cycling, hiking, swimming, dancing, tennis and other racquet sports, strength training and aerobics can benefit from a massage. There are others who do strenuous activities in a day that is not normally classified as exercise. Examples are mothers with small children, gardeners, and others who use their bodies strenuously in their work.

Sports massage may involve prevention and maintenance programs, treatment before and after an athletic event, and rehabilitation programs for those who are injured during the program.

Cupping

Cupping is a therapy that has been, and still is, employed in a number of different cultures mainly the Chinese and the Greek. Cupping is most widely known in relation to it’s application in Traditional Chinese Medicine in which a glass or bamboo cup is placed onto specific acupressure points in treating a variety of conditions. In TCM, cupping is used to remove “cold”, “damp” and “stagnation”. At the most basic level, these concepts translate to what a western physical therapist may describe as a situation where there is restricted blood flow to an area caused by muscular tension. Thus, outside of TCM, cupping is also regarded as an effective method for releasing musculoskeletal tension, especially when used as an adjunctive therapy to remedial massage.

A vacuum is formed by briefly holding a flame in a glass cup which is then placed onto the body. The cup sucks up the superficial layers of skin, subcutaneous and muscular tissue. The effect is loosening of the surrounding fascia and muscles; improved circulation to and from the area; the reduction of active trigger points (“knots”); and an improvement in flexibility. Cups may be placed in an appropriate problem area and left for a number of minutes, or they may be used in a “sliding” fashion in which they are moved back and forth over a greater body surface. Cupping may potentially cause some discolouration of the area to which the cups are applied which usually resolves within a week or two, and, although harmless, may be slightly tender for a couple of days following the treatment. 

Cupping can also be useful in respiratory conditions in which there is a lot of catarrh (mucous), and is therefore a great natural remedy to assist in the recovery from colds and flu. 

Pregnancy Massage

A 45 min treatment Pregnancy massage is massage therapy specifically tailored for the expectant mother's needs. It is also called pre-natal massage.

In pregnancy massage the mother's body must be properly positioned and supported during the massage, using pillows and padding. Proper positioning ensures comfort and safety for the mother and baby. Also, some massage techniques, such as deep tissue work, cannot be used. Certain areas of the body should be avoided during pregnancy.

Pregnancy massage has been found to reduce stress, decrease swelling in the arms and legs, and relieve aches and pains in muscles and joints. It's a popular complementary therapy during pregnancy for back pain, when choices for pain relief, such as medication, are often limited.   Not only can massage be physically beneficial, but the human touch can be comforting and provide emotional support during pregnancy.