At the beginning of a session, I always carry out a consultation, including a postural assessment (5 – 10 minutes) with clients to discuss their health and if there is anything I should be aware of. I plan my treatment taking this information into account, as well as the client’s preferences for areas of focus. Back tension is very common, and so the back massage is often thorough, but I also employ many techniques on the feet, legs, stomach, arms, chest and face. People are often surprised to find they enjoy a massage that includes less common areas of focus such as the arms and the stomach. Treatment on the abdomen can help improve digestion, as well as to de-stress. The tension in certain areas of the body often has a knock-on effect on other areas, and so this is always taken into consideration for a treatment that has the maximum effectiveness. The aim is to restore homeostasis or balance within the body.
Sometimes if people have a lot of tension, they can feel quite sore after treatment before they feel better usually soon after or the next day. This healing crisis (the technical and less alarming-sounding term is the Herxheimer reaction) is a normal reaction due to the release of built-up toxins and waste products from the muscles/promotion of fluid dynamics. It is usually experienced by people who have not had a treatment for a long time and reduces with regular treatments. Referrals to other specialists are made where necessary, and homecare advice is given as part of a holistic approach.